Miami Joins Orlando, Florida Keys, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Phoenix, and Others To Skyrocket US Domestic Tourism Growth Next Year Following a Strong Surge This Year

Published on December 26, 2025

Miami joins Orlando, Florida Keys, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Phoenix, and others to skyrocket US domestic tourism growth next year, following a strong surge this year. These destinations are attracting more travelers with their luxury, family-friendly attractions, and year-round appeal. Miami continues to dominate Florida’s tourism scene, particularly with its upscale properties in South Beach and Brickell, while Orlando remains the go-to destination for families, especially with its new theme park expansions. The Florida Keys, particularly Key West, are seeing near-maximum capacity, offering a unique tropical getaway. Fort Lauderdale and Tampa are rising as top luxury destinations with a laid-back vibe, while Phoenix and Scottsdale cater to “snowbirds” seeking warmer climates. As these destinations build on their successes from this year, they are set to see even greater tourism growth in the coming year, solidifying their status as major players in U.S. domestic tourism.

Miami: The Luxury Hub

Ranked 4th nationally for hotel occupancy and 3rd for room rates, Miami-Dade County continues to dominate Florida’s tourism scene. The city’s appeal to domestic travelers is further amplified by the luxury properties in South Beach and Brickell, where average daily rates soar to around $258, with occupancy levels reaching 82%. While international arrivals have slowed, Miami has capitalized on the domestic market, with 92% of visitors in 2025 expected to be U.S. residents. The rise of high-speed rail connections between Miami and Orlando via Brightline has boosted spontaneous travel, further enhancing Miami’s position as a luxury hub. A domestic trip to Miami typically costs around $2,000 to $2,500 for a 4-day stay, factoring in upscale accommodations, dining, and entertainment.

Orlando: The Family Capital

Orlando has secured its spot as the #1 domestic travel destination in the U.S. for the 2025 holiday season. The surge in tourism is largely driven by the latest theme park expansions, notably Universal’s Epic Universe, attracting families and theme park enthusiasts alike. With hotel occupancy reaching nearly 80% by early January 2025, Orlando is effectively managing its high demand, with many properties within the “Disney Bubble” fully booked during the Christmas-to-New-Year week. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) has risen by 12%, hitting over $230 per night, reflecting strong demand for family-centric accommodations. Domestic travelers can expect to spend around $1,500 to $2,000 for a 4-day trip to Orlando, including accommodation, theme park tickets, and meals.

The Florida Keys: Key West’s Near-Maximum Capacity

The Florida Keys, particularly Key West, have been experiencing “near-maximum capacity” levels due to their limited number of available rooms and high demand from road-trippers. Located along the Overseas Highway, Key West attracts a diverse range of domestic travelers, from couples seeking a romantic getaway to families looking for a unique island experience. The surge in visitors during peak holiday periods highlights the growing popularity of this tropical haven. A trip to the Keys typically costs around $2,000 to $2,500 for a 4-day stay, covering accommodation, meals, and excursions, making it an ideal destination for those looking for an idyllic getaway in a picturesque location.

Fort Lauderdale: A Laid-Back Luxe Destination

Fort Lauderdale has emerged as a major player in Florida’s tourism scene, ranking #2 in domestic holiday demand. Known for its stunning beaches, lively arts scene, and upscale shopping districts, Fort Lauderdale offers a more relaxed yet luxurious alternative to Miami. With its charming canals, vibrant nightlife, and high-end resorts, it caters to domestic travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. The city’s strategic position along the southeastern coast allows visitors to enjoy a variety of water-based activities, making it a top choice for families and couples alike. For a 3-4 day trip to Fort Lauderdale, domestic travelers typically spend between $1,500 and $2,000, factoring in mid-range hotel stays, dining, and water activities.

Tampa: Thriving with Cultural and Family Appeal

Tampa ranks #6 in domestic holiday demand, with a strong surge in visitors drawn by its diverse mix of cultural attractions and family-friendly activities. From world-renowned theme parks like Busch Gardens to its vibrant waterfront and historic districts, Tampa offers a unique blend of relaxation and adventure for domestic travelers. The city has become a hub for both leisure and business tourism, with a wide range of accommodations catering to different budgets. For a 4-day trip to Tampa, domestic tourists can expect to spend between $1,400 and $2,000, depending on their choice of accommodation and activities, including theme park tickets and local dining experiences.

Phoenix/Scottsdale: Popular with Snowbirds

Phoenix and Scottsdale are exceptionally popular among domestic travelers, particularly “snowbirds” from the Midwest seeking refuge from colder climates. These desert destinations have experienced high demand, with occupancy levels reaching those typically seen in Florida’s Gulf Coast. The cities’ year-round appeal lies in their mild winters and diverse offerings, from world-class golf courses to spa resorts and hiking trails. A typical 4-day stay in Phoenix or Scottsdale costs around $1,500 to $2,000 for domestic travelers, covering accommodation, food, and outdoor activities like golf and hiking, making it a great value for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Hawaii: The Resilient Paradise

Hawaii remains a sought-after destination despite its high travel costs, with average round-trip airfare nearing $900. The islands continue to see a surge in domestic tourism, with visitor arrivals exceeding 7 million in the first nine months of 2025, a trend that shows no signs of slowing. Oahu, Hawaii Island, and other islands have seen increased visitor numbers, with Hawaii Island experiencing a 10.6% year-over-year growth, largely due to renovations at luxury resorts and the return of humpback whale watching season. Additionally, the traditional “off-season” no longer exists, as families increasingly take their children out of school to travel, ensuring that hotels remain nearly at full capacity year-round. For a 5-7 day trip to Hawaii, domestic travelers can expect to spend anywhere between $3,000 and $4,500, covering flights, accommodations, food, and activities.

Miami joins Orlando, Florida Keys, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Phoenix, and others to skyrocket U.S. domestic tourism growth next year, following a strong surge this year. These destinations are attracting more travelers with their luxury, family-friendly attractions, and year-round appeal.

Conclusion

Miami joins Orlando, Florida Keys, Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, Phoenix, and others to skyrocket U.S. domestic tourism growth next year, following a strong surge this year. The surge in tourism across these destinations is fueled by increasing demand for luxury accommodations, family-friendly attractions, and year-round activities. As more travelers seek diverse experiences, these regions have proven their ability to adapt and attract domestic visitors. With their continued appeal, these destinations are set to lead the way in driving even more growth in the U.S. domestic tourism sector in the coming year.