NEWS

Visit Savannah celebrated 50 years of service to the community last week with a special proclamation presentation by Mayor Van Johnson and the Savannah City Council. The ceremony was followed by a festive cake cutting and ceremonial toast, marking a milestone anniversary for an organization that has helped shape the region’s visitor economy and global reputation.

What began in 1976 as the Savannah Convention and Visitors Bureau has grown into a globally respected destination marketing organization—one that today plays a vital role not only in promoting Savannah but also in strengthening our local economy and quality of life.

Over the past five decades, Visit Savannah has worked alongside community partners, local businesses, and civic leaders to share the city’s story with the world, attracting visitors who support jobs, generate tax revenue, and contribute to the region’s vibrancy.

“From the very beginning, the vision and leadership of those early champions helped lay the foundation for what was then the Savannah Convention and Visitors Bureau,” said Joseph Marinelli, president and CEO of Visit Savannah. “Their commitment to telling Savannah’s story and investing in tourism helped shape the organization we know today as Visit Savannah and position our city as a world-class destination.”

Tourism has since grown into one of the region’s most powerful economic drivers, touching nearly every corner of the community.

“Tourism is now one of our region’s strongest economic engines,” Marinelli said. “Each year, visitors to Savannah generate billions of dollars in direct spending—supporting local businesses, creating more than 28,000 jobs, and fueling our hospitality and service industries.

That visitor activity produces hundreds of millions of dollars in state and local tax revenue, helping fund infrastructure, public safety, and community amenities we all rely on.”

The 50th anniversary celebration served as both a moment to reflect on the organization’s legacy and an opportunity to look ahead. With continued collaboration and a shared commitment to showcasing Savannah’s authentic character, Visit Savannah remains focused on building on its strong foundation and ensuring the destination continues to thrive for the next 50 years and beyond.

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