National Travel and Tourism Week 2021spotlights the collective strength of the U.S. travel industry.

This National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), there is more reason than ever to celebrate the collective strength of the U.S. travel and tourism industry and its dynamic workforce. The 38th Annual NTTW, taking place May 2 - 8, recognizes the Power of Travel and the critical role our industry will play in bringing back our vibrant communities, restoring the economy, rebuilding our workforce and reconnecting America.

Prior to the pandemic, the travel industry was a powerful economic engine, supporting jobs and driving local economies in every pocket of America. The industry had experienced 107 straight months of growth, generated $2.6 trillion in economic output, supported 17 million American jobs and delivered a $51 billion trade surplus to the U.S. In Springfield & Sangamon County, the travel & hospitality related industry contributed to 3,500 jobs, $110 million in payroll, and $9.5 million in tax revenue.

Unfortunately, that strong growth trend plummeted last year due to the pandemic. Travel spending in the U.S. declined 42%, costing the economy $1.1 trillion, while hardworking Americans supported by travel made up a staggering 65% of all U.S. unemployment.

However, Springfield—and the travel industry—is resilient.

While we faced extraordinary challenges in the past year, our industry united like never before, lifted each other up, aided one another, and devoted ourselves fully to the task of supporting and restoring all sectors of travel.

Springfield is participating in NTTW with a radio interview at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museums new exhibit 'State of Sound' studio, hosting a live remote with radio station1450AM at the Springfield Visitors Center, hosting a keynote speaker in partnership with Central Illinois Customer Service Assn. and attending the City of Springfield's NTTW Proclamation during City Council to reinforce the importance of tourism in the city.

This year’s NTTW is an opportunity to turn the page to a new chapter in our industry’s story and celebrate its collective power by spotlighting the innumerable ways travel will drive recovery, bring Americans together again and help define our country’s path forward.

From the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum to the Cozy Dog Drive In, Springfield's travel and tourism industry contributes so much to our local economy and our community’s unique character.

From all of us at Visit Springfield, we are excited to share the power of our industry and the strength & spirit of Springfield this NTTW.