Grundy Reporter

Illinois experienced a significant rise in tourism during 2024, according to recent data from the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s Office of Tourism. The state recorded 113 million domestic and international visitors last year, an increase of 500,000 compared to the previous year. These visitors generated $48.5 billion in spending, up by $1.3 billion from the prior year.

Tourism contributed $4.7 billion in state and local tax revenue and supported more than 280,000 jobs in Illinois’ tourism and hospitality sector.

State Senator Sue Rezin commented on the importance of tourism for Illinois' economy: "Tourism is a vital part of our state’s economic success, contributing valuable revenue to local economies." She added, "These record-setting figures come as a great relief for those in the tourism and hospitality industry, who are still recovering from the effects of the pandemic and the governor’s forced shutdown of businesses across the state."

Rezin has served as a Republican member of the Illinois State Senate since 2010, representing the state's 38th Senate District after replacing Gary G. Dahl.