Government and Politics
May 16, 2024
From: Florida Governor Ron DeSantisTALLAHASSEE, FL - On May 16, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that tourism to Florida has reached unprecedented levels, solidifying Florida’s status as the premier destination for travelers worldwide. Revised figures for 2023 show that Florida welcomed more than 140.6 million visitors, breaking previous records. Additionally, Florida’s first quarter of 2024 hit 40.6 million visitors, the highest ever recorded for a single quarter.
“Once again, Florida leads the nation as an unrivaled destination for tourists,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “These record-breaking numbers show that our work has made the free state of Florida even more attractive to visitors.”
According to revised figures for 2023, Florida welcomed 140.6 million visitors, marking an increase of 2.3% from 2022’s record-breaking figure and establishing a new benchmark for visitation to the state. Domestic visitation reached an all-time high, with 129.1 million domestic visitors choosing to come to Florida in 2023, along with 8.3 million overseas visitors and 3.2 million Canadian visitors.
The momentum of unprecedented growth carried into the first quarter of 2024, with domestic visitation hitting a new high of 37.2 million, the highest ever recorded for a single quarter. Overseas visitation stood at 2.1 million, and Canadian visitation rose to 1.3 million. The total visitation for Q1 2024 shattered records, with an impressive 40.6 million visitors, a 1.2% year-over-year increase and the highest number of visitors ever received in a single quarter.
“Florida continues to welcome visitors with open arms,” said Dana Young, President and CEO of VISIT FLORIDA. “The record-breaking visitation seen in 2023 and continued through the first quarter of 2024 reaffirms Florida’s status as a must-visit destination for travelers worldwide.”
Highlights from VISIT FLORIDA’s revised 2023 visitation estimates include:
Highlights from VISIT FLORIDA’s Quarter 1 visitation estimates include:
VISIT FLORIDA conducts regular revisions to visitor estimates, ensuring data accuracy as new information is collected and resources are identified.
As tourism to Florida continues to soar to new heights, these record-breaking figures underscore the state’s unwavering appeal. With unparalleled natural beauty, world-class attractions, and a commitment to freedom, Florida remains a beacon for travelers seeking unforgettable experiences.