NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Davidson County once again led the state in tourism spending, with visitors generating about $30,000 per day in 2024, according to new numbers released by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development.

But nearby, Sumner County is also climbing the ranks, holding its spot as the 14th most-visited county out of Tennessee’s 95 counties. Direct visitor spending there reached $221 million this year, nearly $5 million more than in 2023.

“We’ve held our ranking in the state amongst all the counties, whereas others have dropped,” said Sumner County's executive director of tourism, Mark Efros. “We’re still number 14 and hoping to move up over time, but it was a good increase this year.”

The county is leaning on its history, lakefront views, and outdoor attractions to draw visitors. Hendersonville leaders point to Old Hickory Lake and local parks honoring stars like Taylor Swift, Johnny Cash, and June Carter Cash. Meanwhile, Gallatin promotes its historic downtown square, boutique shopping, and cultural ties to figures like President Andrew Jackson.

“Gallatin is just a really fun place to kind of get away from the hustle and bustle of Nashville and really experience a lot of fun outdoor activities and really rich history and an adorable shopping experience in our downtown square,” said Gallatin Tourism Director Jenna Landstrom.

Tourism leaders said the next push will be to attract more overnight visitors by expanding hotel options, rather than relying mostly on day trips.

“We’re excited for the future,” Landstrom said. “We’ve got some projects lined up in mind to help maybe get some more hotels into our area to help increase those overnight stays, and we’re just really excited about where the future of Sumner tourism is going.”

News Source : https://www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/visitor-spending-spreads-beyond-davidson-county-into-neighboring-counties/