Miami-Dade County marked a historic milestone in 2024, drawing greater than 28 million guests — the best quantity ever recorded in a single 12 months — in keeping with the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB).
The announcement got here through the bureau’s annual State of the Journey & Tourism Trade occasion held at Jungle Island, the place greater than 600 attendees gathered to have fun the power of the area’s tourism economic system.
Guests spent a mixed $22 billion within the vacation spot final 12 months, producing $2.2 billion in state and native tax revenues. The county’s customer economic system now helps over 209,000 tourism-related jobs — greater than ever earlier than — and accounts for 9% of Miami-Dade’s GDP, with a complete financial affect of greater than $31 billion in 2024.
“Tourism and hospitality are the lifeblood of Miami-Dade County,” stated GMCVB President and CEO David Whitaker. “Our trade works tirelessly to make sure that Higher Miami and Miami Seashore stays a prime international journey vacation spot whereas celebrating our distinctive neighborhoods and creating applications that welcome all guests.”
Miami-Dade led Florida in resort occupancy in 2024 and ranked fourth nationally among the many prime 25 U.S. resort markets. It additionally positioned third in common day by day room charges, reflecting continued robust demand. Development got here from each home and worldwide guests, up by 2% and 4% respectively, whereas spending elevated by 3% and 5%.
“Our guests have traveled right here in higher numbers and their extra spending advantages us all,” stated Julissa Kepner, GMCVB board chair. “This could drive dwelling the significance that tourism isn’t only a native precedence — it’s the engine propelling Miami-Dade County onto the world stage as a mannequin for financial prosperity and distinctive resident high quality of life.”
Conventions and tradition energy Miami-Dade’s tourism surge
Key tourism drivers included conferences, conventions, and main occasions. In 2024, the GMCVB’s conference gross sales crew exceeded targets by securing 16 new bookings for the Miami Seashore Conference Heart, bringing in 65,000 attendees and over $131 million in financial affect. 9 extra occasions are already booked, projected so as to add 62,000 attendees and $95 million in exercise.
Progress continues on the adjoining 800-room Grand Hyatt Miami Seashore, scheduled to open in 2027. A stay development webcam now permits planners to comply with its growth in actual time.
Advertising and marketing efforts included the launch of the Creator Collective, an area storytelling initiative that helped @VisitMiami grow to be the fastest-growing Instagram channel amongst U.S. vacation spot advertising and marketing organizations. Social and digital outreach additionally expanded to highlight Miami-Dade’s municipalities. A refreshed Miami Spice marketing campaign is ready for 2025, supporting the town’s rise as a Michelin-rated culinary hub.
Worldwide markets carried out nicely, with in a single day customer progress from Colombia (8%), Brazil (12%), and the UK (10%).
The GMCVB additionally superior its sustainability and accessibility targets. In partnership with Inexperienced Key International, 71 resorts are pursuing worldwide sustainability certification. Miami-Dade is on observe to be “Vacation spot Verified” by Wheel the World, and extra tourism companions have gotten Licensed Autism Facilities.
The Multicultural Tourism & Growth Division supported 147 small companies, whereas the Artwork of Black Miami initiative expanded to 14 neighborhoods and hosted over 66 activations throughout Artwork Week — a 266% improve since its launch. The Bureau’s expertise growth efforts additionally raised a file $250,000 in scholarships for college students pursuing careers in tourism and hospitality.
Main occasions that drew guests included Calle Ocho, the Latin GRAMMYs, Winter Celebration Competition, Miami Carnival, the Orange Blossom Traditional, Jazz within the Gardens, Artwork Basel, the System One Miami Grand Prix, and the Orange Bowl. Wanting forward, 2026 is filled with marquee occasions just like the Faculty Soccer Playoff Nationwide Championship, NHL Winter Traditional, World Baseball Traditional, FIFA World Cup, and NASCAR Championship Race.
