Rhode Island is not just a basketball hotspot, but also a major player in the sports tourism economy. With events like volleyball, cheerleading, wrestling, and ice hockey bringing in millions of dollars in direct spending, the state is positioning itself as a premier destination for youth athletic competitions.
In the first quarter of 2025 alone, Rhode Island is expected to see $18 million in direct spending on sports tourism, a number that is projected to rise to $33 million by June. These events are crucial for filling hotel rooms during the traditionally slow winter months.
With the NCAA basketball tournament leading the way in projected direct spending, other events like the USA Gymnastics Championships, the Spirit Fest Grand Nationals cheerleading competition, and a 4th of July baseball showcase are all expected to generate substantial revenue. Rhode Island is aggressively pursuing more regional and national sporting events, with aspirations to play a significant role in the 2026 World Cup.
The Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau is making strides to position Rhode Island as a premier place to play sports, with plans to attend the Sports ETA Symposium in April. The state’s commitment to sports tourism is evident in the success of recent events like the Athletic Championships Grand Nationals cheerleading competition and the NIKE VolleyFest.
Rhode Island is not just a basketball powerhouse; it is becoming a hub for a variety of sporting events that bring in significant revenue and boost the local economy. With a focus on attracting more regional and national events, the state is solidifying its status as a top destination for sports tourism.
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