CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Tourism in Chillicothe and Ross County continued to grow in 2025, according to the Ross-Chillicothe Convention & Visitors Bureau.
The bureau’s newly released 2025 Annual Report shows lodging tax collections increased 4% over the previous year, a key indicator of overnight visitation. Officials also reported a 6.1% increase in trips originating from outside Ohio, suggesting expanded geographic reach and growing awareness of Ross County as a travel destination.
Total visitor spending rose 4.9% in 2025, reinforcing tourism’s role as an economic driver for local businesses, restaurants, attractions, and lodging providers.
“This growth reflects the strength of our destination and the effectiveness of our strategic marketing efforts,” Executive Director Melody Young said in a statement. “Tourism is not just about attracting visitors; it directly supports local jobs, strengthens small businesses, and generates revenue for our community.”
According to the report, expanded advertising campaigns and targeted outreach contributed to a 28% increase in website traffic, largely driven by new users discovering the area for the first time.
Visitor engagement also grew significantly. The bureau reported receiving travel inquiries from all 50 states and mailing more than 5,000 informational packets to prospective visitors planning trips to Ross County.
The Ross-Chillicothe Convention & Visitors Bureau is funded through lodging tax revenue generated by hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, and short-term rentals throughout the county. Officials said those funds are reinvested in marketing efforts aimed at attracting overnight visitors.
The bureau plans to continue expanding its marketing reach and partnerships in 2026 in an effort to increase overnight stays and sustain economic growth in Chillicothe and Ross County.
The full 2025 Annual Report is available at VisitChillicotheOhio.com.