General description of U.S. leisure industry

The U. S. leisure industry is a diverse, sprawling, multi-trillion dollar contributor to the economy. Segments of the industry vary wildly, from outdoor activities such as camping, bicycling, gardening, and local, state and federal parks visitation; to participatory entertainment including tailgating, amusement parks, bar and nightclub outings, and casino wagering and, conversely, spectator entertainment like television, music concerts and cultural performances such as plays, opera and ballet; to sporting-related pastimes like golf, hunting and fishing, tennis, and bowling; to hands-on creative pursuits as in arts and crafts, musical instruments, and photography; and many, many others. In all, the industry has almost 100 major segments that each generate at least $1 billion as well as hundreds more with lower — but still significant — economic output.