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The U.S. travel sector is experiencing a remarkable resurgence, with New York City leading the charge. As global temperatures rise and summer vacations take off across North America and Europe, the tourism sector is bouncing back stronger than ever. The COVID-19 pandemic dealt a significant blow to international travel, but by 2024, the sector is on track to fully recover. In 2023, international tourism reached 88% of 2019 levels, contributing over $230 billion in exports and accounting for 22% of all U.S. services exports globally.

New York City Leads the Way

New York City remains at the forefront of this recovery, solidifying its status as a top global destination. In 2023, New York welcomed over 9 million overseas travelers, drawn by its world-class shopping, iconic landmarks, and renowned museums. Despite a sharp decline in 2020, when visitor numbers plummeted by 66.5%, the city rebounded impressively with 62.2 million visitors last year, just 6.6% below its 2019 peak.

The economic impact of this tourism surge is profound. In 2023, visitor spending in New York City exceeded $48 billion, with tourism-related tax revenues growing by 16% from FY 2020 to reach $4.9 billion in FY 2024. Although international spending has not fully returned to pre-pandemic levels, the city anticipates a complete recovery by 2025, especially in the international business travel segment.

Miami, Los Angeles, and Orlando Also Shine

While New York takes the lead, other major U.S. cities are also experiencing significant growth in tourism. Miami, with its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and cultural diversity, attracted 4.36 million overseas visitors in 2023, leading the nation with 1,632 visitors per 1,000 residents. Miami’s appeal continues to draw international tourists, contributing substantially to Florida’s economy.

Los Angeles follows closely, welcoming 3.6 million overseas visitors in 2023, marking a 31% increase from the previous year. The allure of Hollywood, coupled with the region’s beautiful coastlines and cultural offerings, ensures that Los Angeles remains a top destination for global travelers.

Orlando, renowned for its world-famous theme parks and family-friendly attractions, also saw a surge in international tourism. In 2023, the city attracted 3.5 million overseas visitors, a 20.5% increase from 2022. Orlando’s ability to captivate tourists from around the world reinforces its position as a key player in the U.S. travel sector.

Growth Across Other Major U.S. Destinations

Beyond these leading cities, other regions across the U.S. are also witnessing significant increases in overseas visitors. San Francisco-San Mateo-Redwood City in California recorded a 31.2% increase in overseas visitors, welcoming 2.28 million travelers in 2023. This area’s iconic landmarks and rich cultural history continue to attract international attention, with 1,483 overseas visitors per 1,000 residents. San Francisco accounted for 7.3% of all U.S. overseas visitors.

Las Vegas-Paradise, Nevada, saw a 25.1% increase in overseas visitors, with 2.08 million international tourists in 2023. The area had 894 visitors per 1,000 residents, making up 6.6% of the total U.S. overseas visitor count.

Washington-Arlington-Alexandria in the DC-VA-MD-WV region experienced a significant 38% rise in overseas visitors, totaling 1.61 million in 2023. This area had 253 visitors per 1,000 residents and contributed 5.1% to the total U.S. overseas visitor numbers.

Chicago-Joliet-Naperville in Illinois welcomed 1.41 million overseas visitors in 2023, representing a 33.2% increase from the previous year. The area had 199 visitors per 1,000 residents and accounted for 4.5% of all U.S. overseas visitors.

Honolulu, Hawaii, experienced an impressive 85.9% increase in overseas visitors, attracting 1.32 million tourists in 2023. Honolulu had 1,328 visitors per 1,000 residents and made up 4.2% of the total U.S. overseas visitor count.

Boston-Quincy, Massachusetts, saw 1.15 million overseas visitors in 2023, a 56.1% increase from the previous year. The region had 569 visitors per 1,000 residents and contributed 3.7% to the total U.S. overseas visitor numbers.

Houston-Sugar Land-Baytown in Texas welcomed 887,000 overseas visitors in 2023, representing a 48.8% increase from 2022. The area had 121 visitors per 1,000 residents and accounted for 2.8% of all U.S. overseas visitors.

Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Marietta in Georgia saw an impressive 111.3% increase in overseas visitors, totaling 765,000 in 2023. The area had 123 visitors per 1,000 residents and made up 2.4% of the total U.S. overseas visitor count.

Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach-Deerfield Beach in Florida attracted 749,000 overseas visitors in 2023, an 11% increase from the previous year. This region had 385 visitors per 1,000 residents and accounted for 2.4% of all U.S. overseas visitors.

San Diego-Carlsbad-San Marcos in California welcomed 655,000 overseas visitors in 2023, with a 17.4% increase from 2022. The area had 200 visitors per 1,000 residents and accounted for 2.1% of all U.S. overseas visitors.

Dallas-Plano-Irving in Texas also saw 655,000 overseas visitors in 2023, representing a 44.6% increase from the previous year. The area had 122 visitors per 1,000 residents and made up 2.1% of the total U.S. overseas visitor count.

TTW Editro in Chief Mr. Anup Kumar Keshan says: “The remarkable resurgence of U.S. tourism signifies more than just a return to normalcy—it’s a powerful testament to the resilience, adaptability, and innovation within the travel sector. Major destinations like New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and Orlando are not only leading in visitor numbers but are also setting new global benchmarks for tourism recovery and economic impact. This upward trend reflects the enduring appeal of these cities and the broader revitalization of the U.S. as a premier global destination.”

Virginia’s Thriving Tourism Economy

Virginia’s tourism sector is thriving, reflecting the broader recovery seen across the U.S. In 2023, the state welcomed 112 million visitors, resulting in a $50.6 billion tourism impact. The “Virginia is for Lovers” campaign played a key role in this success, driving a nearly 10% increase in direct visitor spending to $33.3 billion.

The state also saw a modest 3.2% increase in the number of visitors in 2023, bringing Virginia closer to pre-pandemic levels. Revenue from visitor-generated state and local taxes rose by 13.2%, adding an extra $3.1 billion to the state’s coffers. To put this in perspective, every household in Virginia would have needed to be taxed nearly $1,000 more last year to match this revenue increase.

Colorado’s Steady Growth in Tourism

Colorado continues to witness steady growth in its tourism sector, welcoming a record 93.3 million tourists in 2023. This influx of visitors generated $28.2 billion in travel spending, significantly boosting the state’s economy. The Denver Metro Area and Front Range counties played a crucial role, with travelers spending approximately $13.9 billion in the Denver region alone.

Direct travel-generated earnings in Colorado rose by 13.3% to $9.9 billion, with the Accommodation & Food Services sector contributing $4.4 billion, up 7.9% from the previous year. State and local tax revenues from tourism also saw a 5.7% increase, reaching $1.8 billion in 2023.

Economic Impact of Business Travel

Business travel remains a cornerstone of the U.S. economy, contributing $484.4 billion annually, or 1.9% of the U.S. GDP, based on 2022 data. In 2022, a total of 429.9 million business trips were taken within the U.S., with 67% for transient purposes like sales, client services, and government travel. The remaining 33% represented conference and event travel.

Business travelers are staying longer, with the average trip length increasing to 4.1 days in 2022, up from 3.3 days in 2017. The average amount spent per business trip was $632, with lodging representing the largest spending category at $214. Blended travel, where business and leisure trips are combined, made up over a third of all travel, with travelers staying for an average of 4.4 days.

The top 15 states ranked by business travel spending accounted for 65% of total U.S. business travel expenditures. California and New York led the pack, with spending of $35.62 billion and $23.31 billion, respectively. Nevada ranked first in terms of its ratio of business travel spend to GDP, with $6 billion of business travel spend comprising 3.2% of the state’s GDP.

Record-Breaking Contributions to the U.S. Economy

The U.S. Travel & Tourism sector has contributed more to the U.S. economy in recent years than ever before. According to the World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) 2024 Economic Impact Research (EIR), the sector’s GDP contribution grew by 7% in 2023, reaching a total of $2.36 trillion, exceeding the previous record by $100 billion.

This growth was accompanied by a rise in sector jobs, which increased by 656,000 to reach 18 million across the country, breaking the previous record of 17.4 million. Domestic visitors spent $1.37 trillion in 2023, up more than 9% from the previous peak in 2019. However, international visitor spending remained more than a quarter below its 2019 peak, at $156.1 billion.

In close to 150 meetings with policymakers on June 12th, 2024, Summit participants shared key takeaways from GBTA’s latest report, the “GBTA U.S. Economic Impact Study: Business Travel’s Impact on Jobs and the U.S. Economy.” The report outlines how U.S. business travel contributes $484.4 billion annually, or 1.9% of the U.S. gross domestic product (GDP), based on the most recent full data available from 2022. Essentially, every dollar spent on business travel activity generates about $1.15 in GDP.

A total of 429.9 million business trips were taken within the U.S. An estimated 67% of trips were taken for transient purposes: sales, client service, government and military travel, and travel for construction or repair. The remaining 33% represents conference and event travel.

Business travelers are traveling longer for each trip: 4.1 days in 2022 (versus 3.3 days as cited in 2017 GBTA research). The amount spent per business trip averaged $632, with 34% spent on lodging ($214), representing the largest single category for spending.

The average age of U.S. business travelers is 44.3 years. One-third (33.9%) have an annual household income below $50,000 and 31.5% above $100,000, with the remaining third falling in between.

Blended travel—where business and leisure trips are combined—made up over a third of all travel (33.8%). Travelers stay for 4.4 days on average during blended trips, and although men were more likely to travel for business overall, proportionally, women added a leisure component to their business travel at a much higher rate than men in 2022.

The top 15 states ranked by overall business travel destination spending accounted for 65% of total U.S. business travel expenditures (in descending order):

California

New York

Florida

Texas

Georgia

Illinois

Colorado

Pennsylvania

New Jersey

Washington

Arizona

North Carolina

Ohio

Nevada

Virginia

California and New York were the top markets for business travel spending with $35.62 billion and $23.31 billion, respectively. Nevada ranked first among the top 15 states in terms of its ratio of business travel spend to GDP, with $6 billion of business travel spend comprising 3.2% of the state’s GDP.

International Tourism’s Impact on the U.S. Economy

International tourism continues to play a critical role in the U.S. economy’s recovery. In June 2024 alone, international visitors contributed $21.2 billion to the U.S. travel and tourism sector, a 16% increase from the previous year. This spending includes $11.7 billion on various travel-related goods and services, $3.5 billion on airline tickets purchased from U.S. carriers, and $6.0 billion on medical and educational tourism, which saw a 9% increase from 2023.

Year-to-date, inbound international visitors in 2024 are up 18%, contributing nearly $126.2 billion to the U.S. economy. This resurgence underscores the importance of international travel as a driving force behind the broader recovery of the U.S. tourism sector.

What to See and Do in Los Angeles, Miami, Orlando, and New York

The City That Never Sleeps: New York City

Must-See Landmarks:

Ellis Island & the Statue of Liberty: It would be impossible to visit NYC and not witness these famous emblems of liberty. Take a ferry ride for breathtaking scenery and a crash course in history.

Times Square: The vibrant center of Manhattan, where Broadway productions and neon lights create a never-ending buzz.

Central Park: Escape the bustle of the city with a stroll, a picnic, or just people-watching in this expansive green space.

Empire State Building: Take in the city from above with this architectural marvel. The skyline is even more stunning from up here.

Metropolitan Museum of Art: Explore one of the world’s greatest collections of art—trust me, you could get lost in here for hours.

Cultural Experiences:

Broadway Shows: There’s nothing like catching a world-class musical or play in the Theater District—an experience you won’t forget.

Museums: From the MoMA to the Guggenheim, NYC’s museums offer something for every type of art lover.

Neighborhoods: Whether it’s the charm of Greenwich Village, the boutiques of SoHo, or the flavors of Chinatown, each neighborhood has its own story.

Food & Dining:

Fine Dining: Treat yourself to a culinary masterpiece at Michelin-starred spots like Le Bernardin or Eleven Madison Park.

Street Food: Grab a slice of authentic New York pizza or a bagel from a street vendor—simple, but oh-so-good.

Nightlife:

Rooftop Bars: The city looks different from up high. Sip a cocktail at places like The Press Lounge or 230 Fifth, and soak in the views.

Live Music: From jazz at the Apollo to indie bands at the Bowery Ballroom, NYC’s music scene is as diverse as the city itself.

The City of Angels: Los Angeles

Must-See Landmarks:

Hollywood Sign: No visit to LA is complete without a view of the Hollywood Sign. For the best angle, head to Griffith Observatory or hike the surrounding hills.

Walk of Fame: Stroll down Hollywood Boulevard and find the stars of your favorite celebrities embedded in the sidewalk—it’s like a who’s who of entertainment.

Santa Monica Pier: A classic California experience with an amusement park, aquarium, and those quintessential ocean views.

Griffith Observatory: Whether you’re into astronomy or just want a great view of the city, this place has you covered.

Getty Center: This isn’t just a museum; it’s an experience. The art, the gardens, the architecture—everything here is top-notch.

Cultural Experiences:

Hollywood: Get a taste of the entertainment industry with studio tours and visits to iconic theaters like the TCL Chinese Theatre.

The Broad: This contemporary art museum in downtown LA is known for its extensive collection and unique design—you won’t be disappointed.

LACMA: The largest art museum in the western U.S., offering a diverse range of collections and exhibits.

Food & Dining:

Fine Dining: LA is home to some seriously good eats. Dine at spots like Providence for seafood that’s out of this world, or Spago for a true taste of California cuisine.

Food Trucks: If you’re looking for something more laid-back, LA’s food truck scene is a must-try—think gourmet burgers, tacos, and more.

Nightlife:

Rooftop Bars: The LA skyline is stunning, especially with a cocktail in hand. Check out The Standard or Perch for a night you won’t forget.

Live Music: LA’s live music scene is legendary. Whether you’re at The Troubadour or The Hollywood Bowl, you’re in for a treat.

The Magic City: Miami

Beaches & Outdoor Activities:

South Beach: Art Deco architecture, lively nightlife, and crystal-clear waters—South Beach is where Miami truly shines.

Miami Beach Boardwalk: This scenic pathway is perfect for a morning jog, bike ride, or just a leisurely stroll by the ocean.

Everglades National Park: If you’re feeling adventurous, take an airboat tour through the Everglades and get up close with Florida’s unique wildlife.

Cultural Experiences:

Little Havana: Immerse yourself in Cuban culture with live music, salsa dancing, and some of the best coffee you’ll ever taste.

Wynwood Walls: A vibrant outdoor museum showcasing massive murals by artists from around the world—bring your camera.

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens: Step back in time at this Italian Renaissance-style villa, complete with lush gardens and a view that’s just as stunning as the art inside.

Food & Dining:

Latin American Cuisine: Miami’s food scene is as diverse as its culture. Head to spots like Versailles for Cuban classics or La Mar for top-notch Peruvian dishes.

Seafood: With the ocean right there, fresh seafood is a given. Joe’s Stone Crab is a local favorite you won’t want to miss.

Nightlife:

Clubbing: Miami’s nightlife is legendary for a reason. Hit up LIV at the Fontainebleau or Story for a night you won’t forget.

Cocktail Bars: If you’re more into craft cocktails than clubbing, The Broken Shaker and Sweet Liberty offer some of the best drinks in town.

The Theme Park Capital: Orlando

Theme Parks:

Walt Disney World Resort: Whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, Disney’s magic is irresistible. Explore Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom for an unforgettable experience.

Universal Orlando Resort: Get your adrenaline fix with thrilling rides and attractions at Universal Studios, Islands of Adventure, and Volcano Bay.

SeaWorld Orlando: Marine life meets thrill rides at SeaWorld, where you can experience both in one day.

Outdoor Activities:

Lake Eola Park: A peaceful retreat in the heart of downtown Orlando, perfect for a relaxing paddle boat ride or a picnic by the lake.

Orlando Science Center: This family-friendly destination offers interactive exhibits and planetarium shows that’ll make learning fun for everyone.

Cultural Experiences:

Downtown Orlando: Explore the city’s cultural hub with art galleries, theaters, and historic buildings that tell Orlando’s story.

Orlando Museum of Art: Whether you’re into contemporary art or classic pieces, this museum has something that’ll catch your eye.

Food & Dining:

International Cuisine: Orlando’s dining scene is as diverse as its visitors, with options ranging from upscale to casual, and flavors from all over the globe.

Theme Park Dining: Make your meals part of the adventure with themed dining experiences like Be Our Guest in Disney’s Magic Kingdom or The Three Broomsticks in Universal’s Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

Nightlife:

Disney Springs: More than just a shopping district, Disney Springs is a lively spot for dining, entertainment, and a bit of magic after dark.

Universal CityWalk: Right outside the theme parks, CityWalk offers a mix of restaurants, bars, and live music venues to keep the fun going all night long.

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