Travel & Tourism
The Gardner Institute produces leading travel and tourism research in Utah. We produce reports, profiles, research briefs, fact sheets, data sheets, and blogs on Utah’s visitor economy. Our research informs the Utah Office of Tourism, destination marketing organizations, policymakers, and the general public.
Salt Lake County Zoo, Arts & Parks (ZAP) Tax
Salt Lake County collected $36.7 million in ZAP tax revenue in fiscal year 2023, supporting organizations that collectively employ nearly 15,000 individuals and receive over 11 million visitors annually.
Estimated Economic Impacts of the 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Games
The 2034 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games would make a significant economic impact to Utah, generating new jobs, income, and $6.6 billion in economic output.
The Economic Contributions of Utah’s Ski Industry
Utah is home to 15 ski resorts, including the nation’s largest ski resort (Park City). Eleven of the state's resorts are less than an hour from Salt Lake International Airport.
An Economic Summary of Salt Lake County’s Cultural Industry, 2022
Salt Lake County’s cultural industry, which includes the design, education, entertainment, fashion, film, humanities, and traditional arts sectors, generated $7.7 billion in output (direct spending) and supported an estimated 32,737 Salt Lake County jobs in 2022.
The State of Utah’s Travel and Tourism Industry, 2024
Utah’s travel and tourism industry maintains a positive trajectory despite challenges such as surging inflation, high gas prices, and U.S. recession fears.