Dutchess Tourism, the official destination marketing organization for Dutchess County, hosted its annual brochure exchange on May 9, 2024, at the Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum, Poughkeepsie, N.Y. where they released the new 2024 Discover Dutchess Destination Guide to inspire travelers to visit the Mid-Hudson Valley. Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino and Dutchess Tourism President & CEO Melaine Rottkamp recognized individuals certified as Dutchess Tourism Ambassadors and shared the outlook for the upcoming travel season in Dutchess. The event saw a gathering of forty tourism-related businesses coming together to network and collaborate in anticipation of the upcoming summer travel season. This annual gathering leads up to National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) from May 19-25, 2024.

“The tourism industry is an economic powerhouse, job creator, and community builder—indispensable and irreplaceable – and the annual brochure exchange underscores the unity and cooperation within our vibrant tourism industry,” said Rottkamp. “As we approach the summer months, Dutchess County stands ready to extend a warm welcome to visitors, offering unforgettable experiences and exceptional hospitality.” She added, “By facilitating dialogue and collaboration within the community, Dutchess Tourism remains committed to driving sustainable growth and prosperity in the region.” 

Established in 1983, NTTW highlights the importance of the tourism sector in driving economic growth and community development. Last year, travel spending left a $2.8 trillion economic footprint on the U.S. economy and generated $89 billion in state and local tax revenue supporting essential services like education, emergency response, public safety and more. Locally, visitors spent an average of $1.9 million per day in Dutchess in 2022. In 2023, visitor spending accounted for 26% of all retail, 18% at attractions and 9% of all spending at county restaurants.

During NTTW, DTI will visit businesses to promote tourism initiatives and ensure that they are well-equipped to capitalize on the region’s tourism potential. Through these interactions, the organization will create new and strengthen existing partnerships, building on its strategic goals to be a valuable resource for education, workforce training, promotional assistance and advocacy.

Also that week, DTI and the New York State Hospitality & Tourism Association (NYSHTA) will be hosting a Legislative Networking Reception on May 23, 2024, from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. at Vassar College’s Alumnae House. The event offers tourism-related business in Dutchess County the opportunity to meet with elected officials on pressing issues, such as short-term rental legislation, tourism promotion matching grants, the Junk Fee Prevention Act, and other issues affecting the industry. Tickets are $25 and can be purchased at www.nyshta.org.

Serino emphasized the significant impact of tourism on the local economy and workforce, stating, “Tourism plays a vital role in driving economic prosperity and job creation in Dutchess County. By showcasing our unique attractions and fostering collaboration within the tourism industry, we continue to strengthen our community and enhance opportunities for growth.” 

Dutchess Tourism’s commitment to excellence extends beyond promotion to workforce development initiatives. These curated programs ensure that hospitality professionals are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to deliver outstanding service, enhancing the overall visitor experience to the Hudson Valley. Launched in August 2022, DTI’s Certified Tourism Ambassador™ (CTA) course, an industry-recognized certified accreditation through the Tourism Ambassador Institute®, has graduated over 425 CTAs from 165 businesses and organizations. The Guest Service Gold Tourism® (GSGT) program, an online course available in English and Spanish, is focused on delivering superior customer service. GSGT is available for free through July, thanks to funds from Dutchess County government through an American Rescue Plan (ARP) grant. Individuals wanting to participate can visit www.dutchesstourism.com/workforce or contact Lauren Beale, consumer services and tourism programs manager, at training@dutchesstourism.com for details. 

Rottkamp expressed enthusiasm for the collaborative spirit of the Dutchess tourism community, providing Rev250 celebrations as examples. Dutchess County kicked off its multi-year commemoration of America’s semiquincentennial in February with the release of its Commander in Cheers program where people can hear Dutchess’ Revolutionary tales told by a “Tiny George” Washington at 20 locations around the county. Next up is RevCon 2024 on June 8, at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Presidential Library and Museum in Hyde Park. The event will feature reenactors from the Brigade of the American Revolution and accompanying history fair. Fun for all ages, this free event, presented by Dutchess County Government, Dutchess Tourism and the FDR Presidential Library & Museum, runs from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., rain or shine. This celebration highlights Dutchess County’s rich history and vibrant culture, inviting locals and visitors alike to join in the festivities. 

For more information about Dutchess Tourism and upcoming events, visit www.dutchesstourism.com.