Home » TRAVEL NEWS » Forsyth County: Visitor Spending Reaches New Heights With Events Like NASCAR Driving Growth
Published on
September 18, 2025
Tourism has been steadily growing in Forsyth County, bringing in substantial revenue and creating a ripple effect throughout local businesses. Recent reports indicate that the region is becoming an increasingly popular destination for visitors, with over 7 million tourists flocking to the area annually. As a result, tourism has become a key economic driver, generating more than $1 billion in spending each year. The success of the tourism industry in Forsyth County is not only evident in the influx of visitors but also in the rising revenue figures that reflect a thriving local economy.
The Rise in Visitor Spending and Economic Impact
One of the most remarkable trends in Forsyth County’s tourism sector is the significant increase in visitor spending. The latest data reveals that the county has seen a surge in revenue from various industries tied to tourism. Forsyth County now ranks as one of the top counties in North Carolina for visitor spending, holding a solid position at ninth out of 100 counties. This surge in tourism revenue has had a profound impact on the local economy, particularly in areas like hotels, restaurants, retail, and entertainment.
The president and CEO of Visit Winston-Salem, Stephanie Pace Brown, emphasizes the importance of this growing economic engine. In her remarks, she highlights the impressive fact that more than 7 million visitors come to Forsyth County every year, with the vast majority of them contributing to local businesses and services. This influx of visitors directly translates into increased revenue across various sectors, fueling job creation and supporting local enterprises.
A Surge in Hotel Revenues
A notable indicator of Forsyth County’s tourism boom is the dramatic rise in hotel revenues. According to recent figures, hotel revenue in the area increased by approximately 10% during the most recent fiscal year, reaching over $140 million. This significant growth in the hotel industry reflects both the higher number of visitors and the expanding range of accommodations that attract a diverse array of travelers. Whether for business, leisure, or events, visitors are increasingly choosing Forsyth County as their destination.
Beyond just the lodging aspect, the economic influence of tourism extends far beyond the walls of hotels. For every dollar spent on accommodation, it is estimated that visitors spend another $4 on various other services such as dining, shopping, recreation, and transportation. This multiplier effect means that the local economy benefits from the ripple of spending that occurs when visitors spend money at local restaurants, retail stores, and entertainment venues.
The Importance of Events in Drawing Visitors
Another key factor driving the rise in tourism is the increasing number of events hosted in Forsyth County. Large-scale events have proven to be a major draw for visitors, bringing in people from outside the region to experience the unique attractions and offerings the county has to offer. One such event, the Cook Out Clash, a popular NASCAR race, is one example of how an exciting event can bring thousands of visitors to the area. Held at Bowman Gray Stadium, this event alone attracted around 15,000 NASCAR fans, significantly boosting local businesses and providing a major source of tourism-related revenue.
Events such as the Cook Out Clash are becoming a staple in Forsyth County’s tourism calendar, and they continue to grow in popularity. It has already been confirmed that the race will return to Winston-Salem in February, signaling a continuing upward trend for the tourism industry in the area. The consistent return of such events not only helps boost short-term revenue but also helps establish Forsyth County as a reputable and exciting location for annual events.
The Broader Impact on Local Business and Jobs
The growing tourism industry in Forsyth County is having a far-reaching impact, especially in terms of job creation and economic activity. Local businesses that serve tourists directly, such as hotels, restaurants, and retail shops, have seen substantial growth in demand for their products and services. In turn, this has created a variety of employment opportunities within the county, particularly in the hospitality and service sectors.
The rise in tourism-related jobs is significant, providing employment for individuals across different industries and skill levels. Many local establishments are experiencing longer working hours and increased staffing needs to accommodate the growing number of visitors. As the tourism industry continues to expand, local businesses will likely see even further demand, further strengthening Forsyth County’s economic resilience.
Moreover, the effects of tourism are not limited to businesses directly in the hospitality sector. Retailers, entertainment venues, and local service providers also benefit from the influx of visitors. These businesses often see increased sales and more customer traffic, all thanks to the dollars spent by tourists. This creates a cycle of growth that benefits everyone in the community, from small local shops to larger entertainment venues.
Forsyth County’s Growing Tourism Infrastructure
As the number of visitors to Forsyth County continues to rise, the local infrastructure is also evolving to meet the needs of both tourists and residents. New developments in hospitality, transportation, and entertainment are steadily making the county a more attractive destination for travelers. Investments in public infrastructure, such as roads and public transit systems, are being made to ensure that visitors can navigate the county efficiently and enjoy all that it has to offer.
Additionally, Forsyth County’s marketing efforts, spearheaded by organizations like Visit Winston-Salem, are helping to promote the region’s diverse attractions. By highlighting key attractions, events, and activities, these marketing efforts ensure that tourists are aware of the unique experiences waiting for them in the area. As Forsyth County continues to grow as a tourism hub, further investment in infrastructure and marketing will be crucial to maintaining the momentum.
A Bright Future for Forsyth County Tourism
Looking ahead, Forsyth County’s tourism industry shows no signs of slowing down. With a strong base of visitors and an expanding array of events, activities, and accommodations, the county is poised for continued success in the tourism sector. It is clear that tourism will remain a cornerstone of Forsyth County’s economy, and as more people discover what the region has to offer, the impact on local businesses and residents will only continue to grow.
