Augusta Tourism Spending Rises 2.5% to $900M
Destination Augusta reported visitor spending growth at its State of Tourism event held at the Marriott Convention Center.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Hotels
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Destination Augusta held its State of Tourism event at the Marriott Convention Center on Wednesday afternoon. Visitor spending in Augusta increased 2.5% this year, producing more than $900 million in tourism revenue.
Why it matters
The figures show continued growth in visitor spending for the city of Augusta, with tourism revenue now exceeding $900 million. Recurring conventions and sporting events at the Marriott Convention Center contribute to that visitor base.
Visitor spending rose 2.5% this year, and tourism revenue in the city totaled more than $900 million. The source does not detail how the spending figures were calculated or what period they are measured against.
The players
Destination Augusta
Destination Augusta is the local organization that promotes tourism and visitor activity in Augusta.
Meadow Garden
Meadow Garden is a historic site in Augusta that received the Tourism Partner of the Year award.
The details
At the State of Tourism event, Destination Augusta highlighted recurring visitor draws, including the TechNet convention, which gathers at the Marriott each August with more than 6,000 registered attendees, and the Ironman 70.3, which regularly draws more than 3,000 participating athletes. The event also recognized Kim Dillard with the Community Spirit Award and Meadow Garden as Tourism Partner of the Year.
Timeline
August: TechNet convention gathers at the Marriott Convention Center annually.
Wednesday, November 4, 2026: State of Tourism event held at the Marriott Convention Center.
Big Picture
Augusta's tourism growth rests on recurring events such as TechNet and the Ironman 70.3 drawing repeat visitors to the Marriott Convention Center. The 2.5% rise in visitor spending extends that pattern rather than marking a departure from it.
Visitors planning a trip around the August TechNet convention or the Ironman 70.3 should expect heavy demand at Augusta lodging during those weeks. Booking early may help secure rooms near the Marriott Convention Center.
The takeaway
Growing visitor spending and recurring large events suggest Augusta's hotel demand will remain strong across the year. Travelers should book early for major convention and race weekends.
Further reading
For more on lodging options tied to visitor trends, see Hotels coverage in Augusta.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Augusta Press.
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