Area continues run of record-breaking tourism revenues

TAMPA — Tourism revenue in Tampa and Hillsborough County shot up by 11% in February compared to the same month last year, according to tourism agency Visit Tampa Bay.

In a press release, the agency reports the Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office received more than $3.8 million in Tourist Development funds from overnight stays during February, breaking the previous record of $3.4 million set in 2018. Recreational events such as the Gasparilla Distance Classic and Gasparilla Volleyball Classic brought droves of visitors to the area, as did professional gatherings such as the Florida Board of Bar Examiners meeting.