Illinois Just Broke an All-Time Record, Up $1.3 Billion from Last Year

The Land of Lincoln reached new heights in tourism last year (2024), shattering records and creating jobs.

Record-Breaking Year for Illinois Tourism

According to a press release from Governor Pritzker's office, there were a million more visitors from the previous year, with $1.3 billion more spent than in 2023.

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Data from Tourism Economics showed that 113 million Illinois visitors in 2024 spent $48.5 billion, which boosted hotel tax revenue to an all-time high of $367 million in FY25, a 14 percent increase from the prior year.

Chicago saw a 7.7 percent increase in overnight stays, which highlighted the city's continued draw as a national and global tourism hub.

Economic Impact Across the State

Data showed that visitor spending in 2024 directly generated $4.7 billion in state and local tax revenue, while also supporting over 282,000 jobs in the Illinois tourism and hospitality industries.

With something for every type of visitor, tourism represents an important part of Illinois’ economy and I’ve made investing in the industry a key priority. From Chicago to our beautiful state parks, unique towns, historic landmarks, and outdoor adventures, Illinois is proud to welcome visitors from across the globe. -Illinois Governor JB Pritzker

Investments in tourism are continuing to pay off, with $7.3 million in grants being awarded to support Route 66 projects, attractions, and events.

Rockford Benefits from Tourism Incentive Program

Illinois has already launched a $15 million tourism incentive program, which has shown dividends in the Rockford region by attracting major events like the IRONMAN 70.3 triathlon and the 2026 AHL All-Star Classic that will be held in downtown Rockford.

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A significant factor in Illinois' tourism success is the award-winning "Middle of Everything" campaign.

This effort has helped to generate an additional 2 million trips and $675 million in spending last year, according to the press release. Every $1 invested in the campaign translated into $74 in visitor spending and $7 in tax revenue.