Small business owners in US tourist destinations are seeing an increase in domestic tourism as Americans opt for local travel over international trips. The trend is attributed to higher airfares and gasoline prices, making vacations more expensive.

Local Travel on the Rise

American tourists are choosing to stay closer to home, opting for road trips and daylong sojourns over extended beach stays. According to the motor club federation AAA, 72.2 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home between June 27 and July 7, a 0.5% increase from last year.

Businesses in areas like Lake Tahoe, which straddles California and Nevada, are reporting an increase in visitors driving in from nearby cities. Ron Williams, owner of Tahoe Sports, said he was pleasantly surprised with how well his business is doing, with future bookings 10% higher than the same time last year.

Supporting Local Economies

The trend is expected to have a positive impact on local economies, with more money being spent on regional restaurants, local attractions, and roadside businesses. Tarik Dogru, an associate professor at Florida State University’s Dedman College of Hospitality, said that the current economic and tourism dynamics are likely to redirect spending toward small businesses.

In Asheville, North Carolina, small business owners are seeing an increase in tourism after Hurricane Helene caused widespread destruction in 2024. Aubrey Anderson, owner of a river tubing outfitter, said she has seen a lot of new people coming into town, including day-trippers driving in from nearby states.

The World Cup has also given some US cities a boost, with soccer enthusiasts pouring in to watch matches. In Kansas City, Missouri, businesses like Made in KC and McLain’s Bakery are seeing an increase in traffic and sales.

Original reporting: KTSA News/Talk (San Antonio) — read the source article.