Welcome to Explore Lincoln City’s Industry eNewsletter, where we keep you informed on initiatives and resources related to tourism in Lincoln City. Please share this newsletter with your colleagues and business associates to help strengthen our outreach.  


Kim Cooper Findling
Director, Explore Lincoln City

Using anonymized location data from mobile devices, Explore Lincoln City tracks overall visitation patterns to our community - revealing when visitors come, where they’re from, and how long they stay.

During the 2025 summer season, visitors stayed an average of 2.3 days, with July seeing the highest visitation. Saturdays drew the largest crowds, and most visitors were aged 45–64 (32%), followed by 25–44 (29%). Portland led as the top origin market (51.8%), with Seattle-Tacoma and Eugene in second and third place. Top destinations were the Lincoln City Outlets and Chinook Winds Casino Resort. 

Lincoln City’s occupancy rates continue to show strength in 2025. From January through mid-September, average occupancy reached 65%, up from 62% during the same period in 2024. Summer peaks in late July and mid-August climbed as high as 83%, a few points higher than last year, while Fourth of July weekend remained consistent at 73% year over year. 

Lincoln City has had outdoor lighting ordinances in place for many years, even before dark sky certification became a focus. These guidelines help keep neighborhoods peaceful and our night skies clear. According to Municipal Code 17.52.150, all exterior lights must be shielded and aimed downward to minimize glare, reduce light pollution, and prevent light from spilling onto neighboring properties. These regulations reflect Lincoln City’s long-standing commitment to being a good neighbor and preserving the natural beauty of our coastal nights.

The 2025-2026 fiscal year brings a renewed opportunity for local organizations to secure funding for tourism-facing projects that champion the stewardship of our environment, accessibility for all, and celebrations of diversity.

Explore Lincoln City is committed to supporting projects that make a positive impact on our community while also promoting the economic advantages of tourism. Learn more about the application process and see examples of past year's awards here.