San Francisco and Denver are experiencing remarkable tourism growth, attracting visitors with their unique attractions, cultural events, and sustainable initiatives.

Learn about the key trends, top destinations, and major events that make these cities must-visit spots in 2024.

San Francisco saw a significant recovery in tourism in 2023, attracting 23.1 million visitors, which was a 5.2% increase compared to 2022. This influx of visitors generated $8.8 billion in direct spending, and when including meeting planner and exhibitor spending, the total reached $9.3 billion. The city’s tourism industry is showing steady recovery with international visitors playing a crucial role. In 2023, international visitation grew by 26%, contributing $4.64 billion in visitor spending. The top international markets for visitor volume were Mexico, the U.K., Canada, Germany, and India, with China regaining its position as the top market for visitor spending.

According to allhotelssanfrancisco.com San Francisco’s hotel industry also showed gains, with average occupancy rising to 64.2% and the average daily rate reaching $243.80. The Moscone Center, a key venue for conventions and events, hosted 34 events in 2023, which significantly boosted hotel room nights and overall economic impact.

Looking ahead to 2024, San Francisco Travel forecasts continued growth in both visitation and visitor spending. The number of visitors is expected to reach 23.7 million, with 2.36 million international visitors contributing $5 billion in spending. Hotel occupancy is projected to rise to 65%, and average daily rates are expected to increase to $251.91.

Top Attractions in San Francisco

  1. Golden Gate Bridge – An iconic landmark offering stunning views and walking paths.
  2. Alcatraz Island – Historic site of the former prison, accessible by ferry with guided tours.
  3. Fisherman’s Wharf – A bustling waterfront area with seafood restaurants, shops, and attractions like Pier 39.
  4. Chinatown – The largest Chinatown outside of Asia, known for its vibrant culture and cuisine.
  5. Union Square – A major shopping district with high-end stores, galleries, and theaters.
  6. Golden Gate Park – A large urban park featuring museums, gardens, and recreational facilities.
  7. Exploratorium – An interactive science museum suitable for all ages.
  8. San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) – Home to an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art.
  9. Lombard Street – Famous for its steep, winding turns and beautifully landscaped surroundings.
  10. Twin Peaks – Offers panoramic views of the city from its two prominent hills.

For those planning to visit, sharing moments from these events can make for great San Francisco captions for your IG.

Key Trends and Future Projections

  • Sustainability Initiatives: San Francisco continues to prioritize sustainability with initiatives such as the expansion of green public transportation and eco-friendly hotels.
  • Technology and Innovation: The city’s reputation as a tech hub continues to attract business travelers and conventions, particularly those related to technology and innovation.
  • Cultural Events: Major events like the Game Developers Conference, RSA Conference, and Dreamforce contribute significantly to tourism and hotel occupancy.

Annual Events

  1. San Francisco Pride – One of the largest LGBTQ+ parades in the world, held every June.
  2. Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival – A major music festival held in Golden Gate Park every August.
  3. Fleet Week – Features air shows, ship tours, and military displays in October.

Tourism Trends in Denver

Denver also experienced robust tourism growth in 2023, welcoming a record 37.4 million domestic visitors, a 3% increase from the previous year. This surge in visitors generated $10.3 billion in tourism revenue, marking nearly a 10% growth from 2022.

The city’s tourism industry has been buoyed by a variety of factors, including its appeal as a destination for both leisure and business travel. Denver’s vibrant cultural scene, outdoor recreational opportunities, and increasing number of events and conventions have all contributed to this growth. Additionally, music tourism has become a significant trend, with major concerts and festivals driving increased travel to the city.

For 2024, Denver is expected to continue seeing strong tourism trends, with an emphasis on sustainable travel and unique cultural experiences. The city’s focus on enhancing visitor experiences through new amenities and improved infrastructure is set to keep it as a top travel destination .

Top Attractions in Denver

  1. Denver Art Museum – Known for its comprehensive collection of Native American art.
  2. Denver Botanic Gardens – Featuring a variety of themed gardens and a conservatory.
  3. Red Rocks Amphitheatre – A famous outdoor concert venue surrounded by stunning rock formations.
  4. Denver Museum of Nature & Science – Offers exhibits on natural history, space, and more.
  5. Union Station – A historic landmark now serving as a transportation hub with shops, restaurants, and bars.
  6. Larimer Square – Denver’s oldest and most historic block, filled with shops and dining options.
  7. Denver Zoo – Home to a diverse collection of animals and family-friendly attractions.
  8. Coors Field – The ballpark for the Colorado Rockies, offering tours and events.
  9. 16th Street Mall – A pedestrian-friendly street with numerous shops, eateries, and entertainment options.
  10. Cherry Creek Shopping District – Features high-end boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.

Key Trends and Future Projections

  • Sustainability Initiatives: Denver is focusing on sustainable tourism with efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and promote eco-friendly travel options.
  • Cultural Experiences: The city is enhancing its cultural offerings with new museums, galleries, and arts festivals.
  • Music and Sports Tourism: Major concerts, sports events, and festivals continue to draw large crowds.

Annual Events

  1. Great American Beer Festival – The largest beer festival in the U.S., held every September.
  2. Denver Film Festival – A prominent film festival showcasing independent films every November.
  3. National Western Stock Show – A major event featuring rodeos, livestock shows, and Western entertainment in January.
By: Conley SarahPosted on