Visitors to the now nationally recognized Cabarrus County spent an unprecedented $400.3 million last year, which is up 7.6% over 2015 numbers, making it the largest increase in the state.
Lodging was the biggest winner with a full 12% increase over last year. Total tourism spending has more than doubled in Cabarrus since the 2002, when the total was put at $173 million.
The data was discovered on the Economic Impact of Travel on North Carolina Counties study.
The Charlotte Motor Speedway, zMax Dragway, and Concord Mills (North Carolina’s largest tourist attraction, with over 20 million visitors each year), make Bruton Smith Blvd. one of the most traveled on roads in the state.
In 2015, the SEA LIFE Aquarium was added to Concord Mills, drastically increasing its appeal to children and marine lovers of all ages.
The Great Wolf Lodge was also a major player in bringing corporate travelers to the region.
Currently, the Cabarrus County tourism industry directly employs over 4,190 people.