The UK remained New York’s largest international market in 2023, despite falling just short of mid-year predictions of a return to more than a million annual visitors.
Final forecasts from destination marketing organisation New York City Tourism + Conventions show the UK will have accounted for 974,000 visitors by the end of the year, ahead of Canada’s 864,000 and 728,000 from France.
Tourism chiefs had earlier forecast 1.07 million UK travellers would visit in 2023, marking the first million-plus year for the market since 2019 when the city welcomed 1.27 million UK arrivals.
Overall, the city attracted 61.8 million travellers in 2023, a recovery to 93% of its record 2019 visitation levels. It is projecting that number will increase to 64.5 million in 2024.
New York City Tourism + Conventions chief executive Fred Dixon said: “Throughout 2023, New York City saw a continued return to pre-pandemic travel patterns, reaffirming the industry’s place as a driver for the city’s economy with $74 billion in economic impact.
“Our city is as vibrant as ever. New attractions, cultural offerings, restaurants, a welcoming arrivals experience and more have helped NYC remain a top destination for domestic and international travellers.”
Forward promotions will focus on events including the 250th anniversary of the founding of the US and the football World Cup, both of which will take place in 2026.
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