Winnebago Sets Visitor Spending Record In 2015

Rockford and Winnebago County continued to see an increase in tourism spending last year increasing 3 percent from the previous record 2014 to 350 million dollars. 

Locally, tax revenue from tourism reached 5.9 million dollars, a 6 percent increase over 2014. In addition, the local tourism and hospitality industry saw a 4 percent increase in employment.

We are delighted to see such strong results again this year for the tourism economy in Winnebago County. Sustained economic growth is crucial as we transform our region. The Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau knows that the more we invest in our community to make it a dynamic destination, and the more we work to promote and market our destination, the greater our returns will be.

- RACVB Chair, Roberta Holzwarth

2016 looks like it will only be better. With the opening of the UW Sports Factory, the new Mercy Sportscore 2, and record numbers for the City Market you will surely be seeing some more out of towners around. Please remember that you are Rockford's best ambassador make sure everyone is having a good time and wants to come back.

My advice. Tell them to get a burger at 15th and Chris. They'll be hooked.