Kewaunee County tourism saw a booming year in 2025

ALGOMA – The Wisconsin Department of Tourism released 2025 economic impact data showing that tourism in Kewaunee County generated $55 million in tourism-related economic impact, contributing to another record-breaking year for Wisconsin’s tourism industry.

Statewide, Wisconsin tourism generated a record $27 billion in economic impact in 2025. Record visitation fueled the state’s highest-ever economic impact, surpassing the previous record of $25.8 billion set in 2024, and extending Wisconsin tourism’s record-breaking streak to four consecutive years.

Strategic tourism promotion, record visitation and strong visitor spending throughout the year and across the state — including in Kewaunee County — generated more revenue for Wisconsin communities and residents than ever before.

“A 6.2% increase in tourism’s economic impact is a clear indication that Kewaunee County continues to gain recognition as a destination worth visiting. Every visitor dollar spent at our restaurants, shops, lodging properties, attractions and events creates a ripple effect throughout the local economy. These results underscore the importance of continued investment in tourism promotion and destination development. We are proud of the partnerships that have helped drive this growth and remain committed to ensuring tourism continues to benefit businesses, residents and communities across Kewaunee County,” Algoma Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Bradley Kautenburg said.

Wisconsin tourism welcomed 117.9 million visits in 2025, including all-time highs for both day trips and overnight stays, resulting in back-to-back record years for visitation. Across the state, the tourism industry supported more than 183,000 full- and part-time jobs. In Kewaunee County, tourism supported 417 jobs.

Statewide, tourism generated a record $1.7 billion in state and local tax revenue, helping offset costs for Wisconsin residents. In Kewaunee County, tourism generated $3.5 million in state and local taxes. Without the revenue generated by tourism, each Wisconsin household would pay an additional $692 annually to maintain the current level of government services.

“Wisconsin tourism is booming because it is the ideal destination for making memories. Travelers who choose to visit one more attraction, dine at one more restaurant and stay one more night generate many more dollars for Wisconsin tourism,” said Wisconsin Department of Tourism secretary Anne Sayers. “Tourism’s impact is wide-reaching and significant. The industry powers local economies throughout the state. Visitors sustain jobs and create livelihoods. Wisconsinites save money because of the tax dollars tourism brings in. Tourism is essential for Wisconsin and all its communities.”

The Algoma Area Chamber of Commerce oversees tourism promotion for the City of Algoma, attracting visitors from across Wisconsin and throughout the country to experience the community’s unique charm, outdoor recreation, and waterfront attractions. Through strategic marketing, events and partnerships, the Chamber works to increase visitation and strengthen tourism’s economic impact in Algoma and throughout Kewaunee County.