On Wednesday, the Chicago City Council held its annual meeting at the Auditorium Theatre, an event that brought together city leaders, industry partners, city officials and members of the media to celebrate accomplishments in 2023 and set the stage for “What’s Next for Chicago.”
Highlights from the conference included a special Q&A with Choose Chicago Board Chair Glenn Eden and Mayor Brandon Johnson, the release of the organization’s 2023 Impact Report, the presentation of awards for contributions to the city’s tourism, and the recognition of Choose Chicago Foundation scholarship recipients.
Choose Chicago announced that Chicago will welcome nearly 52 million domestic and international visitors in 2023, up from just 3.3 million the year before. The increase in tourism will generate an estimated $19.2 billion in economic impact, 8% more than in 2022, and generate nearly $2.65 billion in state and local taxes, 11% more than in 2022, according to the Chicago tourism organization.
International visitor numbers, a priority for Choose Chicago, increased 27% over the year to 1.8 million, and Chicago’s hotel room availability is at 11 million, a 10% increase over 2022.
“The impressive growth of Chicago’s tourism sector marks a turning point for the city as it continues to recover from the devastating economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. After a prosperous year, Choose Chicago is well-positioned to help the city maintain its upward trend in growth.”
“Our city’s unparalleled hospitality, vibrant cultural scene and the strategic initiatives led by Chicago Choices have propelled us to new heights as a tourism destination,” said Chicago Choices board chair Glenn Eden.
“As we look forward to 2024 and all that lies ahead in the years ahead, we remain committed to ensuring Chicago remains the first choice for families and individuals planning their next getaway, meeting planners searching for the venue for their next big event, and travelers from around the world seeking an urban destination with endless culture and incredible natural beauty.”
To read the full annual report and see the complete list of awardees and scholarship recipients, visit the Choose Chicago site.
