THANK YOU

THANK YOU

Workers operating construction equipment along a riverfront area with benches and a large tree, with a bridge in the background under a clear blue sky.
Two children wearing blue shoe covers are holding a cylinder shape object, with a woman in a black jacket and two trucks in the background. A banner with the words 'The Great Christmas Wonderland' is also visible.
Text reading 'RIVERSIDE WANDERLUST' in orange, white, and gray on a blue background with rounded corners.

THE HIGHLIGHTS

YOUR TOURISM TAX AT WORK

Thank you for supporting the tourism tax in Russell, Kentucky. Because of this investment, we are able to thoughtfully plan, build, and promote projects that bring visitors to Russell while creating lasting benefits for the people who live and work here.

The tourism tax allows Russell to invest in public spaces, events, and marketing that support local businesses, strengthen our economy, and enhance quality of life. Below, you’ll find a clear overview of what the tourism tax is, how it works, and the real results it has already delivered.

FAQs

  • The City of Russell has a 3% transient tax on hotel and short-term rental stays, as well as a 3% restaurant tax. This tax funds and builds tourism-focused projects. This tax was approved by Russell City Council and the State of Kentucky.

  • No. By law, the tourism tax cannot exceed 3%.

  • Tourism tax funds are used for tourism-related development, events, marketing, and long-term planning efforts that promote Russell as a destination.

  • You can attend a public meeting, follow Wander Russell on social media, or stay up to date through our website and community announcements.

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YOUR TAX AT WORK

YOUR TAX AT WORK

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WHAT YOUR TOURISM TAX FUNDS

RIVERFRONT PARK DEVELOPMENT

One of the most visible impacts of the tourism tax is the completion of Phase One of the Russell Riverfront Park.

This project was funded through a combination of:

  • Tourism tax revenue

  • The City of Russell

  • A grant from the Land & Water Conservation Fund

Phase One improvements included:

  • Updated lighting

  • New benches, picnic tables, and grills

  • Wayfinding and informational signage

  • Bike repair stations and bike racks

  • New sidewalk infrastructure

These improvements were crucial to expanding how the riverfront can be used year-round and directly supported the success of seasonal attractions such as the riverfront ice rink, Snow Globe Pop-Up Bar, and riverfront igloos during The Great Christmas Wander.

Three elderly people sitting on a park bench at sunset, smiling and laughing, with houses and trees in the background.
Group of women inside a transparent, illuminated igloo-shaped structure at night, smiling and posing for a photo.
A hand-drawn sign with the words "Go with the flow" written inside a blue oval shape.

EVENTS THAT BRING PEOPLE HERE

The tourism tax also supports the planning and execution of events that drive visitation and economic activity throughout the city.

Events supported by tourism tax funding include:

NEW EVENTS LAUNCHING IN 2026

Tourism tax funding will also support new experiences designed to grow visitation and expand Russell’s event calendar, including:

  • A quarterly car show

  • Valentine’s Date Night Igloos

  • A Memorial Day Weekend collaboration with Ironton, Ohio

  • A Railroad Festival

  • Additional events and activations throughout the year

These events help attract visitors while supporting local restaurants, shops, and lodging.

Three women with two children outdoors during a festive event, with one woman dressed as a fairy or princess, another as a queen with a crown, and a young girl with face paint and a crown.

Tourism tax revenue allows Wander Russell to actively market and promote:

  • Things to do in Russell

  • Local events and festivals

  • Tourism-driven small businesses, restaurants, and lodging

In 2025 alone, Wander Russell’s marketing efforts reached:

  • Over 4,000,000 views

  • More than 2,000,000 people

This visibility helps position Russell as a welcoming destination while driving foot traffic and overnight stays that benefit the entire community.

MARKETING & PROMOTING RUSSELL, KY

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Wander Russell is currently working with QK4, an environmental, planning, and engineering firm, to create a comprehensive Master Plan.

The Master Plan will guide the long-term development of:

  • The riverfront park

  • Walking and biking paths

  • Outdoor recreation and kayak access

  • Scenic overlooks and natural spaces

  • Community gathering areas and tourism-focused development

Community input is a key part of the planning process. This plan will help ensure projects are completed strategically, sustainably, and in a way that best serves both residents and visitors.

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE:

THE RUSSELL MASTER PLAN

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Transparency and public involvement are important to us.

Wander Russell meetings are open to the public and are held:

  • First Thursday of every month

  • 6:00 PM

  • 444 Bellefonte Street, Russell, KY

Residents, business owners, and community leaders are encouraged to attend and stay informed.

OPEN MEETINGS &
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

STAY CONNECTED

Want to see what’s happening next and how tourism tax dollars continue to shape Russell’s future?

Follow Wander Russell on social media to stay informed about upcoming events, projects, and community updates.

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