Travelers flocked to Illinois last year, generating over $88 billion in economic impact

Illinois experienced a surge in tourism last year, breaking records and generating over $88 billion in economic impact, according to a statement from Gov. JB Pritzker's office. The increase was driven by approximately 115 million domestic and international visitors, who spent a total of $50.2 billion during their travels in the state, marking a 3.5% rise from the previous year.

This marked the first time Illinois had surpassed the $50 billion threshold for visitor spending. Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton highlighted the state's diverse attractions, ranging from Lake Michigan's beaches to the rolling prairies of Southern Illinois. The spending also generated nearly $5 billion in direct state and local tax revenues, along with $372 million in hotel tax revenue.

The 'Middle of Everything' tourism campaign contributed to an additional 2.8 million trips and $904 million in visitor spending. Illinois' tourism industry received support through over $3.3 million in state grants, which helped fund initiatives such as the Route 66 centennial celebrations and the Illinois America 250 campaign. The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is also expanding its focus on outdoor recreation, with a dedicated unit within its tourism office.

Outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, rock climbing, and ziplining in Shawnee National Forest, as well as wine tasting at vineyards along five wine trails, have been the primary draws for tourists in southern Illinois.