Industry

What is VISIT FLORIDA?

Updated 2026-05-28

VISIT FLORIDA is the official tourism marketing corporation for the State of Florida. Operating as a public-private partnership, its primary mission is to showcase Florida as a premier travel destination to both domestic and international audiences.

The organization works to strengthen the state's economy by attracting visitors, which in turn supports jobs and generates tax revenue.

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How it works

VISIT FLORIDA develops and executes comprehensive marketing strategies across a variety of channels, including digital advertising, social media, public relations, and partnerships with travel trade professionals. It manages the state's official travel planning website, which serves as a key resource for consumers.

The organization collaborates with local DMOs, convention and visitors bureaus (CVBs), and tourism-related businesses, from large attractions to small vacation rentals, to create unified and impactful promotional campaigns. It also conducts extensive market research to identify trends and measure the effectiveness of its aacitivities.

Why it matters

For vacation rental owners and managers in Florida, VISIT FLORIDA's efforts are crucial for driving demand. By broadly marketing the state's attractions and diverse destinations, the organization increases the overall pool of potential guests looking for accommodation.

This statewide promotion can lead to higher occupancy rates, increased booking inquiries, and greater revenue opportunities for properties across all regions, not just the major tourist hubs.

Examples

  • Following a VISIT FLORIDA marketing push targeting Canadian travelers, a condo owner in Pompano Beach notices a significant increase in booking inquiries from Ontario and Quebec.
  • A vacation rental owner in St. Augustine creates a listing on VISIT FLORIDA's website, resulting in direct bookings from travelers interested in historic destinations.
  • A property manager on the Gulf Coast aligns their social media content with VISIT FLORIDA's #LoveFL campaign, increasing their visibility and engagement.
  • A host with a collection of cabins near Ocala National Forest uses data from VISIT FLORIDA's research reports to tailor their marketing to attract adventure tourists.

Frequently asked questions

Is VISIT FLORIDA a government agency?+
No, VISIT FLORIDA is a not-for-profit corporation that operates as a public-private partnership. While it is designated by Florida statute as the state's official tourism marketing entity and receives legislative funding, it is not a government agency.
How can a Florida vacation rental owner work with VISIT FLORIDA?+
Vacation rental owners can partner with VISIT FLORIDA by creating a free marketing listing for their property on its official consumer website. They can also participate in various co-op advertising programs and utilize the organization's free marketing tools and industry research to enhance their own promotional efforts.
Does VISIT FLORIDA only promote major attractions?+
No, while major attractions and well-known destinations are a key part of its marketing, VISIT FLORIDA is committed to promoting the entire state. This includes highlighting lesser-known regions, rural tourism, agritourism, ecotourism, small towns, and diverse experiences to encourage visitors to explore all that Florida has to offer.
Where does VISIT FLORIDA get its funding?+
VISIT FLORIDA is funded through a combination of public and private sources. It receives an appropriation from the Florida Legislature, and these public funds are matched by cash and in-kind contributions from its private-sector industry partners.
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