TALLAHASSEE, Fla.—Today, Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Florida continues to be the country’s premier travel destination as it once again sets record-breaking visitation numbers in the third quarter of 2024. Preliminary estimates indicate that 34.6 million visitors traveled to the Sunshine State, marking a 1.8% increase over Q3 2023 and making it the highest visitation on record for a third quarter. The record-breaking visitation was fueled by 31.8 million domestic visitors, 2.3 million overseas visitors, and 582,000 Canadian visitors.
This marks the third consecutive quarter of record-setting visitation to Florida, highlighting continued growth in both domestic and international travel. The first three quarters of 2024 show an increase of 2 million visitors from the same period in 2023.
“The Free State of Florida continues to break records for tourism,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “It is a testament to our model, and we will continue to operate our state with common sense, fiscal responsibility, environmental stewardship, and a penchant for freedom.”
“The hard work and resilience of Floridians have been instrumental in keeping our tourism industry strong, showcasing the best of what our state has to offer,” said Dana Young, President & CEO of VISIT FLORIDA. “Governor DeSantis’ leadership has positioned Florida as a top choice for travelers, and the continued record-breaking tourism numbers reflect that.”
Highlights from VISIT FLORIDA’s Latest Visitation Estimates Include:
- 34.6 million visitors traveled to Florida in Q3 2024, marking a 1.8% increase from Q3 2023 and the highest visitation for any third quarter.
- 31.8 million domestic visitors in Q3 2024, reflecting a 1.8% increase from the previous year.
- 2.3 million overseas visitors in Q3 2024, up 1.9% from Q3 2023, and nearing full recovery.
- 582,000 Canadian visitors in Q3 2024, representing a 2.5% increase from the previous year.
- Domestic visitors made up 91.8% of total visitation, overseas visitors accounted for 6.6%, and Canadian visitors represented 1.7%.
- Total enplanements at Florida’s 19 major airports reached 25.6 million in Q3 2024, up 1.3% from the previous year, with notable growth in airports like Pensacola and Palm Beach.