New Hanover County tourism leader says county is no longer just a summer destinationWILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — From the beaches to numerous other attractions, tourism remains a strong economic driver in the Cape Fear. Even after a record-setting 2024, tourism continues to rise in New Hanover County. Based on hotel room occupancy tax receipts, New Hanover County Tourism Development President and CEO Kim Hufham said the county is experiencing growth in the number of people staying, both during the busy summer season and in the slower off-season. “We want to be able to drive the traffic especially during the week, because that is usually when our traffic is not as heavy. Weekends, we know that, even right on through the fall, winter and spring months, weekends are always good for us.