(Springfield)–Gov. J.B. Pritzker said Tuesday, more than 117 million visitors traveled to our state in 2018, setting a new record.
According to the U.S. Travel Association, visitors spent $41.7 billion, boosting Illinois’ economy by $2 billion over 2017.
State and local tax revenue generated from visitor spending jumped 7.1-percent to $3.3 billion, creating an additional $220.8 million according to Enjoy Illinois.
“From the limestone caves at Mississippi Palisades State Park to summer music festivals in Chicago, Illinois is full of vibrant cities and towns with endless attractions that receive millions of visitors each year,” Pritzker said. “Travel and tourism in Illinois is a $40 billion industry and an integral part of our state’s economy. I’m proud to be governor of the state where visitors can explore ‘amazing.”
Illinois’ travel and tourism industry supported 342,300 jobs in 2018, an increase of 5,200 jobs from the previous year.
“Tourism is a critical part of our economy, helping to create jobs and lower taxes,” said Erin Guthrie, Acting Director of the Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity said.
