Arkansas Welcomes 54.3 Million Visitors as Tourism Generates $17.4 Billion in Economic Impact and Record FY26 2% Tax Collections

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — The Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism announced the findings of the 2025 Economic Impact Report, which shows that visitors generated $10.2 billion in spending across Arkansas’ visitor economy last year. This activity produced a total economic impact of $17.4 billion, supported 71,860 direct jobs statewide, and contributed to record visitation levels — with 54.3 million people visiting The Natural State in 2025, the highest ever recorded. In addition, Arkansas closed Fiscal Year 2026 with 2% tourism tax collections reaching an all-time high of $26.9 million, reinforcing the strength of Arkansas’ tourism economy and enhancing the state’s ability to deliver strategic statewide promotion and targeted national outreach that drive visitation and economic growth.

“Arkansas has always been the Natural State, but today, more Americans than ever are discovering what Arkansans have known for generations,” said Governor Sanders. “From our mountains and rivers to our trails, parks, and small towns, Arkansas offers experiences you simply can’t find anywhere else. That’s creating jobs and opportunity across our state and helping it become one of the nation’s top destinations.”

“The Natural State’s beauty is one of our greatest assets, and we’re working hard to make it more accessible to people who call Arkansas home and the visitors discovering it for the first time,” said First Gentleman Bryan Sanders. “By investing in outdoor recreation destinations across our state, we’re making sure the places that make Arkansas special remain part of our story for years to come.”

Prepared by Tourism Economics, the report highlights Arkansas’ growing position as a year-round travel and outdoor recreation destination driven by strategic investment, strong statewide partnerships, and the appeal of The Natural State. In 2025, food and beverage spending led all categories at $3.0 billion, and visitor-generated state and local taxes reduced the annual tax burden for Arkansas households by $919.

Shea Lewis, Cabinet Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, said the results reflect the statewide momentum behind tourism and outdoor recreation. “The 2025 Economic Impact Report makes clear that tourism and outdoor recreation are not just important to Arkansas’ economy — they are foundational drivers of growth, investment, and directly related to the quality of life found in Arkansas. The momentum we are seeing is the direct result of strategic statewide efforts, major outdoor recreation improvements, and the collaborative partnerships that continue to elevate Arkansas on the national stage. Under Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders’ Natural State Initiative, we are positioning Arkansas for long-term success by expanding access, modernizing iconic destinations, and creating experiences that enhance quality of life for residents while attracting visitors from across the country and the world.”

Dalaney Thomas, Director of Arkansas Tourism, emphasized the state’s marketing strategy and rising national visibility. “In 2025, Arkansas Tourism executed a targeted marketing strategy that strengthened Arkansas’ position in an increasingly competitive travel landscape. Our efforts delivered measurable results, including record 2% tax collections late in the year and expanded national visibility for The Natural State. By focusing on high-value audiences, extending visitor stays, and elevating a unified statewide brand, we are positioning Arkansas for sustained growth and ensuring that our marketing investments drive stronger demand across every region of the state.”

View the full 2025 Economic Impact Report HERE. 

For the media kit please click HERE. For downloadable photos click HERE. 

For additional information, contact info@arkansas.com.

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