The state’s summer tourism season improved significantly this year over 2009, according to new research figures.
An estimated 13.7 million day travelers visited the state this summer, an increase of 8% over last year’s summer season, according to data collected by Kennebunk travel and tourism research firm Davidson-Peterson Associates on behalf of the Maine Office of Tourism. An additional 9.5 million visitors came to Maine for overnight stays, a 14% jump over the summer of 2009. Last year’s tourism season was Maine’s worst on record, with hospitality-related sales plummeting 10% to 12% over the summer.
The report also found that most visitors plan to return to Maine for a future trip and are likely to recommend the state to friends and relatives, according to a press release. State tourism officials say the industry generates $8 billion in sales of goods and services and contributes more than $400 million in state and local tax revenues.
