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National Tourism Day

Explore the world and celebrate National Tourism Day - plan a trip, find unique experiences, and make unforgettable memories!

Friday

May 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEMay 7

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYTravel

SUBCATEGORYVacation Planning

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to celebrate National Tourism Day on May 7 and explore the world around you! This day was created in 1980 as a way to recognize and appreciate how much tourism contributes to our economy. It's also an opportunity for us all to take some time off, explore new places, try different foods and cultures, and simply enjoy life. Let's get out there this May 7th - it will be a day of adventure that won't soon be forgotten!

TIMELINE

National Tourism Day Timeline

Birth of Tourism

The birth of modern tourism is usually credited to the publication of Thomas Cook's travel pamphlets in 1768, which popularized the idea of planned leisure travel.

First Organized Excursion

Thomas Cook organized his first large excursion, a round-trip by train between Leicester and Loughborough in England. This laid the foundations for organized group travel.

Tourism Becomes International

Cook expanded his operation beyond Britain and Europe, with the opening of a tour to Egypt and the Middle East, making tourism an international affair.

Air Travel Revolutionizes Tourism

The advent of commercial jet aircraft and the proliferation of airlines after World War II made long-distance travel more accessible and affordable, leading to a boom in international tourism.

National Tourism Day Established

National Tourism Day was officially established to emphasize the cultural and economical importance of tourism.

Tourism During Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic heavily influenced tourism globally, bringing new challenges and transformations to the industry and leading to the rise of virtual tourism.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Tourism Day

Explore a new city.

Take the day to explore a new city or town you’ve never been to before. Check out the local attractions, shops and restaurants, and get to know the area.

ATTEND

Attend a travel expo.

Look for a travel expo in your area and attend. You’ll learn about different places to visit and get some tips from experts on how to travel smartly.

VISIT

Visit a tourist attraction.

Take a day trip to visit a tourist attraction that you’ve always wanted to go to. Whether it’s an amusement park, monument, museum, or art gallery, it’s sure to be an enjoyable experience.

PLAN

Plan your next vacation.

Spend the day researching destinations for your next vacation. Read up on the different sites and attractions in each area so you can plan out your itinerary in advance.

Go on a guided tour.

Find a local guided tour and join in for the day. You’ll get an up close and personal look at the destination with all of its history, culture and important sites.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love National Tourism Day

Tourism helps us reconnect with nature

Outdoor tourism can be a great way to reconnect with nature. From hiking through lush forests to kayaking down rivers, there are plenty of ways to appreciate the beauty of our natural world without having to step too far from home. Plus, plenty of regional parks and protected areas make it easy for anyone to get out and explore!

Tourism boosts local economies

When people visit an area, they bring money with them. Tourism can help create jobs, bring in taxes to the local government and even support small businesses that are otherwise only supported by locals. Tourists can also benefit communities by increasing cultural awareness and appreciation for different places and cultures.

Tourism encourages exploration

The best part of any tourist destination is the chance to explore a new culture and environment. By experiencing different parts of the world we not only develop a greater knowledge of foreign countries but also gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for our own.

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