Tourism Industry Information | The Olympic Peninsula, WA

Industry

Tourism Impacts / 2022

Tourism is a vital component of economic development for the Olympic Peninsula. In 2022, regional visitor spending throughout Clallam, Jefferson, Mason and Grays Harbor counties combined exceeded $979 million. That same visitor spending generated $80.4 million in state and local tax revenues. Direct employment associated with tourism supported 6,978 jobs on the Olympic Peninsula, generating local earnings of almost $230 million. In a rural area like the Olympic Peninsula, tourism represents a significant economic engine.

Clallam County 2022 Visitor Spending

Jefferson County 2022 Visitor Spending

Mason County 2022 Visitor Spending

Grays Harbor County 2022 Visitor Spending

(Data compiled from the “Economic Impact of Tourism In Washington 2022” Report, dated April 2023 and prepared by Tourism Economics for State of Washington Tourism.)

Tourism Grant Funding

There are a variety of potential sources of grant funding for non-profit, tourism-related businesses and events. Each has its own qualifications, requirements and timelines. Many of these are funded through Washington State lodging tax, and thus must meet the state requirements for lodging tax use (Ref. RCW 67.28.1817).

Here is a reference list of some potential grant sources:

Olympic Peninsula Visitor Bureau (Clallam County)

The Olympic Peninsula Visitor Bureau (OPVB) receives funding from room tax revenues generated in unincorporated Clallam County and bears an obligation to promote and enhance lodging nights in and for unincorporated Clallam County. The Tourism Enhancement Fund is designed to encourage tourism-related projects/events in Clallam County that attract overnight visitors.

Tourism Enhancement Grant Application and Reimbursement Forms:

2024 OPVB Grant Application

2024 OPVB Grant Guidelines

2024 OPVB Grant Reimbursement Request

2024 OPVB Grant Metrics

Reference List – Other Potential Grant Sources

City of Port Angeles Lodging Tax Advisory Committee

Information

Port of Port Angeles / Community Partner Program

Information

City of Sequim Lodging Tax Advisory Committee

Information

Port of Seattle / Tourism Marketing Support Program

Information

Port of Seattle / Spotlight Program

Information

State of Washington Tourism Grant Programs

Information

Tourism Summit

NEW in 2024: We are pleased to announce that after a short hiatus, our Olympic Peninsula Tourism Summit is BACK! Join us in Port Angeles, April 8-9, 2024 to network with tourism colleagues from around the Olympic Peninsula, and to learn about the five-year Olympic Peninsula Tourism Master Plan being rolled out. MORE INFORMATION

Tourism Industry Alliances

As one of our colleagues always says, “Tourism is a team sport”. In addition to the many tourism associates here on the Olympic Peninsula, we collaborate with others across the region.
State of Washington Tourism
Washington Hospitality Association
Visit Seattle
Port of Seattle
Tourism Victoria

Contact
Us

Olympic Peninsula Visitor Bureau
P.O. Box 670
Port Angeles, WA 98362
360-452-8552
info@olympicpeninsula.org