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Your monthly update from the Illinois Office of Tourism.
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Spring is here, and we are already embracing the season’s fresh energy, making the most of opportunities to welcome visitors from across the globe.
TOURISM NEWS
We Are Building New Connections in India

In January, we participated in the Brand USA India Sales & Media Mission in Hyderabad, engaging with key players in this fast-growing inbound market. Our team conducted 24 media appointments and 72 trade meetings, establishing valuable connections with industry leaders, tour operators and journalists as part of our ongoing strategy to expand Illinois’ global presence.
Sharing Illinois With the Industry's Top Journalists

Continuing our momentum, we attended the TravMedia International Media Marketplace (IMM) in New York City, meeting with 20 leading travel journalists from outlets including Fodor's Travel, Forbes, Condé Nast, Midwest Living and National Geographic. Our team showcased everything that makes Illinois a premier destination, including the upcoming Route 66 Centennial, outdoor adventures, LGBTQIA+ travel experiences and family-friendly road trips.
Bringing Illinois’ Outdoors to Toronto

Rounding out our international outreach, we brought a taste of Illinois to 25,000 enthusiasts at the Toronto Outdoor Adventure Show in February. Our team showcased all the ways Illinois is a premier destination for our northern neighbors, just a short journey away.
Sports Illinois Huddle Coming to Peoria in May

Planning is underway for the 2025 Sports Illinois Huddle, set for May 12-14 in Peoria. This annual event introduces sports event planners and rights holders looking to host tournaments and competitions to Illinois destinations. Discover Peoria will host this year's gathering, with 19 bureaus already confirmed to participate and all signs pointing toward another successful and lively event. Mark your calendars!
Celebrating Women’s History Month

March is Women’s History Month, and we are celebrating the incredible impact women have had on Illinois tourism and business. With our guide to women-owned, Illinois Made businesses, you can discover the talented women artisans and entrepreneurs who are helping shape the state's vibrant culture.
    Illinois Governor’s Conference on Tourism Update

    The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Office of Tourism has made the decision to postpone the Illinois Governor’s Conference on Tourism. The conference is the premier educational and networking event for members of the travel and tourism industry, and we look forward to once again gathering as an industry to learn, share and celebrate. The conference is expected to be held in early 2026, so please check the website for updates.
    NEWS YOU CAN USE
    How AI is Changing Travel Planning in 2025

    Skift reports that while traditional travel planning methods still dominate, we are approaching a tipping point for AI adoption in the industry. From the prospects of major agreements between AI engines and travel services to AI messaging assistants to autonomous AI booking tools, 2025 is shaping up to be a transformative year for travel.
    Travelers Finding Creative Budget Solutions

    Despite economic pressures tightening household budgets, many Americans are choosing to modify their travel plans rather than abandon them entirely. TravelPulse reports that travelers are finding innovative ways to stretch their vacation dollars through strategic choices like using alternative transportation and booking trips further in advance. This presents an opportunity to pitch value-rich experiences to cost-conscious travelers.
    Revenge Travel is Over—Intentional Travel is Back

    Priceline's engaging and vibrant 2025 Travel Trends Report suggests post-pandemic "revenge travel" (making up for lost lockdown time) is giving way to more purposeful "intentional travel" (focused on connections and passions). Key trends include "Awayborhoods" (authentic neighborhood experiences), "Flocking" (Gen Z travelers seeking social opportunities), and "Gap Days" (shorter adventures to explore new skills).
    ENJOY ILLINOIS MAGAZINE
    The new Spring/Summer issue of the Enjoy Illinois inspiration guide is now available! Highlights include ways to enjoy the warming weather, including a Shawnee National Forest adventure, pet-friendly trips, a salute to house music, and a fun quiz to find your ideal Illinois adventure.

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    If you're interested in becoming an advertiser, please contact MaryPat.Moore@dotdashmdp.com. For bulk orders, please contact Brad.Strauss@illinois.gov.

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    IOT and Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity
    The Official Industry Newsletter of the Illinois Office of Tourism
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