St. Mary’s County Celebrates Tourism’s $247M Impact During National Travel And Tourism Week

LEONARDTOWN, Md. — On any given weekend in St. Mary’s County, the options can feel endless — from waterfront views along the Chesapeake Bay to historic sites, local restaurants and community events that draw visitors in and keep them coming back.

“If you can’t find something to do in St. Mary’s County on a given weekend, then you aren’t looking hard enough,” Commissioner Mike Alderson said during the May 5 commissioners meeting, opening remarks that set the tone for a proclamation recognizing National Travel and Tourism Week.

During the meeting, Alderson formally presented the proclamation, highlighting tourism as not just a seasonal attraction, but a cornerstone of the county’s economy and identity.

According to the proclamation, the travel and tourism industry “has been a consistent driver of St. Mary’s County’s economy and workforce,” generating more than $247 million in visitor spending in 2024 — an average of $676,000 per day.

That impact extends beyond visitor experiences, supporting more than 2,200 jobs and accounting for 4.5% of all employment in the county.

Tourism also plays a critical role in funding public services, with traveler spending generating $50.6 million in tax revenue in 2024 alone, benefiting federal, state and local governments.

As Alderson read through the proclamation, he noted the industry’s continued growth, with visitor spending increasing by 11.6% across sectors such as lodging, dining, retail, recreation and transportation.

But beyond the numbers, county leaders and tourism officials emphasized the human element, the everyday interactions that shape a visitor’s experience.

Liz Mildenstein, executive director of Visit St. Mary’s, thanked the commissioners for the recognition, calling attention to the people behind the industry.

“This recognition gives us a chance to recognize the hospitality industry for their dedication to creating unforgettable guest experiences,” Mildenstein said.

“From a warm welcome at check-in to adventures along the Chesapeake Bay, to meaningful connections with our history and culture… we are grateful to the many ways this industry brings our destination to life,” she added.

Mildenstein also pointed to the broader theme of this year’s observance, noting that travel is “an economic pillar critical to the region’s growth and prosperity,” with visitor spending directly supporting local businesses, events and essential services like schools and first responders.

She emphasized that residents themselves play a vital role in shaping tourism.

“Your positive, everyday interactions with visitors have the power to increase spending and improve their experience in our communities,” Mildenstein said, adding that simple recommendations — where to eat, shop or explore — can lead to repeat visits and stronger word-of-mouth promotion.

In the proclamation, the commissioners formally declared May 3 through May 9, 2026, as National Travel and Tourism Week in St. Mary’s County, inviting residents and visitors alike to support the small businesses, historic venues and hospitality services that define the region.

As the summer season approaches, officials say the message is simple: tourism isn’t just about visitors, it’s about community.

From the people who greet guests at the door to those who share their favorite hidden gems, St. Mary’s County continues to prove that its greatest attraction may be the welcoming spirit of those who call it home.

To learn more about what the county has to offer, Visit St. Mary’s serves as the official destination marketing organization, connecting visitors and residents alike to the experiences that make the region unique.

Through its website, VisitStMarys.com, users can explore local events, discover waterfront activities along the Chesapeake Bay, plan trips to historic sites like St. Mary’s City, and find recommendations for dining, lodging and seasonal attractions. The organization also highlights itineraries, guides and insider tips that showcase the county’s rich history, vibrant arts scene and outdoor recreation, all aimed at helping visitors create meaningful, memorable experiences while supporting local businesses across St. Mary’s County.

You can watch the full proclamation below at 3:58.

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