D.C. Tourism Struggles Deepen After National Guard Deployment
D.C. Tourism Struggles Deepen After National Guard Deployment
Tourism in Washington, D.C., has taken a noticeable hit following the federal deployment of the National Guard and the takeover of local law enforcement ordered by President Donald Trump earlier this year. What officials intended as a crackdown on crime has instead sparked unease among tourists and local businesses, hurting the city’s hospitality sector and complicating its efforts to maintain its reputation as a vibrant and welcoming destination.
A Swift Shift in D.C.’s Tourism Landscape
D.C.’s tourism economy had been slowly recovering from pandemic-era setbacks and was showing signs of growth, with over 27 million visitors recorded in 2024. Visitors spent more than $11 billion that year, fueling jobs and tax revenues. However, the deployment of roughly 2,000 National Guard troops following Trump’s order to restore “law and order” has altered that trajectory.
As the Guard patrolled iconic and tourist-heavy areas such as the National Mall, Union Station, and around Metro stops and Nationals Park, many visitors reported feeling intimidated by the military presence. The unusual sight of troops in combat gear, some armed, and federal law enforcement officers conducting visible patrols has unsettled both domestic and international tourists.
Declining Visitor Numbers and Economic Concerns
Tourism data reflects the growing impact. International visitation numbers are expected to drop about 5.1% in 2025, according to Destination DC, the city’s official marketing agency. While the decline is less severe than the national average, it raises worries given that international tourists traditionally stay longer and spend significantly more than domestic visitors.
Hotel occupancy rates have dipped slightly, hovering around 64%, down two points from 2024 but still in line with national trends. Local businesses, particularly those near popular tourist sites, say they have seen fewer patrons since the federal takeover was announced.
Efforts to Counteract Negative Perceptions
In response to the downturn, Destination DC launched the “We the People DC” campaign, aiming to reshape the capital’s narrative. The campaign features profiles of 20 locals who exemplify the city’s diversity and resilience, seeking to draw visitors by showcasing the city as a thriving, welcoming place.
The group also points to upcoming events in 2026, including America’s 250th anniversary, as major tourism drivers. Renewed interest is expected from the completion of significant projects like the renovation of the National Archives, an immersive museum near the Lincoln Memorial, and new exhibits at the Jefferson Memorial and National Air and Space Museum.
The Military Presence: A Double-Edged Sword
While federal officials argue that the National Guard presence enhances security and protects key assets, many D.C. residents and tourists see it differently. The deployment has mostly concentrated on heavily trafficked and low-crime tourist areas, leaving high-crime neighborhoods without additional support, which some locals say undermines the stated goal of reducing crime.
The Pentagon recently announced National Guard troops would be armed, an escalation that has further heightened tensions between city officials and federal authorities. Mayor Muriel Bowser and other local leaders have voiced concern over the militarization of the capital, warning that armed militia-type forces are inappropriate for a democratic city.
Looking Ahead: Balancing Safety, Image, and Recovery
The ongoing federal presence in Washington, D.C., remains a contentious political issue, with debates centering on public safety, civil liberties, and the city’s economic future. Tourism officials acknowledge the challenges but remain hopeful that the city’s rich history, cultural attractions, and upcoming anniversaries will reignite visitor interest.
As Washington approaches its landmark 250th anniversary, the city faces the delicate task of balancing security needs with efforts to project an open and inviting atmosphere. The outcome will significantly influence the capital’s tourism recovery and shape how the nation’s capital is perceived in the years to come.