Glasgow-Barren County Tourism reaches No. 17 out of 120 counties in visitor spending

GLASGOW, Ky. – Barren County has advanced to the 17th position out of 120 Kentucky counties in 2023 visitor spending.

Gov. Andy Beshear recently announced that Kentucky tourism generated $13.8 billion in total economic impact in 2023, which is a new record, according to a release by Glasgow-Barren County Tourism.

The tourism group says Barren County previously was No. 18.

In 2023, the release states tourism in Barren County generated 987 jobs, $25.9 million in labor income, $9.7 million in state and local taxes and $121 million in total visitor spending.

“The collective efforts of Barren County’s hospitality industry are reflected within these numbers. They are a testament to all of our local partners, from small business owners to investors to front-line workers to marketing partners and more, who are all equally as committed as we are to convey to visitors why it’s ‘better in the barrens,’” said MacLean Lessenberry, executive director of the Glasgow-Barren County Tourist & Convention Commission. “Our vision for the future is ambitious, but our recent history proves what’s attainable and we’re up for the challenge. We look forward to continuing to establish our footprint as a major Kentucky destination within the Kentucky tourism landscape, especially in the outdoor adventure sector.”

To view the state’s official statement regarding this year’s impact report, click here.