McMinn County Economic Development Authority Launches Tourism Strategic Plan

You might see a few new faces the next time you walk around McMinn County. In fact, you might see hundreds of new faces as visitors travel to the region because of the McMinn County Tourism Strategic Plan.

“Tourism is already happening in McMinn County organically,” says Lindsey Ferguson, Executive Director of the McMinn County EDA. “We are tapping into a natural resource and helping it grow.”

The Tourism Strategic Plan is designed to attract families, couples, and solo travelers from across Tennessee, Georgia, and other parts of the country. Investing in tourism will provide significant financial benefits to local business owners and residents, without costing them a dime. Learn more about this plan and why the hospitality industry can Make it in MicMinn. 

The EDA Plans to Grow an Existing Tourism Sector

The McMinn County EDA does not need to build the tourism industry from scratch. The region already hosts thousands of visitors each year because of its strategic location between Chattanooga and Knoxville. McMinn County is an easy stop for visitors driving along I-75, which means it can reach tens of thousands of drivers each day. McMinn County offers a quiet getaway to the Smoky Mountains with several family-friendly activities.

Here are a few assets the EDA identified as part of its Tourism Strategic Plan. These are just a few reasons why visitors seek out McMinn County:

• Mayfield Dairy Farms® Visitor Center: McMinn County is home to the World’s Best Ice Cream. 
• Guthrie Pumpkin Farm and Corn Maze: McMinn County has multiple agritourism opportunities for families to learn where their food comes from. 
• Cherokee National Forest: McMinn County is close to this national park and offers visitors opportunities to float, swim, and raft down the river. 
• Swift Museum: Visitors can attend events to learn about these beautiful planes.

The activities and festivals are just the first reason why tourists stop in McMinn County. They stay because of the ample lodging options, delicious food, and welcoming community that makes their vacation relaxing. 

“Our hospitality industry already does a wonderful job creating positive experiences for visitors to McMinn County,” says Ferguson. “Our job at the EDA is to bring even more people to the region so we can fill hotel rooms and restaurant reservations to support these businesses.” 

Understanding the McMinn County Tourism Strategic Plan

The EDA has developed several tactics to support tourism in McMinn County. Each of these tactics comprises the overall Strategic Plan that will debut in early 2025. First, the EDA is developing a new tourism website that will make it easier for visitors to learn about McMinn County. Hospitality businesses can also promote themselves on their website, allowing tourists to find the best places to eat, stay, and recreate.

Next, the EDA has a detailed marketing plan to advertise McMinn County to travelers across the Southeast. The marketing efforts will drive visitors to the new website and encourage them to see McMinn County for themselves.

Finally, the McMinn County website will have a calendar of events where local organizations can submit festivals, activities, and fun opportunities. This will help tourists plan their visits while also creating space for residents to learn what’s happening in their area.

“The calendar of events will be great for residents because we will share everything happening in McMinn County, from festivals to local library events,” says Ferguson. “We want people who live in McMinn to become tourists in their own towns.” 

Business Owners and Residents Benefit from Increased Tourism

Growing the number of visitors to McMinn County will benefit the region in several ways. Hospitality companies will have more business, which allows them to grow their profits while also supporting their vendors. Tourists also contribute sales tax to McMinn County when they visit. Tourism-based tax dollars can allow the county to provide more services to residents.

Boosting tourism also creates jobs in the region, reducing unemployment and providing more opportunities to those who live here. Residents outside of the hospitality field can enjoy the additional restaurants, things to do, stores, and activities that will crop up as tourism grows. Everyone in McMinn County stands to benefit from tourism growth. 

How to Support Tourism in McMinn County

There are multiple ways to support the McMinn County Tourism Strategic Plan. First, become a member of the EDA. You can make your voice heard and shape the future of McMinn County. Next, be an advocate for McMinn. Share why you love living here on social media and engage with the marketing campaign the EDA develops. Offline, make visitors feel welcome – they want to know what the locals enjoy. Share your favorite places to eat or things to do so tourists can get the most out of McMinn County. You can drive people to your favorite businesses.

“Everyone plays a role in promoting tourism in McMinn County,” says Ferguson. “A restaurant recommendation or shared favorite activity can go farther than you think.”

Residents of McMinn County are about to see more visitors as the EDA launches its Tourism Strategic Plan. Keep up with our latest updates as we roll out the website and start promoting everything McMinn has to offer.