DARLINGTON — The Wisconsin Department of Tourism has released 2024 economic impact data, showing that Lafayette County tourism remained strong, generating $29 million in total economic impact, matching the county’s record-setting performance in 2023. This local success contributed to a historic year for tourism across Wisconsin, which reached a new statewide milestone of $25.8 billion in total economic impact.
Statewide, tourism saw an all-time high in visitation, welcoming 114.4 million visits in 2024. This marks a new record, surpassing the previous high of 113.2 million set in 2019, and continuing Wisconsin’s strong post-pandemic tourism recovery. This boost in visitation, combined with economic contributions from all corners of the state and strategic investments in tourism promotion, led to more visitors choosing to make vacation memories and spend their dollars in Wisconsin.
“Tourism in all corners fueled this hat trick of records for an accomplishment the entire state can celebrate,” said Wisconsin Department of Tourism Secretary Anne Sayers. “The impact of the visitor economy is felt statewide. Tourism sustains livelihoods and local businesses, uplifts communities, and powers Wisconsin’s economy.”
In Lafayette County, tourism supported 206 full- and part-time jobs across multiple sectors and generated $1.7 million in local and state tax revenue. These numbers contribute to the more than 182,000 tourism-supported jobs and $1.7 billion in local and state tax revenue generated statewide. Without this tourism revenue, each Wisconsin household would pay an additional $678 annually to maintain current public services.
“All across Lafayette County, our businesses and communities have continued to offer memorable, welcoming experiences that keep visitors coming back year after year,” said Allison Taylor, Economic Development and Tourism Director. “Tourism plays a vital role in supporting our local economy, and we’re proud to see our region holding strong while contributing to Wisconsin’s record-breaking year.”
To learn more about Lafayette County, visit www.lafayettecountywi.org/explore or follow us on Facebook @lafayettecountywisconsin.