San Antonio Missions National Historical Park played a significant role in the local economy in 2023, according to a recent National Park Service report. The park welcomed 1.2 million visitors, who contributed a substantial $95 million to the economies of nearby communities. This spending directly supported 1,480 local jobs, solidifying the park’s position as a vital economic contributor in the region. Beyond job creation, the park generated a total of $150 million in economic benefits for the area. This demonstrates how San Antonio Missions remains a key driver of both tourism and economic growth, extending beyond its historical and cultural significance.
“I’m so proud that our parks and the stories we tell make a lasting impact on more than 300 million visitors a year,” said National Park Service Director Chuck Sams. “And I’m just as proud to see those visitors making positive impacts of their own, by supporting local economies and jobs in every state in the country.”
“San Antonio Missions National Historical Park not only protects and preserves the cultural heritage, historical structures, archaeological resources, and natural landscapes but also plays a vital role in supporting the local economy,” said Superintendent Christine Jacobs. “We’re proud to contribute to the economic landscape supporting 1,480 jobs and generating $95 million in revenue to communities near the park while welcoming visitors from all over the world.”
The National Park Service’s latest report, titled “2023 National Park Visitor Spending Effects,” reveals a nationwide impact of national parks on local economies. The report shows that 325.5 million visitors contributed $26.4 billion to communities near these parks, directly supporting 415,400 jobs across the country. This spending generated $19.4 billion in labor income and drove a total economic output of $55.6 billion for the U.S. economy.
The lodging sector experienced the most significant impact, generating $9.9 billion in economic output and creating 89,200 jobs. Restaurants also benefited considerably, contributing $5.2 billion in economic output and supporting 68,600 jobs.
To delve deeper into these findings, an interactive tool is available, allowing users to explore visitor spending, job creation, labor income, and total economic contributions by sector at the national, state, and local levels. The tool also provides access to year-by-year trend data, offering insights into the long-term economic influence of national parks.
