Chicago (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s Office of Tourism, says there has been a significant increase in international visitors to the state in 2023, marking a milestone in tourism growth for Illinois.

Illinois welcomed 2.16 million international visitors in 2023, reflecting a substantial 39% increase from the previous year, according to data provided by Tourism Economics. This surge in international visitation showcases Illinois as an increasingly sought-after global destination. Additionally, international visitors injected nearly $2.7 billion into Illinois’ economy in 2023, representing a 47% increase in spending compared to the previous year.

The top five markets for visitation to Illinois in 2023 include Canada, Mexico, India, the U.K. and Germany.

Canada emerged as the leading market for international visitation, with an impressive increase from 425,000 to 627,000 visitors, representing a substantial 48% growth.
Overseas visitors (defined as visitors not from Canada and Mexico) also showed significant growth, surging from 963,000 visitors in 2022 to 1,347,000 in 2023, marking a 40% increase.
India demonstrated substantial growth in visitors to Illinois, with an increase of 55% from 2019 to 2023.
Mexico contributed to the upward trend, with visitation numbers climbing from 164,000 to 183,000, reflecting a notable 12% rise.

The Illinois Office of Tourism attributes this growth to strategic marketing initiatives, enhanced partnerships and a wide array of unique attractions and experiences that appeal to international travelers. The Illinois Office of Tourism partners with offshore offices in the U.K., Germany and Mexico to promote and market Illinois to international travelers.

Illinois welcomed a total of 111 million visitors who spent $44 billion in 2022 (the latest data available) – representing 14 million additional travelers spending $12 billion more than calendar year 2021.