Orlando’s tourism industry reached a historic milestone in 2025, welcoming 76.7 million visitors and reinforcing the region’s position as one of the world’s leading travel destinations. The figure represents nearly 2% growth over 2024 and highlights tourism’s continued role as a major economic engine for Central Florida.

The announcement was made during Visit Orlando’s annual Travel & Tourism Event at the Orange County Convention Center, where industry leaders, elected officials, and tourism partners gathered to celebrate the destination’s momentum and discuss the future of travel.

Domestic tourism remained the primary driver of growth, with Orlando setting a new record of 70.3 million domestic visitors. International visitation also increased from several key markets, including the United Kingdom, Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia. In addition, Orlando’s group meetings segment experienced a 3.1% increase, further strengthening the region’s hospitality and convention sectors.

Industry leaders emphasized that Orlando’s tourism success extends far beyond visitor numbers. The influx of travelers supports local businesses, generates jobs, creates opportunities for career advancement, and contributes significantly to the region’s quality of life.

The event also explored evolving travel trends and how Orlando is uniquely positioned to meet changing traveler expectations.

Adam Ochman, senior director of Wanderlab at Tripadvisor, presented insights from the company’s Trendcast Report, highlighting several emerging behaviors shaping the future of travel. One of the most notable trends was the rise of “kid-influenced travel,” with children increasingly impacting family vacation decisions. Experience bookings that include children’s tickets have risen more than 47% year over year.

Food-driven tourism also continues to gain momentum. According to Ochman, travelers are increasingly planning entire vacations around culinary experiences, with bookings for food-focused activities increasing 25% year over year and heritage food markets seeing triple-digit growth.

Another key trend, described as “humanized hospitality,” reflects travelers’ growing desire for authentic and meaningful connections. Experiences involving local interaction have increased 38% year over year, reinforcing the importance of community-driven tourism experiences.

Ochman also announced “Common Ground,” a new YouTube series collaboration between Visit Orlando and Tripadvisor launching later this summer. The series will feature unscripted conversations centered on travel, food, music, sports, and culture, with appearances by Orlando-raised Broadway performer Michael James Scott, *NSYNC founding member Joey Fatone, Chef Richard Blais, Brazilian soccer legend Kaká, and Orlando Pride player Rafaelle Souza.

Geoff Freeman, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, addressed the broader national tourism landscape during the event, emphasizing travel’s role as a critical contributor to economic growth. He noted that the $1.4 trillion travel industry continues to shape local and national economies while highlighting the importance of investments in infrastructure, international connectivity, and trusted traveler systems.

Freeman also pointed to major upcoming global events — including the FIFA World Cup and Olympic Games — as opportunities to further strengthen the travel industry and enhance the United States’ global tourism competitiveness.

One of the event’s most memorable moments came from Orlando-raised Broadway star, actor, and recording artist Michael James Scott, who premiered his new song, “Brighter.” Inspired by his connection to Orlando, the song reflects themes of homecoming, possibility, and personal growth.

Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings shared additional optimism about the region’s meetings and conventions industry. During fiscal year 2025–26, the Orange County Convention Center is projected to host 185 events, attract approximately 2.3 million attendees, and generate an estimated $5 billion in economic impact.

Barb Bowden, Visit Orlando board chair and area managing director of operations at Loews Hotels at Universal Orlando, also highlighted tourism’s broader community impact. She pointed to recent collaborative efforts following the abrupt shutdown of Spirit Airlines, during which Visit Orlando partnered with local hotels to provide resources and support for affected travelers.

The event concluded with another major announcement for the region’s future. Jason Siegel, president and CEO of the Greater Orlando Sports Commission, revealed that Orlando has been selected as a host city for the only International Olympic multisport qualifier connected to the LA28 Summer Olympic Games. The achievement reflects nearly a decade of strategic collaboration between regional tourism and government leaders.

With record-breaking visitation, major international sporting events on the horizon, and continued investment in world-class experiences, Orlando’s tourism industry appears poised for even greater growth in the years ahead.