In 2016, Chicago welcomed a record 54.1 million visitors, a 2.9 percent increase over 2015.
This growth puts the city on track to reach its goal of 55 million visitors by 2020, a milestone that could realistically be achieved as early as 2017. The rise in visitors was driven by increases in both leisure travel and business tourism.
“As we look ahead to 2017 and beyond, it remains imperative for us to focus on building the destination’s profile internationally and educating and reminding our partners in the travel industry, and the travelers we target, that Chicago is not only an amazing city to visit, but a top-notch place to convene and do business,” said David Whitaker, chief executive officer and president of Choose Chicago.
Major meetings and conventions generated more than $1.3 billion in estimated economic impact. While domestic visitation rose by more than 3 percent, there was a modest decline in overseas visitors, largely attributable to unfavorable exchange rates in Europe. The city expects continued growth from markets such as China, India and South Korea.
Tourism supported an estimated 145,137 jobs and generated $15 billion in direct spending last year.
“We had an incredible and record-breaking year in 2016, but we are not stopping there,” said Mayor Rahm Emanuel. “We have seen record increases in jobs and investment from our tourism industry, which is creating economic opportunities that reach every neighborhood in the city of Chicago.”