Nearly 114 million people traveled to our state last year to “Enjoy Illinois” and give a $1.1 billion boost to the state’s economy.

Last year’s visitor totals were 1.4% higher than 2016, which also was a record year. Travelers came from all over the world for business (17%) and pleasure (83%). In the past 10 years, travelers visiting Illinois increased by more than 22 million, and tourism has become one of the state’s most important industries. The Illinois tourism industry supported 335,500 jobs in 2017, an increase of 18,600 jobs since 2015.

According to the U.S. Travel Association:

Visitors spent a whopping $39.5 billion in Illinois in 2017, an increase of $1.1 billion or 3 percent from 2016. Visitor outlays for goods and services generated $2.95 billion in state and local tax revenue, up $75 million from 2016. Tourist spending saves the average Illinois household over $1,300 in taxes each year.

Governor Bruce Rauner added:

“Tourism is a critical part of our economy. There is so much to see and do in our state. It is gratifying to know that so many people come here each year to experience what we have to offer. My hat is off to DCEO and the Department of Tourism for getting the word out with the “Up for Amazing” campaign. It is paying off smartly for our businesses and our tax rolls.”

Also, a big thanks and thumbs-up to the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (RACVB) for all they do to bring those visitors to Rockford and the surrounding areas.

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