Tampa Bay Leads as Top Convention Destination in Hotel Occupancy

The Tampa Convention Center has emerged as a crucial driver of tourism, contributing to record hotel revenues in Hillsborough County, which reached $123. 7 million in January 2025. This represents an impressive 18. 9% increase compared to the same month last year and marks the fourth consecutive month of hotel revenues exceeding $100 million. The county's hotel occupancy rate stood at 80.

3%, placing Tampa Bay ahead of major competitors such as Orlando and Nashville. Visit Tampa Bay, the region's destination marketing organization, announced these figures and highlighted the collaborative efforts of local businesses and officials in achieving this success. CEO Santiago C. Corrada noted the importance of momentum in the tourism industry, attributing it to the partnerships among over 900 local stakeholders. Despite previous storm disruptions, the area has shown remarkable resilience, welcoming major conventions shortly after the events.

The tourism industry's economic impact is profound, generating nearly $9 billion for the community. These developments underscore Tampa Bay's position as a premier destination for both leisure and convention travel.