Tourism Sets Record, but Spending Trails 2000

A record number of tourists visited the city last year, but spending by visitors still lagged behind levels seen before the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, tourism officials said.

Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa touted Los Angeles’ tourism gains at a news conference Tuesday in front of Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. About 24.9 million tourists visited the city, up 2.8% over 2004. The $12.7 billion they spent also exceeded 2004’s totals, but was less than the $13.3-billion record set in 2000.

Officials at LA Inc., the convention and visitors bureau, expect record tourist spending this year, bolstered by an anticipated increase in international visitors.