Phoenix tourism sees 5.84% visitor growth as Dallas hits 12% increase

The Flagstaff Tourism Commission convened on May 22, 2025, to discuss the latest trends in tourism and visitor spending, revealing both promising growth and areas of concern for the local economy. The meeting highlighted significant increases in visitor numbers from key markets, with cities like Dallas showing a remarkable 12% rise in visitors, while other major destinations such as Los Angeles and Albuquerque also reported notable increases.

The data presented indicated that Flagstaff's visitor days totaled just under a quarter of a million, with a 5.84% increase in visitors compared to previous years. This upward trend aligns with broader regional growth, as cities like Denver and Salt Lake City also experienced increases in tourism. However, the spending patterns revealed a more complex picture, with many visitors opting to stay with friends and family, leading to minimal increases in spending across several markets.

A key development discussed was the introduction of a new flight booking widget at the local airport, which aims to enhance data tracking on visitor origins and travel patterns. This tool is expected to provide valuable insights for the tourism sector, allowing for more targeted marketing strategies and improved visitor experiences. Additionally, the airport reported a 12% increase in employment, signaling positive economic growth in the area.

The commission also reviewed media engagement efforts, noting a significant rise in media coverage. In April alone, the commission facilitated 15 media assists and hosted five journalists, which contributed to a total of 35 articles published about Flagstaff, up from 24 the previous year. This increase in media presence is attributed to various events and initiatives, including the expansion of local tours and cultural experiences.

In conclusion, the discussions at the Flagstaff Tourism Commission meeting underscored the importance of adapting to changing visitor behaviors and leveraging new tools for data collection. As the tourism landscape continues to evolve, the commission's efforts to enhance media relations and track visitor trends will be crucial in sustaining growth and promoting Flagstaff as a premier destination. The next steps will involve further analysis of spending patterns and the effectiveness of new marketing strategies to ensure continued success in attracting visitors.