South Dakota Tourism Secretary reflects back on 2021

PIERRE, S.D.(WNAX)- South Dakota tourism is coming off a record year for visitors and spending and planning for more.

Tourism Department Secretary Jim Hagen says he was surprised by last year’s numbers.

Hagen says visitation also jumped.

Hagen says they are getting better returns on their targeted messaging.

Hagen says they are focused on their traditional markets but with an additional push into Dallas and much of Texas this year.