Wisconsin's tourism surges to record high in 2022, Gov. Evers reports

OSHKOSH, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Gov. Tony Evers announced a record-breaking year for Wisconsin's tourism industry in 2022, boasting a total economic impact of $23.7 billion, an increase from the previous record of $22.2 billion set in 2019.

The announcement came in a press release from the Gov. Evers' office on Tuesday, June 6.

Evers stated, "This is tremendous news and a testament to the hard work of business owners, workers, and marketing partners across the industry and our strategic investments to bolster the industry."

According to 2022 economic impact data, which can be found by clicking here, all 72 Wisconsin counties saw a rise in tourism's total economic impact, which supported 174,600 part- and full-time jobs. The tourism sector also generated $1.5 billion in state and local tax revenue.

Overall, the state recorded 111.1 million visits, an 8.7% increase from the previous year, including a record 45.4 million overnight visits. These overnight visitors were reported to spend nearly three times as much as day trip visitors.

The press release also credited the Native Nations of Wisconsin for playing "a critical role in enriching the state's tourism industry offerings and attracting travelers to the state," though that impact is not completely reflected in the report due to the private nature of Tribal tourism data.

Anne Sayers, Wisconsin Department of Tourism Secretary stated, "Tourism is both big fun and big business. I’m so grateful for the innovation and dedication of the folks who make up the Wisconsin tourism industry. Each one of them played a role in setting this record."