August 26, 2024 –The Decatur Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) announced that Macon County generated $226.8 million in visitor spending and $10.4 million in local tax revenue in 2023, contributing to Illinois’ record-breaking tourism growth.
This economic impact directly supported 1,533 jobs in the tourism and hospitality industry within Macon County. The data, provided by Tourism Economics, highlights the area’s contribution to Illinois’ overall tourism success, with the state welcoming 112 million visitors who spent $47 billion in 2023, surpassing pre-pandemic levels for the first time.
“All of Macon County continues to provide welcoming opportunities for increased tourism. It is through our marketing, strong sense of welcoming hospitality, and our genuine love for this community that has, and will continue to attract visitors to Decatur, Forsyth, and all of Macon County.” said Teri Hammel, Executive Director of the Decatur Area CVB.
Illinois reached its highest-ever hotel tax revenue figures in FY24, with $322 million, a 4.5% increase over the previous year. The state’s tourism efforts, including new initiatives like LUXE By Illinois and expanded outdoor experience campaigns, contributed to this growth.
