United States Culinary Tourism Market By Activity (Food Festivals, Cooking Classes, Culinary Trails, Restaurants, Others), By Booking Mode (Direct Travel, Tour Operators, Online Travel Agencies), By Tourist Type (Existential, Experimental, Diversionary, Recreational), By Region, Competition Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F
The United States Culinary Tourism Market was valued at USD 2.69 billion in 2024 and is projected t%li%reach USD 7.72 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 19.27% during the forecast period. The increasing demand for authentic and memorable food experiences as a core element of travel is fueling the growth of culinary tourism across the country. Travelers are actively engaging in food-based activities such as cooking classes, food festivals, vineyard visits, and farm-to-table dining t%li%connect with local culture. The U.S. offers a diverse culinary heritage rooted in multicultural influences, making it an attractive destination for food enthusiasts. According t%li%the 2023 Global Travel Trends Report by American Express Travel, 81% of travelers consider food exploration a highlight of their trips, and 37% plan travel specifically around dining experiences. As food becomes central t%li%cultural discovery, culinary tourism is emerging as a major driver in the broader travel and tourism sector.
Key Market Drivers
Rising Interest in Authentic Culinary Experiences
The demand for immersive, culturally rich culinary activities is a major force behind the expansion of culinary tourism in the United States. Travelers are increasingly prioritizing food as a means t%li%explore local traditions and heritage, seeking out regional dishes, traditional cooking methods, and interactions with chefs and producers. Influenced by social media and food-focused digital content, experiences such as wine tastings, market visits, and chef-led cooking classes are gaining popularity. Cities like New Orleans and Napa Valley have become culinary hotspots known for distinctive regional offerings. As destinations continue t%li%highlight their food culture through organized events, culinary trails, and themed tours, the appeal of authentic gastronomic experiences is significantly boosting tourism activity.
Key Market Challenges
Rising Costs and Economic Uncertainty
Economic volatility and rising costs present a substantial challenge for the U.S. culinary tourism market. Increases in food production, labor, and logistics costs have led t%li%higher prices for culinary experiences and travel-related services. As many food tourism offerings—such as gourmet dining, exclusive food events, or customized tours—are positioned as premium experiences, affordability becomes a limiting factor, especially during inflationary periods or economic downturns. Moreover, persistent supply chain disruptions since the pandemic have impacted ingredient availability and pricing. These economic pressures can hinder participation among budget-conscious travelers and may reduce overall market accessibility despite rising interest.
Key Market Trends
Rise of Farm-to-Table and Sustainable Culinary Experiences
An important trend shaping the U.S. culinary tourism market is the growing demand for sustainable and farm-to-table experiences. Travelers are becoming more environmentally conscious and are seeking food journeys that emphasize transparency, ethical sourcing, and connection t%li%nature. Activities such as organic farm visits, seasonal food tours, vineyard tastings, and outdoor farm dinners are increasingly popular among tourists wh%li%value local, minimally processed ingredients and sustainability. Culinary providers are incorporating eco-friendly practices and promoting regional food systems as a core part of the travel experience. This trend aligns with the wellness movement and resonates strongly with Millennial and Gen Z consumers, wh%li%prioritize health, authenticity, and environmental responsibility in their travel choices.
Key Market Players
In this report, the United States Culinary Tourism Market has been segmented int%li%the following categories, in addition t%li%the industry trends which have als%li%been detailed below:
Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the United States Culinary Tourism Market.
Available Customizations
United States Culinary Tourism Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according t%li%a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:
Company Information
Key Market Drivers
Rising Interest in Authentic Culinary Experiences
The demand for immersive, culturally rich culinary activities is a major force behind the expansion of culinary tourism in the United States. Travelers are increasingly prioritizing food as a means t%li%explore local traditions and heritage, seeking out regional dishes, traditional cooking methods, and interactions with chefs and producers. Influenced by social media and food-focused digital content, experiences such as wine tastings, market visits, and chef-led cooking classes are gaining popularity. Cities like New Orleans and Napa Valley have become culinary hotspots known for distinctive regional offerings. As destinations continue t%li%highlight their food culture through organized events, culinary trails, and themed tours, the appeal of authentic gastronomic experiences is significantly boosting tourism activity.
Key Market Challenges
Rising Costs and Economic Uncertainty
Economic volatility and rising costs present a substantial challenge for the U.S. culinary tourism market. Increases in food production, labor, and logistics costs have led t%li%higher prices for culinary experiences and travel-related services. As many food tourism offerings—such as gourmet dining, exclusive food events, or customized tours—are positioned as premium experiences, affordability becomes a limiting factor, especially during inflationary periods or economic downturns. Moreover, persistent supply chain disruptions since the pandemic have impacted ingredient availability and pricing. These economic pressures can hinder participation among budget-conscious travelers and may reduce overall market accessibility despite rising interest.
Key Market Trends
Rise of Farm-to-Table and Sustainable Culinary Experiences
An important trend shaping the U.S. culinary tourism market is the growing demand for sustainable and farm-to-table experiences. Travelers are becoming more environmentally conscious and are seeking food journeys that emphasize transparency, ethical sourcing, and connection t%li%nature. Activities such as organic farm visits, seasonal food tours, vineyard tastings, and outdoor farm dinners are increasingly popular among tourists wh%li%value local, minimally processed ingredients and sustainability. Culinary providers are incorporating eco-friendly practices and promoting regional food systems as a core part of the travel experience. This trend aligns with the wellness movement and resonates strongly with Millennial and Gen Z consumers, wh%li%prioritize health, authenticity, and environmental responsibility in their travel choices.
Key Market Players
- Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC
- Greaves Travel Ltd
- Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours
- Classic Journeys, LLC
- The FTC4Lobe Group
- The Travel Corporation
- Gourmet on Tour
- Culinary Adventures International
- Culinary Tours
- Butterfield & Robinson Inc.
In this report, the United States Culinary Tourism Market has been segmented int%li%the following categories, in addition t%li%the industry trends which have als%li%been detailed below:
- United States Culinary Tourism Market, By Activity:
- Food Festivals
- Cooking Classes
- Culinary Trails
- Restaurants
- Others
- United States Culinary Tourism Market, By Booking Mode:
- Direct Travel
- Tour Operators
- Online Travel Agencies
- United States Culinary Tourism Market, By Tourist Type:
- Existential
- Experimental
- Diversionary
- Recreational
- United States Culinary Tourism Market, By Region:
- South
- West
- Midwest
- Northeast
Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the United States Culinary Tourism Market.
Available Customizations
United States Culinary Tourism Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according t%li%a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:
Company Information
- Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up t%li%five).
1. INTRODUCTION
1.1. Product Overview
1.2. Key Highlights of the Report
1.3. Market Coverage
1.4. Market Segments Covered
1.5. Research Tenure Considered
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
2.1. Methodology Landscape
2.2. Objective of the Study
2.3. Baseline Methodology
2.4. Formulation of the Scope
2.5. Assumptions and Limitations
2.6. Sources of Research
2.7. Approach for the Market Study
2.8. Methodology Followed for Calculation of Market Size & Market Shares
2.9. Forecasting Methodology
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
3.1. Overview of the Market
3.2. Overview of Key Market Segmentations
3.3. Overview of Key Market Players
3.4. Overview of Key Regions
3.5. Overview of Market Drivers, Challenges, and Trends
4. VOICE OF CUSTOMER
4.1. Brand Awareness
4.2. Factor Influencing Availing Decision
5. UNITED STATES CULINARY TOURISM MARKET OUTLOOK
5.1. Market Size & Forecast
5.1.1. By Value
5.2. Market Share & Forecast
5.2.1. By Activity (Food Festivals, Cooking Classes, Culinary Trails, Restaurants, Others),
5.2.2. By Booking Mode (Direct Travel, Tour Operators, Online Travel Agencies)
5.2.3. By Tourist Type (Existential, Experimental, Diversionary, Recreational)
5.2.4. By Region
5.2.5. By Company (2024)
5.3. Market Map
6. SOUTH UNITED STATES CULINARY TOURISM MARKET OUTLOOK
6.1. Market Size & Forecast
6.1.1. By Value
6.2. Market Share & Forecast
6.2.1. By Activity
6.2.2. By Booking Mode
6.2.3. By Tourist Type
7. WEST UNITED STATES CULINARY TOURISM MARKET OUTLOOK
7.1. Market Size & Forecast
7.1.1. By Value
7.2. Market Share & Forecast
7.2.1. By Activity
7.2.2. By Booking Mode
7.2.3. By Tourist Type
8. MIDWEST UNITED STATES CULINARY TOURISM MARKET OUTLOOK
8.1. Market Size & Forecast
8.1.1. By Value
8.2. Market Share & Forecast
8.2.1. By Activity
8.2.2. By Booking Mode
8.2.3. By Tourist Type
9. NORTHEAST UNITED STATES CULINARY TOURISM MARKET OUTLOOK
9.1. Market Size & Forecast
9.1.1. By Value
9.2. Market Share & Forecast
9.2.1. By Activity
9.2.2. By Booking Mode
9.2.3. By Tourist Type
10. MARKET DYNAMICS
10.1. Drivers
10.2. Challenges
11. MARKET TRENDS & DEVELOPMENTS
11.1. Merger & Acquisition (If Any)
11.2. Product Launches (If Any)
11.3. Recent Developments
12. PORTERS FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS
12.1. Competition in the Industry
12.2. Potential of New Entrants
12.3. Power of Suppliers
12.4. Power of Customers
12.5. Threat of Substitute Products
13. UNITED STATES ECONOMIC PROFILE
14. POLICY & REGULATORY LANDSCAPE
15. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
15.1. Company Profiles
15.1.1. Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC
15.1.1.1. Business Overview
15.1.1.2. Company Snapshot
15.1.1.3. Products & Services
15.1.1.4. Financials (As Per Availability)
15.1.1.5. Key Market Focus & Geographical Presence
15.1.1.6. Recent Developments
15.1.1.7. Key Management Personnel
15.1.2. Greaves Travel Ltd
15.1.3. Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours
15.1.4. Classic Journeys, LLC
15.1.5. The FTC4Lobe Group
15.1.6. The Travel Corporation
15.1.7. Gourmet on Tour
15.1.8. Culinary Adventures International
15.1.9. Culinary Tours
15.1.10. Butterfield & Robinson Inc.
16. STRATEGIC RECOMMENDATIONS
17. ABOUT US & DISCLAIMER
1.1. Product Overview
1.2. Key Highlights of the Report
1.3. Market Coverage
1.4. Market Segments Covered
1.5. Research Tenure Considered
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
2.1. Methodology Landscape
2.2. Objective of the Study
2.3. Baseline Methodology
2.4. Formulation of the Scope
2.5. Assumptions and Limitations
2.6. Sources of Research
2.7. Approach for the Market Study
2.8. Methodology Followed for Calculation of Market Size & Market Shares
2.9. Forecasting Methodology
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
3.1. Overview of the Market
3.2. Overview of Key Market Segmentations
3.3. Overview of Key Market Players
3.4. Overview of Key Regions
3.5. Overview of Market Drivers, Challenges, and Trends
4. VOICE OF CUSTOMER
4.1. Brand Awareness
4.2. Factor Influencing Availing Decision
5. UNITED STATES CULINARY TOURISM MARKET OUTLOOK
5.1. Market Size & Forecast
5.1.1. By Value
5.2. Market Share & Forecast
5.2.1. By Activity (Food Festivals, Cooking Classes, Culinary Trails, Restaurants, Others),
5.2.2. By Booking Mode (Direct Travel, Tour Operators, Online Travel Agencies)
5.2.3. By Tourist Type (Existential, Experimental, Diversionary, Recreational)
5.2.4. By Region
5.2.5. By Company (2024)
5.3. Market Map
6. SOUTH UNITED STATES CULINARY TOURISM MARKET OUTLOOK
6.1. Market Size & Forecast
6.1.1. By Value
6.2. Market Share & Forecast
6.2.1. By Activity
6.2.2. By Booking Mode
6.2.3. By Tourist Type
7. WEST UNITED STATES CULINARY TOURISM MARKET OUTLOOK
7.1. Market Size & Forecast
7.1.1. By Value
7.2. Market Share & Forecast
7.2.1. By Activity
7.2.2. By Booking Mode
7.2.3. By Tourist Type
8. MIDWEST UNITED STATES CULINARY TOURISM MARKET OUTLOOK
8.1. Market Size & Forecast
8.1.1. By Value
8.2. Market Share & Forecast
8.2.1. By Activity
8.2.2. By Booking Mode
8.2.3. By Tourist Type
9. NORTHEAST UNITED STATES CULINARY TOURISM MARKET OUTLOOK
9.1. Market Size & Forecast
9.1.1. By Value
9.2. Market Share & Forecast
9.2.1. By Activity
9.2.2. By Booking Mode
9.2.3. By Tourist Type
10. MARKET DYNAMICS
10.1. Drivers
10.2. Challenges
11. MARKET TRENDS & DEVELOPMENTS
11.1. Merger & Acquisition (If Any)
11.2. Product Launches (If Any)
11.3. Recent Developments
12. PORTERS FIVE FORCES ANALYSIS
12.1. Competition in the Industry
12.2. Potential of New Entrants
12.3. Power of Suppliers
12.4. Power of Customers
12.5. Threat of Substitute Products
13. UNITED STATES ECONOMIC PROFILE
14. POLICY & REGULATORY LANDSCAPE
15. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
15.1. Company Profiles
15.1.1. Abercrombie & Kent USA, LLC
15.1.1.1. Business Overview
15.1.1.2. Company Snapshot
15.1.1.3. Products & Services
15.1.1.4. Financials (As Per Availability)
15.1.1.5. Key Market Focus & Geographical Presence
15.1.1.6. Recent Developments
15.1.1.7. Key Management Personnel
15.1.2. Greaves Travel Ltd
15.1.3. Taste Carolina Gourmet Food Tours
15.1.4. Classic Journeys, LLC
15.1.5. The FTC4Lobe Group
15.1.6. The Travel Corporation
15.1.7. Gourmet on Tour
15.1.8. Culinary Adventures International
15.1.9. Culinary Tours
15.1.10. Butterfield & Robinson Inc.
16. STRATEGIC RECOMMENDATIONS
17. ABOUT US & DISCLAIMER
