Art Enthusiasts Flock to Brooklyn’s Graffiti Scene Amid Tourism Decline
Tourists with a passion for art are increasingly traveling to industrial Brooklyn for unique walking tours highlighting graffiti and street art.
This emerging interest remains robust, even as a significant industry forecast predicts almost a 20% decline in overall international visitors to New York City this year.
Audrey "Byte" Connolly, a guide with Graff Tours, shared the enthusiasm for graffiti culture among French audiences, stating, “Many people in France are very enthusiastic about street art, and it’s been a crucial aspect of our business for years.” Connolly has been conducting tours in Bushwick for nearly a decade, linking the vibrant urban art scenes of New York and Paris.
While guides citywide have reported fewer visitors from places like Canada, Australia, and Germany—probably due to geopolitical tensions and economic concerns—French tourists appear largely unaffected, according to Connolly. “They are captivated by street art; I hope they continue to visit.”
Despite a drop in bookings from Germans, Israelis, and education groups from nations like Canada and China, French interest remains high. Antoine Jacquet, a 23-year-old who traveled from Dijon, noted that immigration challenges have become more pronounced under the current administration. Nevertheless, he successfully made the trip and expressed optimism that foreign tourism would revive, particularly with anticipated new policies from mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani, which he perceives as more aligned with European standards.
Recent figures from New York City Tourism + Conventions indicate that around two million fewer international tourists are expected in 2025, resulting in an estimated loss of $4 billion in tourism revenue.
August, traditionally one of the peak months for tours, has seen a stark contrast this year, with Connolly noting days without any bookings when she would typically have a packed schedule. “The decline in tourism has far-reaching impacts; it affects hotels, small businesses, and the local economy,” stated Gabe Schoenberg, president of Graff Tours.
This downturn has been apparent in the lively Bushwick neighborhood, affecting various businesses from thrift stores to eateries that cater to European families visiting the area.
Although French travel to the United States remains strong, Schoenberg has observed an overall 10% decrease in foreign tourism compared to last year and is actively targeting domestic visitors through social media campaigns. “This year, domestic tourism has performed better than in prior years,” he remarked.
However, Connolly pointed out that many domestic tourists do not regard graffiti as art, indicating pervasive fears about visiting New York. Schoenberg attributed the hesitation among international visitors to the backlash over Trump’s policies and rising costs for transportation and food. “Even New Yorkers are feeling the pinch from soaring prices,” he commented.
He suggested that providing incentives for tourism could offer some relief.
To navigate the challenges, Schoenberg emphasized the importance of diversifying Graff Tours’ offerings. Beyond walking tours, the Bushwick location also provides spray painting workshops and has hosted corporate events for prominent companies like Meta and L’Oréal, as well as influencer events for Samsung.
“The revenue from classes is substantial compared to tour income,” Schoenberg noted. “Surviving on just tour bookings wouldn’t have sustained us.”
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