CHICAGO - From Chicago's Michigan Avenue to iconic roadside stops like the Cozy Dog Drive-In in Springfield, Illinois’ 300-mile stretch of Route 66 and other tourist attractions are getting a major financial boost.
Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced $4.6 million in new grant funding today to 49 grantees designed to preserve and promote tourism. Special projects include initiatives along Route 66 and destinations across the state and international markets.
“Chicago is Illinois’ front door to the world, welcoming visitors from across the country and around the globe who stay in our hotels, dine at our restaurants, shop at our small businesses, and experience everything our city and state have to offer,” said Feigenholtz (D-Chicago). “These investments will help ensure that visitors discover the communities, historic destinations, and cultural experiences that make our state unique.”
Tourism has reached record-breaking numbers. In fiscal year 2025, 115 million tourists visited Illinois, spending $50.2 billion.
To sustain this economic momentum, the state is investing in some of its most famous landmarks. The Route 66 Grant Program will receive $2 million to support special projects along the iconic highway that’s been the backdrop for generations of family trips, photos and memories.
To build on the legacy of Illinois travel, marketing efforts targeted at a range of travelers are part of the grant funding. The International Tourism Grant Program designates funding for targeted outreach to markets in countries like Mexico, Canada, UK/Ireland, Germany, India and Japan with the primary goal of increasing international travel to Illinois.
Through the Tourism Marketing Partnership Grant Program, funding will assist local organizations with promoting events to increase overnight stays.
With this latest investment, Illinois communities will have new opportunities to showcase what makes their part of the state worth exploring.
