Travel expenditures in Marion County during the last fiscal year totaled $51 million. The amount is down 3.8 percent from the previous year, which is thought to be the result of travel leveling off post-COVID. Local tax revenue generated in Marion County by tourism was placed at $3.5 million. The information was released during the annual meeting of Discover Downstate, which was held at the Iron Saddle Ranch in Salem this week.
In his welcome, Salem Mayor Nic Farley said Discover Downstate does incredible work in shining a light on all the treasures of the region. He noted they help remind people that downstate Illinois is more than just a stop along the Interstate and it is a destination filled with history, hospitality and a whole lot of heart.
Discover Downstate Illinois President and Finance Director Darlene Chapman says the organization received $1.2 million in grant funds during the last fiscal year to promote tourism destinations in the region. Looking ahead, she is confident they will keep finding new ways to showcase the region and invite everyone to come experience the charm and the surprises that downstate Illinois has to offer.
Office Manager/Executive Assistant Jordan Jackovich said Illinois welcomed 113 million domestic and international travelers in 2024, which was an increase of 500,000 visitors from 2023. Visitor spending resulted in $48.5 billion in 2004, an increase of $34-bilion from 2023. Jackovich added Illinois reached its highest ever hotel tax revenue figures in $367 million, a 14-percent increase over the previous record. She concluded that tourism is back and thriving.
In Clinton County, travel expenditures for the year were placed at $73.4 million, down 1.2 percent. Local tax revenue was $7.6 million. In Washington County, travel expenditures were $21.1 million, down 3.6 percent. Local tax revenue was $2 million. Fayette County had travel expenditures of $40.7 million, down 2.6 percent. Local tax revenue was $3-8 million.
Downstate Illinois covers Bond, Clinton, Fayette, Jefferson, Marion, Perry, and Washington Counties. Both Centralia and Salem were represented.
Thanks to the Greater Centralia Chamber of Commerce for portions of this story.
