Overtourism Crisis in the US: How New York Joins Hawaii, North Carolina, and Other Destinations Are Struggling to Handle the Surge of Visitors in 2025

Published on October 28, 2025

The Overtourism Crisis in the US is becoming more apparent in 2025, as cities like New York, Hawaii, North Carolina, and other popular destinations struggle to manage the overwhelming surge of visitors. These locations, once known for their beauty and charm, are now grappling with the negative effects of too many tourists. As the number of visitors increases, the pressure on local infrastructure, resources, and the environment grows, making it harder for these places to maintain their appeal.

New York, Hawaii, and North Carolina are not alone in facing this challenge. Many other famous destinations in the US are now feeling the weight of overtourism. In this article, we will explore how these places are responding to the crisis, the impact on residents and tourists, and what solutions are being put in place to tackle this growing problem. The future of US tourism depends on finding balance and sustainability.

What Is Overtourism?

Overtourism happens when too many visitors flock to a place, overwhelming local services, the environment, and residents. At first, it seems like a great thing for businesses – more tourists mean more money. However, as the number of visitors increases, it leads to overcrowded attractions, clogged roads, overworked staff, and significant environmental damage. Many popular spots that once thrived because of their charm are now facing these challenges. In 2025, the US is seeing a growing number of places suffering from this crisis.

Yellowstone National Park: The Strain of Crowds

Yellowstone National Park in Utah one of the US’s most iconic national parks, is no stranger to the effects of overtourism. In 2024, it recorded a staggering 331.9 million recreation visits. This marked a 2% increase from 2023, a clear sign that more and more people are making their way to this breathtaking park. However, the surge in visitors is creating major problems.

The park’s infrastructure – from roads and restrooms to staff and services – is struggling to keep up. The increase in visitors is putting a strain on the natural environment, as well as the local communities surrounding the park. As more people visit, it becomes harder to manage the flow of tourists without affecting the park’s delicate ecosystems.

To address this issue, the National Park Service has been working on strategies to manage visitor use more effectively. These include measures like timed entry systems and more collaboration with nearby communities to ensure everyone benefits from the tourism without overwhelming the area.

Zion National Park: The Economic and Environmental Costs

Zion National Park in Utah has become another example of overtourism in the US. In 2019, visitors spent a record-breaking $253.6 million in the area, supporting thousands of jobs in local communities. While this sounds like good news for the local economy, the reality is that the park is struggling to handle the growing number of visitors.

Zion’s narrow canyons and stunning views have made it a must-see destination for tourists, but the increasing crowds are putting a heavy load on the park’s infrastructure. From overcrowded trails to limited parking spaces, the park is struggling to maintain the visitor experience while protecting its natural beauty.

The state and local governments are looking into ways to manage these issues. Plans for new infrastructure development and improvements are being discussed to ease the strain on the park. These measures include expanding visitor services, better transportation options, and more sustainable tourism practices to protect Zion’s unique environment.

New York City: A City Drowning in Tourists

New York City is one of the most visited cities in the world, attracting millions of tourists every year. In 2024, the city’s tourism industry saw a sharp decline in hotel room availability due to the permanent closure of several hotels. This has left tourists scrambling for places to stay and has placed additional pressure on the city’s tourism infrastructure.

At the same time, short-term rentals like Airbnb are becoming increasingly popular. In fact, nearly 40% of New York’s hotel inventory is now made up of Airbnb listings. While this has made it easier for visitors to find places to stay, it has also created challenges for local residents. Rising rent prices, overcrowded neighborhoods, and an increase in noise and waste are some of the negative side effects of the tourism boom.

The city is taking steps to address these issues by making adjustments to its tourism infrastructure. However, the challenge lies in balancing the needs of tourists and residents. As more people come to the city, finding a solution that benefits both parties will be critical to ensuring New York’s success as a tourist destination.

Hawaii: The Battle Over Resources

Hawaii, with its lush landscapes and beautiful beaches, has long been a popular tourist destination. However, the sheer number of visitors is putting immense pressure on the islands’ natural resources. In fact, tourists consume nearly twice as much water and sewer services per day compared to residents. This is a clear sign that the tourism industry is taking a heavy toll on the environment.

The state of Hawaii is facing a major challenge in trying to balance tourism with sustainability. As tourism continues to grow, the state is taking steps to implement sustainable tourism practices. These initiatives focus on preserving Hawaii’s natural beauty while ensuring that tourism remains a vital part of the local economy.

For example, the state has introduced programs that encourage tourists to respect local traditions and reduce their environmental impact. By promoting responsible tourism, Hawaii hopes to reduce the negative effects of overtourism while still welcoming visitors from around the world.

North Carolina: The Growing Impact of Tourism

North Carolina is another state experiencing the effects of overtourism. In 2024, travelers spent a record-breaking $36.7 billion in the state, a clear indication of its growing popularity as a tourist destination. While this influx of tourists has had positive economic effects, it has also led to increased strain on local infrastructure and resources.

Popular tourist areas like the Outer Banks and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are seeing more visitors than ever before. As more people flock to these areas, the local communities are feeling the pressure. Traffic congestion, overcrowded attractions, and a rise in the cost of living are just some of the challenges residents are facing.

To address these issues, North Carolina is working on strategies to manage tourism growth. This includes monitoring tourism patterns and ensuring that new infrastructure is developed to handle the rising number of visitors. By balancing tourism with local needs, North Carolina aims to create a sustainable tourism model that benefits both residents and tourists alike.

The Future of Overtourism in the US

The problem of overtourism in the US is only expected to grow in the coming years. As more people travel, the pressure on popular tourist destinations will continue to increase. However, there are solutions to this problem.

One key approach is to manage tourism more effectively. This includes measures like limiting the number of visitors to certain attractions, implementing timed entry systems, and promoting lesser-known destinations to spread out the visitor numbers. Many US national parks and cities are already taking steps in this direction.

Another important aspect is promoting sustainable tourism. This means encouraging visitors to respect the environment, local cultures, and resources. By focusing on sustainability, the tourism industry can continue to thrive without causing long-term damage to the places people love to visit.

Finally, collaboration between governments, local communities, and the tourism industry will be crucial. Working together, these groups can find solutions that protect both the environment and the well-being of local residents.

A Wake-Up Call for the US Tourism Industry

Overtourism is a growing problem in the US, affecting some of the most popular destinations across the country. From national parks like Yellowstone and Zion to major cities like New York and Hawaii, many places are struggling to manage the massive influx of visitors. While tourism is an important economic driver, it is clear that the current model is unsustainable in many areas.

As the US looks to the future, it will be essential to find ways to balance tourism with sustainability. By focusing on responsible tourism, better infrastructure, and stronger collaboration between stakeholders, the US can continue to be a top destination for travellers without overwhelming its beloved attractions and local communities.