Pennsylvania Tourism Statistics

Tourism plays a key role in Pennsylvania's economy, generating over $40 billion in direct spending annually.

• In 2024, direct visitor spending reached an all-time high of $49.9 billion, a 4.2% increase from 2023.
• Pre-pandemic spending in 2019 stood at $46.0 billion.
• That figure dropped to $28.9 billion in 2020 before beginning a steady recovery.
• Spending rose to $38.0 billion in 2021, then to $45.4 billion in 2022.
• In 2023, direct spending totaled $47.9 billion, maintaining upward momentum.

How much did visitors spend in 2024?

• Visitors to Pennsylvania spent $49.9 billion in direct tourism expenditures in 2024, a new record.
• This marked a 4.2% increase over 2023 levels.
• Average trip spending in 2024 was $428 for overnight visitors and $149 for day-trip visitors.

How much did visitors spend in 2023?

• Tourists spent $47.9 billion directly in Pennsylvania in 2023, marking substantial growth in tourism revenue.
• This figure represented continued recovery and growth compared to $45.4 billion spent in 2022.

Visitor Spending Breakdown

• Pennsylvania visitors spent $14.9 billion on Transportation in 2024, accounting for 29.9% of total spending.
• Food and Beverage followed with $11.1 billion, representing 22.2%.
• Recreation and Entertainment totaled $9.7 billion, or 19.4% of the spending.
• Retail and Lodging accounted for $7.5 billion (15%) and $6.6 billion (13.2%), respectively.

How much do visitors spend across different regions of Pennsylvania?

• In 2024, visitor spending was highest in Philadelphia and its countryside at $10.9 billion.
• It was followed by Dutch Country Roads at $10.1 billion and Pittsburgh and its Countryside at $9.4 billion.
• At the lower end, the Great Lakes region recorded $2 billion, while the Susquehanna Valley had the lowest at $0.8 billion.

How much does it cost to visit Pennsylvania?

Travel costs in Pennsylvania vary by region, season, and travel style.

• Budget travelers typically spend $75–125 per day, covering modest lodging and meals
• Mid-range travelers spend around $150–250 per day on standard hotels and dining
• Luxury travelers often spend $300+ per day, choosing upscale accommodations and experiences

Accommodation rates fluctuate, with Philadelphia and Pittsburgh generally more expensive than rural areas.

Pennsylvania offers experiences throughout the year, with different seasons offering distinct advantages.

• High Season (June–August): Warm weather (77°F–81°F) and numerous festivals make summer the busiest time, though it comes with higher prices and larger crowds.
• Shoulder Seasons (May–June and September–October): Ideal for smaller crowds, moderate prices, and milder weather. Fall is especially known for colorful foliage.
• Low Season (December–February): Cold temperatures (20°F–40°F) mean fewer visitors and lower costs. Winter sports are popular in the Pocono and Laurel Highlands, along with holiday events in Philadelphia and Bethlehem.
• Peak daily visitor numbers occur in July and August.

• Independence National Historical Park (Philadelphia): Home to Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell Center, key landmarks of U.S. history.
• Gettysburg National Military Park: Offers battlefield tours and Civil War education.
• Pocono Mountains: A year-round spot for hiking, skiing, and outdoor recreation.
• Hersheypark: Combines a theme park experience with the iconic chocolate brand.
• Laurel Highlands: Known for Fallingwater by Frank Lloyd Wright and Ohiopyle State Park.