Monthly visitation numbers for Flagstaff's tourism scene are showing promising signs, with a notable 1.8% increase compared to 2024, marking the first month this year in the green. This positive trend excludes the Grand Canyon National Park, which has faced a decline in visitor numbers.

During the recent Flagstaff Tourism Commission meeting, officials discussed the latest visitation statistics, highlighting a significant drop in August numbers for the Grand Canyon. The report now includes a breakdown of data specifically from the South Rim, which is crucial for understanding local tourism impacts. While overall Grand Canyon visitation saw a 19% decrease, focusing on the South Rim alone reveals a less severe 11% drop.

Commission members expressed interest in refining the data presentation, particularly favoring insights from the South Rim, as it plays a vital role in Flagstaff's tourism economy. The discussion emphasized the importance of accurate and targeted data to better inform strategies for boosting local tourism.

As the commission continues to analyze these trends, the focus remains on enhancing visitor experiences and addressing the challenges posed by fluctuating numbers at key attractions. The next steps will involve gathering feedback on data preferences and exploring ways to leverage the positive uptick in visitation for the benefit of the community.