Latest news with #CaliforniaTourismMonth
Business Journals
12-05-2025
- Business
- Business Journals
Visit Oakland celebrates $779M economic impact from tourism in 2024
Visit Oakland, the destination marketing organization for the city of Oakland, hosted IMPACT 510: The Town Tourism Day on May 7 at the Oakland Museum of California. The sold-out event welcomed 250 attendees including community partners, city officials, and business leaders to celebrate the 2024 results. Last year, the total tourism economic impact was $779 million, and visitors supported a total of $583 million in spending in Oakland. Of the $583 million spent in Oakland in 2024 by visitors, lodging accounted for $174 million, or 30% of the total visitor spending. Food and beverage spending resulted in $160 million, representing 27% of the total spend. Transportation, including both air and ground transportation within the destination, as well as retail, captured $97 million of total visitor spending. In 2024, visitors spent $56 million on recreation and entertainment. Oakland saw a 4% increase in day trips to the city. The team at Visit Oakland is focused on converting day trips into overnight stays to increase the economic impact. This commitment comes at a critical time as the travel landscape continues to face unprecedented challenges. 'This is an extremely important time in the travel and tourism industry,' said Peter Gamez, president and CEO for Visit Oakland. 'We are experiencing change on a national level that directly impacts Oakland locally. Our results show the significance that tourism brings to The Town. It is crucial that Oakland leadership work closely with Visit Oakland and continues to recognize and support the value of marketing our city to further the growth of our tourism economy.' In true Oakland style, IMPACT 510 - The Town Tourism Day was about more than just the successful numbers. Visit Oakland presented an event that shared the value of tourism and uplifted the community. The name Impact 510 pays tribute to Oakland's 510 area code. The date of the event was selected in support of California Tourism Month, and to align with National Travel and Tourism Week. expand Visit Oakland 'Oakland is a city that proudly celebrates its diverse arts and culture, amazing attractions, and award-winning culinary scene' said Caroline Beteta, president and CEO of Visit California, the state's nonprofit tourism marketing organization. 'Visit Oakland does a wonderful job highlighting these assets to attract visitors to Oakland, produce vibrancy in The Town, and directly impact the city's economic success.' The energy in the room was powerful and showed the unity of Oakland. Program elements included an engaging presentation by Gamez and an Oakland's Bright Future panel discussion featuring Edreece Arghandiwal, co-founder and chief marketing officer, Oakland Roots SC and Oakland Soul SC; Joe Ernst, principal, srmErnst Development Partners and Prescott Market; Mieko Hatano, CEO, Oakland Symphony; and Kymberly Miller, CEO, Children's Fairyland. Honorable Mayor Barbara Lee was a guest speaker addressing the Oakland community at one of her first public events since winning the election. The master of ceremonies was Autumn King, host of Trail Chats. Live entertainment brought an inspiring performance by the Oakland Symphony and DJ Lady Ryan played music that matched The Town's vibrancy. A call to action closed the event — Gamez recognized individuals from the restaurant and hospitality communities to remind everyone support local businesses. It was powerful moment honoring the people of Oakland, who remain the true heart and soul of The Town. 'We challenged everyone to make this a summer to remember and share their love of Oakland by telling their family, friends and colleagues to plan a day in Oakland visiting our attractions, dining in our restaurants, shopping in our stores, and staying the night in our hotels' Gamez said. 'I know the power of the people in our community, and they can help make a positive impact on our local businesses, our attractions, and our economy.' expand Visit Oakland Visitor spending impact In 2024, 3.4 million visitors spent $583 million across the Oakland economy. The Oakland visitor economy experienced a 0.2% decline in visitor spending from 2023. Total economic impact Direct visitor spending of $583 million generated a total economic impact of $779 million in Oakland in 2024, including indirect and induced impacts. This total economic impact sustained 5,548 jobs and generated $85 million in state and local tax revenues in 2024. Visit Oakland is the official destination marketing organization for Oakland. Their mission is to increase tourism's economic impact to the city of Oakland through destination development. The team at Visit Oakland elevates, celebrates, and illuminates Oakland in all its vibrancy. They do this by promoting Oakland on a regional, national, and international level to increase positive awareness and attract visitors and group business to The Town. Visit Oakland also does this by supporting and promoting programs and events in Oakland that are open to the public and interesting to visitors. Visit Oakland is a nonprofit organization funded by hotel occupancy tax and Measure C along with other community partners. This means that every time someone stays in an Oakland Tourism Business Improvement District hotel, 2% of the room rate per night goes towards funding Visit Oakland's marketing efforts. Tourism is essential to the success of a city. When people visit for leisure or corporate travel, they utilize the Oakland airport and transportation systems. Those visitors also stay in Oakland's hotels, shop at the local stores, dine in the restaurants, and visit local attractions. This generates revenue for Oakland businesses and creates positive energy throughout The Town's community.
Associated Press
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
2025 Top 10 Hidden Gem Awards announced by 'Pat Pattison's Best of California' TV show: May is California Tourism Month
LOS ANGELES, CA, UNITED STATES, April 30, 2025 / / -- Just in time for May, officially California Tourism Month, Pat Pattison, the host of ' Pat Pattison's Best of California ' has released his list of the top ten 'Hidden Gems' for Summer Travel. This is an annual review of the places Pattison has been to and featured on his national TV show and social media platform, 'Pat Pattison's Best of California.' The show is locally seen in Los Angeles on MeTV Sundays at 7:30am, and nationally on and and many streaming outlets. Pat and his crew , including his on-air actress daughter Liza Pattison, have determined these to be 'the Best of The Best' but also 'Hidden Gems' that deserve to have a spotlight shined on them and are not known to the general traveler. One criteria Pat uses is fun for families with a special eye for destinations that are senior-friendly. Here is the list of this year's 'Top 10 Hidden Gems': Museum for Families-Haggin Museum, Stockton, CA The Haggin Museum in Stockton is a captivating blend of art and history, making it a must-visit for families. Visitors can delve into Stockton's past and admire an incredible collection by illustrator J.C. Leyendecker. The museum also features fascinating agricultural history exhibits, such as an early Caterpillar tractor. A perfect mix of education and inspiration! Address: 1201 N Pershing Ave, Stockton, CA 95203 Phone: (209) 940-6300 Website: Haggin Museum BestofCA segment: Haggin Museum Best Spa and Resort-Yaamava Resort and Casino, Highland, CA California's second most-visited destination after Disneyland, Yaamava' Resort & Casino in Highland offers a luxurious escape. Whether guests indulge in a rejuvenating spa day, catch world-class entertainment, or try their luck at the casino, this resort is a one-stop destination for relaxation and excitement. Address: 777 San Manuel Blvd, Highland, CA 92346 Phone: (909) 864-5050 Website: Yaamava' Resort BestofCA Segment : Yaamava' Resort Best Hidden Gem City-Redding, CA Redding, California's sunniest city, is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise! From jet skiing on Lake Shasta to exploring ancient caverns and even touring the massive Shasta Dam, Redding offers adventure for all. Visitors don't want to miss Turtle Bay Exploration Park or take a leisurely stroll across the iconic Sundial Bridge. Website: Visit Redding BestofCA segment: Things to do in Redding, CA Best Hidden Gem State Park-Pio Pico State Historic Park Immerse in California's rich history at Pío Pico State Historic Park, the former home of the last governor of Mexican California. This hidden gem tells the story of one of California's most controversial eras and serves currently as a peaceful retreat. Address: 6003 Pioneer Blvd, Whittier, CA 90606 Phone: (562) 695-1217 Website: Pío Pico State Historic Park BestofCA Segment: Pío Pico State Historic Park Live Events/Festivals - Coronado Island Film Festival For 3–4 days, film enthusiasts converge on the beautiful Coronado Island to celebrate cinema at the Coronado Island Film Festival. The event is packed with screenings, panels, and, of course, fantastic food and wine! Great environment to enjoy some amazing films! Address: Venues all over Coronado Island Website: Coronado Island Film Festival BestofCA Segment: Senior-Friendly Travel Hack-Sequoia Shuttle, Visalia, CA The Sequoia Shuttle is a convenient and affordable way to explore the breathtaking Sequoia National Park, especially for seniors. With round-trip transportation from Visalia and unlimited shuttle service within the park, it's a stress-free way to enjoy nature's wonders. Address: 425 E Oak Ave, Visalia, CA 93291 Website: Sequoia Shuttle BestofCA segment: Sequoia Shuttle and Visalia Food Experience-Boysenberry Festival, Knott's Berry Farm Buena Park, CA The annual Boysenberry Festival in the Spring and Knott's Berry Farm is not to be missed! Pat Pattison's Best of California has tried dozens of Boysenberry-themed foods and desserts. Boysenberry/Lemon Tart, Pulled Pork Sandwich on Boysenberry Corn Bread and Boysenberry Cole Slaw, on and on and on. Great value with a tasting ticket and easy place for families to hang out. Address: Kott's Berry Farm-8039 Beach Bl. Buena Park, CA 90620 Website: Knott's Berry Farm BestofCA segment: Knott's Boysenberry Festival Best Food & Drink Restaurant: Rock & Brews -various locations Seldom is this award given to a chain, but this season Pat Pattison's Best of California visited two locations of Rock & Brews and fell in love! The chain, founded by Gene Simmons, Paul Stanly of Kiss and Restaurateur Michael Zislis, now has seventeen locations, yet another CA export! They visited the locations in Buena Park and the Rolling Hills Casino in Corning. Website: Rock & Brews homepage BestofCA segment: Rock & Brews: History Book & Historic Spot – 'Made in California' by George Geary and Bob's Big Boy Beatles Booth! Author/Chef George Geary has written about the origins of many fast-food chains in California! Pat Pattison's Best of California loved 'Made in California Vol. 1 and 2.' They also agree with George that Bob's Big Boy in Burbank is a true historic treasure from that era. To add to its magic it also has a designated Beatle Booth where the Fab Four ate when in town in the early 60's to perform. Website Author George Geary and Made in CA book Website: Bob's Big Boy Burbank BestofCA segment: Geary Bob's Big Boy Beatle Booth Best Made in CA Product: Paskenta Brewery & Distillery - Rolling Hills Casino & Resort, Corning, CA. Tucked inside Rolling Hills Casino, Paskenta Brewery & Distillery, named for the Paskenta Nomlaki Tribe, owners of the Rolling Hills Casino & Resort. This is a true hidden gem, crafting bold, locally inspired beers. Signature offerings, such as the Peskenta Pale Ale with its crisp citrus notes and the Deep Roots Amber, a smooth, malt-forward brew, showcase the best of California's ingredients. With a dedication to quality and community, Peskenta Brewery is redefining local craft beer. Address: 2655 Everett Freeman Way Corning, CA 96021 Website: Rolling Hills Casino Resort BestofCA segment: Paskenta Brewery & Distillery: About 'Pat Pattison's Best of California' 'Pat Pattison's Best of California' evolved from Pattison's YouTube and Facebook video travel segments. The show highlights California's natural wonders, unique history, and fascinating people from all over the state. It most recently won the prestigious Image Award from the Native Daughters of the American West for its work in history education on TV. A veteran on-air host and actor, Pattison has been the host of the business show 'Remade in California' for Spectrum Cable. He has a book, Creative YOU Turn, based on his second-act journey. He is also a regular contributor to PBS's and Pattison has always worked in the entertainment industry where he was V.P. Creative Services at Walt Disney Studios as well as positions at KTTV-TV, WTTG-TV, WCVB-TV, Disneyland, and the head of marketing for the Merv Griffin Show over his long career. The show also airs nationally on MeTV in Los Angeles, and many CW affiliates. The show is available to stream on Tubi, Roku, BIZ-TV, and First-TV. Facebook: @bestofCA YouTube: 'Pat Pattison's Best of California' Instagram: _bestofcalifornia Website: For more information: Pat Pattison: 626-429-3296 CESD Talent Agent: Karen Cabada 310-981-6423 News agent David Brunner DBA: 484-695-5187 To schedule news appearances, public speaking, or book interviews: Jon Book: 619-778-0849 Amanda Kent Boundless Media USA +1 313-403-5636 email us here Legal Disclaimer: EIN Presswire provides this news content 'as is' without warranty of any kind. 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