Is Tourism Down in New York City?

By Anna Duncan

Tourism is one of the most important industries in New York City, generating billions of dollars annually and providing countless jobs. However, with the ongoing pandemic and the resulting restrictions on travel and social gatherings, many have been wondering if tourism in the city has taken a hit. Let’s take a closer look at the current state of tourism in New York City.

Overall Tourism Numbers

According to recent data, tourism in New York City has indeed decreased significantly since the pandemic began. In 2019, the city welcomed a record-breaking 66.6 million visitors. However, in 2020, that number dropped by over 66%, with only an estimated 22.3 million visitors coming to the city.

International Tourism

One of the major factors contributing to this decline is the lack of international tourism. In 2019, international visitors made up approximately 22% of all tourists in New York City. However, due to travel restrictions and border closures, international visitation to the city has dropped by over 80% since last year.

Domestic Tourism

While domestic tourism has also taken a hit, it has fared slightly better than international travel. Many Americans are still wary of traveling long distances or visiting crowded cities like New York during a pandemic. However, some have chosen to take road trips or shorter vacations closer to home.

The Impact on Businesses

The decrease in tourism has had a significant impact on businesses throughout New York City. Hotels have seen a sharp decline in occupancy rates, restaurants have lost customers, and retail stores have experienced lower sales numbers.

Tourism-Dependent Industries

Industries that rely heavily on tourism have been hit especially hard. For example, Broadway theaters were forced to shut down for over a year due to COVID-19 restrictions and are only just beginning to reopen. Additionally, the absence of international tourists has had a major impact on high-end retailers and luxury brands that cater to those visitors.

The Future of Tourism in New York City

While the current state of tourism in New York City is bleak, there are reasons to be optimistic about the future. As more people get vaccinated and travel restrictions are lifted, it’s likely that domestic tourism will rebound first, followed by international travel. Additionally, many businesses have adapted to the pandemic by offering outdoor dining and other socially-distanced options.

Investing in Tourism

Furthermore, the city government has recognized the importance of tourism to the local economy and is actively seeking ways to promote it. For example, Mayor Bill de Blasio recently announced a $30 million marketing campaign aimed at attracting visitors back to New York City.

In conclusion, while tourism in New York City has certainly taken a hit due to COVID-19, there are reasons to be hopeful for its future. By investing in marketing campaigns and adapting to changing circumstances, businesses and city officials can work together to ensure that New York remains one of the world’s top tourist destinations.