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General information
On March 23, Governor Kate Brown released an Executive Order to “Stay Home, Save Lives.” This new policy orders Oregonians to stay in their homes whenever possible and includes stronger language around approved activities and business operations.
There is a Travel Alert page on traveloregon.com with daily updated travel information for consumers.
Potential Impact on U.S. Tourism Industry
Travel supports 15.8 million jobs that are immediately threatened by impacts of the coronavirus.
83% of travel companies are small businesses.
The projected 4.6 million travel-related jobs lost would, by themselves, nearly double the U.S. unemployment rate (3.5% to 6.3%).
Total spending on travel in the U.S.— transportation, lodging, retail, attractions and restaurants — is projected to plunge by $355 billion for the year, or 31%. That is more than six times the impact of 9/11.
International Tourism
At this time, U.S. airlines have canceled flights to/from mainland China until April 24. Data from China shows that potential inbound Chinese tourists are postponing, rather than canceling, their future travel plans.
In 2019, inbound tourism to Oregon from China represented $218 million in visitor spending. By comparison, Japan accounted for about $98 million, while the United Kingdom represented approximately $63 million.
Questions & Answers
How many cases of COVID-19 are in Oregon right now?
For the latest information on Oregon visit the Oregon Healthy Authority website.
Does Travel Oregon recommend people cancel upcoming trips to Oregon?
In support of Governor Brown’s executive order, and to slow the spread of COVID-19, we suggest folks postpone their trip.
What is closed? What is open?
Closures include Oregon State Parks, state/national forests, sections of rivers, campgrounds, trailheads, the Columbia River Gorge Highway and Crater Lake National Park (among others). In addition, all in-person events have been postponed. Museums, theaters and other cultural establishments, like the Oregon Shakespeare Festival are closed as well.
Although restaurants are closed to in-person service, many are open for take-out and delivery.
Here are some ideas on how to support small businesses and restaurants during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additional Resources
Travel Oregon’s COVID-19 Industry-Facing Toolkit
Oregon Health Authority
Oregon Office of Emergency Management
Office of Governor Kate Brown
U.S. Travel Association
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