Visit Frederick's Annual Meeting Highlights Growing Impact of Tourism in the Region

On October 15, 2025, Visit Frederick held its annual meeting at the newly inaugurated Visitation Hotel located in Downtown Frederick. This event was marked by the celebration of yet another year of unprecedented success for the tourism sector in Frederick County, Maryland. In front of a crowd comprising 160 community advocates, business partners, and local officials, Executive Director Dave Ziedelis revealed that visitor spending in the county reached an astounding $564 million during 2024, representing a 4.6% increase from the previous year.

According to the latest Economic Impact of Tourism in Maryland report, Frederick County welcomed over 2.1 million travelers in 2024. This is particularly noteworthy as it is the first time since 2019 that visitation numbers have surpassed pre-pandemic levels. The sustained growth is a testament to Frederick County's status as a highly desirable destination within the Capital Region, attracting both day-trippers and overnight guests from various locations across the Mid-Atlantic.

Alongside this impressive visitor expenditure, the county's hotel rental tax revenue soared to a record high of $65.5 million in FY25, marking a 7% increase compared to FY24. The revenue generated from overnight stays is critical as it supports Visit Frederick’s marketing efforts and developmental programs, thereby enhancing the county’s tourism economic landscape.

Dave Ziedelis shared, “Frederick County's tourism industry continues to deliver incredible results - driving record visitor spending, creating jobs, and enriching our community. What makes this success truly special is that it’s built on partnerships. From our historic downtowns and small businesses to our outdoor attractions and cultural destinations, Frederick County offers the authentic Maryland experience travelers are looking for.”

During the meeting, Visit Frederick unfolded information from its FY25 Annual Report, illustrating a year characterized by innovation and collaboration within the community. In the fiscal year alone, Visit Frederick allocated over $1.1 million to countywide programs that assist local nonprofits, Main Streets, and destination development initiatives. This investment has contributed to an impressive total of $8.8 million in community investment since 2006.

The Frederick Visitor Center, which plays a central role in the tourism experience, welcomed more than 19,000 visitors from throughout the nation and across the globe. The plurality of guests came from nearby states such as Maryland, Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Florida, while international travelers mainly hailed from Canada, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

The annual meeting acknowledged exceptional contributors to the local tourism scene. Transit Services of Frederick County was honored as the 2025 Tourism Ambassador of the Year for its dedication to enhancing visitor access and transportation options throughout the county. Additionally, Brewer's Alley, a staple in Downtown Frederick’s dining sector, received recognition for having the Top Visitor Guide Distribution in 2025.

On a broader scale, Visit Frederick earned statewide accolades this year. The Maryland Hotel Lodging Association awarded Visit Frederick the title of 2025 Ambassador of the Year, while Jake Wynn was designated as the 2024 New Professional of the Year by the Maryland Tourism Coalition due to his exemplary contributions in tourism marketing and storytelling.

Visit Frederick operates as the official Destination Marketing Organization for both the City of Frederick and Frederick County, Maryland. It manages the Frederick Visitor Center and orchestrates destination marketing and group tour initiatives aimed at promoting the rich history, culture, and hospitality that Frederick County has to offer.

For those interested, more information about Visit Frederick can be found at www.visitfrederick.org or by contacting them at 301-600-4047.