May 24, 2025 | Press Release

The U.S. capital broke new tourism records in 2024, welcoming 27.2 million visitors and generating USD11.4 billion in visitor spending, according to Destination DC (DDC), the city’s official destination marketing organisation. The growth was powered in part by strong international markets, with India leading as the top source of visitor spending, contributing a substantial USD 344 million.

India maintained its position as DC’s second international source market (excluding border countries) with 191,000 visitors in 2024. When Canada and the UK are included, India ranked third in overall international visitation. Significantly, Tourism Economics projects positive growth in both visitation and spending from India in 2025, positioning it as a high-potential market for the U.S. capital.

The new numbers reflect the impact of targeted tourism recovery efforts. Funded through the Tourism Recovery District (TRD), DDC’s marketing and sales campaigns have achieved a strong return on investment, with an independent study showing USD 2.09 in tax revenue for every USD 1 spent on advertising in 2024.

Economic Impact Highlights:
– Record USD11.4 billion in visitor spending (up 12 per cent from 2023)
– USD 2.3 billion in tax revenue (up 11 per cent)
– 111,500 jobs supported (up 8 per cent)
– Every household in DC saved USD 3,608 in taxes due to tourism

“Washington, DC has welcomed more people than ever before for the second straight year,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, President and CEO of Destination DC. “As we celebrate the 2024 figures, we remain vigilant about 2025. We are doubling down on positioning DC as a welcoming, inclusive destination, especially for international travellers.”

Of the total 27.2 million visitors, 2.2 million were international – a 10 per cent increase year-over-year. Despite representing just 8 per cent of the total visitation, international visitors contributed 27 per cent of total spending, underscoring their economic importance.

India: A Strategic International Market
India’s rise to the top spot in spending aligns with broader trends in high-value, long-haul travel. DDC has increased its global promotional efforts, supported by TRD funding, to tap into emerging and resilient international markets. Travel trade professionals can expect continued engagement from DC in the Indian market, with a focus on luxury travel, MICE, and family travel segments.

Key Drivers of Visitation Growth
– The “There’s Only One DC” campaign, a USD 27 million domestic and international initiative, helped drive a 5 per cent year-over-year increase in visitation.
– Collaborations with platforms like Expedia delivered 31,600 hotel room nights and nearly USD10 million in bookings.
– From October 2024 to March 2025, DDC promotions helped generate 67,000 new room nights, a 30,000-night increase year-over-year.

Challenges Ahead in 2025
Despite 2024’s momentum, international inbound travel is expected to decline in 2025. Forecasts indicate a 6.5 per cent decrease in international visitation to DC, compared to a 9.4 per cent national decline.

“Travel is a USD 1.3 trillion economic engine, and international travel plays a critical role in that ecosystem,” said Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. “As we look to the World Cup in 2026, America’s 250th anniversary, and the 2028 Olympics, we must prioritise travel-friendly policies that enhance access and experience.”

A City Ready for the Global Stage
Washington, DC is doubling down on its positioning as a hub for global events:
– Hosting three FIFA Club World Cup matches at Audi Field in June

– The 2027 NFL Draft on the National Mall and Pennsylvania Avenue
– WorldPride DC 2025 with a headline performance by Shakira at Nationals Park
– A year-long celebration for America’s 250th anniversary in 2026 with major cultural and infrastructure enhancements, including updates to the Jefferson and Lincoln Memorials and a new National Geographic Museum of Exploration

Upcoming infrastructure milestones include:
– Expansion of the National Air and Space Museum
– Renovation of the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
– A new concourse at Dulles International Airport

Looking Ahead
As DC prepares for milestone events and faces international travel headwinds, the city’s tourism leaders remain focused on agile marketing, strong global partnerships, and inclusive storytelling. For Indian travel planners, the city offers a compelling destination for high-value clients — from MICE groups to multi-generational families seeking culture, sports, entertainment, and historic experiences.