BH Tourism Index: +2.78% | Black Hills & Badlands - South Dakota

BH Tourism Index: +2.78%

Phone: 
(605) 355-3600

We are just days away from kicking off the unofficial start of summer, and the regional numbers are all indicating that we're in for yet another incredible tourist season throughout the Black Hills and Badlands.

Numbers from the region's national parks, combined with area occupancy and sales tax metrics, are now giving us a clear picture of the first quarter of 2016. The Black Hills Tourism Index is currently tracking at +2.78% ahead of the same time frame in 2015—a record-setting year in itself. This indication bodes well for area businesses and attractions that are opening up for the summer season ahead of Memorial Day weekend.

Though the official numbers for April are yet to be posted, area sentiments indicate a strong month of early travelers reaching our area. Through the spring, our national parks and monuments were up 8.67% collectively; occupancy rates were up 1.9%, taxable sales were up 4.4%, and the Deadwood Gaming Handle saw a rise of 2%.

With May offering reasonable weather so far, we're anticipating the increase in numbers to continue through the end of the month and into the heart of the tourist season.

For more information on the BH Tourism Index and/or its calculation, contact our VP of Marketing, Mike Gussiaas, at (605) 355-3600 or mike@blackhillsbadlands.com