THE FUN TIMES POWER EDITION
Tourism: Big Impacts for Wisconsin Communities BY STEPHANIE KLETT Secretary, Wisconsin Department of Tourism
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hen you’re having fun, we’re having fun. This theme from our advertising campaign reflects the value Wisconsin places on its visitors. It’s a sentiment deeply rooted in our Midwestern hospitality and sincere desire to make sure each visitor has a memorable vacation. We call it Gemutlichkeit, a feeling of warmth, friendship and good cheer. And there’s no shortage of it in Wisconsin. But, fun and hospitality are also big business in communities of every size across the state. The fun travelers experience in Wisconsin results in a strong economy and quality of life. Last year, the millions of people who traveled to and within Wisconsin had a $20.6 billion impact on the state’s economy and supported 195,255 jobs. And, tourism continues to grow in Wisconsin. In fact, the total seven-year growth of tourism activity is up more than $5.8 billion, a nearly 40 percent increase from $14.8 billion in 2011. But, tourism also creates something that can’t be quantified – it generates a positive impression for Wisconsin, which is critical for economic development. Our research shows that travelers who have visited Wisconsin in the past two years rate the state much higher in attributes such as a good place to live, start a business, attend college, or purchase a retirement home than those who have not visited the state. Tourism is working hard for Wisconsin. It’s a tremendous credit to the tourism industry in all 72 counties and the innovative work they do to create exciting vacation experiences. As I travel this month in recognition of National Travel & Tourism Week, I get a first-hand look at the great things happening
across the state, whether it’s new hotels and attractions, Main Street redevelopments, or annual events that attract visitors from all over the world. I also have the chance to meet the individuals and small businesses that are passionate about tourism and have chosen it as their life’s work. The Department of Tourism along with your local community created this mailing to better demonstrate the impact of tourism on the state and your area. We also wanted to take this opportunity to encourage you to venture out and enjoy all the fantastic experiences we offer – whether it’s on the other side of the state or in your own backyard. We’ve put together some fun ideas and resources to help you get started planning your adventure. The tourism industry will make sure that your decision to roam our back roads, visit our urban centers or enjoy a summer festival was the best decision you’ve ever made.
Did You Know? A 2017 research study showed that 57 percent of those surveyed who saw the Travel Wisconsin ad campaign and visited the state strongly agree that the state is a good place to live vs. 21 percent of those who had not seen the advertising and had never visited the state.