Is NYC Tourism Down?

By Robert Palmer

New York City is one of the most iconic and popular tourist destinations in the world. However, in recent times there has been concern about a decline in tourism to the city. Let’s take a closer look at whether NYC tourism is really down and what could be causing this trend.

Is NYC Tourism Really Down

According to recent data from NYC & Company, the official tourism organization for New York City, there has been a decline in international visitors to the city in 2019. The data shows that international visitation decreased by 1.8% compared to 2018 numbers. However, domestic visitation increased by 2.4% during the same period.

While these numbers might suggest a decline in overall tourism to New York City, it’s important to note that domestic visitors make up the majority of tourists to the city. According to NYC & Company, domestic visitation accounted for approximately 80% of all visitors in 2019.

Possible Reasons for Decline

There are several reasons why international tourism might be declining in New York City:

  • Economic Uncertainty: The ongoing trade war between the US and China has caused economic uncertainty which could be impacting travel plans.
  • Potential Visa Restrictions: The Trump administration has proposed stricter visa requirements for travelers which could discourage some from visiting.
  • Perception of Safety: Recent headlines about crime rates and safety concerns may have deterred some tourists from visiting.

However, it’s also important to note that these factors may have limited impact on overall tourism numbers as domestic visitation continues to increase.

The Future of NYC Tourism

Despite the concerns about a decline in international tourism, there are several reasons to be optimistic about the future of tourism in New York City:

  • New Attractions: The opening of new attractions like Hudson Yards and the expansion of the Museum of Modern Art are expected to draw more visitors to the city.
  • Cultural Events: New York City is known for its diverse cultural events, such as the annual Pride Parade and the New York Film Festival, which continue to attract visitors from around the world.
  • Increase in Domestic Visitation: As mentioned earlier, domestic visitation continues to increase which helps offset any potential decline in international visitation.

Conclusion

While there has been some concern about a decline in tourism to New York City, it’s important to look at the data and consider all factors. While international visitation may be down slightly, domestic visitation continues to increase and there are many reasons to be optimistic about the future of NYC tourism. With new attractions and events on the horizon, as well as continued investment in tourism marketing and outreach, it’s likely that New York City will remain a top tourist destination for years to come.