March 1, 2024
Steuben County Conference and Visitors Bureau President Kevin Peterson says more than 305,000 visitors stayed in Steuben accommodations in 2023. He says those visitors spent $35.5 million on lodging, and that 56 percent of those guests came from out of state, he said. Peterson also says they come to places like Corning and Keuka Lake.
See full statement from the county, below.
The new year is looking good for the travel and tourism industry in Steuben County, with anticipated projects building on a solid year in 2023, according to Steuben County Conference and Visitors Bureau President Kevin Peterson.
Peterson told the county Legislature Agriculture, Industry and Planning (AIP) Committee more than 305,000 visitors stayed in Steuben accommodations in 2023.
Those visitors brought $35.5 million into local lodging, while 56 percent of those guests came from out of state, he said.
Key regions for visitors were Corning, which drew 57 percent, and central Steuben and Keuka Lake, noting 16 percent and 14 percent respectively.
The area showing the most marked growth in tourism was the State Route 36 Corridor which includes the City of Hornell, and the towns of Troupsburg, Canisteo, Dansville and Arkport. The corridor boasted a significant jump in tourists, jumping from 8 percent in 2022 up to 14 percent in 2023, according to Peterson’s report.
Peterson credited the increase during the past year to its app, “Explore Steuben,” with social and electronic media outreach, captivating content, and targeted marketing efforts.
Collaborative endeavors with local businesses and community stakeholders have strengthened local tourism while visitor feedback demonstrates a growing interest in Steuben County, he told legislators.
New opportunities in 2024 include hosting the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association conference, Peterson said.
Other plans include installing digital visitor information kiosks to enhance services, growing and supporting key events, launching a new website, and working on exciting outdoor recreation development projects, he reported.
The SCCVB, doing business as Explore Steuben, also is working on a joint project with the county Legislature’s AIP Committee which will award local efforts to boost tourism, he said.
“As we navigate the evolving landscape of travel trends, Explore Steuben is poised to continue its dynamic role in shaping the county as a destination of choice, fostering sustainable growth for years to come,” Peterson said.
