Illinois tourism industry slowing down, officials say

SPRINGFEILD, Ill. (KWQC) -Tourism officials say the industry is slowing down in Illinois and the effects of tariffs could be even more damaging.

Industry officials recently testified to Illinois senators, saying hotel occupancy rates and the number of international visitors are dropping.

Keenan Irish, with the Illinois Hotel and Lodging Association said a revised forecast from Tourism Economics shows a more than 9% decrease in international arrivals for 2025, while costs continue to rise.

“Underlying challenges hotels face, labor costs for us are up over 30% since 2019,” Irish said. “Borrowing costs have nearly double, insurance premiums continue to rise, and supply and material costs are higher than they’ve ever been.”

Cory Jobe with the Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau said it is an important time for Illinois to increase its tourism promotional efforts because 2026 is going to be a huge year.

“Next year, North America’s hosting soccer’s World Cup with matches being held across the United States,” Jobe said. “2026 is also America’s 250th birthday, the centennial year of Route 66.”

Dave Herrell, president and CEO of Visit Quad Cities issued a statement.

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