Published on December 18, 2025
Los Angeles joins San Francisco, San Diego, Napa Valley, Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, and others in California to surge tourism across the U.S. in 2026, driven by major events and iconic milestones, attracting global visitors. The state’s unparalleled blend of entertainment, world-class sporting events, and natural beauty makes it a prime destination for travelers seeking diverse experiences. With Los Angeles hosting FIFA World Cup matches, the centennial of Route 66 driving road trip tourism, and San Francisco hosting the Super Bowl, California is set to be a global tourism hotspot. Destinations like Napa Valley and Lake Tahoe will offer luxury, wellness, and outdoor adventures, while Yosemite’s record-breaking visitation and new international visitor policies will further elevate California’s appeal. The convergence of these high-profile events and milestones ensures that 2026 will be a banner year for tourism across the Golden State.

Los Angeles: The Entertainment Capital Meets Global Sports

Los Angeles is set for a banner year in 2026, with tourism projections sky-high due to a convergence of major sporting events, historical milestones, and its continued dominance in entertainment. Hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches will bring massive crowds to the city. In addition to the World Cup, Los Angeles is expected to see a rise in international visitors due to the 100th anniversary of Route 66, with many travelers arriving to explore the city’s cultural landmarks. Hollywood remains a major attraction, but the city is also increasingly catering to visitors seeking luxury experiences, high-end shopping, and exclusive events like the LA Marathon and the LA Auto Show.

San Francisco: The “Sports Capital” Year

San Francisco is expected to see a massive tourism boost in 2026, transitioning from its tech-centric business travel to become a major destination for global sports events. Key highlights include the Super Bowl LX on February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium, which is anticipated to boost hotel occupancy to 66.3% during the winter shoulder season. San Francisco will also host six FIFA World Cup matches in June and July 2026, drawing around 24.02 million visitors and generating an economic impact of $9.83 billion. Additionally, the city’s aggressive “Walkable” Initiative aims to attract international visitors who prefer car-free travel experiences.

San Diego: “Top Gun” Meets NASCAR

San Diego is capitalizing on its rich military heritage in 2026 with an unprecedented NASCAR street race on an active military base—Naval Base Coronado. The race, taking place from June 19–21, coincides with the U.S. Navy’s 250th anniversary celebrations, drawing additional visitors to the city. San Diego’s famous Zoo will also open “Elephant Valley,” a multi-million dollar expansion aimed at attracting more family-based tourism, with a projected 5–7% increase. These events, coupled with San Diego’s military history, make 2026 a banner year for the region.

Napa Valley: Wine and Wellness Retreat

Napa Valley is positioned to see an influx of visitors in 2026, drawing tourists with its world-class wineries and wellness-focused tourism. As California continues to rise in global tourism rankings, Napa is becoming a premium destination for wine lovers, gastronomic experiences, and luxury accommodations. In 2026, Napa will see heightened interest due to its proximity to the San Francisco Bay Area’s major sporting events, like the Super Bowl and FIFA World Cup. The region’s wine country will also benefit from an expanded “wellness tourism” trend, with new resorts and spa offerings attracting both domestic and international visitors. The combination of wine, wellness, and world-class events is expected to bring in substantial revenue.

Lake Tahoe: The Year of Adventure and Snow

Lake Tahoe is forecasted to have a thrilling 2026, with visitors flocking to its world-class ski resorts and outdoor adventure opportunities. Known for both winter sports and summer outdoor activities, Tahoe sees year-round tourism. However, 2026 will be particularly exciting as the resort areas expect a surge in winter sports enthusiasts, drawn by the region’s world-class ski slopes and unparalleled views. In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Tahoe will also benefit from the rise in eco-tourism and outdoor adventure travel, with increasing interest in hiking, mountain biking, and water sports. Its unique position between California and Nevada makes it a year-round playground for international tourists.

Yosemite: The “Surcharge” Era

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Yosemite is poised to face record-breaking visitor numbers in 2026, thanks to a surge in both domestic and international tourism. However, a significant shift in how international visitors are charged will mark a new era. Starting January 1, 2026, a $100 per-person surcharge for non-U.S. residents will apply to 11 flagship parks, including Yosemite. Additionally, the annual “America the Beautiful” pass, which remains $80 for U.S. residents, will increase to $250 for international travelers. Yosemite’s peak reservation system will continue, with vehicle reservations required for high-demand summer months (May–Sept). In-park lodging is already seeing bookings 12–14 months in advance due to high demand.

International Visitor Outlook: By Market

The international visitor outlook for California in 2026 shows varying trends depending on the market. Mexico is expected to be a growth leader, with high demand for shopping and family reunions. Canada, however, is projected to see a decline due to new visa fees and geopolitical tensions. South Korea is on track for a strong surge, driven by increased flight capacity and rising “K-Culture” ties. India is rapidly emerging as a significant market, particularly for California’s coastal cities. Meanwhile, European interest remains steady, with a boost from the Route 66 Centennial celebrations, although high park fees may offset some enthusiasm.

The “Centennial” Catalyst: Route 66 Anniversary

The 100th anniversary of Route 66 in 2026 is expected to create a “Great American Road Trip” surge, especially benefiting California’s Mojave Desert and Los Angeles regions. Starting April 30, 2026, travelers from all over the world will flock to California to experience the iconic route, aiming to drive from Chicago to the Santa Monica Pier. This historic milestone is expected to significantly boost tourism, especially in areas connected to the Route 66 corridor, offering a unique blend of nostalgia, adventure, and exploration for visitors.

Los Angeles joins San Francisco, San Diego, Napa Valley, Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, and others in California to surge tourism across the U.S. in 2026, driven by major events and iconic milestones, attracting global visitors.

Conclusion

Los Angeles, along with San Francisco, San Diego, Napa Valley, Lake Tahoe, Yosemite, and other key destinations in California, is set to drive a major surge in tourism across the U.S. in 2026. The combination of major events, such as the Super Bowl and FIFA World Cup, along with iconic milestones like the Route 66 centennial, will attract a global influx of visitors. These landmark events, alongside California’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and diverse offerings, will make 2026 a landmark year for tourism in the U.S., solidifying California’s role as a premier destination.

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Tags: California tourism, major events, tourism growth, Travel 2026

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