San Francisco’s Visitor Numbers Are Up Again: What’s Behind the City’s Growing Tourism Boom

According to the San Francisco Travel Association, San Francisco welcomed 23.2 million visitors this year, marking a 0.4% increase from last year. The city’s tourism boom is poised to inject $9.24 billion into the local economy in 2024, a 5% rise compared to the previous year’s $8.8 billion.

The MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) sector is a key driver behind this growth. The Moscone Convention Center, a cornerstone of San Francisco’s event landscape, is set to host over 30 events next year. These gatherings will contribute to 659,700 booked room nights, a 59% increase from this year’s 400,000. Hotels, restaurants, and cultural attractions are gearing up to capitalize on this surge.

Tech enthusiasts will see San Francisco shine as it hosts Microsoft Ignite, a premier AI and cloud technology event. The conference alone is expected to generate 61,000 room bookings and bring $41.5 million to the local economy.

Anna Marie Presutti, Director of the San Francisco Travel Association, highlighted the crucial role of the MICE industry in the city’s economy. She noted that small businesses thrive and the entire city receives a boost of energy thanks to this sector. She assured business travelers that they would have exceptional experiences in San Francisco.

The city is also becoming a hub for global sports events. Highlights include the NBA All-Star Game and the Laver Cup in 2024, with future events like the Pokémon World Championships, Super Bowl LX, and FIFA World Cup lined up for 2026.

With a strong lineup of events and increasing visitor numbers, San Francisco is cementing its reputation as a vibrant destination for business, tech, and sports tourism.