Home » Destination News » Los Angeles Unites With Palm Springs, Anaheim, Long Beach, San Francisco, New York City and More in Skyrocketing US Tourism With Record Arrivals: Everything You Need To Know
Published on
October 29, 2025
As the US travel industry continues its remarkable recovery, Palm Springs has joined the ranks of major cities like Anaheim, Long Beach, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and New York City, all of which have experienced a record surge in tourist arrivals in 2025. In Palm Springs, tourism grew by 4.3%, with over 2 million visitors from January to June. Anaheim welcomed 26 million visitors in 2024, with a significant increase in international visitors.
Long Beach saw 5.5 million tourists, contributing $1.97 billion to the local economy. Los Angeles attracted over 50 million visitors, while San Francisco projected 23.49 million tourists in 2025, reflecting a steady growth in domestic and international travelers. New York City, a perennial favorite, is expected to welcome 64.7 million visitors in 2025, marking an 8% increase in international arrivals. This surge in tourism across these cities underscores the resilience of the US travel industry and highlights the country’s growing appeal as a global destination.
Los Angeles Tourism Growth in 2024
Economic Impact: Tourism in the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) region, which includes Los Angeles County, generated approximately $46 billion in travel spending, with about $41 billion from visitors outside the region
Visitor Numbers: Los Angeles welcomed approximately 50 million visitors in 2024, aligning with the city’s goal of attracting 50 million visitors annually.
Visitor Spending: Tourists spent over $18 billion in the local economy, reflecting a robust recovery in consumer confidence and travel demand.
International Arrivals: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) recorded 3.36 million international arrivals in 2024, ranking it third among U.S. cities after New York City and Miami.
Hotel Performance: Hotel occupancy reached 72.3%, up from 70.4% in the previous year. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) increased by 1.6% to $197.01, indicating improved profitability for the hospitality sector.
Employment in Tourism: The leisure and hospitality sector in Los Angeles County employed over 182,000 people, contributing significantly to the local economy.
City Guide: Los Angeles, CaliforniaTop AttractionsHollywood Walk of Fame: A historic district featuring over 2,800 brass stars honoring entertainment legends along Hollywood Boulevard.Griffith Observatory: Offers panoramic views of the city and the iconic Hollywood Sign, along with interactive exhibits on astronomy.The Getty Center: An art museum renowned for its impressive architecture, gardens, and art collections spanning centuries.Universal Studios Hollywood: A film studio and theme park offering rides, shows, and a behind-the-scenes look at movie-making.Santa Monica Pier: A classic Californian landmark featuring an amusement park, aquarium, and family-friendly restaurants.Palm Springs, California Record Breaking Tourism Growth
Palm Springs has experienced a notable surge in tourism in 2025, with the city seeing a 4.3% increase in passenger traffic at Palm Springs International Airport from January to June, welcoming over 2 million visitors. This growth is driven by several key factors, including the highly anticipated Modernism Week, which attracts design and architecture enthusiasts, and a thriving arts scene that showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage. Additionally, Palm Springs’ luxury resorts and wellness retreats have continued to draw affluent travelers seeking relaxation and outdoor activities. The city’s blend of high-end accommodations, cultural events, and stunning natural beauty has positioned it as a prime destination in Southern California. This surge in tourism has further strengthened Palm Springs’ economic standing, contributing significantly to the local economy and job creation in the hospitality and service sectors.
Visitor Numbers: Palm Springs International Airport reported a 4.3% increase in passenger traffic from January to June 2025, with over 2 million passengers.Key Factors: The city’s growth is attributed to events like Modernism Week, a thriving arts scene, and luxury resorts.
City Guide For Palm Springs, California
Top Attractions: Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, Living Desert Zoo & Gardens, Mid-Century Modern Architecture ToursBest For: Architecture enthusiasts, nature lovers, wellness seekersVisitor Spending: $1.9 billion in 2024Tourism Jobs: 8,746 direct jobs; 2,597 indirect and induced jobsSustainability: Promotes eco-friendly accommodations and desert conservation effortsAnaheim, California Record Breaking Tourism Growth
Anaheim has seen a record-breaking surge in tourism in 2024, welcoming over 26 million visitors, marking a significant increase from the previous year. International visitation experienced a remarkable rise, jumping from 1.7 million in 2023 to 3.6 million in 2024, highlighting Anaheim’s growing appeal on the global stage. This surge is largely driven by the continued popularity of Disneyland Resort, one of the world’s most visited attractions, as well as upcoming developments related to the 2028 Olympics. The city’s growing international interest is also fueled by its diverse attractions, events, and proximity to other Southern California hotspots. As Anaheim solidifies its position as a top travel destination, tourism spending has skyrocketed, providing a substantial economic boost to the local economy. This growth underscores the city’s evolving global stature, attracting travelers from across the world.
Visitor Numbers: Anaheim welcomed over 26 million visitors in 2024, with international visitation rising from 1.7 million in 2023 to 3.6 million in 2024.Key Factors: The surge is driven by Disneyland Resort’s popularity, upcoming developments for the 2028 Olympics, and increased international interest.
City Guide For Anaheim, California
Top Attractions: Disneyland Resort, Angel Stadium, Anaheim GardenWalkBest For: Families, sports fans, Disney enthusiastsVisitor Spending: $6.6 billion in 2024Tourism Jobs: Approximately 25,000 jobs in 2023Sustainability: Focus on green building practices and sustainable tourism initiativesLong Beach, California Record Breaking Tourism Growth
Long Beach has experienced record-breaking tourism growth, attracting over 5.5 million visitors annually and generating a significant $1.97 billion in economic impact. This surge in tourism is driven by the city’s iconic attractions, such as the Queen Mary and the Aquarium of the Pacific, which continue to captivate visitors with their rich history and marine life exhibits. The city’s thriving event scene, including the world-renowned Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach, has also played a key role in boosting visitation. These events, along with the city’s beautiful waterfront and diverse cultural offerings, have made Long Beach a must-visit destination for both domestic and international travelers. This tourism growth has not only enhanced the city’s reputation but also contributed to the local economy by supporting jobs and driving investment in hospitality and services.
Visitor Numbers: Long Beach attracted over 5.5 million visitors annually, with a reported $1.97 billion in economic impact.Key Factors: The city’s growth is fueled by attractions like the Queen Mary, Aquarium of the Pacific, and events such as the Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach.
City Guide For Long Beach, California
Top Attractions: Queen Mary, Aquarium of the Pacific, Long Beach Shoreline VillageBest For: Maritime history buffs, families, cultural explorersVisitor Spending: $1.97 billion in 2024Tourism Jobs: Approximately 25,000 workers across 1,600 establishmentsSustainability: Emphasis on eco-friendly tours and green hotelsSan Francisco, California Record Breaking Tourism Growth
San Francisco is poised for record-breaking tourism growth, with visitor numbers projected to reach 23.49 million in 2025, up from 23.06 million in 2024. This increase in tourism is driven by a combination of factors, including the city’s strong convention business, which continues to attract large-scale events and conferences. Domestic tourism has also seen a boost, with travelers flocking to San Francisco to experience its iconic landmarks like Fisherman’s Wharf and the Golden Gate Bridge. Additionally, ongoing investments in local attractions and infrastructure have enhanced the city’s appeal to visitors. These developments, coupled with San Francisco’s vibrant culture and diverse neighborhoods, have helped solidify the city’s position as a top travel destination, contributing to both economic growth and job creation in the hospitality sector.
Visitor Numbers: San Francisco is projected to reach 23.49 million visitors in 2025, up from 23.06 million in 2024.Key Factors: The increase is attributed to conventions, domestic tourism, and investments in attractions like Fisherman’s Wharf.
City Guide For San Francisco, California
Top Attractions: Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, Fisherman’s WharfBest For: Cultural enthusiasts, tech aficionados, foodiesVisitor Spending: $9.26 billion in 2024Tourism Jobs: Nearly 62,000 jobs supported in 2024Sustainability: Strong commitment to green building standards and sustainable tourism practicesNew York City, New York Record Breaking Tourism Growth
New York City is set to experience record-breaking tourism growth in 2025, with an expected 64.7 million visitors, 19% of whom will be international travelers. This surge in tourism is fueled by a combination of factors, including the city’s world-renowned events, iconic Broadway shows, and its vibrant arts and cultural scene. Additionally, significant investments in infrastructure, including transportation upgrades and new attractions, have made the city more accessible and appealing to visitors from around the globe. New York’s status as a cultural and economic powerhouse, along with its iconic landmarks such as Central Park and Times Square, continues to attract millions each year. This growth is not only boosting the city’s economy but also supporting a wide range of jobs in the hospitality, entertainment, and retail sectors.
Visitor Numbers: NYC is expected to welcome 64.7 million visitors in 2025, with 19% being international travelers.Key Factors: The city’s tourism is bolstered by events, Broadway shows, and investments in infrastructure.
City Guide For New York City, New York
Top Attractions: Statue of Liberty, Central Park, Times SquareBest For: Art lovers, theatergoers, urban explorersVisitor Spending: $51 billion in 2024Tourism Jobs: Supports over 388,000 leisure and hospitality jobsSustainability: Investments in green infrastructure and sustainable tourism initiativesOther Cities Lead US Tourism Surge with Record Visitor Numbers1. West Palm Beach, FloridaVisitor Growth: Ranked as the #1 trending U.S. destination for 2025, with an 18% increase in bookings during Q2.Key Attractions: Norton Museum of Art, Clematis Street, The Square.Traveler Profile: Couples, retirees, and domestic long weekenders seeking a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.2. Santa Barbara, CaliforniaVisitor Growth: Secured the #2 spot on Tripadvisor’s list of top U.S. cities to visit in 2025.Key Attractions: Santa Ynez Valley wineries, coastal beaches, and Mediterranean-style architecture.Traveler Profile: Eco-conscious travelers and wine enthusiasts drawn to its charm and coastal beauty.3. Cleveland, OhioVisitor Growth: Noted for a significant increase in reservations, driven by cultural events and sports tourism.Key Attractions: Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland Museum of Art, Progressive Field.Traveler Profile: Culture seekers and sports fans exploring the city’s rich heritage.4. Memphis, TennesseeVisitor Growth: Experienced a measurable spike in reservations, attributed to its musical heritage and cultural events.Key Attractions: Graceland, Beale Street, National Civil Rights Museum.Traveler Profile: Music lovers and history buffs immersing themselves in the city’s legacy.5. Green Bay, WisconsinVisitor Growth: Saw a notable increase in bookings, particularly around sports events.Key Attractions: Lambeau Field, Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame, Bay Beach Amusement Park.Traveler Profile: Sports enthusiasts and families seeking fun and entertainment.6. Maui, HawaiiVisitor Growth: Witnessed a 30% increase in travel intent among eco-conscious tourists and those seeking regenerative travel.Key Attractions: Haleakalā National Park, Road to Hana, Lahaina Historic District.Traveler Profile: Nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers exploring the island’s natural wonders.7. Charleston, South CarolinaVisitor Growth: Attracted 7.9 million visitors in 2024, with a 7% increase in tourism revenue year-over-year.Key Attractions: Historic plantations, King Street shopping, Waterfront Park.Traveler Profile: Affluent travelers and history enthusiasts appreciating the city’s charm.8. Birmingham, AlabamaVisitor Growth: Poised to become a major U.S. tourist destination by 2026, with significant investments in cultural and recreational infrastructure.Key Attractions: Civil Rights District, 16th St. Baptist Church, Birmingham Civil Rights Institute.Traveler Profile: History buffs and cultural explorers delving into the city’s rich past.9. Charlotte, North CarolinaVisitor Growth: Continues to be one of the fastest-growing major cities in the United States, attracting visitors with its vibrant economy and cultural offerings.Key Attractions: NASCAR Hall of Fame, Carowinds amusement park, U.S. National Whitewater Center.Traveler Profile: Families and sports fans seeking diverse entertainment options.10. Seattle, WashingtonVisitor Growth: Avoided year-over-year international air traffic declines in 2025, with a 9.7% increase in international arrivals in June.Key Attractions: Pike Place Market, Space Needle, Amazon Spheres.Traveler Profile: Urban explorers and tech enthusiasts experiencing the city’s innovation.
Image: The Attached Image is AI Generated
