The county’s success is further evidenced by the impressive hotel occupancy rate of 81.5% in March, demonstrating the continued allure of Hillsborough County as a travel destination. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) stood at $193.96, with Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) at $158.12. These strong figures reinforce the significant economic impact of the hospitality sector in Hillsborough County, as noted by Santiago C. Corrada, President and CEO of Visit Tampa Bay.
Corrada highlights the recognition of Tampa Bay’s remarkable restaurants by the prestigious MICHELIN Guide, including The Tampa EDITION and Palihouse Hyde Park Village, which received an inaugural MICHELIN Key recognition. This recognition further solidifies Tampa Bay’s status as a world-class destination, attracting discerning travelers seeking exceptional culinary experiences.
Tampa Bay’s strong performance is evident in its ranking as the second highest in hotel occupancy among both convention and leisure markets. The county also maintains top-three positions in ADR and RevPAR against competitors in meeting destinations. The leading flight origins for Tampa Bay visitors include Detroit, New York, Boston, and Chicago, while Atlanta and Orlando dominate the drive markets.
The Hotel Taxable Revenue for February, reported in March, reached $121,501,863, marking a 7.2% increase from the previous record in February of FY2023 and a substantial 21.1% rise over the same period in fiscal year 2022. This consistent growth trend underscores the resilience and vitality of the hospitality industry in Hillsborough County.
As Visit Tampa Bay prepares to celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week, the county continues to attract visitors and host successful events, solidifying its reputation as a premier tourism and hospitality hub. The industry’s thriving presence not only enhances the county’s cultural landscape but also drives economic growth and prosperity for the entire community.
