The tourism sector in Washington state is undergoing a remarkable transformation, positioning itself for one of its strongest periods in years. Cities like Seattle, Spokane, Bellevue, Tacoma, and Vancouver are at the forefront of this resurgence, indicating significant improvement in visitor numbers and economic impact. By mid-2025, the numbers suggest that visitor spending is surpassing pre-pandemic levels in nominal terms, and experts predict continued growth throughout the year.
In 2024, tourism-related spending exceeded $25 billion statewide, marking an increase of 5.3 percent from the previous year. This upward trend has been sustained into 2025, fueled by robust air arrivals, a successful cruise season, and an influx of visitors from Canada and other international markets. With tourism recognized once again as one of Washington’s key economic drivers, a closer examination of the cities leading this recovery reveals exciting developments.
Seattle stands as the cornerstone of Washington’s tourism success. The city, along with King County, attracted over 40 million visitors in 2024, contributing $8.8 billion to the local economy and supporting more than 68,000 tourism-related jobs. As 2025 unfolds, early indicators show that this momentum is not only steady but also elevating.
Record revenue per available room (RevPAR) in Seattle’s hotels is anticipated to reach $132, with occupancy rates on a solid upward trajectory. The return of corporate travel and conventions is filling hotel rooms, especially in the downtown area, which had struggled during the pandemic. Weekend occupancy rates have shot up to over 70%.
The Canadian market remains a crucial demographic for Seattle’s tourism, with 1.7 million Canadians having visited the city in 2024 and spending approximately $584 million. This segment continues to expand thanks to an increase in flights and border crossings that facilitate easy access to Seattle. The combination of business travelers, cruise passengers, and leisure tourists has created a robust demand base for Seattle.
Just across Lake Washington, Bellevue is emerging as a significant tourism destination in its own right. The city recorded 2.2 million overnight visitors in 2024, contributing nearly $2 billion to its local economy. Bellevue’s appeal stems from its high-end hotels, premier retail options, and a bustling convention scene. Its proximity to major technology hubs further enhances corporate demand, making it a preferred locale for business travelers who tend to spend more per night than visitors in other cities.
The Meydenbauer Center in Bellevue is attracting an increasing number of conferences and exhibitions, boosting its profile as a meetings and events destination. The city’s serene environment offers a refreshing alternative to the bustling metropolis of Seattle, making it an attractive option for visitors seeking an upscale experience.
Spokane, the largest city east of the Cascade Mountains, is celebrating its most successful tourism year yet. In 2024, Spokane County welcomed over 10 million visitors who collectively spent $1.53 billion, thereby breaking previous records. Visitors reported an average spend of $152 per trip.
Spokane’s growth is largely driven by sports tourism, featuring events like youth tournaments, college sports competitions, and larger regional happenings. Destination conventions and concerts play a major role in attracting visitors as well. The city’s strategic geographic placement facilitates access for tourists from eastern Washington, northern Idaho, and southern British Columbia.
Significant investments in Spokane’s downtown and riverfront areas enhance the overall visitor experience, encouraging longer stays. With steady increases reported in both hotel occupancy and average daily rates, Spokane is expected to leverage these gains further in 2025 through more events and improvements in infrastructure.
Tacoma and Pierce County are also riding the wave of tourism momentum, reporting $1.7 billion in direct visitor spending and an overall tourism impact of $5.3 billion in 2024. This sector supports over 28,000 jobs in the area. The city’s museum district, which includes attractions like the Museum of Glass and the Washington State History Museum, continues to draw an increasing number of visitors.
The ongoing waterfront expansion and a growing number of sports events and conventions are further enhancing Tacoma’s appeal. In response to escalating demand, hotels in Pierce County are increasing capacity through new builds and renovations. Tacoma offers a unique mix of culture, outdoor attractions such as Mount Rainier, and convenient access to Seattle, solidifying its position as a hub in Washington’s tourism growth.
Vancouver, located near the Oregon border, has quietly established itself as one of Washington’s strongest hotel markets. The city achieved a remarkable occupancy rate of 70.9% in 2024, with an average daily rate of $184.80 and more than 8 million visitors. Situated just a short distance from Portland International Airport, Vancouver attracts guests who wish to take advantage of Washington’s tax benefits while exploring urban Portland.
Vancouver’s waterfront development has also spawned new restaurants, hotels, and entertainment options that enhance the visitor experience. As 2025 progresses, strong occupancy rates are anticipated to continue in Vancouver, catering to both leisure and business travelers.
Meanwhile, Yakima Valley has become a popular destination for wine tourism and outdoor recreation. In 2024, the region welcomed 2.5 million visitors who collectively generated around $397 million in spending, aided by 500,000 room nights. Visitors are enticed by Yakima’s vineyards, breweries, and local culinary offerings, along with sports tourism from youth tournaments attracting families to the area.
As Washington’s tourism sector looks to 2025, Yakima Valley Tourism is committed to promoting agritourism and outdoor experiences while investing in events to encourage longer overnight stays.
The Tri-Cities—comprised of Kennewick, Pasco, and Richland—hosted around 4.1 million visitors in 2024, contributing $555 million in direct spending. The area is well-regarded for outdoor activities along the Columbia River, as well as for its wine tourism initiatives. As events like youth sports tournaments and conventions continue to grow, the demand for venues is also on the rise, supported by the region’s established scientific research and energy sectors.
Hotels in the Tri-Cities are experiencing steady demand during weekends, combined with competitive rates compared to larger urban centers in Washington. As 2025 unfolds, the Tri-Cities are poised for further growth, particularly with the addition of new facilities and expanded event spaces.
Bellingham, situated near the Canadian border, has also seen notable gains from cross-border travel. With over 1.7 million Canadians entering Seattle-King County in 2024, many are drawn to Whatcom County as well. Bellingham’s attractions include Western Washington University, beautiful drives, and access to the scenic San Juan Islands.
Hotels in Bellingham have consistently reported increased occupancy and rates heading into 2025, demonstrating the area’s appeal to Canadians seeking shopping, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences.
In Seattle, the cruise tourism sector has also experienced unprecedented growth. The 2025 season is projected to include 298 sailings accounting for nearly 1.9 million passengers. This influx is generating close to $900 million in economic impact, supporting around 5,500 jobs in the process. Pre- and post-cruise travel also drives hotel occupancy and revenue in Seattle, further reflecting the city’s status as a key gateway to Alaska and the Pacific.
Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) broke records in 2024, when it facilitated 198,000 passengers in a single day, with over 75,000 people clearing security checkpoints. This success positions the airport for even greater capacity in 2025, as it continues to expand its international flight connections, linking Washington directly to markets in Asia, Europe, and beyond.
The airport’s growth is vital for the retrieval of international tourists, reinforcing its status as a critical entry point for visitors to Washington’s cities. The increase in flight options enables more international tourists to arrive and spend money in Washington’s increasingly attractive tourism sector.
Tourism is undeniably a cornerstone of Washington’s economy. In 2024, it supported over 68,000 jobs in Seattle alone, with the statewide scope extending to tens of thousands more. The influx of visitors translates to much-needed tax revenue for localities, along with support for businesses and the opportunity to showcase all that Washington has to offer to the world.
As we look toward 2026, the outlook for tourism in Washington continues to brighten. Fueled by new hotel developments, additional international flight routes, and record-breaking cruise seasons, the state seems well poised for further expansion. Challenges such as inflation, labor shortages, and sustainability must be navigated, but the foundation for success appears resilient.
With a diverse range of reasons prompting visitors—from business to leisure, sports to culture, and cruises—each of Washington’s cities is carving out its strategy to attract and retain these tourists. By late 2025, Washington has successfully reestablished itself as a premier destination in the Pacific Northwest as well as across the United States.
The narrative of Washington’s tourism in 2025 reflects a rich tapestry of recovery, growth, and resilience. From the iconic skyline of Seattle to Spokane’s bustling sports venues, Bellevue’s luxury accommodations to Yakima’s wine country, the state presents a unique blend of experiences that cater to diverse interests. International travelers have returned, domestic markets remain strong, and local hotels are flourishing.
Ultimately, tourism transcends mere statistics; it is about meaningful experiences. It encompasses the family in Spokane relishing a sports getaway, the couple in Yakima savoring wine, and the Canadians experiencing Bellingham. The cruise travelers in Seattle further enrich this narrative.
These shared experiences collectively form a powerful message about Washington: when cities collaborate effectively, the entire state reaps the rewards. Through its varied offerings, Washington promises unforgettable moments for travelers in every corner of the state.
image source from：travelandtourworld
