Illinois tourism generated over $88 billion in economic impact last year, state officials report

The short version

• Illinois attracted approximately 115 million domestic and international visitors last year, generating more than $88 billion in total economic impact.
• Direct visitor spending rose 3.5% from the previous year to $50.2 billion, exceeding the $50 billion mark for the first time.
• The tourism surge yielded nearly $5 billion in state and local tax revenue, alongside $372 million in hotel taxes.
• State tourism officials are expanding their focus on outdoor recreation activities through a newly dedicated unit.

Key facts

• The office of Gov. JB Pritzker announced that travelers generated over $88 billion in total economic impact across Illinois last year.[Associated Press]
• Around 115 million domestic and international tourists visited the state, spending $50.2 billion, a 3.5% increase year over year.[Associated Press]
• Visitor spending generated nearly $5 billion in direct state and local tax revenues, including $372 million in hotel tax revenue.[Associated Press]
• According to the governor's office, the 'Middle of Everything' promotional campaign generated an estimated 2.8 million trips and $904 million in spending.[Associated Press]
• Illinois allocated more than $3.3 million in state grants during fiscal year 2025 to support tourism initiatives, including the Route 66 centennial and Illinois America 250.[Associated Press]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• Travelers flocked to Illinois last year, generating over $88 billion in economic impactAssociated Press