An interview with Natasha Caputo

What is the state of hospitality and tourism in New York?

Hospitality is on a record-breaking upswing in New York state. In Westchester County, visitor spending topped $2 billion in the most recent report (2022). This included increases in every travel-dependent sector encompassing food and beverage, lodging, retail, transportation and recreation. Hotel occupancy and average daily rate realized healthy growth as well. Westchester County represented 43% of all visitor spending in the Hudson Valley region and ranks fifth in visitor spending in all of New York state. We expect Westchester County’s numbers to remain buoyant in upcoming reporting.

What role do you play in promoting tourism in New York?

My role is to promote Westchester County as an appealing destination for leisure and business travel. My team and I do this through deep understanding of all Westchester County has to offer, ranging from history and heritage, to the arts, entertainment and world class culinary experiences. We highlight the county’s abundance of beautiful parks and outdoor spaces. As the state’s most diverse county outside of New York City, we are welcoming to all. Our goal is to strategically drive positive brand awareness that supports our hotels, tourism partners and businesses.

How does tourism benefit Westchester County?

Tourism is a major economic driver for Westchester County where visitor spending supported 20,204 jobs – directly and indirectly – in 2022. Tourism provides revenue to support county services as well as state services. Local taxes (hotel occupancy, sales and property) and state taxes generated by the industry were $243.5 million in 2022. This represented $668 in local and state tax savings for every county household. In addition to promoting travel and tourism to the county, we have a robust film department which drives significant business and tax revenue through use of Westchester County locations for movies, television and streaming services.