Travelers flocked to Illinois last year, generating over $88 billion in economic impact
Summary
Illinois set new records in tourism last year, with visitors spending over $50 billion, leading to more than $88 billion in total economic impact. The tourism boost also generated nearly $5 billion in state and local taxes and supported various state projects and outdoor recreation.Key Facts
- About 115 million tourists visited Illinois last year, both from inside and outside the U.S.
- Visitors spent $50.2 billion in Illinois, a 3.5% increase from the previous year.
- Total economic impact from tourism was over $88 billion.
- Tourism generated nearly $5 billion in direct state and local tax revenue.
- Illinois collected $372 million in hotel taxes from visitors.
- The state’s tourism campaign led to 2.8 million more trips and $904 million additional spending.
- The state gave $3.3 million in grants to support tourism projects like the Route 66 centennial and Illinois America 250 campaign.
- Outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and wine tasting attract visitors, especially in southern Illinois.
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