Local Boost: Hillsborough County Tourism Reaches Near-Record Highs in March

Hillsborough County in Tampa, Florida, saw a significant increase in tourism in March, with collections exceeding $7 million. This is a 7.3% increase from the record set in March 2023, and a 21.0% increase from March 2022. The county's hospitality industry is doing well, with hotel occupancy rates at 81.5% in March. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) was $193.96, and the Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) was $158.12.

Santiago C. Corrada, President and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay, credits the success to the robust tourism and hospitality community in Hillsborough County. He also mentioned the county's restaurants, such as The Tampa EDITION and Palihouse Hyde Park Village, which have been recognized by MICHELIN. These restaurants, along with marketing and sales efforts, contribute to Tampa Bay's reputation as a popular tourist destination.

Tampa Bay continues to be a top destination for both convention and leisure travelers, with high hotel occupancy rates. The main flight markets for travelers to Tampa Bay in March were Detroit, New York, Boston, and Chicago. Atlanta and Orlando were the leading drive markets.

In February, the Hotel Taxable Revenue collected in March was $121,501,863. This is a 7.2% increase from the record set in February 2023, and a 21.1% increase from February 2022. This indicates a positive trend in the county's tourism sector.

As National Travel & Tourism Week approaches, Hillsborough County continues to attract visitors and host events, contributing to the local economy.

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