Hot Springs boosts tourism marketing with $21,000 budget for attractions and fireworks

In the heart of Hot Springs, city officials gathered on April 22, 2025, to discuss the future of tourism and community events, with a focus on enhancing the city’s appeal to visitors. The meeting highlighted a strategic push to broaden the reach of Hot Springs’ attractions, including Evans Plunge, Southern Hills Golf Course, Moccasin Springs, and the renowned Mammoth Site.

A significant portion of the budget, amounting to $10,000, is earmarked for the city's fireworks show, a beloved event that has seen rising costs in recent years. The remaining nearly $11,000 will support cooperative advertising efforts with the Chamber of Commerce, promoting Hot Springs through billboards and vacation guides. This collaborative approach aims to attract more visitors to the area, showcasing not only the attractions but also the vibrant downtown, the Veterans Affairs facility, and the natural beauty of Wind Cave.

The impact of tourism on the local economy was a key topic, with data from Visit South Dakota revealing that in 2024, tourism generated over $8 billion in direct spending across the state. This influx of visitors significantly benefits residents, reducing state and local taxes by an average of $11 per person. In Fall River County, where Hot Springs is located, visitor spending reached $39.4 million, contributing over $3 million in tax revenue and supporting approximately 537 jobs—13% of local employment.

As the meeting progressed, discussions also touched on the need for the Business Improvement District (BID) to revise its bylaws to allow for more frequent meetings, shifting from a quarterly schedule to at least biannual gatherings. This change aims to enhance communication and responsiveness regarding advertising performance and community needs.

City officials expressed gratitude for the detailed insights shared during the meeting, emphasizing the importance of understanding tourism's role in shaping the local economy. As the city looks to the future, the collaborative efforts to promote Hot Springs promise to not only attract visitors but also strengthen the community's economic foundation.