WASHBURN COUNTY -- The Wisconsin Department of Tourism released 2023 economic impact data, showing the tourism industry generated a record-breaking $25 billion in total economic impact. The highest-ever overnight visits helped fuel the growth, with Washburn County playing a pivotal role by contributing $57 million in total economic impact.
Additionally, last year, Washburn County tourism supported 497 part-time and full-time jobs across various sectors of the industry and generated $3.7 million in local tax revenue. Statewide, tourism generated over $1.6 billion in state and local tax revenue. Without this revenue, each Wisconsin household would pay an additional $660 to maintain the current level of government services.
“It is great to see the tourism economic impact numbers are up for another year in Washburn County!” stated Kaitlin Hanson, Executive Director. “We have such amazing, hardworking businesses that are the driving forces behind the strong tourism industry that we have in Washburn County.”
In 2022, there were 111.1 million visits in Wisconsin, which was up 8.8 million visits, or 8.7%, over the previous year. This includes a record 45.4 million overnight visits, or a 13.8% increase from 2021. Overnight visitors, on average, spent nearly three times as much as day trip visitors. To learn more about Wisconsin tourism’s record-breaking year, view the 2022 economic impact data, including a county-by-county breakdown, here.
“Wisconsin tourism powers the economy and strengthens the fabric of communities of all sizes,” said Wisconsin Department of Tourism Secretary Anne Sayers. “The historic impact of tourism reached every corner of Wisconsin and, in doing so, sustained livelihoods for thousands of our friends and neighbors.”
If you’d like to learn more about Washburn County Tourism Association and how the organization promotes Washburn County and the area businesses, events, and activities, check out their website at WashburnCounty.org.
Last Update: Jun 12, 2024 7:02 am CDT
