By Allison Peck
Visit North Platte is recognizing National Travel and Tourism Week May 3 through May 9, celebrating the impact tourism has on the local economy and community.
The weeklong observance highlights the role visitors play in supporting North Platte and Lincoln County businesses, attractions and jobs. According to Visit North Platte, visitors spend more than $121 million annually at local lodging facilities, restaurants, attractions, events and retail establishments. That spending generates more than $10 million in state and local taxes and supports more than 1,530 jobs with a payroll of $35 million each year.
Nationally, the travel industry generated a $3 trillion economic output in 2025 and supported 15 million jobs.
As part of the celebration, Visit North Platte is inviting the public to join Mayor Brandon Kelliher at 8:45 a.m. Monday, May 4, at the Lincoln County Historical Museum, where he will issue a proclamation declaring May 3-9 as National Travel and Tourism Week in North Platte. Community members attending are encouraged to wear red to show support for the tourism industry and its contributions to the region.
Lisa Burke, executive director of Visit North Platte, said travel remains an essential part of the local economy, helping create jobs while strengthening the community’s culture and identity. She said the week is an opportunity to celebrate tourism’s impact now and in the future.
Visit North Platte is funded through lodging tax revenue generated when visitors stay in hotels and other lodging facilities in Lincoln County. The organization says it continues working to promote North Platte and Lincoln County, support quality events and attractions, and encourage strong customer service across the local tourism industry.
More information about tourism opportunities in Lincoln County is available at VisitNorthPlatte.com.