COVA’s new Sunriver Visitor Center posts strong numbers
When the Central Oregon Visitors Association opened a new regional Visitor Information Center in Sunriver last winter, the goal was to better connect the 3.8 million annual vacationers here with all the activities, outdoor recreation, attractions, dining, shopping, and culturally rich travel experiences available throughout Central Oregon.
Mission accomplished.
After a record-breaking July that saw 3,981 visitors stop by the new state-of-the-art facility in the Village at Sunriver, more than 4,000 people stopped by in August to grab informational brochures and to talk with COVA staff about events, activities and more. Overall, the Visitor Information Center has welcomed nearly 17,000 guests since the doors opened in early January.
As impressive as the sheer number of visitors is this: 95 percent of the guests COVA staff interacted with last month were from outside Central Oregon.
“We knew having a presence in the Village at Sunriver would put us front and center with thousands of visitors looking for the best places to eat, play and stay in Central Oregon,” said COVA CEO Alana Hughson. “And we’re thrilled to be able to connect so many people with our business members and industry partners.”
Hughson said it’s been hard not to get swept up in the summer vacation vibe down at The Village.
“The fun, festive atmosphere in The Village has been contagious for the COVA staff members who have been energized by guests truly excited to be vacationing in Central Oregon,” she said. “We’ve not only enjoyed passing along vacation ideas, but hearing from visitors who return to tell us about their Central Oregon adventures.”
With a few weeks left before the official end of summer, Hughson expects a surge of last-minute vacationers to take advantage of Central Oregon’s amazing September weather. And with the 19 th Annual Lithia Pacific Amateur Golf Classic attracting some 400 players and spouses to the region later this month, August’s record could fall.
“Those of us lucky enough to live in Central Oregon know September is a perfect month to hit the links,” Hughson said. “And we expect many of our PacAm participants to arrive a little early or stay a little longer to experience more of what Central Oregon golf has to offer.”
About the Central Oregon Visitors Association :
The Central Oregon Visitors Association has been the non-profit tourism destination marketing association serving Central Oregon since 1971. Supported by nearly 500 member businesses and operating with an annual budget of more than 2.2 million, COVA manages tourism advertising, marketing, promotion, public relations and industry relations on behalf of the Central Oregon region.
