Domestic tourism generated an economic impact of $49.72 million in Surry County in 1997. This is a 7.2% increase over 1996 it compares with a 2.9% increase for North Carolina. Surry is 39^th in travel impact among North Carolina's 100 counties.

620 jobs in Surry County are directly attributable to travel and tourism. Travel generated a $8.48 million payroll in Surry County in 1997.

State and local tax revenues from travel to Surry County amounted to $3.68 million in 1997. This represents a $57 tax saving to each county resident.

The I-77 north center welcomed more than a million visitors in 1995; it has assisted nearly 15 million since it opened in 1982.

Area attractions include Hone Creek Living Historical Farm and Pilot Mountain State Park.

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.

Top states of origin for North Carolina domestic visitors are Virginia, Florida, Pennsylvania, Maryland, South Carolina, Ohio, and Georgia.

Some 38% of visitors stay in hotels and motels. Hotel occupancy for the Piedmont Triad economic development during 1997 ranged from 46.32% to 79.73%; this compares with occupancy ranging from 53.17% to 74.41% for 1995. Average daily rates for this region in 1997 ranged from $40.52 to $61.20 and tend to be lower than the state average.