Macon County Travel and Tourism Facts
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$ Impact |
Domestic tourism generated an economic impact of $81.55 million in Macon County in 1997. This is a 2.2% increase over 1996 it compares with a 2.9% increase for North Carolina. Macon is 25th in travel impact among North Carolina's 100 counties.
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Jobs |
1200 jobs in Macon County are directly attributable to travel and tourism. Travel generated a $17.15 million payroll in Macon County in 1997.
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Taxes |
State and local tax revenues from travel to Macon County amounted to $8.73 million in 1997. This represents a $334 tax savings to each county resident
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Attractions |
Area attractions include the Franklin Gem and Mineral Museum, Cowee Valley Mines, Smokey Mountain Visitor Center, Bridal Veil and Cullasaja Falls, Highlands Playhouse and Chamber Music Festival, the Nantahala National Forest and the Appalachian Trail. |
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Visitors |
A 1994 survey found historic sites, beaches, scenic areas, museums, golf and fishing most popular among visitors to North Carolina. Average age is 41 years; 45% had household incomes $50,000 or more; 48%are college graduates, 21%graduate or professional school educated. |
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Origins |
Top states of origin for North Carolina domestic visitors are Virginia, Florida, Pennsylvania, Maryland, South Carolina, Ohio, and Georgia. |
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Hotels |
Some 38% of visitors stay in hotels and motels. Hotel occupancy for the Advantage West economic development region varies seasonally. During 1997 it ranged from 22.70% to 62.91%; this compares with occupancy ranging from 21.15% to 71.78% for 1995. Average daily rates for this region in 1997 ranged from $31.42 to $85.02 and tend to be higher than the state average. |