© 2024 WSIU Public Broadcasting
WSIU Public Broadcasting
Member-Supported Public Media from Southern Illinois University
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Illinois Tourism Sets Record

State of Illinois Seal

Illinois had a record number of visitors in 2011, with more than 93 million tourists visiting the state.

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity said Monday the state saw an 8.4 percent bump in tourism last year. Visitors generated $31.8 billion for the state economy. The more than 93 million visitors break the previous record of 91 million visitors in 2006. About 1.2 million tourists visited Illinois from abroad. That's up 6 percent and at its highest level since 2008.

State officials attribute the boost to the tourism industry's recovery from the recession. More tourists visited Chicago in 2011 too. The city saw an 11.2 percent tourism boost in 2011 with 42.4 million visitors.

Gov. Pat Quinn says it's ``no surprise'' Illinois has attracted so many tourists.

Jennifer Fuller joined Capitol News Illinois in July 2023 as the organization’s broadcast director. She will oversee the launch and operations of CNI’s new broadcast division.

Contact Jennifer Fuller at jfuller@capitolnewsillinois.com
As a WSIU donor, you don’t simply watch or listen to public media programs, you are a partner. By making a gift, you help WSIU produce, purchase, and broadcast programs you care about and enjoy – every day of the year.