Home » America Travel News » Jacksonville Unites Orlando, Tampa, Cape Coral, Tallahassee to Deliver US Tourism Boom Florida Has Never Seen Before

Published on
August 31, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Jacksonville unites Orlando, Tampa, Cape Coral, and Tallahassee to deliver a US tourism boom Florida has never seen before. This powerful story is about how Florida cities are joining forces to show strength in tourism and travel. Jacksonville unites Orlando with vision, and Jacksonville unites Tampa with action. Jacksonville unites Cape Coral with impact, and Jacksonville unites Tallahassee with resilience. Together, these cities are not just welcoming visitors but also shaping the future of Florida’s US tourism boom.

Orlando brings its world-class theme parks and attractions. Tampa adds its booming waterfront and cultural charm. Cape Coral offers laid-back coastal beauty and growing appeal. Tallahassee, the capital, adds heritage and historic strength. Jacksonville unites them all with its balance of beaches, rivers, and city life. These places work in harmony to deliver a tourism boom Florida has never seen before.

Tourism in Florida is breaking records, and Jacksonville plays a central role. Orlando, Tampa, Cape Coral, and Tallahassee are not competing; instead, they are lifting each other. This unity brings growth, jobs, and pride. Florida shines as a travel destination, and the US tourism boom continues to expand. Jacksonville unites the story, but every city has a part in the success. The energy is real, the numbers are rising, and the impact is historic. Florida is proving again why it is the heart of US tourism, and the best is yet to come.

Jacksonville tourism held steady in 2024 while Illinois set new tourism records. Visitor spending in Jacksonville remained flat but still delivered strong local impact. Meanwhile, Illinois reported higher visitor numbers, new spending milestones, and record tax revenues. Both stories reveal how local and state tourism economies shape jobs, growth, and community pride.

Jacksonville visitor spending stays steady in 2024

In Jacksonville, preliminary numbers confirmed that 2024 tourism stayed level with 2023. Visitor spending on lodging, food, beverage, and recreation showed no major surge, yet it also avoided decline. According to Brittany Henry, executive director of the Jacksonville Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, lodging spending topped $12 million, almost identical to last year. While some communities struggle when growth stalls, Jacksonville sees stability as strength. This steady flow of visitors means that hotels, restaurants, and attractions continue to welcome a consistent stream of customers, protecting jobs and sustaining small businesses across the city.

Tourism remains a major economic driver for Jacksonville

Even with flat performance, tourism’s role in Jacksonville’s economy is clear. Visitor activity generated $14 million in payroll in 2024. It supported 419 jobs, and it created $2.4 million in local tax revenue. Overall, Jacksonville’s visitor spending reached $73 million, showing the sector’s deep influence on the local economy. Businesses tied to tourism, from hotels to recreation providers, continue to benefit from the steady inflow of guests. These numbers also highlight that Jacksonville remains competitive in a state and national market where many destinations fight to retain visibility and draw.

Hotels steady, day trips and business travel strong

Hotel occupancy in Jacksonville stayed flat compared to 2023. While this means no sharp increase, it also signals no decline. Day-trip visitors, regional event attendees, and business travellers kept activity high. Outdoor attractions and local events still drew large crowds, ensuring cash flow for local businesses. Henry stressed that Jacksonville’s tourism economy is still healthy because it is not dependent on one type of traveller. Instead, a balanced mix of leisure, business, and regional visitors helps keep the city resilient against sudden downturns.

Illinois sets new tourism records in 2024

At the state level, Illinois posted impressive numbers. The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s Office of Tourism reported more than 113 million visitors in 2024. Those travellers spent $48.5 billion, an increase of $1.3 billion over 2023. The rise came from 500,000 additional visitors, proving that Illinois is still a strong national and international draw. Hotel tax revenue hit a new high at $367 million, while state and local tax collections reached $4.7 billion. Tourism also supported 282,165 jobs, growing employment by almost 4,000 positions compared with the previous year.

State leadership celebrates growth

Governor JB Pritzker praised the gains, noting that Illinois has achieved another record-breaking year. He linked the success to the state’s broad appeal under its “Middle of Everything” slogan. The governor stressed that these figures are more than numbers. They show how tourism drives jobs, boosts local spending, and creates lasting experiences for visitors. He highlighted Illinois’ diverse mix of attractions: Chicago’s urban energy, historic towns, scenic state parks, and outdoor adventures. This mix ensures that the state appeals to a wide range of domestic and global travellers, strengthening its position in the tourism industry.

Marketing and grants drive visibility

Jacksonville’s steady results and Illinois’ growth are both tied to strong marketing. Henry explained that Jacksonville invested in digital campaigns, regional outreach, and promotional events. These efforts kept the city competitive and visible to travellers. Sports tourism, history, culinary experiences, and unique business offerings also add to Jacksonville’s appeal. At the state level, Illinois awarded $7.3 million in grants to 47 tourism projects. These included site improvements and new initiatives to attract visitors. The “Middle of Everything” campaign generated 2 million trips, adding $675 million to the Illinois economy through hotels, restaurants, and attractions.

Jacksonville looks ahead with confidence

Despite flat numbers, Jacksonville officials remain optimistic. Henry said that the community will continue to attract visitors, new residents, and businesses. She highlighted Jacksonville’s mix of history, hospitality, and community pride as strong assets. For Henry, the fact that visitors continue to choose Jacksonville reflects the city’s unique character. She credited passionate residents and partners in the tourism sector who keep telling Jacksonville’s story to new audiences. With this base of support and steady performance, Jacksonville looks to maintain and possibly grow its tourism economy in future years.

Tourism highlights the value of stability and growth

Jacksonville shows that stability in tourism can be a win. While some cities chase big jumps in visitor numbers, steady spending ensures consistent benefits for workers and businesses. Illinois, by contrast, demonstrates how a state-wide strategy and investment in promotion can deliver record-breaking growth. Together, the two cases reveal the different ways destinations measure success. For Jacksonville, holding steady means staying strong in a competitive market. For Illinois, growth means jobs, tax revenue, and global recognition. Both underscore that tourism, whether flat or rising, remains one of the most powerful drivers of local and state economies.

Florida in 2025 has become the heart of US tourism. Its cities have seen strong demand, steady hotel revenues, and visitor records. At the same time, the United States overall is experiencing a split trend. Domestic travel is booming with record numbers at airports. Yet international arrivals are showing signs of weakness. This report explains in simple words how Florida cities are doing in 2025 and what the US tourism scene looks like as of August 2025.

Orlando breaks records with theme parks and hotels

Orlando has always been a magnet for tourists. In 2025, this trend continued. Hotels in the city reached an occupancy of more than 73 per cent in June. That was a small rise compared with last year. The average daily rate for hotel rooms climbed to nearly $197. These numbers show that visitors are willing to spend more for their stays. The Epic Universe theme park opened in May and gave a strong push to visitor interest. In April, tourist development tax collection was $33 million, a record for that month. In June, another record was set at $33.7 million. These tax figures confirm that more tourists are coming and spending. Orlando’s role as a tourism leader in the state remains strong.

Miami and Miami Beach keep hotels busy

Miami and Miami Beach are showing steady strength. In June 2025, the county’s hotel occupancy was more than 78 per cent, which was slightly higher than last year. July showed a small dip, yet the year-to-date level remained higher than in 2024. The average daily rates are also holding strong, which helps hotels keep their revenue up. Miami International Airport processed 28.5 million passengers in the first half of 2025. This was only a slight fall compared with last year. International arrivals are still soft, but domestic traffic is keeping the numbers strong. Miami remains a top entry point for global visitors and an anchor for tourism in South Florida.

Tampa tourism continues to expand

Tampa has seen a healthy rise in hotel activity. In April 2025, occupancy was close to 76 per cent, with average daily rates at nearly $198. Revenue per available room reached $150, which shows strong performance. Hotels earned $115 million in taxable revenue in that month alone. By June, the county had already collected over $1 billion in taxable hotel revenue for the fiscal year. This was only a small gap from the entire total of 2024, with months still left in the reporting period. These numbers show Tampa is becoming a powerful tourism market in Florida, supported by leisure visitors, conventions, and sporting events.

St. Pete and Clearwater ride the wave

The St. Pete and Clearwater region enjoyed a record winter and spring season. In March 2025, occupancy reached more than 83 per cent, and average daily rates hit $268. Room revenue for that month alone was over $150 million. The fiscal year-to-date RevPAR was nearly $159, which was an 18 per cent increase from the prior year. January had already broken records with $8.3 million collected in bed taxes, followed by February with an even higher $9.8 million. This region is proving its strength in the Florida tourism market with its mix of beaches, attractions, and strong domestic demand.

Palm Beaches set new visitor record

The Palm Beaches region reported 5.7 million visitors in the first six months of 2025. This was the highest ever, with more than half a million extra visitors compared with 2024. Hotels reported higher demand and revenue even as other markets showed some softening. The area’s branding, luxury experiences, and steady marketing push helped make this success. The Palm Beaches are gaining ground as one of Florida’s elite destinations for both domestic and international visitors.

Fort Lauderdale sees balance in leisure and business

In Fort Lauderdale and Broward County, the tourism picture is mixed but steady. Hotels reported weekend occupancy rates at about 84 per cent in the second quarter of 2025. Revenue per available room is expected to grow slightly this year, at about 2.4 per cent. The tourism tax showed that hotel stays brought in $6 million in June, making up more than 70 per cent of the month’s revenue. Non-hotel stays added another $2.4 million. Year to date, hotels in the county generated nearly $77 million in tax collections. These numbers show that the area is balancing both leisure and growing convention demand.

Florida Keys face softer rates but steady visitors

The Florida Keys saw hotel occupancy at almost 75 per cent in July 2025. This was slightly higher than the year before. However, average daily rates fell by about 2 per cent to $278. This made revenue per room fall slightly. Tourist development tax collections for the fiscal year through May were about $47 million, which was down 8 per cent compared with last year. Still, airport traffic through TSA checkpoints showed growth of 4 per cent. These signs suggest that visitors are still coming, but they are paying less for their stays. This is a case of demand holding while pricing eases.

Sarasota tourism dips but rates rise

Sarasota County faced a decline in total tourism activity in May 2025. The economic impact fell more than 10 per cent compared with the same month in 2024. Visitor spending dropped 6 per cent, and paid accommodation visits fell nearly 8 per cent. Yet occupancy held steady at 59 per cent, and average daily rates rose by more than 10 per cent to $265. This shows that while fewer visitors came, those who stayed spent more per night. The county is adjusting to shifts in visitor demand, but its pricing power is still strong.

Naples and Collier County show steady gains

Naples, Marco Island, and the Everglades area reported tourist tax revenues of $3.9 million in June 2025. This was a 5 per cent rise over the same month in 2024. The county charges a 5 per cent tax on short-term stays, and the revenue shows steady tourism demand. These areas benefit from high-end visitors, strong domestic markets, and a reputation for nature and luxury travel. Collier County remains a vital player in Florida’s tourism picture.

Jacksonville maintains stability

Jacksonville had over 8 million visitors in 2024. They spent more than $4 billion directly in the local economy. Tax collections exceeded $30 million a year for three years in a row. While the full 2025 results are still to be confirmed, early signs suggest steady performance. Jacksonville continues to benefit from business travel, day trips, and regional tourism. Its balanced economy and affordable lodging make it resilient compared with more volatile markets.

Florida state-wide sets records in Q2 2025

Florida welcomed 41 million visitors in the first quarter of 2025. In the second quarter, the state reached a record 34.4 million visitors. Domestic travellers made up more than 90 per cent of the total. Overseas arrivals increased by 11 per cent, while Canadian arrivals stayed weak. Hotel room demand grew by 1.2 per cent across the state. Airports handled 28.6 million passengers in the quarter. Smaller airports like Punta Gorda and St. Pete–Clearwater saw double-digit growth in traffic. These state-wide numbers prove Florida remains the strongest tourism state in the country.

US tourism sets records in domestic travel

The United States travel market in 2025 is being driven by its own people. TSA screened more than 18 million travellers over the July 4 week. On June 22, a new record was set with over 3.1 million people screened in one day. Domestic travel spending in July 2025 was up slightly compared with June. Lower travel prices helped more people book trips. Hotels across the country recorded an occupancy rate of 68 per cent in June. Average daily rates held steady at $162. Revenue per room fell slightly. Industry forecasts expect US occupancy to end the year at 63 per cent, still below 2019 but higher than the pandemic years.

International arrivals to the US soften

International travel to the United States has been less strong. In June 2025, international air enplanements fell by 1 per cent compared with last year. Overseas arrivals fell more than 3 per cent in June and were down about 1 per cent for the year to date. Tourism Economics projects that total international overnight arrivals will fall by more than 8 per cent this year. Canada is showing the sharpest drop, while overseas markets like Europe are more stable. The US government has also introduced a new $250 visa integrity fee that starts in October 2025. Industry experts warn this may discourage more foreign visitors.

Travel exports show strong spending

Even with fewer international arrivals, foreign visitors are spending more in the United States. Travel exports reached a record $127 billion in the first half of 2025. This includes spending on hotels, restaurants, attractions, and shopping. The data from the International Trade Administration shows that when visitors do arrive, they spend freely. This helps offset the impact of fewer arrivals. It also proves that the US remains an attractive high-value destination.

The split picture of US tourism in 2025

The US tourism story in 2025 is one of two sides. On one side, domestic travel is setting new records every month. Americans are flying, driving, and exploring at record levels. This keeps hotels, airlines, and attractions busy. On the other side, international arrivals are showing weakness. Policy changes and costs are making it harder for some visitors to come. Canada’s decline is the biggest challenge. Yet, strong spending by those who do arrive has softened the blow.

Florida stands out as the winner

In this picture, Florida shines. The state set records in the second quarter of 2025. Cities from Orlando to Miami, Tampa, St. Pete, and Palm Beach are showing growth and resilience. Even regions with softer demand, like Sarasota and the Keys, are still maintaining high hotel rates. Florida’s dominance is clear in both domestic and international markets. It remains the most powerful state brand in US tourism.

Conclusion
Florida in 2025 is leading the US in tourism success. Orlando’s records, Miami’s steady traffic, Tampa’s growth, and Palm Beach’s new highs all show strength. Jacksonville, Naples, Sarasota, and the Keys show resilience. Across the United States, domestic travel is reaching new peaks, while international arrivals face decline. Yet spending remains strong, and tourism continues to support jobs and economies. Florida is the clear winner in this year’s tourism story, and the US industry remains a global leader despite mixed signals.

Introduction
Jacksonville is stepping into the spotlight as one of Florida’s most exciting destinations. Known for its natural beauty, historic culture, and strong connections, the city is growing as a hub for travellers in 2025. Tourists are drawn to its top attractions, wide range of hotels, and excellent flight connections. Jacksonville combines beaches, rivers, art, and wildlife with modern comfort. It is not only a gateway to Florida but also a destination in its own right. This report explains in simple words why Jacksonville is shining in 2025 and why it matters for tourism in the United States.

Jacksonville’s natural and cultural attractions

Jacksonville is home to some of Florida’s most unique attractions. The Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens is a leading site. It has more than 2,000 animals and 1,000 plant species spread over 120 acres. Visitors walk through the Land of the Tiger, Range of the Jaguar, and Stingray Bay. The zoo is not only fun but also an education in conservation. The Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens is another jewel. It stands on the banks of the St. Johns River and mixes art with landscaped gardens. Its galleries showcase history, while its gardens give peace to visitors. These attractions show the balance between education, culture, and relaxation.

Riverside Arts Market and local creative scene

Every Saturday, the Riverside Arts Market brings the community to life. Held under the Fuller Warren Bridge, it offers handmade crafts, fresh food, yoga, and live music. It has become a meeting point for both locals and tourists. Visitors can buy local goods and experience Jacksonville’s creative side. The market reflects the city’s focus on arts and community spirit. It also shows how tourism is not only about big sites but also about small, local experiences. Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary adds to this mix. This sanctuary rescues big cats and offers night feeding tours. It combines adventure with conservation awareness.

Outdoor parks and riverfront escapes

Jacksonville offers more than culture. It is also a city of nature and open spaces. The Jacksonville Riverwalks give tourists scenic trails along the St. Johns River. They connect museums, fountains, and city landmarks. The views of the water and skyline make it a favourite spot for evening walks. Hanna Park, spread across 447 acres, offers oceanfront access and wooded trails. Visitors can swim, surf, or hike. Big Talbot Island’s Boneyard Beach is another highlight. It has driftwood-lined shores that attract photographers and nature lovers. These natural areas make Jacksonville different from cities that only focus on theme parks. Here, visitors find peace and open skies.

Shopping, beaches, and hidden gems

Tourists who love shopping visit St. Johns Town Center. This open-air mall features luxury brands like Gucci and Tiffany & Co. It mixes shopping with dining and outdoor fun. Atlantic Beach Arts Market gives a local flavour with crafts and gifts. For those who prefer natural beauty, Ponte Vedra offers quiet beaches and coastal charm. Jacksonville also has historic downtown areas, Atlantic beaches, and local festivals. Each adds a layer to the visitor experience. The mix of modern malls and natural gems makes Jacksonville attractive to many types of travellers.

Hotels and luxury stays in Jacksonville

Jacksonville has more than 19,000 guest rooms. These range from luxury resorts to budget hotels. The Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront is among the most popular. It offers stunning views, a rooftop pool, and a location near major attractions. The Southbank Hotel Jacksonville Riverwalk is another strong choice, placed right along the river. The Crowne Plaza near the airport offers comfort with easy access to flights. For high-end experiences, visitors turn to Casa Monica Resort and Spa, Ponte Vedra Inn and Club, One Ocean Resort and Spa, Omni Amelia Island Resort, and Ritz-Carlton Amelia Island. These properties offer world-class hospitality with beaches, spas, and fine dining. The presence of such hotels shows how Jacksonville caters to both casual and luxury travellers.

Mid-range and business hotels

Not every tourist seeks luxury. Jacksonville also has a strong set of mid-range hotels. Sheraton Jacksonville Hotel and Delta Hotels by Marriott Jacksonville Deerwood are noted choices. These hotels offer modern services with comfort and affordability. Many visitors also choose smaller inns and beachside stays. This wide variety ensures that families, business travellers, and solo adventurers all find suitable lodging. Jacksonville’s hotel market reflects its position as both a business hub and a leisure destination.

Jacksonville International Airport and connections

Jacksonville International Airport, known as JAX, is a vital part of the city’s tourism growth. In 2025, it offers non-stop flights to more than 50 destinations in the United States and abroad. Eleven airlines serve the airport, including major carriers like Delta, American, United, and Frontier. Passengers can reach Jacksonville easily from major hubs such as Atlanta, New York, Chicago, and Dallas. JAX is also planning to add six new non-stop routes. This expansion will make the city even more accessible. The airport’s convenience helps tourists choose Jacksonville over competing destinations. It connects leisure visitors, business travellers, and international tourists.

The role of connectivity in tourism growth

Airline connections are vital for any city aiming to grow tourism. Jacksonville’s strong position on the East Coast makes it a natural hub. It sits within easy reach of Georgia and other southern states. Many visitors combine flights with road trips to Florida’s beaches and attractions. By offering direct flights to more cities, Jacksonville reduces the time and cost of travel. This attracts conferences, sporting events, and family vacations. In 2025, easy air access is one of the city’s strongest selling points. It supports hotel demand, helps local attractions, and keeps the tourism economy stable.

Jacksonville as a balanced destination

Jacksonville is not only about one type of tourism. It balances leisure, culture, nature, and business. Families come for beaches, zoos, and parks. Couples enjoy gardens, museums, and river walks. Business travellers find conference centres and hotels with modern facilities. Artists and food lovers discover markets, local dining, and creative spaces. This balance protects the city from sudden drops in demand. If one sector slows, others help maintain strength. In 2025, this mix keeps Jacksonville’s tourism stable even while other US cities face ups and downs.

Jacksonville in the Florida tourism picture

Florida is the most powerful tourism state in the United States. Cities like Orlando and Miami get most of the headlines. But Jacksonville plays a quieter and vital role. It offers a different flavour. It is less crowded, more affordable, and rich in local culture. For visitors who want Florida beyond theme parks, Jacksonville is the answer. The state-wide rise in visitors helps Jacksonville too. As Florida set new records in 2025, Jacksonville gained more visibility as a strong alternative. It contributes to Florida’s total of more than 70 million visitors by mid-year.

The impact on the economy

Tourism in Jacksonville drives jobs and spending. Hotels, restaurants, and attractions employ thousands. Tourist development taxes add millions to city funds. These revenues support services, improve infrastructure, and market the city. In 2025, steady airline connections and growing attractions mean more stability. When visitors spend money in hotels and shops, they also support workers and small businesses. This cycle strengthens the entire community. Tourism in Jacksonville is more than leisure. It is a major economic driver.

Why Jacksonville is rising in 2025

Jacksonville is becoming a rising star in Florida tourism because it combines accessibility with charm. Its zoo, museums, markets, and beaches offer variety. Its hotels cover every price range. Its airport makes travel easy. The city’s investment in marketing and infrastructure is paying off. Tourists in 2025 are seeking authentic, mixed experiences. Jacksonville fits this demand perfectly. It offers big-city energy with small-town warmth. It delivers natural beauty and modern comfort in one package.

Jacksonville in 2025 is proving itself as a destination to watch. It is rich in attractions from zoos to gardens, from markets to beaches. Its hotels range from luxury resorts to affordable inns, serving every type of visitor. Its airport offers connections to over 50 cities and continues to expand. Tourism in Jacksonville supports the economy, creates jobs, and builds pride for residents. While Florida’s giants like Orlando and Miami continue to grow, Jacksonville is carving its own success story. It stands out as a city where culture, nature, and convenience come together. In the US tourism scene of 2025, Jacksonville shines as a symbol of steady growth and bright potential.