COLUMBUS – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Lt. Governor Jim Tressel, Ohio Department of Development Director Lydia Mihalik, and State Tourism Director Sarah Wickham announced Tuesday that Ohio welcomed nearly 245 million visits in 2025, generating nearly $58 billion in economic impact and supporting more than 447,000 jobs, reinforcing tourism’s role as one of Ohio’s strongest economic drivers.
State leaders also unveiled a new partnership between TourismOhio and the Greater Columbus Convention Center designed to introduce millions of convention attendees and business travelers to destinations across Ohio — encouraging visitors to extend their stay, explore more of the state, and return for future trips.
“Ohio’s greatest strength has always been its people and its communities,” Gov. DeWine said. “Every Ohio community has something unique to offer, and tourism gives us the opportunity to showcase those experiences to visitors from across the country and around the world. Whether someone comes for business or recreation, every trip is a chance to experience what makes Ohio different from other states.”
“One of the best things about Ohio is that every community has a story worth telling,” Lt. Gov. Tressel said. “No matter what kind of experience you’re looking for, you’ll find it in Ohio and leave with a better understanding of why we’re proud to call the Buckeye State home. It’s why so many people choose to live, work, and raise a family here.”
Since 2021, Ohio has seen continued growth in visitor volume, overnight travel, visitor spending, and tourism-supported employment—demonstrating tourism’s growing contribution to the state’s economy.
“Tourism creates jobs, supports local businesses, generates tax revenue, and strengthens communities—that’s economic development!” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Ohio Department of Development, which oversees TourismOhio. “Every visit gives someone the opportunity to experience Ohio firsthand, and that first impression can lead to future investment, new business opportunities, or even a decision to make Ohio home.”
“People often think of tourism as vacations and weekend getaways—and it absolutely is,” said Sarah Wickham, state tourism director. “It’s about making memories and discovering new places with the people who matter most. But behind every great trip is real economic impact. When visitors fall in love with an Ohio downtown, state park, restaurant, or attraction, they’re more likely to return and encourage others to visit.”
New Convention Center partnership inspires millions to explore Ohio
Building on that momentum, TourismOhio continues to invest in partnerships that connect travelers with destinations across the state.
One of its newest collaborations brings Ohio, The Heart of it All directly to one of the state’s busiest gateways for visitors—the Greater Columbus Convention Center.
Director Mihalik and State Tourism Director Sarah Wickham today joined Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther, the Franklin County Convention Facilities Authority (FCCFA), and Experience Columbus to unveil a new destination marketing initiative at the Greater Columbus Convention Center.
Each year, millions of convention attendees, business travelers, and event participants pass through the facility.
The new partnership introduces those visitors to destinations throughout Ohio through immersive wallscapes, digital displays, and expanded Ohio, The Heart of it All branding, including the naming of the convention center’s signature ballroom as the Heart of it All Ballroom.
The partnership extends through March 31, 2031, with opportunities for future collaboration.