Article Summary –
Dani Ober, inspired by misconceptions about Lancaster, created TikTok and Instagram accounts to showcase the region’s diverse attractions. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro is promoting state tourism with increased marketing funds and a new tourism brand, coinciding with a rise in visitors post-COVID, which generated a significant economic impact. Tourism benefits the local economy by supporting jobs, small businesses, and tax revenue, with officials advocating for both out-of-state and local Pennsylvanians to explore diverse regions for enhanced community and state development.
When Dani Ober moved from her Lancaster farm to Temple University in Philadelphia, she was surprised people assumed she was Amish.
“I was shocked,” Ober wrote to the Pennsylvania Independent. “I couldn’t believe people didn’t know Lancaster is more than just farmlands and the Amish community.”
After graduating with a special education degree in 2019, Ober returned to Lancaster and began showcasing the region’s attractions through TikTok and Instagram.
In the past five years, Ober has aligned with Governor Josh Shapiro’s objective of encouraging exploration of Pennsylvania. Shapiro’s 2024-25 budget proposes an extra $18 million for tourism marketing; the state’s budget, passed on July 11, included a $15 million increase, which Shapiro signed into law that night.
In May, Shapiro launched the new tourism brand, “Pennsylvania: The Great American Getaway,” traveling 1,500 miles in an RV to promote small businesses and recreation spots, coinciding with the state’s 250th anniversary preparations.
“More people deserve to experience Pennsylvania’s magic,” Shapiro stated. “Seventy-two million people live within a four-hour drive — and there’s something for every family member.”
The tourism budget increase is welcomed by state officials.
“For over a decade, other states like Ohio and New York have spent more to attract visitors,” Anne Ryan from the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development wrote. “Governor Shapiro’s proposed increase is the first in years.”
Tourism in Pennsylvania is recovering post-Covid. A February 2024 report shows that 192.4 million visitors came in 2022, about 12.2 million more than in 2021. Although not yet at pre-pandemic levels, it reached 91% of 2019’s numbers, with a continued rise expected.
The report states tourism generated $76.7 billion, supported 486,871 jobs, and contributed $4.7 billion in taxes.
Increased tourism brings job growth, benefits small businesses, and boosts state tax revenues, officials said. Joel Cliff from Discover Lancaster highlighted how tourist spending allows businesses to expand and attract more visitors.
“Lancaster has key medical facilities, and when new doctors come to [Lancaster] General [Hospital], they appreciate our vibrant downtown and cultural offerings,” Cliff said.
Lancaster is one of Pennsylvania’s top tourist destinations. According to 2022 data, the Dutch Country Roads region attracted the most visitors among Pennsylvania’s 11 tourism regions. Philadelphia area and Pittsburgh followed.
Tourism advocates aim to inspire Pennsylvanians to explore their state, supporting local businesses and strengthening community ties, Ober noted.
“When locals travel their state, they build pride and advocacy for Pennsylvania’s needs and growth,” she wrote.
Ober stated that if lawmakers traveled more within Pennsylvania, their policies could become more inclusive and balanced.
Pennsylvanians are visiting Lancaster County, contributing to the region’s tourism growth, Cliff said. While historically known for its Amish community, Lancaster is gaining fame for its restaurants, theaters, and outdoor activities.
“Lancaster City continues to evolve and surprise, beyond just the Amish community,” Cliff stated.
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