Visitor spending increases in Lake County

Lake County visitor spending topped $1.34 billion in 2017 which is a 2.8 percent increase and new record for the county.

Tourism related employment increased 1.7 percent from 10,790 to 11,030. Local tax receipts rose to $30.8 million which is a 3 percent increase from 2016's $29.5 million figures. Visitors generated nearly $82 million in state tax receipts in the county - an increase of 8.5 percent. Lake County continues to rank as one of the top three counties in Illinois for visitor expenditures behind Cook County and DuPage County.

"It's rewarding to see an increase in travel spending in Lake County," said Maureen Riedy, president of Visit Lake County. "The positive image, economic growth and valuable jobs play a key role in Lake County's vitality. Our marketing initiatives and advertising promote the outstanding attractions and festivals, the variety of outdoor recreation and exceptional accommodations which entice visitors to spend time and dollars in our beautiful county.

"With visitor growth continuing its upward trend in Lake County we are witnessing an interest in development as evidenced by the recent opening of Great Wolf Lodge in Gurnee and enhancements of other tourism attractions and hotels in the county, " Riedy added.