New York Joins Rochester, Saratoga, Buffalo, Santa Rosa, Philadelphia and Other US Cities in Promoting its Tourism Products to IMEX America 2025

New York State has joined forces with cities like Rochester, Saratoga Springs, Buffalo, Santa Rosa, and Philadelphia to promote its tourism products at IMEX America 2025. This collaboration highlights the state’s commitment to boosting its tourism sector, particularly for the U.S. market. Despite a decline in international travel, New York is showcasing its diverse attractions, hoping to attract more business events and leisure tourism. The partnership aims to increase visibility for New York’s regions and boost the local economies. This effort is spearheaded by Empire State Development (ESD), which is pushing the state’s economic growth through international and national partnerships.

IMEX America, one of the world’s leading events for the global meetings, incentive, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) industry, provides a platform for cities to promote their tourism products. This year, New York State is taking a central role at the event, joining forces with other key cities such as Rochester, Saratoga Springs, Buffalo, Santa Rosa, and Philadelphia. The state’s presence at IMEX America is a strategic move to enhance its visibility in the U.S. tourism market. Each participating city is highlighting its unique features, from cultural heritage and health tourism to wine country experiences.

The cities are collaborating under a unified New York State tourism umbrella to attract business events, conferences, and leisure tourism. By doing this, they aim to create a compelling image of New York as a diverse and thriving tourist destination. The collective strength of these cities working together is expected to bring greater attention to the state’s tourism offerings, positioning it as a leading destination for both business and leisure travellers in the U.S.

Empire State Development (ESD) has been instrumental in spearheading this initiative. The ESD’s focus is not just on promoting tourism but also on boosting the economic development of the state. One of the key strategies being employed is the Global NY Export Promotion Tour, which connects New York businesses with international markets. This tour, scheduled for September 3–11, 2025, is another step in the state’s effort to grow its global economic presence. The tour is designed to create stronger international relationships and drive investment into New York, including its tourism sector.

Through the IMEX America 2025 event and other promotional efforts, the ESD is emphasising the importance of tourism as a vital part of the state’s economy. By connecting the state with global markets, the ESD aims to open doors for increased business events and tourism, while fostering economic growth across all New York regions.

The cities of Rochester, Saratoga Springs, and Buffalo are each showcasing their distinctive attributes at IMEX America 2025. Rochester is focusing on its cultural heritage and the innovative sectors that are driving its economy forward. The city is promoting its rich history, museums, and educational institutions, alongside modern developments in technology and industry. This dual focus on heritage and innovation aims to appeal to both cultural tourists and business travellers.

Saratoga Springs, known for its health and wellness tourism, is also playing a key role in New York’s promotional push. The city is positioning itself as a top destination for those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, offering a range of spa treatments, mineral springs, and wellness retreats. The emphasis on wellness tourism is growing, and Saratoga Springs is tapping into this trend by promoting its natural healing resources.

Buffalo, on the other hand, is highlighting its revitalised waterfront and new convention facilities. The city’s transformation over the past decade has made it a more attractive destination for business events and conferences. Buffalo’s thriving cultural scene, coupled with its modern facilities, makes it a promising destination for business travellers seeking both work and leisure opportunities.

While Santa Rosa and Philadelphia may not be part of New York State, their participation at IMEX America 2025 strengthens the regional partnership and showcases the broader Northeastern U.S. tourism corridor. Santa Rosa is promoting its world-renowned wine country experiences, inviting visitors to explore its vineyards and enjoy the scenic beauty of the region. The city’s focus on food and wine tourism is aimed at attracting visitors looking for gourmet experiences in a relaxed, natural setting.

Philadelphia, another key participant, brings a rich history and culture to the table. Known for its role in American history and its thriving arts scene, Philadelphia is promoting its diverse tourism products. The city’s vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and modern conference facilities make it an attractive destination for both leisure tourists and business travellers.

By including cities from across the Northeastern U.S., this collaboration aims to create a comprehensive regional tourism offering. It positions the region as a diverse and accessible destination for those seeking a variety of experiences, from history and culture to wine country and wellness tourism.

In 2024, New York State and its partner cities—Rochester, Saratoga Springs, Buffalo, Santa Rosa, and Philadelphia—saw incredible growth in tourism. With millions of visitors flocking to these destinations, the state’s tourism industry is thriving like never before. From the bustling streets of New York City to the tranquil wineries in Santa Rosa, these regions are drawing in tourists from around the world. The rise in visitors is not just about the numbers; it’s also about the lasting impact on local economies, businesses, and communities. This article explores the record-breaking tourism statistics of New York and its key cities, showcasing how they are becoming major players in the U.S. tourism market.

New York State has seen a massive surge in tourism, reaching new heights in 2024. Over 315 million visitors made their way to the state, an all-time high, and tourism spending reached a record $94 billion. This surge is a testament to the state’s diverse offerings, from the iconic landmarks of New York City to the peaceful landscapes of the Finger Lakes region. Tourism has become an essential part of New York’s economy, supporting millions of jobs in the hospitality, retail, and transportation industries. The state’s tourism sector continues to thrive, despite challenges in the global market, proving the enduring appeal of New York as a top destination.

New York City alone attracted around 64.3 million visitors in 2024, inching closer to the pre-pandemic record of 66.6 million. This surge in visitors brought $51 billion in tourism-related spending, highlighting the city’s role as a key global tourism destination. With its iconic attractions like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and Times Square, New York City continues to be a magnet for international travellers. The city’s tourism industry also generates a significant amount of tax revenue, supporting public services and infrastructure. Despite the challenges posed by international travel declines, New York City’s tourism sector is bouncing back stronger than ever.

Rochester, known for its rich cultural history and innovative spirit, has also seen a rise in tourism. In 2024, the city saw a significant increase in visitor numbers, thanks in part to its diverse cultural offerings. Museums, art galleries, and historical sites continue to attract tourists interested in Rochester’s unique blend of old and new. The city’s tech-driven industries are also drawing business travellers, further boosting the local economy. Rochester’s tourism sector is benefiting from a mix of cultural, educational, and professional attractions that make it a compelling destination for both leisure and business visitors.

Saratoga Springs, famous for its mineral springs and wellness tourism, has experienced a rise in visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. In 2024, the city recorded over 855,000 room nights and $150 million in lodging revenue. Tourists come to Saratoga Springs for its world-renowned spas, tranquil parks, and historic racecourse. The city’s focus on health and wellness has made it a top destination for travellers looking to unwind and recharge. Saratoga Springs’ commitment to providing unique wellness experiences is driving its continued success in attracting visitors seeking both relaxation and cultural enrichment.

Buffalo, once known primarily for its industrial past, is undergoing a transformation that has boosted its tourism industry. The city saw a significant uptick in visitors in 2024, driven by its revitalised waterfront and vibrant cultural scene. The reopening of the Buffalo AKG Art Museum and the expansion of the West Side Bazaar have enhanced Buffalo’s appeal as a cultural hub. The city is also positioning itself as a centre for business events and conferences, with state-of-the-art convention facilities attracting professionals from across the country. Buffalo’s tourism growth is a result of its investment in arts, culture, and infrastructure, making it a rising star in New York’s tourism landscape.

Santa Rosa, located in the heart of California’s wine country, continues to attract visitors looking for a blend of natural beauty and world-class wines. In 2024, Santa Rosa welcomed over 10 million visitors, with a large portion coming for wine tours and tastings. The city’s proximity to Sonoma County’s vineyards and scenic landscapes makes it an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and adventure. Santa Rosa’s tourism sector is booming, with its wine country experiences continuing to draw tourists from around the world. As the demand for unique, immersive travel experiences grows, Santa Rosa is solidifying its place as a top destination in California.

Philadelphia, a city steeped in American history, continues to be a major draw for tourists in 2024. With 26.6 million visitors, Philadelphia experienced significant tourism growth, with international visitors contributing a large portion of the overall numbers. The city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, remain top attractions, while its vibrant arts and food scenes are attracting a younger, more diverse audience. In 2024, tourism spending in Philadelphia reached a record $4.5 billion, supporting local businesses and creating thousands of jobs. Philadelphia’s rich cultural history, coupled with its modern amenities, makes it a must-visit destination for both history buffs and contemporary travellers alike.

The tourism boom in New York and its partner cities is not just about attracting visitors; it’s also about driving economic growth. In 2024, tourism spending supported millions of jobs across various sectors, including hospitality, retail, transportation, and entertainment. Cities like New York, Rochester, Saratoga Springs, Buffalo, Santa Rosa, and Philadelphia are reaping the benefits of this increased tourism activity, with local businesses seeing higher revenues and greater demand for services. The tourism sector plays a critical role in these cities’ economies, providing jobs, stimulating local businesses, and generating tax revenue that helps fund public services and infrastructure.

Looking ahead, the tourism industry in New York and its partner cities is poised for continued growth. As travel patterns shift and new trends emerge, these destinations are adapting to meet the needs of modern travellers. The rise of experiential travel, wellness tourism, and eco-tourism presents new opportunities for cities like Saratoga Springs and Santa Rosa. At the same time, New York City and Buffalo are investing in new infrastructure to attract business events and conferences. The tourism sector is evolving, and New York and its cities are ready to lead the way in creating innovative, sustainable, and memorable experiences for visitors.

In 2024, New York and its partner cities, including Rochester, Saratoga Springs, Buffalo, Santa Rosa, and Philadelphia, experienced record-breaking tourism growth. This surge in visitors has had a significant positive impact on local economies, creating jobs, increasing revenue, and supporting businesses across various sectors. As these cities continue to showcase their unique offerings, from cultural attractions to wellness experiences and wine country tours, they are positioning themselves as top destinations for both leisure and business travellers. The tourism boom in New York and its partner cities is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of these regions, ensuring that they will remain key players in the global tourism market for years to come.

IMEX America 2025 is a crucial event for New York’s tourism promotion efforts. By joining forces with cities like Rochester, Saratoga Springs, Buffalo, Santa Rosa, and Philadelphia, the state is positioning itself as a major player in the U.S. tourism market. The event is an opportunity for New York to showcase its unique tourism products and attract more business events and conferences. As global interest in the U.S. tourism market grows, New York’s participation in IMEX America ensures that the state stays competitive and visible on the international stage.

This collaboration also highlights the growing importance of business events and meetings tourism. As the global MICE industry continues to recover from the pandemic, the need for destinations to provide attractive venues and unique experiences is more critical than ever. New York’s cities are responding to this demand by offering a mix of traditional attractions and modern business facilities, making them ideal destinations for both business and leisure travellers.

Looking ahead, the collaboration between New York State and its cities is poised to continue driving growth in the tourism sector. By focusing on both business events and leisure tourism, the state is positioning itself as a top destination for all types of travellers. The partnership with cities like Rochester, Saratoga Springs, Buffalo, Santa Rosa, and Philadelphia provides a model for regional cooperation that can amplify each city’s strengths and attract a diverse range of visitors.

With the backing of Empire State Development’s Global NY Export Promotion Tour and the visibility provided by events like IMEX America, New York’s tourism sector is on track to see continued growth in the coming years. By tapping into the global market and showcasing the diverse offerings of its cities, New York is ensuring its place as one of the leading tourism destinations in the U.S.

New York’s participation in IMEX America 2025, alongside cities like Rochester, Saratoga Springs, Buffalo, Santa Rosa, and Philadelphia, marks an exciting chapter in the state’s tourism growth. The collaboration reflects the state’s commitment to revitalising its tourism sector and attracting new business events and leisure travellers. By promoting its unique attractions and partnering with key cities across the region, New York is ensuring that it remains a competitive force in the global tourism market. The future of New York’s tourism looks bright, with ongoing efforts to connect with international markets, attract visitors, and drive economic growth.

Image: IMEX