Columbus unveils new tourism campaign amidst major urban developments

Columbus is not just expanding; it's looking to explode into national consciousness with a new tourism campaign unveiled Thursday night during the TourismUS annual meeting at the Columbus Museum of Art.

The event, hosted by Experience Columbus in conjunction with U.S. Travel Association’s National Travel and Tourism Week, brought together industry professionals and civic leaders to spotlight Columbus's growing influence in the travel and tourism sector.

Experience Columbus President and CEO Brian Ross announced the new "yes, Columbus" campaign, an initiative that seeks to reshape perceptions and entice visitors with the city's vibrant culture and unexpected attractions.

"This campaign is a declaration that Columbus is ready to emerge from the shadows of other major Midwest cities," Ross said. "It's right for the moment we’re in and for the foreseeable future."

The campaign, Ross and other speakers noted, is a concerted effort to firmly stamp Columbus' name on the map, with the goal of continuing to bolster tourism.

According to the latest data from Longwoods International, Columbus welcomed a staggering 51.2 million visitors in 2023, a record for the city, generating over $8.2 billion in local business revenue.

These visits had a broad impact, supporting approximately 82,568 jobs and generating significant tax revenues that bolster local services and development.

The evening also recognized key contributors to Columbus’s tourism industry. The inaugural Best of US Awards celebrated individuals and organizations that have significantly enriched the city’s hospitality and tourism landscape. Notable recipients included Stonewall Columbus, Inc., The Junto, Historic Trolley District, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and Joe Kapferer, each praised for their innovative and inclusive efforts.

Ross, along with other city leaders, spoke on future initiatives set to transform Columbus into a more vibrant, attractive destination.

"Let's talk about what's next for Columbus," Ross said during his presentation.

He detailed several urban developments that promise to redefine the cityscape. Among these is the Capital Line, a new two-mile pathway dedicated to bike and pedestrian traffic that will connect key amenities, green spaces, and job centers across downtown Columbus.

Ross also discussed the significant economic and civic benefits expected from several key projects, including the LinkUS transportation initiative, a comprehensive $2 billion expansion of the local airport, and the creation of a new fashion innovation hub.

According to Greg Davies, CEO of Downtown Columbus Inc, as Columbus embarks on these ambitious projects, the city is set to not only enhance its appeal as a tourist destination but also enrich the lives of its residents.

"There's never been a more exciting time to be in Columbus." Davies said.

JEWolf@dispatch.com

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Experience Columbus presents new "Yes, Columbus" tourism campaign