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Visit Anaheim, the official destination organization for Anaheim, released new research on the rise of sports tourism and the dedication of fans. The national survey of 2,000 adults found that 45% have left the country to see a game, and that 35% have specifically planned a vacation based on when and where their favorite team is playing.
Whether it be a road trip or a quick flight, results found the average respondent would be willing to travel five hours and 48 minutes for a game. In addition to spending money to get to the game, fans are also willing to splurge on tickets – an average of $762.20, showing fans are willing to make a sizeable investment to attend sports games. It might not be for their favorite team, but 44% already have a trip planned in 2023, to see a specific sporting event, demonstrating tourism around sports is alive and well.
“Whether fans have it on their bucket list to visit every ballpark in the U.S. or they plan an annual trip around seeing their favorite team play, sports venues are not just filled with locals and home team fans anymore,” said Jay Burress, President & CEO, Visit Anaheim.
The survey also found that over half of fans have a favorite team, and of those, 52% said they watch every single one of their team’s games. 42% of those with a favorite team aren’t picky — they’ll watch any sport when any team is playing. On the other hand, 40% will watch any sport, but only when their favorite teams are playing.
“When the Anaheim Ducks play a local team like the LA Kings or the Angels play a drive market team like the San Francisco Giants, Anaheim is seeing out of town fans turn into vacationers as their getaway experience extends beyond the sports venue and into our hotels, restaurants, and attractions,” said Burress.
For a destination like Anaheim, home to several sporting venues, attendees can enjoy an unrivaled sports event experience paired with a world-class vacation. To discover all the hotels, events and conventions the city has to offer, go to visitanaheim.org.
About Visit Anaheim:
Founded in 1961, Visit Anaheim is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit destination marketing organization. Visit Anaheim’s mission is to impact our communities and visitors through the power of travel. To learn more about Visit Anaheim, visit: www.visitanaheim.org and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn.
