Illinois Governors Conference on Travel & Tourism

Author Archives: Illinois Governor's Conference on Travel & Tourism

  1. Tourism Leaders Convene in Chicago for the 2022 Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism

    Comments Off on Tourism Leaders Convene in Chicago for the 2022 Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism

    CHICAGO – The Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism, the state’s premiere educational and networking conference for tourism industry professionals, will take place Dec. 5-7 at Chicago’s iconic travel destination, Navy Pier, in the Aon Grand Ballroom. The annual conference brings hundreds of Illinois industry leaders, travel experts and visionaries together to explore the latest industry trends and insights that contribute to Illinois tourism, one of the leading economic drivers in the state.

    “The tourism industry is a significant economic driver in Illinois with 97 million visitors from around globe spending $32 billion in communities across our great state in 2021,” said Sylvia I. Garcia, Director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). “We look forward to welcoming tourism leaders from across the state and the country to this year’s conference as we promote Illinois as a top domestic and international destination for business and leisure travel.”

    The annual State of the State Tourism Address will take place at 11:30 a.m. on Dec. 7 in the Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier. The address will celebrate and reflect on Illinois’ successful tourism marketing and advertising efforts, including experiential activations, partnerships and the state’s award-winning tourism campaign, “The Middle of Everything” — all significant contributors to Illinois’ ongoing tourism recovery in 2022.

    Conference speaker highlights include:

    The Future of Tourism – Chris Thompson, President and CEO, Brand USA

    Tuesday, Dec. 6, 9 a.m.

    Chris Thompson, President and CEO of Brand USA, the destination marketing organization for the U.S., will provide an insightful look at what is currently happening across national and international travel and what the future holds for the industry.

    The Workforce of Tomorrow – Eric Termuende, life-long entrepreneur and best-selling author

    Tuesday, Dec. 6, 10 a.m.

    The pandemic shutdown changed the way we work and continues to make filling jobs a struggle. In this lively presentation, Eric Termuende shows how to turn the ‘Great Resignation’ into the ‘Great Reconfiguration’ by seizing the opportunity to establish a one-of-a-kind culture that attracts and retains top talent.

    Why Diversity, Equity & Inclusion is Important – Tyronne Stoudemire, SVP of Global DE&I for Hyatt Hotels Corporation

    Tuesday, Dec. 6, 3 p.m.

    Advancing Diversity, Equity & Inclusion globally requires a commitment to create an open and welcoming environment where people can bring their whole selves to work each day. In this timely keynote, Tyronne Stoudemire, SVP of Global Diversity Equity & Inclusion for Hyatt Hotels Corporation, explains how this mindset can power your ability to outperform the competition.

    The Next Generation of Global Travelers – Shaina Zafar,  Gen Z’er and Chief Marketing Officer, JUV Consulting

    Wednesday, Dec. 7, 9 a.m.

    Gen Z is on the move. According to a recent survey, 77 percent of Gen Z’ers are planning or thinking about splurging on a huge getaway trip in 2023.  Shaina Zafar provides an insider look at members of Gen Z, their lifestyles, travel goals and what makes them tick.

    State of the State Tourism Address

    Wednesday, Dec. 7, 11:30 a.m.

    Sylvia I. Garcia, Director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), will reflect on the tourism industry’s biggest accomplishments and economic impact as well as highlight the state’s ongoing tourism recovery.

    Illinois Excellence in Tourism Awards

    Monday Dec. 5, 7p.m. – Aon Grand Ballroom

    The Illinois Excellence in Tourism Awards dinner will honor and celebrate the most innovative tourism marketing initiatives throughout the state in nine categories, ranging from best public relations campaign and social media marketing to best event or festival, with one exceptional entry receiving best of show.

  2. Illinois Office of Tourism Celebrates Tourism Industry Achievements with Excellence in Tourism Awards

    Comments Off on Illinois Office of Tourism Celebrates Tourism Industry Achievements with Excellence in Tourism Awards

    CHICAGO -The 2022 Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism kicked off Monday, Dec. 5, at Navy Pier in Chicago, with the 2022 Illinois Excellence in Tourism Awards ceremony honoring Illinois tourism leaders’ contributions to the industry. Governor JB Pritzker attended the event to address conference attendees prior to the awards ceremony. 

    “It is an incredible honor to celebrate and recognize our state’s tourism industry leaders and innovators who work incredibly hard each day to make Illinois a premier travel destination,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “Their tourism marketing efforts have made an impact in their communities, reinvigorating local economies, and putting a spotlight on what makes Illinois an exceptional destination. As tourists gear up for a busy holiday travel season, we’re ready to welcome visitors near and far to experience everything Illinois has to offer, boosting our hospitality industry and bringing revenue to Illinois businesses.” 

    “The winners of the Illinois Excellence in Tourism Awards reflect the resilience, creativity, and passion of Illinois’ dynamic tourism industry,” said Sylvia I. Garcia, Director of the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO).  “Under Governor Pritzker’s leadership, we have awarded an unprecedented level of grant funding to support tourism recovery and we remain focused on supporting the tourism sector, driving economic development, and bringing our communities together.”  

    The Illinois Excellence in Tourism Awards were presented to honor the mostsuccessful tourism marketing and advertising initiatives, from convention and visitor bureaus (CVBs) and tourism destinations to attractions and innovators throughout the state who make Illinois shine. 

    Travel and tourism professionals from across the industry judged submissions in nine categories, ranging from best public relations and social media marketing campaigns to best event or festival, with one exceptional entry receiving best of show. 

    Each category contained a Budget A for organizations with annual operating budgets of $750,000 and above, and Budget B for organizations with budgets under $750,000. 

    Illinois Excellence in Tourism Award winners: 

    • Best Niche Targeting Budget A – Galena Country Tourism, #AmazingForAll Pride Series
    • Best Niche Targeting Budget B – Looking for Lincoln Heritage Coalition, Looking for Lincoln Summer Fun on Route 66!
    • Best Social Media Marketing Budget A – Choose Chicago, St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago
    • Best Social Media Marketing Budget A – Visit Lake County, Spooks & Spirits Lake County, Illinois Autumn Celebration
    • Best Social Media Marketing Budget B – Galesburg Tourism & Visitors Bureau, Stop on the Scenic Drive
    • Best Branding Initiative Budget A – Galena Country Tourism, Forever Original
    • Best Branding Initiative Budget B – Heritage Oaks Golf Club on behalf of a5 Branding & Digital
    • Best Cooperative Partnership Budget A – Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau of Southwest Illinois, The Last 100 Miles of Route 66
    • Best Cooperative Partnership Budget B – DeKalb County Convention and Visitors Bureau, The Out and About App
    • Best Event or Festival Budget A – ILLINOISouth Tourism, The NASCAR Cup Series Comes to ILLINOISouth!
    • Best Event or Festival Budget B – Greater Freeport Partnership, Pretzel City Brewfest
    • Best Website Budget A – Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau of Southwest Illinois, Great Rivers & Routes
    • Best Website Budget B – Heritage Harbor Ottawa, LiveYour Best Life
    • Best Tourism Marketing Budget A – Choose Chicago, Summer Campaign, Seize Your Summer
    • Best Tourism Marketing Budget B – Art Institute of Chicago, Obama Portraits at the Art Institute of Chicago
    • Best Printed Collateral Budget A – Visit Champaign County, Champaign County Area Experience Guide
    • Best Printed Collateral Budget B – Naturally McHenry County, Naturally McHenry County Insider Guide
    • Best PR Campaign Budget A – Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau of Southwest Illinois, The Eagles are Coming
    • Best PR Campaign Budget B – Skydeck Chicago, Skydeck Chicago: A Street to Sky Transformation
    • Best of Show (highest score across all categories) – ILLINOISouth Tourism

    This year’s Illinois Excellence in Tourism Awards program was presented by the Illinois Office of Tourism. The 2022 Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism is underway in Chicago, Dec. 5-7, at Navy Pier. The annual conference brings hundreds of Illinois industry leaders, travel experts and visionaries together to explore the latest industry trends and insights that contribute to Illinois tourism, one of the leading economic drivers in the state.

    To view the conference press release click here.

  3. Illinois Office of Tourism Honors Tourism Industry Leaders with Excellence in Tourism Awards and Silver Lining Stories

    Leave a Comment

    CHICAGO -The 2021 Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism kicked off Monday, Dec. 6, at Navy Pier in Chicago with an awards ceremony honoring tourism leaders’ contribution to the industry including special recognition for how communities responded throughout the pandemic.

    This year, the new Silver Lining Stories initiative awards tourism attractions and business owners who rallied to support their communities and innovated under extremely challenging circumstances as they navigated the pandemic. Honorees were selected by their industry peers who voted via the Illinois Governor’s Conference on Tourism Facebook page.

    “I’m committed to making the investments necessary to renew our tourism industry and the communities it supports. We’ve deployed over $1 billion in relief to over ten thousand Illinois businesses in hundreds of cities and towns throughout our state,” said Governor JB Pritzker. “We’ve provided 7,500 hospitality grants totaling $265 million through the Business Interruption Grants and Back to Business Grants. And we’re distributing grants aimed at new and returning festivals and tourism attractions everywhere in our state.”

    “Congratulations to the small businesses and community groups who were nominated for the Silver Lining Stories. Their stories spotlight the ingenuity, resilience and resourcefulness we saw in the tourism industry and across Illinois as folks pivoted to help each other and be in service to their communities during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Sylvia I. Garcia, acting director of the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO).

    Silver Lining Stories categories include:

    • Most Engaged Community Partner – Winner: Vine Street Market, farmers market at O’Fallon Station, nominated by ILLINOISouth Tourism, Individual, business or organization that supported their community in multiple ways over a period of time.
    • Best Pivot – Winner: Shawnee Hills Wine Trail, nominated by Southernmost Illinois Tourism, Business or individual that changed their business model during one of the largest economic, human & health pandemics, and innovated as a result.

    The Illinois Excellence in Tourism Awards were also presented to celebrate the most innovative tourism marketing initiatives from convention and tourism bureaus (CVB) throughout the state, prior to the pandemic. The award ceremony was hosted by Val Warner, the Emmy Award-winning co-host of Windy City Weekend on ABC 7.

    “It is an incredible honor to be able to recognize our tourism partners across the state who work tirelessly to promote Illinois as a premier tourist destination,” said Karla Flannery, deputy director of the Illinois Office of Tourism.

    Travel and tourism professionals from around the country judged submissions in eight categories, ranging from best social media marketing to best event or festival, with one exceptional entry receiving best of show.

    Each category contained a Budget A for organizations with annual operating budgets of $500,000 and above, and Budget B for organizations with budgets under $500,000.

    Illinois Excellence in Tourism Award winners:

    • Best Niche Targeting Budget A – Heritage Corridor CVB, 2019 Heritage Corridor Ale Trail        
    • Best Niche Targeting Budget B – Ottawa Visitors Center, Local Food Restaurant Week
    • Best Niche Targeting Budget B – Looking for Lincoln Heritage Coalition, History in Your Backyard

     

    • Best Social Media Marketing Budget A – Galena CVB, Facebook milestone Galena
    • Best Social Media Marketing Budget B – Quincy Area CVB, Best Postcard Pic FB Contest + Inside Guide

     

    • Best Branding Initiative Budget A – Rockford Area CVB, 2019 International Table Tennis Federation North American Olympic Table Tennis Trials        
    • Best Branding Initiative Budget B – Elgin Area CVB, Ring Around Elgin     
    • Best Branding Initiative Budget B – Galesburg CVB, Experience Galesburg Rebrand

     

    • Best Cooperative Partnership Budget A – Visit Lake County CVB, Visit Lake County – Best Cooperative Partnership (Six Flags Great America and Lincolnshire Marriott Resort)
    • Best Cooperative Partnership Budget B – Sports Illinois, Sports Huddle 2019

     

    • Best Event or Festival Budget A – Illinois Restaurant Association, Chicago Gourmet
    • Best Event or Festival Budget B – The Joliet Area Historical Museum, A Night Behind Bars

     

    • Best Website Budget A – Choose Chicago, Choose Chicago Website
    • Best Website Budget B – Elgin Area CVB, Explore Elgin Website

     

    • Best Tourism Marketing Budget A – The Art Institute of Chicago, Andy Warhol—From A to B and Back Again
    • Best Tourism Marketing Budget B – Lakeview Chamber of Commerce, Wrigleyville Wonderland

     

    • Best Printed Collateral Budget A – ILLINOISouth, ILLINOISouth Kids Activity Book Series
    • Best Printed Collateral Budget B – Great Rivers Country, Antiques in Illinois

     

    • Best International Marketing –  Great Rivers and Routes Tourism Bureau, Route 66
    • Best PR Campaign – Navy Pier, The Beach Chicago
    • Best of Show – Illinois Restaurant Association

     

    This year’s Illinois Excellence in Tourism program and Silver Lining Stories are presented by the Illinois Office of Tourism. The Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism is taking place in Chicago, Dec. 6-8, at the Sable Hotel at Navy Pier. The conference unites state leaders, travel experts and special guests to share the latest innovative ideas for promoting travel.

    To download photos from Monday’s awards ceremony, click here.

    To view the conference press release click here.

    To review a complete conference schedule and a list of speakers at this year’s conference, visit

    http://www.ilgovconference.com

     

    # # #

     

    The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Office of Tourism manages industry efforts that result in sustainable and significant economic and quality-of-life benefits for Illinois residents.

  4. Tourism Leaders Gather in Chicago for 2021 Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism

    Leave a Comment

    Conference to feature prominent tourism thought leaders, Dec. 6-8

    CHICAGO – The state’s annual conference for tourism industry professionals will gather Dec. 6-8 at the Sable Hotel at Navy Pier in Chicago. The annual Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism unites state leaders, travel experts and special guests to learn about the latest trends and best practices contributing to one of the top industry sectors in Illinois.

    “The Illinois tourism industry is a critical part of our state’s economy supporting hundreds of hospitality businesses across the state that employ thousands of Illinoisans,” said Sylvia I. Garcia, Acting Director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO). “This conference is an opportunity for tourism leaders to gather together in person to celebrate all Illinois has to offer and continue to chart a strong recovery for the tourism industry.”

    The conference will feature tourism experts who will discuss industry insights and where tourism is headed. “We look forward to welcoming tourism partners from across the state to this year’s conference as we work to revive the industry and reclaim Illinois’ place as a top domestic and international destination for business and leisure travel,” said Karla Flannery, deputy director of the Illinois Office of Tourism.

    The annual State of the State Tourism Address will take place on Dec. 8 at 9:30 AM in the Aon Grand Ballroom. The address will reflect on the Illinois Office of Tourism’s accomplishments during the past year that have contributed to the state tourism industry’s ongoing recovery and highlight plans for 2022.    

     

    Conference highlights include:

    Navigating the Perilous Road to Recovery – Adam Sacks, Founder and President of Tourism Economics

    Dec. 7, 8:30 AM – 9:30 AM

    The leisure market has led the recovery to date, and economic fundamentals point to a solid foundation for continued rebuilding. However, business and group travel remain suppressed and risks to the recovery remain. Adam Sacks will share Tourism Economics’ latest views on the economy, the mindset of travelers and expectations for how and when travel will fully recover. 

     

    The Surprising Solution to Workplace Diversity – Arwa Mahdawi, Brand Strategist and Author

    Dec. 7, 9:45 AM – 10:30 AM

    While companies have spent a lot of time talking about the importance of diversity, equity and inclusion, the results have frequently been disappointing. Consultant, journalist and author of Strong Female Lead: Lessons from Women in Power Arwa Mahdawi looks at why so many corporate DEI initiatives have either backfired or made little ground–and reveals the surprising solution to diversity in the workplace.

     

    Rishad Tobaccowala, Author, Speaker and Advisor

    Dec. 7, 1:00 PM – 1:45 PM

    Rishad Tobaccowala is an expert in getting people to see, think and feel differently about how to grow themselves, their teams and their businesses. In this keynote, he will review the key long-term changes caused by Covid-19, how we can best change as people to thrive in the years ahead, and how to upgrade our ability to drive revenue and satisfy consumers/visitors in new ways.

     

    State of the State Tourism Address

    Dec. 8, 9:30 AM – Aon Grand Ballroom

    Karla Flannery, Deputy Director of the Illinois Office of Tourism, will reflect on the industry’s biggest accomplishments during a challenging year and share a sneak peak of new initiatives and programs for 2022.

     

    Niche Travel Trends: Cannabis, Wellness & Sustainability

    Dec. 8, 10:45-11:30 AM

    Cathy Ritter, Founder and CEO of Better Destinations LLC, will divide into three of the most buzzed about travel trends: cannabis, wellness and sustainability.

    In addition, the Illinois Office of Tourism will honor and recognize tourism leaders for their contributions to the industry over the past year.

     

    Illinois Excellence in Tourism Awards & Silver Lining Stories

    Dec. 6, 7:15 PM-10 PM – Aon Grand Ballroom

    Illinois Excellence in Tourism Awards dinner will honor and celebrate the most innovative tourism marketing initiatives throughout the state.

     

    Silver Lining Stories

    A new initiative for this year’s conference will recognize the local communities behind some of the most inspiring stories during the pandemic. Silver Lining Stories honor the people and small businesses that rallied to support their communities with an innovative spirit during a time of significant uncertainty.  

    For a complete conference schedule and full list of speakers at this year’s Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel and Tourism, visit www.ilgovconference.com/schedule/

     

    # # #

    The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Office of Tourism manages industry efforts that result in sustainable and significant economic and quality-of-life benefits for Illinois residents.

  5. ILLINOIS OFFICE OF TOURISM HONORS DESTINATIONS WITH EXCELLENCE IN TOURISM AWARDS

    Leave a Comment

    CHICAGO – The 2018 Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism kicked off Monday, February 26, in Chicago with the Illinois Excellence in Tourism Awards ceremony at the Palmer House Hilton. The awards honored Illinois’ passionate travel and tourism marketing teams with the best marketing initiatives of 2017.

    Travel and tourism professionals from around the country judged submissions in eight categories, ranging from best social media marketing to best event or festival, with one exceptional entry receiving best of show. Each category contained a Budget A for organizations with annual operating budgets of $500,000 and above, and Budget B for organizations with budgets under $500,000. Two special recipients also received the Friend of Tourism award from Director of the Illinois Office of Tourism, Cory Jobe, for their contributions to Illinois tourism.

    Here are the 2018 Illinois Excellence in Tourism Award winners:

    The Best of Show award goes to the submission that received the highest overall score from the judge’s panel, going above and beyond to execute a fully comprehensive event, initiative or campaign.

    Travel and tourism drives significant contributions to Illinois’ economy. In 2016, Illinois welcomed 112 million visitors, which generated more than $38 billion in travel expenditures for the state. The success of state tourism each year couldn’t be accomplished without help from hospitality and tourism partners and stakeholders across the state.

    This year’s Illinois Excellence in Tourism program, Jazzed About Tourism, was presented by Travel Channel. The Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism is taking place in Chicago, February 26-28, at the Palmer House Hilton. The conference unites state leaders, travel experts and special guests to share the latest innovative ideas for promoting travel.

  6. ILLINOIS GOVERNOR’S CONFERENCE ON TRAVEL & TOURISM FEATURES PROMINENT TOURISM INDUSTRY SPEAKERS

    Leave a Comment

    CHICAGO – The state’s premier gathering of tourism industry professionals will gather in Chicago, February 26-28 at the Palmer House Hilton. The annual Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism unites state leaders, travel experts and special guests to share the latest innovative ideas for promoting travel.

    Travel and tourism is an essential component of Illinois’ economy. Illinois welcomed more than 112 million visitors in 2016, generating nearly $38 billion in spending for the state’s economy.

    “The tourism industry is a vital part of our state’s economy, not only providing revenue from our visitors, but supporting jobs and quality of life benefits for residents across the state,” said Cory Jobe, Director of the Illinois Office of Tourism.

    The Governor’s Conference provides an opportunity for professionals of all kinds – from small family restaurant owners to luxury hotel managers – to learn about the latest trends and best practices contributing to one of the fastest-growing industry sectors in Illinois.

    Cory Jobe will present the annual State of the State Tourism Address on Wednesday, February 28, at 10:30 a.m. He will reflect on the success of Illinois Tourism’s marketing initiatives and partnerships throughout the past year, as well as offer a look ahead to new programs being unveiled in 2018, including special initiatives to celebrate the state’s Bicentennial this year.

    Conference highlights and presentations include:

    • TRAVEL TREND REPORT WITH BRAND USA, Carroll Rheem, Brand USA VP of Research

    Opening keynote session with travel industry expert Carroll Rheem, Brand USA’s VP of Research & Analytics. Rheem will report on the latest tourism industry trends, how to reach international travelers in 2018 and what’s on the horizon for destination marketing.

    Tuesday, Feb. 27, 9:30-10:30 a.m.

    • CRISIS MANAGEMENT & TOURISM SECURITY, Dr. Peter E. Tarlow, Tourism Industry Expert

    Dr. Tarlow is a world-renowned speaker and expert specializing in the impact of crime and terrorism on the tourism industry, event and tourism risk management and tourism/economic development. Tuesday, Feb. 27, 1:15-2:15 p.m.

    • KEEP CALM AND BRING A CARRY ON, Anirban Basu, Economist

    Acclaimed economist Anirban Basu shares insights on how travel and tourism will impact the economy in 2018, including the latest statistics and travel trends. Monday, Feb. 26, 2-3 p.m.

    • ILLINOIS GOVERNOR’S MANSION PRESENTATION, First Lady Diana Rauner

    First Lady Diana Rauner will make her Governor’s Conference debut with a presentation on the Illinois Governor’s Mansion renovation and the effort to raise $15 million to complete the project. The renovation is supported solely through private funds, raised by the Illinois Governor’s Mansion Association, chaired by the Illinois First Lady.

    Tuesday, Feb. 27, 9-9:15 a.m.

    • THE EVOLUTION OF DIGITAL STORYTELLING, Cat Jordan, Travelzoo VP of Communications

    Travelzoo Head of Communications, Cat Jordan, brings her expertise and shares the latest digital tools and best practices to inspire travelers in 2018 – from Facebook Live, to influencers, to the email marketing renaissance. Tuesday, Feb. 27, 4-5 p.m.

    • ILLINOIS EXCELLENCE IN TOURISM AWARDS

    Illinois Excellence in Tourism Awards dinner will honor and celebrate the most innovative tourism marketing initiatives throughout the state, including Best of Show. Monday, Feb. 26, 7-9:30 p.m.

    For a complete conference schedule and full list of speakers at this year’s Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel and Tourism, visit our Schedule page.

  7. New Illinois Tourism Ad Campaign and Website Unveiled at 2017 Governor’s Conference on Travel and Tourism

    Leave a Comment

    Over 400 travel and marketing experts gathered in Springfield to celebrate past successes in state tourism and collaborate on future marketing opportunities.

    SPRINGFIELD, Il., March 23, 2017 – The state’s premier gathering of tourism industry and marketing professionals took place in Springfield this week at the President Abraham Lincoln – A Doubletree by Hilton Hotel. Each year, thought leaders convene at the annual Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism to present the latest trends, technology, products and services that will enhance tourism in Illinois in the year ahead. This year, the state’s new “Up For Amazing” ad campaign and re-vamped website took center stage.

    After seeding the “Up For Amazing” message with a test ad campaign in the fall of 2016, the Illinois Office of Tourism realized how well it resonated with millennial travelers today. Beginning Wednesday, March 22, the four new ads will run on TV and online in multiple domestic markets – including Cleveland, Detroit, Minneapolis and Milwaukee – as well as internationally. Each ad features travelers experiencing iconic Illinois destinations: a road trip along Route 66 and the Great River Road, President Lincoln historic sites in Springfield, views of Galena Main Street, outdoor destinations like Starved Rock State Park and Chicago destinations like Millennium Park, North Avenue Beach and Wrigley Field.

    “According to our research, 78% of millennials today prefer to learn something new when traveling – they value experiences much more than things,” says Cory Jobe, Director of the Illinois Office of Tourism. “Our goal with the new ‘Up For Amazing’ ad campaign is to differentiate from the competition by creating a more engaging, challenging message that acts as a call to action, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves in Illinois’ unique cultures and return with amazing new experiences they will feel compelled to share, both in person and on social media.”

    In addition, the new EnjoyIllinois.com features many of the same Illinois destinations as the ads, with an editorial twist. A combination of videos and stunning photography is used to help change the way people think about travel in Illinois. The site also uses content from the Illinois Made videos that were created last year, showcasing the artisans and craftspeople throughout Illinois – like the Blaum Brothers Distillery in Galena. These videos can be seen at EnjoyIllinois.com/Illinois-Made.

    Travel and tourism drives significant contributions to Illinois’ economy. In 2015, Illinois welcomed more than 111.1 million visitors, which generated more than $37.2 billion in travel expenditures for the state. The success of state tourism each year couldn’t be accomplished without help from hospitality and tourism partners and stakeholders across the state. A special Excellence in Tourism Awards Dinner on Monday, March 20th recognized their efforts. Below is a list of the winners:

    • Best Leisure Collateral Budget A – Visit Galena
    • Best Leisure Collateral Budget B – Great Rivers Country
    • Best Social Media Marketing Budget A – Shedd Aquarium
    • Best Social Media Marketing Budget B – Ottawa Visitors Center
    • Best Cooperative Partnership Budget A – Visit Lake County
    • Best Cooperative Partnership Budget B – Galesburg Area CVB
    • Best Branding Initiative Budget A – Rockford Area CVB
    • Best Branding Initiative Budget B – Promote Woodstock
    • Best Website Budget A – Galena/Jo Daviess County CVB
    • Best Visitors Publication Budget A – Greater St. Charles CVB
    • Best Visitors Publication Budget B – Visit McHenry County
    • Best Event or Festival Budget A – TIE: Visit Galena and Navy Pier
    • Best Event or Festival Budget B – City of Waterloo
    • Best Tourism Marketing Budget A – TIE: Navy Pier and Rockford Area CVB
    • Best Tourism Marketing Budget B – Ottawa Visitors Center
    • Best of Show – Shedd Aquarium
    • Friend of Tourism Award Recipients – Justin Blandford and Roger Carmack

    Other highlights from the conference included the annual “State of the State of Tourism” address, during which Jobe highlighted domestic and international marketing initiatives from the past year, and officially announced the new ad campaign and website as part of a review of planned tourism marketing initiatives for the year ahead.

    To review a complete conference schedule and list of speakers from this year’s conference, visit www.ilgovconference.com.

  8. 2016 Summer Olympics and the Power of Events

    Leave a Comment

    The United States might be making its regular splash in the 2016 Summer Olympics, but Illinois is leaving a nice footprint in the Rio-sand as well.

    According to the Chicago Tribune, some 50 athletes connected to Illinois are competing in the Olympic games this summer, the majority representing Team USA.

    From Jimmy Butler, the 6-foot-7 Bulls draft pick who scored 7 points in the US Men’s Basketball win against Argentina Wednesday night, to Lauren Doyle, the 2009 Macon Meridian grad competing on the US Women’s Sevens Rugby team, who played in the 19-5 win against France on Aug. 8 – Illinois is making its presence known.

    But what impact can large-scale events have on tourism? Let’s take a look at a few quick facts from recent Olympic games.

    The Olympics & Tourism

    Rio de Janeiro became one of the most visited cities during the recent World Cup with a dizzying 886,000 guests spending roughly EUR 1.5 billion.  Trekk Soft

    On the heels of that World Cup success, Rio expects a minimum 380,000 foreign tourists during the Olympic games. Besides enjoying world-class sporting events, guests are expected to visit and spend at a variety of local stops, from monuments and carnivals to sprawling natural attractions. Tourism Review

    Inspired by the convenient information services available at the 2012 Olympics in London, Rio tourism representatives also planned to improve facilities and services to provide better experiences and more effectively cater to the influx of international visitors.

    Sochi has also been enjoying increased winter traffic after a successful presentation at the 2014 Winter Olympics. Though long regarded as one of Russia’s most popular summer destinations, Winter travel is quickly closing the gap. As many as 182,000 visitors ascended the mountains during a 10-day period over New Years. Olympic.org

    “In the past, we used to have that many tourists only in summer, in August,” explained Sochi Mayor Anatoly Pakhomov.

    Sochi is also primed to become Russia’s most significant conference destination thanks to new facilities and hotel rooms created as a result of the 2014 Olympic games.

    What We Can Learn

    With these quick facts in mind, using your destination to host major events is a great way to increase foot-traffic and positive word-of-mouth surrounding your destination. But what if things don’t go quite so swimmingly? It remains to be seen how bad-publicity from crime and water issues will affect perception of Rio de Janeiro as a destination, but it offers a sobering reminder to tourism professionals. Whether we’re expecting 3 visitors or 3 million, we must constantly strive to provide one-of-a-kind, convenient and wholly positive experiences for our guests.

    If you’re a CVB, hotelier, restaurant or valued attraction, how can the Rio Olympics inspire YOU to provide a better tourism experience for your guests?

  9. 2016 ILLINOIS GOVERNOR’S CONFERENCE AWARDED INDUSTRY INNOVATORS, HIGHLIGHTED ECONOMIC INDICATORS THAT POINT TO CONTINUED GROWTH IN ILLINOIS’ TOURISM INDUSTRY

    Leave a Comment

    SPRINGFIELD – Illinois travel professionals and national tourism industry leaders gathered in Springfield March 21 through March 23 for the Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel & Tourism. The annual conference brings together state leaders, travel experts and other special guests to showcase innovative ideas for promoting travel.

    Special guests at this year’s conference included Illinois Governor, Bruce Rauner, and Illinois Department of Commerce Director, Jim Schultz. In addition, U.S. Travel Association President & CEO, Roger Dow, and Brand USA President & CEO, Christopher L. Thompson presented updates on the state of the national travel industry. Dow and Thompson announced preliminary 2015 economic indicators that point to continued growth in the state’s tourism industry.

    According to preliminary estimates from the U.S. Travel Association, travel spending in Illinois increased by 2.1% in 2015 to $37.1 billion. This spending directly generated $6.9 billion in tax revenue for the state, an increase of 5.6% over 2014. Most notably, this spending directly supported more than 314,400 Illinois jobs, a 2.7% increase from 2014, and a significantly higher growth rate than Illinois’ total private industry employment, which grew by 1.5%

    The conference kicked off with a special Illinois VolunTourism event. More than 50 participants gathered on Sunday, March 20, to help beautify the Illinois War Memorials at Oak Ridge Cemetery. In addition, Illinois Office of Tourism Director Cory Jobe highlighted domestic and international marketing initiatives from the past year in the annual “State of the State of Tourism” address. During the address Jobe also previewed the state’s upcoming seasonal promotional campaigns and new marketing efforts.

    The conference also honored the creative work of tourism industry professionals with the “Illinois Excellence in Tourism Awards.” Awards were presented in 11 categories, plus the Best in Show and Friend of Tourism awards. Entries were judged by a panel of marketing and tourism professionals on clarity of message, creativity, originality and the project’s overall success. Award winners included:

    Best in Show: Alton Regional Convention & Visitor’s Bureau
    Friend of Tourism Award: Nicky Stratton, Springfield Convention & Visitor’s Bureau

    Best Leisure Collateral:
    Division A: Alton Regional Convention & Visitor’s Bureau
    Division B: Visit Galena

    Best Sales Collateral: Springfield Convention & Visitor’s Bureau

    Best Social Media Marketing:
    Division A: Rockford Area Convention & Visitor’s Bureau
    Division B: Visit Galena

    Best Cooperative Partnership:
    Division A: IllinoiSOUTH
    Division B: Visit Galena

    Best Branding Initiative:
    Division A: Alton Regional Convention & Visitor’s Bureau
    Division B: Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway

    Best Website:
    Division A: Alton Regional Convention & Visitor’s Bureau
    Division B: Illinois Route 66 Scenic Byway

    Best Visitors Publication:
    Division A: Rockford Area Convention & Visitor’s Bureau
    Division B: Quincy Area Convention & Visitor’s Bureau

    Best Event:
    Division A: The Magnificent Mile Association
    Division B: Quincy Area Convention & Visitor’s Bureau

    Best Hotel/Lodging Campaign: Visit Galena

    Best Culinary Marketing Campaign: Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau

    Best Marketing Campaign:
    Division A: Adler Planetarium
    Division B: Streator Tourism

    To learn more about Illinois tourism, and to plan your trip, visit www.Enjoyillinois.com.