In a historic milestone for the state, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida has reached unprecedented levels of tourism, further cementing its position as the premier destination for travelers worldwide. Revised figures for 2023 reveal that Florida welcomed over 140.6 million visitors, surpassing previous records. The first quarter of 2024 also saw an unprecedented 40.6 million visitors, marking the highest number 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 demonstrate that our efforts have made the free state of Florida even more attractive to visitors.”

Revised 2023 figures show a 2.3% increase from the previous year, with Florida hosting 140.6 million visitors. This includes a record 129.1 million domestic visitors, 8.3 million overseas visitors, and 3.2 million Canadian visitors.

The momentum continued into the first quarter of 2024, with domestic visitation reaching an all-time high of 37.2 million. Overseas visitation stood at 2.1 million, while Canadian visitation rose to 1.3 million. The total visitation for Q1 2024 shattered records with 40.6 million visitors, reflecting a 1.2% year-over-year increase.

“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:

– Total visitation revised from 135.0 million to 140.6 million, a 2.3% year-over-year increase, marking 2023 as another record year.

– Domestic visitation in 2023 reached the highest level ever, revised from -3.8% to +1.1% year-over-year.

Highlights from VISIT FLORIDA’s Q1 2024 Visitation Estimates:

– Preliminary estimates indicate 40.6 million visitors in Q1 2024, a 1.2% increase from Q1 2023, driven by the recovery of international travel and strong domestic performance.

– Domestic visitors accounted for 91.6% of the total, with overseas visitors at 5.2% and Canadian visitors at 3.2%.

– Domestic visitation hit a record high of 37.2 million, a 0.2% increase from Q1 2023.

– Overseas visitation rose to 2.1 million, an 18.4% increase from Q1 2023, nearing pre-pandemic levels.

– Canadian visitation reached 1.3 million, a 6.9% increase from Q1 2023.

– Total enplanements at 19 Florida airports increased by 9.4%, with 30.2 million enplanements.

– Orlando International Airport was the busiest, with 7.6 million enplanements, followed by Miami with 7.5 million. 

VISIT FLORIDA conducts regular revisions to visitor estimates to ensure data accuracy as new information is collected.

As tourism in Florida continues to soar, these record-breaking figures highlight 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.