Orlando solidified its position as America’s top travel destination in 2024, welcoming over 75.3 million visitors—a 5.9% increase from the previous year. International arrivals reached 6.5 million, driven primarily by travelers from Canada, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Mexico, and Colombia, underscoring the city’s growing global appeal.
Visit Orlando, the city’s official tourism organization, attributed this surge to expanded international airlift, targeted marketing efforts, and significant investments in new attractions and accommodations. The addition of promotional offices in Spain, France, Chile, Peru, Argentina, and India further enhanced Orlando’s accessibility and visibility on the global stage.
International Visitor Markets Achieve Record Growth
Key international markets posted notable gains in 2024:
- Canada: 1,290,300 visitors (+2.7%)
- United Kingdom: 907,900 visitors (+3.5%)
- Brazil: 697,200 visitors (+0.2%)
- Mexico: 438,000 visitors (+1.5%)
- Colombia: 343,000 visitors (+13.6%)
This combination of enhanced connectivity and diverse attractions cements Orlando’s status as a premier global destination for families, events, shopping, and culinary experiences.
Universal Epic Universe and New Attractions Elevate Theme Park Experience
Universal Orlando Resort unveiled Universal Epic Universe on May 22, its first new theme park in 25 years. The park features five immersive lands, including Celestial Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and Dark Universe, redefining the region’s theme park landscape.
SeaWorld Orlando introduced Expedition Odyssey, a flying theater attraction showcasing Arctic adventures through real-world footage. The park’s ongoing Summer Spectacular includes a dynamic drone show and nightly fireworks through September 1.
Walt Disney World Resort revealed new entertainment offerings for 2025, featuring “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” and “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After” at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Magic Kingdom will launch its first new nighttime parade in nearly a decade on July 20, “Disney Starlight, Dream the Night Away,” spotlighting beloved characters from “Encanto,” “Frozen,” and “Peter Pan.”
Upscale Retail and Culinary Excellence Highlight Orlando’s Growth
Orlando’s luxury retail sector expanded with new arrivals such as Moncler, Dolce & Gabbana, and Valentino at Orlando Vineland Premium Outlets, and additions like Hollister and Greg Norman at Orlando International Premium Outlets. The Mall at Millenia welcomed Balenciaga, Tecovas, and Alo Yoga in 2025.
The city’s culinary scene earned international acclaim in the 2025 MICHELIN Guide Florida, with 11 new restaurants recognized. Orlando celebrated its first Two-MICHELIN-Star restaurant, Sorekara, alongside Ômo by Jônt, awarded One Star. The destination now hosts 59 MICHELIN-recognized establishments, including nine starred venues, 15 Bib Gourmand honorees, and 35 recommended restaurants.
Orlando Strengthens Sports Tourism with FIFA Events and NBA Action
Orlando’s growing reputation as a premier sports city was reaffirmed with top rankings from WalletHub and Sports Business Journal. In June 2025, the city will host high-profile FIFA Club World Cup matches, featuring teams such as LAFC, CR Flamengo, Juventus FC, and Manchester City. The Orlando Magic continue to attract international fans with thrilling NBA games.
Expanding Hotel Capacity Meets Rising Demand
Home to nearly 500 hotels and over 132,000 rooms, Orlando’s hospitality sector expanded significantly in the past year with 2,600 new rooms added. Universal Orlando Resort launched multiple new properties including Universal Stella Nova Resort, Universal Terra Luna Resort, and the 500-room Universal Helios Grand Hotel, which features a dedicated entrance to Epic Universe.
The Villatel Orlando Resort on International Drive offers large villas accommodating up to 26 guests with themed rooms extending the immersive experience beyond the parks. Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin completed a $275 million renovation of all 756 rooms and suites in the Swan hotel, while Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Orlando Resort & Suites finished a comprehensive $7 million refurbishment.
Orlando’s ongoing investment in attractions, hospitality, and global outreach continues to drive record-setting tourism growth, reinforcing its status as a world-class destination.
