10/17/2025
Updates 10/17/2025: Ohio's Travel Industry and Current Travel Research
THOUGH INBOUND TOURISM IS SHOWING A DECLINE IN 2025, DOMESTIC LEISURE TRAVEL SHOWCASES CONTINUED STRENGTH. MEGA-EVENTS, LIKE AMERICA 250, PROJECT INBOUND GROWTH FOR THE COMING YEAR.
Key findings from U.S. Travel Association, published Oct. 1:
- Domestic leisure travel is forecasted to grow 1.9% to $895B in 2025, showcasing continued strength of American consumers.
- As for international leisure travel, inbound spending is expected to fall 3.2% to $173B for the year. The drive for this decrease is the significant decline from countries other than Canada.
- Upcoming Mega-Events like FIFA, America 250, 2028 Olympics in LA, and other big events, are projected to resume inbound growth in 2025 with 70.4 million visits.
- Though there is a decrease in 2025 for international inbound travel, U.S. Travel forecast predicts a 3.7% growth in 2026.
- Domestic business travel spending is predicted to grow 1.4% this year.
AMERICANS HIGHLIGHT THEIR FEELINGS TOWARD TRAVEL AND HOW THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC CHANGED THEIR FEELINGS TOWARD TRAVELING
Key findings from Longwoods International, fielded Sept. 10:
- 32% of travelers reported the COVID-19 pandemic changed how they travel. Among those respondents:
- 62% now increase their caution and hygiene when traveling
- 58% either agree or strongly agree that they appreciate travel more now after experiencing a pandemic
- 58% of travelers plan to travel about the same as last year. However, 23% plan to travel less.
- When it comes to high value items vs. importance of travel:
- 78% agree or strongly agree that traveling with friends and family makes them closer
- 75% agree or strongly agree that vacation is one of the things they look forward to mostly
- 72% agree or strongly agree making valued experiences over acquiring more material belongings
Financial constraints remain the top reason for discouraging travel over the next 12 months, with 78% of respondents feeling this factor may limit them.