What's Happening?
Anaheim, California, has experienced a significant increase in international visitation, particularly from Australian tourists. In 2024, the number of Australians visiting Anaheim rose dramatically, with 91.3% choosing to stay overnight, extending their average stay from 4.5 nights to six nights. This surge contributed to a record-breaking 26 million visitors to the city, generating US$6.6 billion in spending. Visit Anaheim has actively promoted the city in Australia through trade and media events, including a delegation led by Tourism Director Michael Young. The delegation's activities were tied to Disneyland Resort's 70th Celebration and included meetings with key retail and media partners. With the FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympics on the horizon, Anaheim anticipates further growth, supported by planned enhancements to the Honda Center arena and new tourism infrastructure projects.
Why It's Important?
The increase in Australian visitors to Anaheim highlights the city's growing appeal as a major tourist destination. This trend is significant for the local economy, as tourism spending contributes substantially to economic growth. The upcoming FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympics present further opportunities for Anaheim to capitalize on international attention, potentially boosting local businesses and creating jobs. The planned infrastructure projects, including nearly 1000 new guest rooms and initiatives like OCVIBE and Disneyland Forward, are poised to enhance Anaheim's capacity to host large-scale events and accommodate more visitors, reinforcing its status as a key player in the tourism industry.
What's Next?
Anaheim is preparing for continued growth in tourism, with several projects underway to enhance its infrastructure. By 2030, the city plans to add nearly 1000 guest rooms across five new hotels and host the US Travel Association's flagship IPW event. These developments aim to attract pre-Games visitors and ensure Anaheim is well-equipped to handle the influx of tourists expected during the FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympics. The city's strategic focus on expanding its tourism offerings and improving facilities will likely draw more international visitors, further boosting its economic prospects.
