Tourism continues to be a growing part of Walker County’s economy, with visitors spending more than $54 million during 2025, according to newly released figures from the Georgia Department of Economic Development. The Walker Chamber of Commerce and Tourism announced that visitor spending reached $54.1 million in 2025, an increase of 4.3% over 2024. The figures come from an annual study conducted by Tourism Economics. The report shows increases in spending across every major tourism category, including restaurants, recreation, retail and transportation. However, the largest growth occurred in lodging, reflecting the increasing popularity of Walker County’s unique overnight accommodations. Among the attractions drawing visitors are Cloudland at McLemore Resort on Lookout Mountain, Rock City Gardens and a growing number of specialty lodging destinations offering everything from treehouse retreats and glamping yurts to mountain cabins and themed accommodations. Cloudland at McLemore Resort welcomed guests from all 50 states and 37 countries across six continents during its second year of operation. The resort also opened its second 18-hole golf course, The Keep, which received Sports Illustrated’s 2025 Best New Course Overall recognition. Rock City Gardens, another major regional attraction, welcomed more than half a million visitors during 2025. Lacey Smith, president and CEO of the Walker Chamber of Commerce and Tourism, said the county’s natural beauty and variety of visitor…
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