Celebrating National Travel and Tourism Week: How Travel Powers Our Economy, Our Communities, and Our Connections
Greenville, PA; May 4, 2025
At Anderson Coach & Travel, we proudly recognize the impact of travel during National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), an annual event that shines a spotlight on the U.S. travel industry’s essential role in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and connecting people across the nation. Observed each year since 1983, NTTW is a time to honor how travel fuels opportunity and strengthens communities in every corner of America.
This year’s theme, “Travel Powers the Economy, Builds Opportunity & Connects America,” perfectly reflects the mission we carry out every day as a trusted provider of motorcoach tours and charter bus service. From family vacations to school field trips, our charter buses are part of the economic engine that keeps the U.S. moving forward.
Travel’s Far-Reaching Economic Impact
"Travel is one of our nation's most powerful economic engines—supporting millions of jobs, fueling businesses and propelling industries forward,” said Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. The numbers speak for themselves: in 2024, the travel industry generated $2.9 trillion in economic output, supported more than 15 million American jobs, and produced $190 billion in tax revenue—the equivalent of $1,490 per U.S. household.
These figures underscore the travel industry’s role in strengthening our economy and quality of life. Travel also sustains vibrant communities, stimulates entrepreneurship, and ensures that rural and suburban areas benefit from tourism just as much as major cities. At Anderson, we see these effects firsthand.
A Message from Anderson’s Leadership
“Travel drives economic opportunity and strengthens our community,” said Evan Anderson, Chief Operating Officer of Anderson Coach & Travel. “This long-thriving family business we operate safely transports guests all across North America and serves as an important cornerstone in the travel industry for our region.”
From our headquarters in Greenville, Pennsylvania, Anderson Coach & Travel serves cities and towns throughout the Northeast, including Pittsburgh, Cleveland, Akron, Erie, and beyond. Whether it’s renting a bus for a school group in Ohio or planning a group getaway in western New York, our charter bus services provide reliable, comfortable transportation for people of all ages.
Our location in western Pennsylvania, just miles from the Ohio border, gives us strategic access to key cities in multiple states. It also places us at the center of some of the most dynamic regions for tourism in the Northeast.
Tourism in Pennsylvania and Beyond
Tourism in Pennsylvania continues to be a significant contributor to the state’s economy. The industry generates $1.8 billion in receipts annually and supports more than 228,000 jobs. Anderson Coach & Travel plays a part in this by offering a range of tour and charter options that help visitors explore our scenic landscapes, rich history, and charming communities.
We also impact tourism in Ohio, where travel similarly contributes $1.8 billion to the state’s economy and creates close to 198,000 jobs. Anderson’s location allows us to easily serve both states, providing Northeast charter bus rental options that support group outings, student trips, corporate travel, and more.
We're also proud partners of VisitMercerCountyPA, working together to bring travelers to our beautiful area and boost the local economy.
Tours that Showcase America’s Best Destinations
At Anderson, our motorcoach tours offer guests a chance to explore the best the U.S. has to offer—from the bustling streets of New York City and Washington, D.C., to the peaceful countryside of Amish Country in Pennsylvania and Ohio. Other popular destinations include Lancaster, Orlando, New England, Tennessee, and Kentucky, along with scenic areas around the Great Lakes.
On our website, browse upcoming trips or search for tours by pickup location: Check it out here.
Charter Bus Rentals: Serving Groups of All Kinds
When it comes to renting a bus, Anderson’s charter services are second to none. We’re proud to serve a wide variety of groups, including:
- Schools and youth organizations
- Sports teams and clubs
- Religious groups and churches
- Corporate and business events
- Senior and retirement communities
- Wedding parties and family reunions
Our commitment to safety, reliability, and comfort has made us a go-to provider for charter bus Pittsburgh and charter bus Cleveland customers seeking dependable transportation solutions.
Explore our full list of group charter services here.
Travel: A Vital U.S. Industry
As we reflect on the importance of National Travel and Tourism Week, it’s worth considering some of the key statistics provided by the U.S. Travel Association:
- Travel contributes 2.5% of U.S. GDP
- 1 in 11 U.S. jobs depends on travel
- Travel generates local revenue, funds essential services, and supports small businesses
- It sustains 15 million American jobs, from first-time workers to seasoned professionals
- Travel is one of the top service exports, vital for global competitiveness
- The U.S. remains the most desired destination for international visitors
At Anderson, we believe in travel’s power to connect people—whether it’s friends reuniting on a group trip or students discovering our nation’s capital for the first time. Some of our best memories come from small towns and hidden gems, where local hospitality shines brightest.
Travel in 2024: A Strong Recovery
In 2024, leisure travel remained the backbone of the industry, accounting for $1 trillion in spending, with 82% of domestic trips taken for leisure purposes. Meanwhile, international inbound travel contributed an additional $181 billion, though still slightly below pre-pandemic levels.
Business travel continues to be a major force as well, with transient travel generating $186 billion and group business travel contributing another $126 billion. Across all segments, the charter bus industry plays an essential role in ensuring smooth, efficient group transportation.
Building the Future of Travel
As we look ahead, the travel and tourism sector remains a critical part of U.S. competitiveness, job creation, and community development. At Anderson, we’re doing our part by creating career opportunities—from school bus drivers and aides to garage mechanics, office staff, and more. No experience? No problem—paid training is available. Interested candidates can apply here.
With strategic investments in seamless, secure, and sustainable travel infrastructure, the future of the travel industry looks bright. Anderson Coach & Travel is proud to be part of that journey.
To learn more about National Travel and Tourism Week, visit ustravel.org/NTTW.
Let’s Keep America Moving
As we celebrate National Travel and Tourism Week, we’re reminded that travel is more than just a trip—it’s a force that drives our economy, brings us together, and opens doors to new experiences. Whether you're chartering a bus, exploring tourism in Pennsylvania, or booking your next getaway from Cleveland or Pittsburgh, we invite you to travel with Anderson Coach & Travel.
Because when we travel, we grow. And when we grow, we all move forward—together.
Comments (0)