Tourism Counts in Waterloo Region
Have you ever wondered how important tourism is to Waterloo Region?
Tourism is more than an industry—it’s a force for good. It fuels economic growth, sustains local businesses, invigorates pride in communities, and strengthens cultural connections across every region of the country.
DYK: One in 10 jobs in Canada relies on the Tourism industry
National Tourism Week takes place April 7–11, 2025, and this year’s campaign invites all Canadians to raise their voices and show support under the inspiring theme:
Canada: Powered by Tourism.
Now in it’s 15th year, National Tourism Week is our moment to showcase how vital tourism is—not just to our local economies, but to the identity, culture, and vitality of communities across Canada.
How does tourism contribute to Waterloo Region?
- Creates employment
- Promotes cultural awareness and helps preserve local culture
- Encourages volunteerism (festivals, events and tournaments)
- Builds community pride in the local population
- Increases product development, spending and infrastructure improvements which benefit the local population
Quick Facts about Tourism in Waterloo Region*
- 5 million people visited Waterloo Region in 2024
- More than $849 million spent by tourists to Waterloo Region. Local restaurants, retailers, accommodations, transportation, the arts, and recreation all benefit from the dollars spent here
- Tourism resulted in more than 2 million overnight stays in 2024
- Waterloo Region has more than 3,520 tourism-related businesses **
*Statistics reflect 2024 figures which are the latest available from the Ontario Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport*
**Statistics from the Tourism HR Canada Tourism Business & Jobs Per Riding**
How will you #ExploreWR during #TourismWeek2025 ?
