(DES MOINES) – Gov. Terry Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds are encouraging Iowa families to travel the state this year. Branstad and Reynolds today announced that the Iowa Tourism Office has teamed up with nearly 70 travel destinations around the state to offer money-saving deals, many of which are offered during the month of August. The offers, available at traveliowa.com/deals, include discounted admissions and lodging, coupons and buy one get one free offers.
"Now is a great time to plan an Iowa summer vacation and take advantage of the Iowa Tourism Office's summer travel promotion. By taking advantage of tourism opportunities within the state, Iowa families are able to explore our state's beauty and attractions while helping to support local businesses, which create jobs for Iowans and grow the state's economy," Branstad said. "A summer getaway in Iowa is good for the whole family as it can enrich childrens' lives by introducing them to history, nature and culture, all within the borders of their home state."
Reynolds added that travel doesn't just make economic and educational sense, but that it creates important and meaningful connections among families.
"Iowa families would be hard-pressed to find a better way to spend quality time than over a family vacation in Iowa," said Reynolds. "My husband Kevin and I are looking forward to a southwest Iowa family vacation with our children and grandchildren later this month. I encourage all Iowa families to consider opportunities to travel to one or more of Iowa's many wonderful landmarks, historical sites, campgrounds, state parks or other attractions."
A study by the U.S. Travel Association reported that more than 75 percent of parents believed family vacations were worth the time and money because they offer experiences their children will remember years down the road. Nearly half of the youth participants in the same study agreed vacations bring their family closer together, memorable things happen of vacation that their family will talk about even after they return home and some of the best memories are of things they did during a family vacation.
During the month of July, the Iowa Tourism Office will feature a travel deal each day on its Facebook page. All of the deals are available anytime at traveliowa.com/deals.
Tourism in Iowa generates more than $7.75 billion in expenditures, employs 65,400 people statewide and generates $353.9 million in state taxes. The Iowa Tourism Office is part of the Iowa Economic Development Authority. For more information, visit traveliowa.com, call 800.345.IOWA, or stop at any Iowa Welcome Center. Travelers can find additional Iowa travel inspiration on the Iowa Tourism Office blog, Facebook page, Twitter feed, Pinterest boards, Google+ page, Instagram, or YouTube channel.
# # #
