Tourism broke records in Chippewa County in 2024
The Wisconsin Department of Tourism released 2024 economic impact data, showing Chippewa County tourism generated a record $193 million, which contributed to Wisconsin tourism’s third consecutive record-breaking year.
Statewide, all-time high visitation drove Wisconsin tourism’s record-breaking $25.8 billion, in economic impact last year. The 2024 economic impact, surpassed the previous statewide record, of $25 billion from 2023. Locally, Chippewa County also surpassed the previous record of $184 million, set in 2023, an increase of 4.9 percent.
The boost in visitation, economic contributions from all corners of Wisconsin, including Chippewa County, and strategic investments in tourism promotion, drove the state’s historic year for tourism.
“It’s clear that more and more people are discovering what we’ve always known: this is a special place,” said Sue Leonard, tourism director for the Chippewa Falls Area Chamber of Commerce. “Visitors are drawn by our natural beauty, our lively festivals and events, and most of all, the warm welcome they get from our communities.”
Wisconsin tourism welcomed 114.4 million visits in 2024, beating the previous record from 2019, by more than a million, and growing the number of part and fulltime jobs the industry supports to 182,000. Locally, Chippewa County tourism supported 1,440 jobs, and generated $11.6 million in state and local tax revenue.
At the state level, tourism generated $1.7 billion in state and local tax revenue. Without this revenue, each Wisconsin household would pay an additional $678, to maintain the current level of government services.
“What really makes Chippewa County stand out, is the dedication of our tourism partners and the community as a whole,” said Leonard. “Together, we’ve created a destination that’s vibrant, welcoming and affordable for everyone.”