Published on September 17, 2025
By: Tuhin Sarkar
Cleveland joins Los Angeles, Orlando, Miami, and San Francisco as the U.S. tourism industry reaches unprecedented heights. The city’s tourism sector has seen a remarkable surge, with both tax revenue generation and an influx in tourist expenditure.
This boom has been driven by an increase in both domestic and international visitors, eager to explore Cleveland’s cultural attractions, thriving entertainment scene, and diverse offerings. In 2024, Cleveland reported a 4% increase in tourism spending, marking a record-breaking year for the city.

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This growth has had a significant impact on the local economy, supporting thousands of jobs in hospitality, retail, and transportation. Cleveland’s tourism success follows the upward trend seen in major cities like Los Angeles and Miami, where tourism remains a key economic driver.
As we move into 2025, this growth trajectory is expected to continue, with more visitors drawn to the city’s rich experiences and attractions.

Cleveland’s Tourism Growth Soars to New Heights in 2024

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In 2024, Cleveland saw its tourism industry reach unprecedented levels, with visitors spending a record $6.9 billion. This marks a 4% increase compared to the previous year, highlighting the city’s growing attraction as a must-visit destination. The tourism boom has not only benefited the local economy but has also boosted job creation, tax revenue, and overall economic development. Cleveland’s success in 2024 reflects its enhanced reputation as a city worth exploring, thanks to its vibrant culture, stunning attractions, and increasing global recognition. As more travellers choose Cleveland, the city continues to see impressive growth in various sectors tied to tourism.
The economic benefits of tourism in Cleveland extend far beyond visitor spending. With tourism generating $1.6 billion in tax revenue, residents of Cuyahoga County saw a significant reduction in taxes, equating to an additional $1,460 per household. This influx of spending has made a direct positive impact on the city, helping to fund local services and infrastructure projects. Cleveland’s ability to generate tax revenue through tourism plays a crucial role in strengthening its economy and enhancing the quality of life for its residents.

Tourism’s Economic Impact: A Major Driver for Cleveland’s Growth

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In 2024, Cleveland’s tourism industry contributed more than $11.4 billion to the local economy. This represents a nearly 40% growth over the last decade, far outpacing inflation during the same period. The city’s ability to attract visitors is a testament to its improved infrastructure, hospitality offerings, and growing reputation as a major destination for both leisure and business travellers. The tourism sector’s rapid growth has solidified Cleveland as a key player in Ohio’s economic landscape, drawing attention from both national and international visitors.
As the tourism industry continues to expand, it is becoming a vital part of Cleveland’s long-term economic strategy. David Gilbert, president and CEO of Destination Cleveland, noted that the continued growth in visitors is vital not only for tourism revenue but for other sectors of the economy. The increased tourism also acts as a powerful marketing tool, showcasing the city’s cultural and business potential to potential residents and companies. By positioning Cleveland as a top destination, the city aims to attract new residents, business investments, and long-term economic diversification.

Cleveland’s Growing Reputation as a Must-Visit Destination

Cleveland’s growing tourism numbers indicate a shift in how the city is perceived. The surge in visitors reflects a broader trend in which Cleveland is gaining recognition for its cultural, historical, and recreational offerings. From the iconic Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to the scenic Cleveland Metroparks, the city’s diverse attractions have captured the attention of tourists across the globe. This shift has been accompanied by improvements in the hospitality sector, including new hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues designed to meet the needs of a modern tourist base.
The increased interest in Cleveland has created a ripple effect, benefiting many local businesses. Restaurants, bars, and retail establishments are seeing more customers, while hotels and conference facilities are experiencing higher occupancy rates. Cleveland’s burgeoning status as a top travel destination has also drawn in convention organisers, who see the city’s growing popularity as an ideal location for large-scale events. With more visitors flocking to Cleveland each year, the city’s hospitality industry has become an essential pillar of its economic success.

Business Tourism: Conventions and Meetings Drive Economic Growth

Cleveland has also seen an increase in business tourism, with a 7% rise in visitors attending conventions and meetings in 2024. The city hosted more than 300 booked conventions, drawing in over 208,000 attendees. These business travellers generated approximately $200 million in economic impact, underlining the importance of Cleveland as a centre for professional events. The rise in business tourism reflects the city’s ability to offer a variety of venues, accommodations, and services that cater to corporate clients and convention organisers.
The continued success of business tourism in Cleveland demonstrates the city’s appeal as a place for both work and leisure. The combination of attractive event venues, top-tier hotels, and a vibrant urban environment makes Cleveland an ideal destination for conventions, trade shows, and corporate events. As the city’s reputation as a business hub grows, it is likely to continue attracting both national and international business travellers who see Cleveland as a strategic location for networking, meetings, and conferences.

New York City: Tourism Drives Economic Resurgence

New York City continues to be the country’s most visited tourist destination. In 2024, NYC saw over 62 million visitors, with a significant portion being international tourists. Tourism spending reached a record high, contributing more than $75 billion to the city’s economy. The hospitality sector, including hotels and short-term rentals, saw an occupancy rate of 85%, an improvement from 2023. The Broadway industry alone generated over $1 billion in ticket sales, solidifying NYC as a cultural hub. In addition, the expansion of public transportation and tourism-focused infrastructure improvements are expected to maintain this upward trajectory in 2025.

Los Angeles: A Hub for Entertainment and Leisure

Los Angeles has long been synonymous with entertainment, and tourism remains a central part of its economy. In 2024, LA hosted more than 50 million visitors, contributing approximately $40 billion to the local economy. The city’s strong hospitality industry benefits from Hollywood’s international allure, luxury hotels, and theme parks like Disneyland. Visitors flock to its iconic attractions, such as the Getty Museum and Griffith Park. With hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues thriving, LA is expected to continue its tourism growth into 2025, with new developments in the tourism infrastructure aimed at accommodating even more visitors.

Orlando: Family Tourism and Theme Parks at the Core

Orlando, primarily known for its world-class theme parks, saw explosive growth in 2024, welcoming over 75 million visitors. The tourism industry in the city, which revolves around Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, generated $80 billion in tourism revenue. Orlando’s economy is heavily dependent on tourism, particularly family travel. In response to the growing demand, the city invested in expanding its hotel offerings, building new attractions, and enhancing infrastructure. For 2025, Orlando’s tourism sector is poised to grow, with major park expansions and the city positioning itself as a prime family destination.

Miami: A Blend of Beach Tourism and Luxury Travel

Miami has been a leader in beach tourism, and its appeal remains strong in 2024. The city saw an increase in international visitors, particularly from Latin America and Europe, driving up tourism spending to $20 billion. The luxury travel sector, including high-end hotels and restaurants, saw a sharp increase in revenue. Miami’s vibrant cultural scene, from Art Basel to the Miami International Boat Show, continues to attract affluent tourists. Tourism authorities have heavily invested in the city’s tourism infrastructure, making it an ideal destination for both beach lovers and cultural enthusiasts. In 2025, Miami is expected to continue drawing tourists with its tropical climate and world-class services.

Las Vegas: Entertainment and Gaming Powerhouse

Las Vegas experienced a record-breaking year in 2024, with over 40 million visitors, generating more than $70 billion in tourism-related revenue. As a global centre for entertainment and gaming, Las Vegas continues to grow, thanks in part to new investments in mega-resorts, convention spaces, and entertainment venues. The city’s allure lies not only in its iconic casinos but also in its high-end restaurants, nightclubs, and live performances. The tourism industry remains the city’s economic backbone, and in 2025, the city’s tourism revenue is expected to grow with more diverse offerings beyond gaming, attracting a broader audience.

San Francisco: A Beacon of Cultural and Tech Tourism

San Francisco’s tourism economy is driven by both cultural and tech tourism. In 2024, the city saw around 30 million visitors, contributing over $25 billion to its economy. The city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island, remain major draws, as does the vibrant arts and tech scene. San Francisco is also positioning itself as a hub for tech-related tourism, with major tech conferences and events drawing international visitors. The city’s tourism economy is expected to remain strong through 2025, with ongoing investments in public transportation and infrastructure improvements that support both tourists and the local population.

Chicago: Cultural Riches and Architectural Appeal

Chicago has seen a resurgence in tourism over the past few years, particularly after the pandemic, with 2024 visitor numbers surpassing 50 million. The city’s economic impact from tourism reached $16 billion, driven by both cultural tourism and architecture. Tourists flock to the city for its museums, historic sites, and the Chicago Architecture Foundation. Chicago’s burgeoning food scene has also made it a top destination for culinary tourism. With ongoing efforts to boost tourism through improved amenities and events like the Chicago Air and Water Show, the city is set for continued growth in 2025.

Washington, D.C.: Political and Cultural Hub

Washington, D.C. remains a top destination for both domestic and international visitors interested in U.S. history and politics. In 2024, over 24 million people visited the capital, contributing an estimated $12 billion to the city’s economy. Key attractions like the Smithsonian museums, the National Mall, and political landmarks such as the White House and Capitol Hill continue to draw significant crowds. The hotel and hospitality sector also saw substantial growth in 2024. Tourism to D.C. is expected to continue expanding in 2025, especially as the city adds new cultural venues and upgrades its public transportation systems to accommodate tourists.

Boston: A Blend of History and Innovation

Boston’s tourism economy is largely driven by its historical significance and its booming innovation sector. In 2024, Boston welcomed over 25 million visitors, contributing around $9 billion to the local economy. Tourists come for the rich history, from the Freedom Trail to the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, while others are drawn to the city’s growing tech industry and educational institutions, such as Harvard University. With a focus on both preserving historical landmarks and fostering innovation, Boston is primed for continued tourism growth into 2025, with efforts to enhance public transportation and accommodation options for visitors.

Seattle: Tech, Nature, and Tourism Growth

Seattle has become a key player in the U.S. tourism industry, attracting tech-savvy visitors and nature lovers alike. In 2024, the city saw a steady rise in tourism, with more than 18 million visitors contributing $10 billion to the economy. Seattle’s economy is heavily influenced by the tech industry, with companies like Amazon and Microsoft drawing business tourists. Additionally, the city’s outdoor attractions, including Mount Rainier and the Puget Sound, attract nature tourists. The city is expected to continue seeing growth in tourism through 2025, with plans for expanding its airport and improving hotel options to accommodate rising demand.

San Diego: A Growing Center for Wellness and Leisure

San Diego is increasingly becoming a top destination for tourists seeking wellness retreats, leisure activities, and outdoor experiences. In 2024, the city recorded over 35 million visitors, contributing more than $12 billion to the economy. With its beautiful coastline, world-renowned zoos, and a growing number of wellness resorts, San Diego’s appeal is multifaceted. The city has also seen a surge in tourism from domestic travelers seeking to enjoy its outdoor offerings. In 2025, San Diego’s tourism industry is expected to continue expanding, with more investments in wellness tourism and the continued development of eco-friendly accommodations.

Denver: Outdoor Adventure and Urban Escapes

Denver’s tourism economy is built on its proximity to the Rocky Mountains and its reputation as an outdoor adventure hub. In 2024, the city welcomed more than 30 million visitors, with tourism spending exceeding $11 billion. Outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and mountain biking remain the key attractions, while Denver’s vibrant downtown area is also home to a growing number of cultural venues, restaurants, and craft breweries. Denver’s tourism sector is poised for continued growth, particularly in 2025 as the city continues to enhance its infrastructure and attract both adventure and urban tourists.
The U.S. tourism economy in 2024 and 2025 is on an upward trajectory, with cities across the country benefiting from increased visitor numbers and growing revenue. Major tourist destinations like New York, Los Angeles, and Orlando are seeing significant growth, but so are emerging cities like Denver, San Diego, and Seattle. Each city is carving out its unique niche, from entertainment and luxury to outdoor adventure and cultural exploration. With new investments in infrastructure, accommodations, and technology, the U.S. tourism industry is set to continue thriving well into 2025.

Job Creation and the Impact on Local Employment

Cleveland’s tourism boom in 2024 has had a significant impact on local employment, with more than 70,000 jobs supported by the industry. Over 20,000 of these jobs were in the food and beverage sector, which has directly benefited from the rise in tourism. As more visitors come to the city, the demand for hospitality services, including restaurants, bars, and catering companies, has soared. This surge in demand has created thousands of new employment opportunities, providing a boost to Cleveland’s labour market.
The growth in tourism-related jobs is a welcome development for Cleveland’s economy, especially in industries that have been heavily impacted by economic downturns. By supporting such a large number of jobs, the tourism industry is helping to provide a stable source of income for many residents. Furthermore, the rise in employment opportunities has led to a lower unemployment rate, as more individuals are able to find work in Cleveland’s growing hospitality sector. The continued expansion of tourism is expected to create even more job opportunities in the coming years.

The Long-Term Benefits of Cleveland’s Tourism Growth

Cleveland’s tourism success in 2024 is just the beginning of a long-term growth trajectory that is poised to benefit the city for years to come. With increasing numbers of visitors and a steady rise in tourism-related revenue, Cleveland is positioning itself as a leader in the regional and national tourism market. As the city continues to develop its tourism infrastructure, it will attract even more visitors, residents, and businesses, further strengthening its economy.
The city’s tourism sector is also set to benefit from continued investments in infrastructure, including the construction of new hotels, event spaces, and transportation hubs. These investments will help Cleveland maintain its position as a top travel destination while ensuring that it can accommodate the growing number of visitors. By focusing on sustainability, innovation, and collaboration, Cleveland is creating an environment where both residents and visitors can thrive.

Conclusion: Cleveland’s Bright Future in Tourism and Economic Development

Cleveland’s record-breaking $6.9 billion in tourism spending in 2024 is a clear indication of the city’s growing influence on the global tourism market. The city’s ability to attract both leisure and business travellers, coupled with its impressive hospitality infrastructure, has placed it at the forefront of Ohio’s tourism scene. As the industry continues to expand, Cleveland stands to benefit from increased job creation, enhanced tax revenue, and stronger economic diversification. With a continued focus on developing its tourism offerings, Cleveland is set for even greater success in the years ahead, positioning itself as a top destination for both travellers and businesses alike.
The U.S. tourism industry is seeing a major upswing. Following a pandemic recovery, the sector is growing at an accelerated pace. The latest reports indicate an impressive surge in both domestic and international travel. Key cities are becoming prime destinations, and their economies are thriving due to the massive influx of tourists. In 2024, spending in U.S. tourism reached record highs, and projections for 2025 remain robust. This positive momentum is attributed to pent-up demand, easing restrictions, and an increasing global appetite for travel. As a result, businesses across sectors, including airlines, hotels, and local tourism boards, are benefiting from this travel boom.

U.S. Tourism Economy Shows Robust Growth in 2024

In 2024, the U.S. tourism economy hit significant milestones. The travel sector generated more than $1.3 trillion in direct spending, marking a significant recovery from the pandemic’s toll. The economic impact is evident, with cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Orlando witnessing an influx of visitors from both domestic and international markets. In addition, the broader economic footprint of tourism, including indirect and induced effects, brought the total to an estimated $2.4 trillion. As tourism spending increases, it has contributed immensely to job creation, providing millions of positions in industries related to hospitality, transportation, and leisure activities. For many cities, tourism is now a cornerstone of their economy, helping to revive local businesses and stimulate further growth.

International Tourism Drives Record-Breaking Spending

The growth of international tourism is a pivotal factor in the U.S. travel boom. In 2024, the U.S. attracted 72.4 million international visitors, marking a strong 9.5% increase from the previous year. These visitors spent an estimated $126.9 billion in travel-related expenditures, creating a ripple effect across various sectors. Popular destinations like Florida, California, and Nevada experienced the highest growth in international arrivals. The impact on the economy is undeniable, with local businesses, especially those in the tourism and service industries, reaping the rewards. With 2025 projections indicating similar or even higher growth, the global demand for U.S. tourism shows no signs of slowing down.

Impact of Airline and Airport Services on the U.S. Travel Market

Airlines and airports play a pivotal role in driving U.S. tourism. In 2024 and into 2025, both sectors saw significant improvements in passenger traffic. Major airlines like American Airlines, Delta, and United have reported substantial recovery in flight bookings. The U.S. Department of Transportation’s reports highlighted a steady increase in air traffic, with more passengers flying across domestic and international routes. Meanwhile, airports, particularly in metropolitan cities, experienced smoother operations with fewer disruptions. These improvements in air travel have made U.S. cities more accessible, fueling the influx of visitors and making travel more convenient for both business and leisure travelers.

U.S. Hotel Industry Rebounds With Increased Occupancy Rates

The U.S. hotel industry, a major component of the tourism economy, has also seen a strong recovery. In 2024, occupancy rates across the country rose to pre-pandemic levels, driven by both leisure and business travelers. Cities like New York, Las Vegas, and San Francisco reported some of the highest occupancy rates. With more visitors flocking to these cities, hotel revenues have surged. The demand for short-term vacation rentals also saw a significant rise, driven by domestic travelers seeking flexible accommodation options. This growth is a direct reflection of the overall boom in U.S. tourism and a critical factor in sustaining the local economies that rely on tourism-related businesses.

Local Economies Benefit From Tourism Spending Across U.S. Cities

Tourism spending is a significant economic driver in many U.S. cities, especially those that rely heavily on visitors for revenue. Cities such as New Orleans, Miami, and Denver saw record-breaking tourism expenditures in 2024. The influx of visitors brought in billions of dollars, benefiting local shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. These areas also reported significant job creation in tourism-related sectors, contributing to overall economic health. The tourism sector’s recovery is a key contributor to revitalizing downtown areas and local infrastructure. For example, New Orleans’ tourism contributed over $10 billion to the local economy, supporting over 80,000 jobs.

U.S. Travel Policies and International Relations Impact Visitor Numbers

Travel policies have played an important role in shaping U.S. tourism trends. The Biden administration’s efforts to ease travel restrictions and promote international tourism have led to significant growth in visitor numbers. The introduction of the U.S. Travel and Tourism Advisory Board has helped create a more coordinated effort between the private and public sectors to attract international travelers. Moreover, the visa process has been streamlined, allowing for a smoother entry experience. These policy shifts have positively impacted international tourism, particularly from Europe, Asia, and Latin America. As 2025 unfolds, these policy measures are expected to continue driving tourism growth, especially in regions heavily impacted by previous restrictions.

Economic Impact of Regional Tourism and Local Attractions

While major cities dominate the tourism landscape, regional tourism is experiencing a boom as well. Smaller cities and rural areas are benefiting from the broader national travel surge. For instance, rural destinations in states like Montana, Alaska, and Tennessee have seen increased visitation. With travellers seeking unique experiences, local attractions such as national parks, historic sites, and cultural landmarks are drawing larger crowds. The tourism boom has given rise to new opportunities in these regions, with tourism boards and businesses focusing on sustainable growth to maintain the momentum. These regions also stand to benefit from increased infrastructure investments aimed at enhancing the visitor experience.

Hotel Development in Major U.S. Tourist Cities

The surge in tourism has prompted further development within the hotel sector, with several major cities expanding their accommodations to meet the growing demand. Hotel chains are investing heavily in building new properties, especially in tourist hotspots such as New York City, Chicago, and Los Angeles. The development of luxury and boutique hotels is particularly notable, catering to high-end international visitors. In addition, the rise of vacation rental platforms like Airbnb has led to a diversification of the accommodation market. This growing variety of lodging options is expected to continue as the tourism economy expands in 2025.

The Role of Technology in Shaping U.S. Tourism

Technology is playing an increasingly important role in shaping the future of U.S. tourism. From contactless check-ins at hotels to the rise of biometric security at airports, technological innovations are improving the travel experience. The widespread adoption of mobile apps and digital tools has made booking flights, hotels, and experiences more convenient than ever before. Tourists can now access a wealth of information at their fingertips, enhancing their overall travel experience. These innovations have become particularly crucial in a post-pandemic world where safety and convenience are top priorities for travelers. As technology continues to advance, it will further streamline operations and improve visitor satisfaction.

The Future of U.S. Tourism in 2025 and Beyond

Looking ahead, the future of U.S. tourism appears extremely bright. In 2025, tourism is expected to remain a vital contributor to the economy, with further growth in both domestic and international markets. Cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Miami are predicted to remain top tourist destinations, while emerging cities such as Nashville and Austin are becoming increasingly popular. Moreover, the trend towards sustainable travel and eco-friendly tourism will shape future policies and consumer preferences. With increased investments in infrastructure, technology, and international relations, the U.S. tourism industry is set to thrive well into the next decade.

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Tags: Cleveland attractions, Cleveland tourism, tourist expenditure, US cities tourism, US Travel Growth

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