Tourism and Hospitality

Vermont’s mountains, lakes, historic villages, and small cities make it a global tourism destination. In 2023, the state welcomed 15.8 million visitors, generating $4 billion in spending on lodging, dining, shopping, and activities. Tourism supports 31,053 jobs, accounting for about 10% of Vermont’s workforce.

Outdoor recreation draws visitors year-round, from skiing and snowboarding in winter to hiking and camping in the warmer months. Vermont’s historic sites, local food, agritourism, performances, and scenic landscapes further enrich its appeal. Winter tourism, in particular, plays a major role in the state’s economy, with ski resorts and cold-weather activities driving significant visitor spending.

Opportunities for tourism professionals in Vermont—from marketing directors to customer relations specialists, from ski lift operators to banquet managers—are varied and vast. Ski resorts, tourism-related organizations like chambers of commerce, and industry supporting organizations like the Vermont Lodging Association and Ski Vermont are just some of the options for careers in Vermont’s tourism sector. Entrepreneurs find solid footing in Vermont’s tourism industry too; solo and small businesses like outdoor recreation guides, tour operators, and lodging property owners get promotional support from the Vermont Department of Tourism and Marketing, while the Vermont Chamber works to elevate the Vermont brand and help businesses thrive. 

Getting your foot in the tourism industry’s door is easy in Vermont, home to an educational pipeline helping students learn the industry’s ropes and make crucial connections to help position them in fulfilling, exciting jobs. Schools like Castleton University and Northern Vermont University offer degrees in hospitality and outdoor recreation tourism.