Domestic tourism generated an economic impact of $91.14 million in Orange County in 1997. This is a 3.8 % increase over 1996 it compares with a 2.9% increase for North Carolina. Orange is 21^th in travel impact among North Carolina's 100 counties.

1580 jobs in Orange County are directly attributable to travel and tourism. Travel generated a $19.48 million payroll in Orange County in 1997.

State and local tax revenues from travel to Orange County amounted to $6.67 million in 1997. This represents a $61 tax savings to each county resident

Area attractions include Dean E. Smith Center, Kenan Stadium, Morehead Planetarium, Playmakers Repertory, North Carolina Botanical Gardens, Ackland Museum--are part of the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill, the nation's first state university. The county is developing historic sites in Hillsborough and a racecar speedway in the north. One of North Carolina's most popular state parks, Jordan Lake, borders Orange County

Orange County sees fewer vacationers and higher portions of business and foreign travelers than is typical for North Carolina. The university and neighboring Duke and RTP, account for these differences. The typical Orange County visitor appears to be young (average age 40), affluent, well-educated and willing to spend money.

Top states of origin for North Carolina domestic visitors are Virginia, Florida, Pennsylvania, Maryland, South Carolina, Ohio, and Georgia. International visitors come mainly from Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan and France.