Visit Orlando, the destination’s official tourism association, has revealed that more than 62 million people visited Orlando last year.

It marks a new all-time record for the US travel industry, solidifying Orlando’s position as the most visited destination in the nation, said a statement.

The visitation grew five per cent from 2013 as visitors from around the world came to experience all that is new across the ever-expanding destination.

George Aguel, Visit Orlando president and chief executive officer, said: “This historic milestone is the latest testament to Orlando’s leadership in tourism. It’s a tribute to the steadfast commitment and continued investment by our tourism community, the special brand of service that greets our visitors and the global marketing and sales efforts of our Visit Orlando team and member companies.”

A record 32 million room nights were sold in Orlando last year, resulting in bed tax collections topping $200 million for the first time in Orange County, Florida, home to the Central Florida tourism district.

Teresa Jacobs, Orange County Mayor, said: “The impact of tourism on our community is remarkable, and in fact, the travel and tourism industry is the largest generator of jobs and economic impact for our region.

“In addition to delighting visitors and families from around the world, our travel and hospitality industry helps to support a great quality of life for Orlando’s residents, including our amazing new performing arts centre and outstanding sports venues.”

To meet the needs of a growing number of visitors, Orange County has made investments in infrastructure, including investing in an important expansion and renovation of the nationally recognised Orange County Convention Center.

Roger Dow, US Travel Association president and CEO, said: ”Passing the 60 million annual visitors mark is a significant achievement for Orlando and the US travel industry that generates $2.1 trillion for the US economy each year.

"Thanks to the close partnership among members of Orlando's tourism community and strong leadership by public officials and Visit Orlando, this popular destination known around the world is well positioned to continue setting records in tourism." - TradeArabia News Service