Learn Tourism CEO Stephen Ekstrom interviews Andrew Clinton, President and CEO with Visit York County in South Carolina.

Nestled just 20-30 minutes south of uptown Charlotte, York County, South Carolina, offers an enticing blend of suburban convenience and rural charm. As Andrew Clinton, President and CEO of Visit York County, explains, the region has experienced remarkable growth over recent years, transforming into a vibrant destination for families, businesses, and visitors alike.

A Growing Hub with Small-Town Heart

York County comprises five unique municipalities, including Rock Hill and Fort Mill, each contributing to the area’s diverse appeal. Fort Mill, for instance, has seen its population double in recent years, becoming a hotspot for families seeking proximity to Charlotte’s job market and amenities. Yet, as Clinton notes, growth extends beyond the bustling Interstate 77 corridor: “You are starting to see growth in areas further removed from the interstate, where the lifestyle is more low-key, and the land offers more space.”

This balance between urban convenience and rural tranquility aligns with a broader trend in tourism—the search for authenticity. Visitors today crave human connection and unique experiences, whether it’s exploring a quaint downtown with locally owned businesses or enjoying a meal at a family-run restaurant.

Supporting Local Businesses: A Priority

For Clinton and his team at Visit York County, tourism is more than just attracting visitors—it’s about supporting the local community. “We need to do a better job telling the story of how we’re affecting the community,” he emphasizes. Highlighting how tourism bolsters local businesses, like bakeries and breweries, is a cornerstone of their strategy.

One such success story involved a short video promoting a local gluten-free bakery. The video’s impact? The bakery sold out of its products within days. It’s these tangible results that showcase the transformative power of tourism marketing.

Building Community Through Tourism

Clinton’s roots in Rock Hill give him a unique perspective as a steward of the community. He recalls a time when the area’s downtowns were less vibrant. Today, York County’s downtowns are bustling with festivals, thriving businesses, and growing foot traffic. “It’s a passion point for me to support local businesses and create jobs beyond just hotels,” says Clinton.

Leadership and Team Culture

As the leader of a small but mighty team of seven, Clinton values passion and transparency. He encourages his team to bring new ideas and different perspectives to the table. “Tourism organizations that thrive are the ones that break the mold and test the waters,” he believes. This openness to creativity and innovation is a key driver of Visit York County’s success.

Living the Dream

Outside of work, Clinton is the quintessential family man, balancing his role with time spent with his wife, two young children, and their golden retriever. Whether cheering on his beloved Gamecocks at a University of South Carolina football game or enjoying a local brewery with friends, Clinton embodies the very authenticity his organization promotes.

Experience York County

For those looking to explore York County’s charm, Visit York County’s website and social media channels provide a wealth of information. From quaint downtowns to exciting attractions like Carowinds amusement park, York County offers something for everyone.

Discover the authenticity and warmth of York County, South Carolina, where community and connection come first. Plan your visit today at visityorkcounty.com.

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Business Class is brought to you by Learn Tourism, the nonprofit academy - harnessing the power of science, business psychology and adult education to advance the tourism industry and build sustainable economies. Learn how to engage your community, win over stakeholders and get more visitors at learntourism.org.