Fayetteville, WV (WOAY) – The New River Gorge National Park and Preserve has been rated the number one best underrated travel destination in the country, Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced Tuesday at the Canyon Rim Visitor Center, overlooking the New River Gorge Bridge.
The press conference highlighted West Virginia’s growing tourism industry, with Tourism Secretary Chelsea Ruby opening the event with statistics on the state’s recent successes.
“We now see that the total economic impact of tourism in West Virginia exceeds 9 billion, with a B each and every year here in the state,” said Chelsea Ruby, Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Tourism. “And more than 1 billion of direct spending is happening in this area right here. When we look at what Americans are looking for in a vacation this year, in order of popularity, we see hiking, camping, kayaking and rafting, fishing and mountain biking. Every single one of those things can be done right here.”
Gov. Morrisey expressed confidence in the state’s continued growth.
“West Virginia is on the rise, and we’re going to continue to rise up, whether it’s in tourism, whether it’s in manufacturing, whether it’s in education,” Morrisey said.
Acting Superintendent of the New River Gorge National Park Eric LaPrice credited staff, partners and surrounding communities for the recognition.
“We are honored for this recognition from U.S. News and World Report,” LaPrice said. “Our staff, our partners and the communities around us pour their hearts into protecting this land and welcoming visitors from around the world. This honor reflects their work, their pride, and their commitment to sharing the very best of West Virginia.”
