Waymo has published research highlighting how the expansion of autonomous transport services is influencing the tourism industry.
Companies like Waymo are providing new mobility options for visitors, operating fully autonomous ride-hailing services in cities such as Phoenix, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Austin.
Since its commercial launch in San Francisco in August 2023, Waymo has been integrated into visitor experiences, providing a transport option that aligns with the city’s reputation for innovation.
A survey of Waymo One users in San Francisco suggests that the availability of autonomous ride-hailing has now influenced the way visitors navigate the city.
Key tourist destinations such as the Ferry Building, Union Square, and the Presidio have been identified as popular destinations for Waymo passengers. Hotels, including the Hyatt Regency Downtown Soma and the Fairmont San Francisco, have also partnered with Waymo, contributing to the service’s adoption among tourists.
Waymo One’s presence in San Francisco has been associated with an increase in visitor spending, with reports estimating that trips taken by tourists contributed nearly 40 million USD in additional economic activity to the region. This figure includes spending on transportation, as well as indirect contributions to businesses that benefit from increased visitor mobility.
Autonomous ride-hailing has also played a role in major events such as Bay to Breakers and the Oracle San Francisco Sail Grand Prix, providing transport solutions for attendees and contributing to the wider event economy.
What’s more, data from December 2024 indicates that there were approximately 13,000 searches for San Francisco International Airport (SFO) within the Waymo One app, suggesting a growing interest in autonomous transport for airport transfers. This trend highlights potential opportunities for expansion and further integration with travel infrastructure.
To leverage this potential, Waymo has recently received approval to conduct mapping operations under a temporary access agreement at SFO.
Waymo’s 2025 Tourism Impact Report can be read here.
