Pennsylvania Recognized as Number One Motorcoach State in U.S.

HARRISBURG, Pa., Jan. 26, 2007 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Governor Edward G. Rendell today announced that Pennsylvania has been named the number one state for motorcoach travel in the U.S. by Byways magazine, a leading publication for motorcoach tour and travel planners.

"Pennsylvania is rich in culture and history and this recognition will help generate new interest from tour operators, which will bring new visitors, help us to better promote our communities and support our vital tourism industry," said Governor Rendell.

Three Pennsylvania locations were also ranked in the magazine's overall "Top 50 Motorcoach Destinations" category: Philadelphia, Hershey and Gettysburg. Valley Forge and Pittsburgh received honorable mentions, giving Pennsylvania the most cities listed of all states.

Pennsylvania is the fourth-most-visited state in the country, with approximately 138 million visitors annually. The total impact of travelers' spending on Pennsylvania's economy is approximately $26 billion a year, and tourism is responsible for nearly 600,000 jobs.

The Pennsylvania Tourism Office is dedicated to fulfilling the needs and aspirations of travelers by presenting them with the information and resources they need to plan and enjoy the activities, attractions and destinations that are uniquely Pennsylvania. For more information about Pennsylvania's tourism industry, go to http://www.visitpa.com/, or call (800) VISIT PA.

The Rendell Administration is committed to creating a first-rate public education system, protecting our most vulnerable citizens and continuing economic investment to support our communities and businesses. To find out more about Governor Rendell's initiatives and to sign up for his weekly newsletter, visit his Web site at: http://www.governor.state.pa.us/.