Arkansas celebrates National Travel and Tourism Week May 7-13 to spotlight the essential role that travel plays in driving economic growth and innovation. This year marks the 40th anniversary of the annual industry celebration with the theme “Travel Forward.”
“Gov. Sanders has given us a mandate to put Arkansas on the global stage, sharing the beauty and value of The Natural State with the world,” said Mike Mills, secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism. “Embodying the very spirit of that mandate, National Travel and Tourism Week celebrates our nation and our state and encourages people to ‘Travel Forward.’”
From historical exhibits to presentations by park interpreters to musical performances, Arkansas communities and Welcome Centers are hosting giveaways and small events to celebrate travel and its impact on the state’s economy. Travelers can share their photos and experiences exploring The Natural State on social media with the hashtags #VisitArkansas and #NTTW23.
“Our state has so much to offer to travelers, whether you are an Arkansas native or a first-time visitor,” said Travis Napper, director of Arkansas Tourism. “Start planning your trip now with the many resources found at Arkansas.com and travel forward into your next Arkansas adventure.”
Celebrated annually the first full week in May, National Travel and Tourism Week was created by Congress in 1983 to elevate the economic power of travel in the U.S. This year’s event marks 40 years of travel’s essential role in stimulating economic growth, cultivating vibrant communities, creating quality job opportunities, inspiring new businesses and elevating the quality of life for Americans every day.
Visit ustravel.org/NTTW to learn more about National Travel and Tourism Week.
Arkansas Tourism
Arkansas Tourism, a division of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, strives to expand the economic impact of travel and tourism in the state and enhance the quality of life for all Arkansans. The division manages 14 Arkansas Welcome Centers and employs more than 60 staff members across The Natural State. For more information, visit www.arkansas.com.
Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism
The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism protects and promotes our state’s natural, cultural and historic assets, contributing to a thriving economy and high quality of life. It is made up of three divisions: Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Heritage and Arkansas Tourism. Mike Mills serves as the cabinet secretary for the department.
