Figures released this week show 35 per cent of domestic tourists come to visit friends and relatives, which while may prove a hit to accommodation providers is still a major boon for cafes, restaurants, attractions, shops, gifts and local produce.

Orange's accommodation was completely booked out over the long weekend, but it looks likely the domestic tourism boon will continue over the coming months.

An American Express Shop Small report in 2019 measured the 'Boomerang Dollar' which is the value of consumer spending within small businesses that flows back into the local community.

Of each dollar spent with small businesses, 45 cents are reinvested back into the local community. The money spent flows back into the salaries of residents, payments to local suppliers, charities, schools and sponsorship.

Orange mayor Reg Kidd said there were countless benefits to having friends and family visit, with familiar faces more likely to spend money at local businesses than first-time tourists.

"Small businesses reinvest in the local economy at a higher rate than chains do, so I'm encouraging everyone to 'love local' and get out and spend wisely in our community," Cr Kidd said.

Cr Kidd said other positive effects of supporting local businesses are the health benefits of local fresh seasonal produce, the environmental impact of low travel miles, the social aspect of getting to know the people behind the product and maintaining the region's unique character and pride.

In 2019 there were 2.8 million domestic overnight visitors who stayed 7.2 million nights in Central NSW and spent $1.3 billion.