Sports tourism, which involves traveling to participate in or watch sporting events, is a significant year-round economic driver for Leon County. The county hosts a wide array of athletic competitions that bring thousands of coaches, athletes, fans, and visitors to the area annually. These events ranging from elite cross country meets to youth soccer tournaments, boost the local economy by filling hotels, restaurants, and supporting local businesses and the hospitality industry year-round.
The pinnacle of Leon County’s sports tourism success is the award-winning Apalachee Regional Park. This premier cross country facility is renowned for its well-designed trails and scenic landscapes. In 2026, it will become the first Florida venue to host the prestigious World Athletics Cross Country Championships, solidifying its status as one of the top cross country destinations worldwide.
With participants from numerous countries, this event will attract global media coverage, enhancing the visibility of Tallahassee and Leon County as a top-tier destination for athletic events. This exposure can lead to increased tourism and interest from international sporting organizations for future events. The influx of international athletes, teams, and fans will significantly boost the local economy, generating substantial benefits for local businesses that provide lodging, dining, and transportation.
The World Athletics Cross Country Championships represents the pinnacle of competition in the sport, attracting elite runners from around the globe. Hosting this event solidifies Apalachee Regional Park and the region’s reputation on the world stage of athletics. This rare honor marks the first time the U.S. will host this championship since its inception in 1973, further elevating Tallahassee’s status in the international sports community.
The World Athletics Cross Country Championship is expected to draw more than 550 runners from over 60 countries that will compete in five official World championship races at Apalachee Regional Park. While it will be internationally broadcast, the event is projected to be attended by 10,000 spectators from around the world, bringing in an estimated economic impact of over $4.3 million. This announcement marks the beginning of increased visibility, additional events and training opportunities that come with the world championship site.
In 2024, Leon County is hosted seven major cross country events. These events were expected to bring more than 20,000 coaches, athletes and fans, and over $2.75 million in direct spending to Leon County. The season kicked off on September 7, 2024, with Hoka Nights of Thunder. The two-day FSU Invitationals and Florida High School Athletic Association Pre-State, one of the largest cross country events scheduled for October 11 – 12, 2024. On Oct. 21, 2024, Leon County will host the SWAC Championships for the third year in a row, followed immediately with the NJCAA region 8 Championships on Oct. 25, 2024. The season continues November 15, 2024, with the NCAA Regional Championships followed by the FHSAA State Championships on the Nov. 16, 2024. Since 2013, Leon County has supported 67 meets, providing more than $84 million in direct spending in Leon County.
Beyond cross country, Leon County’s sports calendar features events like beach volleyball, youth bowling, and basketball. Its ability to host competitions at all levels—from youth tournaments to national championships—solidifies its reputation as a multi-sport destination. By attracting both traditional and emerging sports, Leon County continues to position Tallahassee as a year-round hub for athletes, fans, and visitors.
Leon County Tourism/Visit Tallahassee, in partnership with the Tallahassee Sports Council, plays a key role in recruiting, marketing, and supporting these events. Through grant funding, logistical support, housing, transportation, venue selection, and a network of experienced volunteers, they work to make each event successful. These collaborative efforts enhance the economic impact of sports tourism in Tallahassee, driving year-round visitation and benefiting local businesses and the hospitality sector. With comprehensive assistance, from funding and logistics to housing and volunteer coordination, Visit Tallahassee helps ensure the smooth operation and success of these events.
About The Leon County Division of Tourism/Visit Tallahassee: The Leon County Division of Tourism (Visit Tallahassee) is the official destination marketing organization charged with marketing Tallahassee-Leon County as a premier leisure, business and sports destination through direct sales, advertising, public relations, sports and visitor services. The Capital of Cross Country, Tallahassee-Leon County is home to the internationally recognized cross country course at Apalachee Regional Park, which will serve as the host for the 2026 World Athletics Cross Country Championships. In 2024 Tallahassee-Leon County welcomed 2.4 million visitors who contributed $1.3 Billion in economic impact and accounts for more than 12,200 people employed in our community in the tourism & hospitality industry. For more information, go to VisitTallahassee.com or call toll free (800) 628-2866. Engage with Visit Tallahassee on Facebook and Instagram or visit us at the Leon County Visitor Information Center and Gift Shop located in at 414 E. Bloxham Street, Suite 115, Tallahassee, FL 32301
