Cleveland Joins Montgomery, Gaston, Mecklenburg, Cuyahoga, Miami-Dade, and Anne Arundel County in Skyrocketing US Tourism Last Year

Published on September 9, 2025

By: Rana Pratap

Cleveland Joins Montgomery, Gaston, Mecklenburg, Cuyahoga, Miami-Dade, as well as Anne Arundel County, were among County America that witnessed rapid growth in tourism in 2024. The economic stimulus effects, creating employment opportunities, as well as placing boosts on spending by visitors, spending to the economic impact at the spending boom of the visitation, particularly towards access lifted by tourism. Along with the counties, Cleveland, as a result of major events and purposeful tourism marketing, also recorded a steep growth in visitors.

Double digit growth was recorded in counties. Millions of dollars were spent on the economy. From the events in Cleveland to the Anne Arundel County’s tourism, the result was impressive. The growth in visitation, as well as visitation expenditure, was remarkable, which is confirmed by tourism’s powerful impact on the economy.

Miami-Dade, along with the county of Mecklenburg, has always attracted tourists, but 2024 was a pivotal year, as these areas hosted larger events and broadened their scope of attraction, drawing even more visitors. Thanks to their burgeoning cultural appeal, Don and Cuyahoga counties also experienced significant increases in tourism. The aggregate tourism growth of Cleveland, Montgomery, Gaston, Mecklenburg, Cuyahoga, Miami-Dade and Anne Arundel County illustrates the enhancing reach of tourism in the USA and its positive impacts on the local economies.

Cleveland’s Tourism Surge in 2024

Cleveland, Ohio, witnessed a remarkable boost in tourism in 2024, thanks to key events and strategic marketing efforts. As the host of major events like the NCAA Women’s Final Four and the total solar eclipse, Cleveland attracted millions of visitors. These events not only filled hotel rooms and restaurants but also stimulated local businesses, resulting in a substantial economic impact for the city. Cleveland’s tourism industry generated millions of dollars in visitor spending, creating jobs and supporting community services.

The city’s tourism growth is a result of years of planning, marketing, and investing in its infrastructure. Cleveland’s success showcases the potential for cities across the U.S. to transform their local economies through targeted efforts in promoting tourism. With its diverse attractions, including the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and beautiful waterfront views, Cleveland has become a top destination for both domestic and international tourists.

Montgomery County, Tennessee: An Economic Powerhouse

Montgomery County, located in Tennessee, also experienced substantial growth in tourism, reaching $419.6 million in visitor spending in 2024. This surge has been attributed to the county’s rich cultural offerings, outdoor attractions, and proximity to Nashville. As a result, tourism has become a key driver of economic prosperity in the region.

The increase in tourism spending translated into more than $43 million in state and local tax revenues, bolstering public services and infrastructure. Furthermore, Montgomery County saw a rise in job creation, with thousands of people employed in the hospitality and service industries. The county’s efforts to promote local attractions, such as Fort Defiance Civil War Park and the scenic Cumberland River, helped boost its tourism figures significantly.

Gaston County, North Carolina: A Hidden Gem

While Gaston County in North Carolina may not be as well-known as some of the larger U.S. destinations, its tourism growth in 2024 was impressive. The county saw a significant rise in visitor spending, which benefited its local economy. Gaston County’s appeal lies in its natural beauty, historical landmarks, and vibrant arts scene, making it a perfect getaway for visitors looking for something off the beaten path.

The county’s tourism growth has helped create jobs in the hospitality and retail sectors, providing economic opportunities for local residents. The development of new attractions, such as the Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden and the US National Whitewater Center, has further fueled tourism growth. As more tourists discover the charm of Gaston County, its economic outlook continues to improve, demonstrating the power of small-town tourism.

Mecklenburg County, North Carolina: A Tourism Powerhouse

Mecklenburg County, home to Charlotte, North Carolina, has long been a tourism hotspot. In 2024, the county saw a significant increase in visitor spending, largely driven by the success of major events, such as the NCAA Women’s Final Four. The county’s tourism industry reached a staggering $6.4 billion in visitor spending, up 9.1% from the previous year.

Charlotte, with its thriving arts and culture scene, professional sports teams, and growing dining options, has become a go-to destination for tourists. Visitors flock to the city for events, festivals, and a chance to explore the city’s unique offerings. Mecklenburg County’s continued growth in tourism has strengthened its economy and created thousands of jobs in hospitality, transportation, and retail.

Cuyahoga County, Ohio: A Historic and Cultural Centre

Cuyahoga County, home to Cleveland, has seen substantial growth in tourism, generating millions in visitor spending. In 2024, the county benefitted from key events such as the NCAA Women’s Final Four and the total solar eclipse. These events brought in thousands of visitors from across the nation, providing a significant boost to local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and retail stores.

Tourism in Cuyahoga County contributes to the local economy by creating jobs in various sectors, such as hospitality, transportation, and entertainment. The county has invested in its tourism infrastructure, promoting its historic sites, cultural institutions, and vibrant downtown areas. This investment has paid off, with tourism spending increasing year after year. Cleveland, in particular, has embraced its identity as a cultural and arts hub, attracting tourists seeking unique experiences and educational opportunities.

Miami-Dade County, Florida: The Sunshine State’s Tourism Leader

Miami-Dade County, Florida, has long been a top destination for international and domestic tourists. In 2024, the county saw record-breaking visitor numbers, with over 28 million people visiting the region. Miami’s appeal lies in its beautiful beaches, world-class dining, vibrant nightlife, and cultural attractions, such as the Pérez Art Museum Miami and the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.

The tourism industry in Miami-Dade generates billions of dollars in revenue, contributing significantly to Florida’s overall tourism economy. With tourism being a major economic driver, Miami-Dade has invested heavily in marketing and infrastructure to maintain its position as one of the most visited counties in the U.S. The county’s tourism success has resulted in job creation, with thousands of workers employed in the hospitality, retail, and entertainment industries.

Anne Arundel County, Maryland: A Hub for Tourism

Anne Arundel County, Maryland, is another shining example of tourism growth in 2024. With over 7.2 million visitors in 2024, the county generated $4.3 billion in economic impact, accounting for more than 20% of Maryland’s total tourism revenue. This success can be attributed to the county’s proximity to major attractions like Annapolis and the Chesapeake Bay.

Anne Arundel County’s tourism industry supported over 27,000 jobs, providing employment opportunities in sectors such as hospitality, retail, and transportation. The county’s rich history, combined with its scenic beauty, makes it an attractive destination for tourists. Whether it’s sailing on the Chesapeake Bay or exploring the historic streets of Annapolis, Anne Arundel County offers a wide range of activities that continue to draw visitors year after year.

The Role of Events in Tourism Growth

Across all these counties, one common factor in their tourism success is the ability to host large-scale events. Major sporting events, festivals, and cultural celebrations have proven to be a powerful tool for driving tourism. Events like the NCAA Women’s Final Four, the total solar eclipse, and local festivals have brought in thousands of visitors, leading to increased spending in the local economy.

These events not only benefit the tourism industry but also provide an opportunity for local businesses to thrive. Hotels, restaurants, and retail shops all experience a surge in demand during these events, contributing to the overall growth of the region. Additionally, the visibility gained from hosting these events often leads to repeat visits, as tourists return to experience more of what these destinations have to offer.

The Economic Impact of Tourism on Local Communities

The economic impact of tourism extends far beyond just the visitor spending. In many counties, tourism-related jobs make up a significant portion of the workforce. From hotel staff and restaurant workers to tour guides and retail employees, tourism provides employment opportunities for local residents.

Moreover, tourism generates significant tax revenue for local governments, which can be used to fund public services, infrastructure improvements, and community projects. In Anne Arundel County, for example, tourism-generated tax revenue amounted to $863 million in 2024, which helped support essential public services, including schools, transportation, and emergency services.

In 2024, Cleveland joined Montgomery, Gaston, Mecklenburg, Cuyahoga, Miami-Dade, and Anne Arundel County in skyrocketing U.S. tourism, thanks to a combination of major events, increased visitor spending, and strategic marketing efforts that fueled economic growth and job creation across these counties.

Looking Ahead: The Future of U.S. Tourism

As we move further into 2025, it’s clear that tourism will continue to be a key driver of economic growth in the U.S. With counties like Cleveland, Montgomery, Gaston, Mecklenburg, Cuyahoga, Miami-Dade, and Anne Arundel leading the way, the tourism sector is poised for further expansion. The investment in tourism infrastructure, along with the continued emphasis on hosting large-scale events, will ensure that these counties remain popular destinations for years to come.

Moreover, the increasing demand for travel experiences that focus on culture, history, and outdoor recreation will continue to shape the tourism landscape. As more visitors seek out unique, off-the-beaten-path destinations, counties like Gaston and Montgomery are well-positioned to capitalize on this trend, offering visitors authentic experiences that go beyond traditional tourist attractions.

In conclusion, the tourism boom in counties such as Cleveland, Montgomery, Gaston, Mecklenburg, Cuyahoga, Miami-Dade, and Anne Arundel County serves as a testament to the power of tourism in shaping local economies. These counties have shown that with the right investments and strategies, tourism can be a significant source of economic growth, job creation, and community development. The future of U.S. tourism looks bright, with these counties leading the charge towards continued success.