Page last updated: 4 November 2024
Washington, D.C., is the capital of the United States, known for its iconic monuments, diverse neighbourhoods, and historical and political significance.
How many people visit Washington each year?
In 2023, over 25.95 million international and domestic tourists visited Washington.1
- Washington attracted 2 million international visitors in 2019. However, when the pandemic hit in 2020, this number dropped by 85% to 300,000.
- International tourist numbers rose in 2022 with 1.4 million visitors, and in 2023, the figure climbed to 1.95 million, though this was still 2% lower than in 2019 (pre-pandemic).
How many people visited Washington in 2023?
- In 2023, Washington welcomed 25.95 million visitors, with 1.95 million being international tourists and 24 million domestic travellers.
How much do tourists spend in Washington every year?
International and domestic tourists spent over $10.2 billion during their trips to Washington in 2023.
- In 2019, tourists in Washington generated $8.15 billion in expenditure. However, it decreased to $3.70 billion in 2020 due to the pandemic.
- International and domestic tourist spending recovered in 2021 with $5.36 billion spent.
- In 2022 and 2023, visitors spent $8.09 billion and $10.20 billion, respectively.
How much do tourists spend in Washington?
- Tourists spent almost $10.2 billion while exploring Washington in 2023.
Which countries visit Washington the most?
In 2023, the top sources of foreign tourists to Washington were Canada, followed by the United Kingdom, India, Germany, and France.
Note: The number of visits per country hasn’t been released; the official page only provided the ranking order.
| International Tourism Market of Washington in 2023 | |
| No. | International Market |
| 1 | Canada |
| 2 | United Kingdom |
| 3 | India |
| 4 | Germany |
| 5 | France |
| 6 | South Korea |
| 7 | Mexico |
| 8 | Italy |
| 9 | Spain |
| 10 | China |
How long do visitors stay in Washington?
- Domestic tourists spent an average of 2.6 nights while international tourists spent 4.7 nights visiting and exploring the wonders of Washington in 2022.
Economic Impact – Washington Tourism Statistics 2023
- Tax Impact Without Tourism (2022): DC would need $2,732 in local taxes from each of 325,804 households to maintain current tax revenue levels.
- Employment Support: Travel and tourism spending supported 84,111 jobs.
- Wages: Tourism-related jobs contributed $4.5 billion in wages.
Washington Travel Resources
Washington Travel Statistics – International & Domestic Tourism
In 2023, domestic travellers accounted for 24 million tourists, making up 92% of the total visitors while international tourism amounted to 1.95 million.
- In 2019, Washington welcomed a combined total of 24.8 million international and domestic tourists.
- However, when the pandemic struck in 2020, visitor numbers dropped significantly to 13.4 million.
- In 2021, Washington received a total of 19.1 million tourists, despite the emergence of a new COVID variant. Domestic tourism rebounded with 18.8 million visitors, while international tourism remained low, with only 300,000 tourists.
- In 2022 and 2023, both domestic and international tourism totalled 22.1 million and 25.95 million, respectively.
How popular is Washington as a tourist destination?
- The city boasts over 70 museums, many of which are part of the Smithsonian Institution and offer free admission.
- The city ranks as the 12th most-visited city in the United States, with approximately 24 million visitors in 2019.
Top Attractions in Washington
- National Mall & Smithsonian Museums: Iconic landmarks, memorials, and free museums like Natural History and Air and Space.
- Cultural Sites: Highlights include the White House, Library of Congress, and Arlington National Cemetery.
- Historic Neighbourhoods: Georgetown and The Wharf offer shopping, dining, and scenic views.
- Seasonal & Outdoor Activities: Cherry Blossom Festival, Tidal Basin, and National Zoo (free entry).
- Visitor Tips: Plan a few days, use public transport, and check events ahead for a full D.C. experience.
Washington Travel Statistics Resources
USA Travel Statistics Resources
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