Los Angeles last year drew a record 25 million visitors.
The number of visitors rose 2.8% over the former record set in 2004, announced Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa at a news conference.
He attributed the increase to several factors, including new attractions such as the Disney Concert Hall and aggressive lobbying for convention business.
The city broke records for conventions as well with $65 million in future business just in December, according to the mayor.
Tourism is also expected to go up by 2.5% this year.
Report by David Wilkening
