National Travel & Tourism Week

Aerie's Resort was thrilled to recently partner with Cory Jobe of the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau and KMOV News 4's "Great Day St. Louis" to shine a spotlight on National Travel and Tourism Week in Southwestern Illinois! We hosted an exciting event right here on the Aerie's Terrace, offering "the best view in the Midwest."

The celebration brought together key figures from our vibrant local tourism industry. Guests were treated to a delightful complimentary breakfast, with delicious donuts and breakfast treats generously provided by Duke Bakery of Alton, IL. The morning was highlighted by live segments filmed on location, showcasing the beauty of our region to the wider St. Louis area audience.

It was a fun afternoon spent with Matt Chambers, Laura Hettiger, and Damon Arnold from the "Great Day St. Louis" team. We were also joined by numerous other attractions and dedicated individuals who are instrumental in making tourism in our region so exceptional.

The Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau has long championed National Travel and Tourism Week, an annual initiative to raise awareness of the significant impact tourism has on our communities. The numbers speak for themselves: in 2024 alone, travel to our region brought in over an astounding $827 million in visitor spending. This, in turn, generated more than $31.6 million in vital local tax revenue.

Locally, the visitor economy is a cornerstone of our financial health, supporting over $203 million in hospitality and travel employment. Aerie's Resort is incredibly proud to be an active and enthusiastic part of this thriving industry.

We are already looking forward to what next year will bring and the new heights we can achieve when we all work together.

Enjoy these behind-the-scenes images from the celebration, and thank you for your continued support of tourism in our wonderful region!