Chippewa County saw record year for tourism

Chippewa County tourism experienced a record-breaking 2023, generating $184 million and contributing to Wisconsin tourism’s historic $25 billion economic impact. The statewide and county results mark back-to-back record years, for the Wisconsin tourism industry.

Statewide, tourism’s historic year, was fueled by economic impact growth in all 72 counties, a record number of overnight visitors for a second consecutive year, and investments tourism businesses made in goods and services.

“Chippewa County is a four-season destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers,” said Sue Leonard, tourism director for the Chippewa Falls Area Chamber of Commerce. “With miles of biking, hiking, snowmobile and ATV trails, and expansive waterways for fishing, boating and kayaking, outdoor recreation is just part of the visitors’ experience in this undiscovered gem in the heart of the Midwest.”

While the natural beauty attracts visitors, the local charm provided from communities, local hotels, restaurants and retail businesses, and the area attractions make the visitor’s experience that much more memorable.

“We have a lot to offer,” said Leonard, “from our fair to major music festivals, to our performing arts center to the wineries, distilleries and breweries that easily compliment that outdoor experience, and contributes to the overall economic impact for Chippewa County.”

Last year, Chippewa County tourism supported 1,403 part- and full-time jobs, across various sectors of the industry, part of the more than 178,000 jobs sustained by tourism across the state. Tourism in Chippewa County also generated $11 million in local and state tax revenue.

Statewide, tourism generated $1.6 billion in local and state tax revenue in 2023. Without this revenue, each Wisconsin household would pay an additional $660, to maintain the current level of government services.

“Wisconsin tourism powers the economy and strengthens the fabric of communities of all sizes,” said Wisconsin Department of Tourism secretary Anne Sayers. “The historic impact of tourism reached every corner of Wisconsin, and in doing so, sustained livelihoods for thousands of our friends and neighbors.”