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The growth was driven by around 115 million domestic and
international tourists, who spent $50.2 billion while traveling
in Illinois — an increase of 3.5% from the year before, and
marking the first time the state has surpassed the $50 billion
threshold for visitor spending.
“We’re in the Middle of Everything and there’s something here
for everyone — from the beaches of Lake Michigan to the rolling
prairies of Southern Illinois,” said Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton.
“Illinois has a rich history, culture, and natural beauty and
we’re excited to welcome people from near and far to enjoy it
all.”
The spending also produced nearly $5 billion in direct state and
local tax revenues for Illinois communities and $372 million in
hotel tax revenue.
According to a news release from the governor’s office, the
state’s ‘Middle of Everything’ tourism campaign helped generate
an additional 2.8 million trips and $904 million in visitor
spending last year.
Illinois’ tourism industry was also supported by over $3.3
million in state grants in fiscal year 2025, helping to promote
projects like the state’s Route 66 centennial celebrations and
the Illinois America 250 campaign.
The state’s Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity says
it is expanding its focus on outdoor recreation activities with
a dedicated unit within its tourism office.
Outdoor recreation activities have been the primary draw for
tourism to the southern part of the state in recent years, with
visitors taking advantage of hiking, cycling, rock climbing, and
ziplining in Shawnee National Forest — and wine tasting at
vineyards along five wine trails.
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