Welcome to Tourism in Cumberland Valley
When people think of Cumberland Valley, they may picture our scenic hiking trails, charming downtowns, or relaxing weekend escapes. What many don’t see is the powerful impact that tourism has on the economic heartbeat of Cumberland County, located in the heart of South Central Pennsylvania.
Tourism here is more than just leisure—it supports local jobs, strengthens small businesses, and fuels growth in hospitality, retail, entertainment, and other sectors. As one of the county’s key industries, tourism plays a vital role in creating a vibrant place to live, work, and explore.
Let’s take a closer look at how tourism contributes to the thriving economy of Cumberland Valley.
Tourism Strengthens Our Local Economy
Tourism generates millions of dollars in visitor spending annually, with a significant portion of this revenue directly benefiting our local economy. Whether it’s lodging, dining, shopping, or recreation, every visitor transaction supports businesses that employ our friends, neighbors, and families.
Revenue generated through visitor spending helps fund essential services and infrastructure improvements that benefit all residents—from parks and trails to road maintenance and public safety.
Key Impacts:
- Supports small businesses and family-owned establishments
- Encourages new business development and investment
- Generates tax revenue that supports local government services
Tourism Creates and Sustains Local Jobs
The tourism industry is a major employer in Cumberland Valley. It provides diverse job opportunities across a wide range of sectors—from front-line hospitality and customer service roles to management, marketing, and operations positions.
Many of these jobs create employment pathways for people of all ages and experience levels, including young professionals, career changers, and retirees.
Tourism-related industries include:
- Lodging & accommodations
- Food & beverage services
- Transportation & travel services
- Arts, entertainment, & recreation
By the Numbers: The Power of Tourism in Cumberland Valley
Tourism isn’t just about visits—it’s about value. These 2023 statistics demonstrate how visitor spending fuels local prosperity, supports essential services, and contributes to building a stronger Cumberland Valley for all. (*Information for Cumberland Valley provided from the 2023 Economic Impact of Visitors in Pennsylvania Report, prepared by Tourism Economics for the Pennsylvania Office of Tourism, released in March 2025.)
Visitors generate significant economic benefits for households, businesses, and the government, and will continue to be a critical contributing factor to the success of the economy in the Commonwealth and the Cumberland Valley. In 2023, tourism-supported jobs accounted for 6.2% of all jobs in Pennsylvania and a total of $80.7 billion in total business sales.
Tourism Builds Community Pride and Connection
Tourism gives us the opportunity to share what makes Cumberland Valley special. It encourages the preservation of our historic sites, the celebration of our cultural events, and the protection of our natural landscapes. These efforts not only attract visitors—they also enrich our daily lives as residents.
Community festivals, farmers' markets, downtown revitalizations, and local art installations are just a few examples of tourism-driven projects that foster a sense of pride in place and a strong community spirit.
Tourism supports:
- Events and experiences that bring people together
- Beautification and revitalization projects
- Preservation of local heritage and character
Tourism Helps Us Tell Our Story
Our brand, “Cumberland Valley… where the week ends,” speaks to the region’s role as a restorative, relaxing destination. However, that story also appeals to potential business owners, event planners, and residents seeking a high quality of life.
Through coordinated marketing, media outreach, and strategic partnerships, we amplify Cumberland Valley’s story in ways that benefit everyone who lives and works here. Tourism marketing doesn't just attract visitors, it elevates our region's reputation across the state and beyond.
Local Voices: The Faces of Tourism
Read more about local business owners and how their efforts support and improve the Cumberland Valley community.
