What's Happening?
Rockford and Winnebago County experienced a significant increase in visitor spending, reaching $523.4 million in 2024, according to the Illinois Tourism Economic Impact Report. This marks a 1.5% growth from the previous year, outperforming other large-population counties in Illinois, which saw a decline in visitor spending. The growth is attributed to successful marketing, events, and destination development efforts by GoRockford. Upcoming events like IRONMAN 70.3 Rockford and the 2026 AHL All-Star Classic are expected to further boost tourism.
Why It's Important?
The surge in tourism spending is a positive indicator of economic growth for Rockford and Winnebago County. It highlights the effectiveness of strategic investments in tourism and destination marketing. The increase in visitor spending supports local businesses, creates jobs, and generates tax revenue, contributing to the region's economic stability. The success of Rockford's tourism initiatives sets a precedent for other regions aiming to enhance their economic prospects through tourism.
What's Next?
GoRockford plans to continue leveraging major events and developments to sustain tourism growth. The opening of the Hard Rock Rockford and projects from the Thrive 2035 destination master plan are expected to attract more visitors. Local leaders are optimistic about the future, anticipating continued economic benefits from tourism. The community may see further investments in infrastructure and services to accommodate increasing visitor numbers.
