OZAUKEE COUNTY — The Wisconsin Department of Tourism released 2023 economic impact data showing the Wisconsin tourism industry generated a historic $25 billion in total economic impact, which surpassed the previous statewide record of $23.7 billion in economic impact. Statewide, tourism’s historic year was fueled by economic impact growth in all 72 counties, a record number of overnight visitors for a second consecutive year and investments tourism businesses made in goods and services.
Ozaukee County enjoyed a 4.2% annual growth over 2022, with its economic impact contribution jumping from $230 million in 2022 to $240 million in 2023. Ozaukee County also enjoyed growth of 2.8% of direct visitor spending over 2022.
Ozaukee County tourism also generated $13.2 million in local tax revenue, a 2.4% increase. Statewide, tourism generated $1.6 billion in state and local tax revenue in 2023. Without this revenue, each Wisconsin household would pay an additional $660 to maintain the current level of government services.
“Ozaukee County may be small, but our tourism impact is substantial,” said County Administrator Jason Dzwinel. “With a 4.2% rise in economic contribution and increased visitor spending in 2023, we’re excited to showcase our stunning Lake Michigan views, charming towns and vibrant events. The county’s Interurban Trail and Lion’s Den Gorge park are more than a local, but a regional highlight of the unique experiences Ozaukee County delivers to the state of Wisconsin and beyond.”
Ozaukee County Tourism Council President Melissa Wraalstad said that Ozaukee County has so much to offer tourists, and it’s “fantastic” they are finding their way here.
“And we are thrilled to have such a significant impact on tourism for the state. We might be the smallest county in Wisconsin, but we are mighty,” said Wraalstad, who is also executive director of the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts & Fiber Arts. “With fun-filled festivals, concerts and events; charming B&Bs and first-class hotels; stunning views of Lake Michigan; walkable, friendly towns with plenty of shopping and great restaurants; great art, history and culture museums; and of course the fantastic 30-mile Interurban Trail, there is something for everyone to explore and discover. Ozaukee County truly is a gem.”
In 2023, Wisconsin welcomed 113 million visits, nearly 2 million more than the previous year. This number includes 45.9 million overnight visits last year — the second consecutive year of record-breaking overnight visitation. Overnight visitors, on average, spend almost three times as much as a day-trip visitor.
To learn more about Wisconsin tourism’s record-breaking year, view the 2023 economic impact data, county by county, at
www.industry.travelwisconsin.com/research/economicimpact.
“Wisconsin tourism powers the economy and strengthens the fabric of communities of all sizes,” said Wisconsin Department of Tourism Secretary Anne Sayers. “The historic impact of tourism reached every corner of Wisconsin and, in doing so, sustained livelihoods for thousands of our friends and neighbors.”
Ozaukee County Tourism Council is an organization dedicated to the promotion of local tourism in the Wisconsin communities of Mequon, Thiensville, Cedarburg, Grafton, Port Washington, Saukville, Newburg, Waubeka, Belgium and Fredonia. The council works closely with stakeholders and representatives from these communities, promoting favorite attractions such as the Ozaukee Interurban Trail and the Lake Michigan lakefront, annual festivals, hiking and camping spots such as Grafton’s Lion’s Den Gorge and Belgium’s Harrington Beach State Park, walkable downtowns and so much more.
For more information visit www.ozaukeetourism.com and www.interurbantrail.com; pick up a copy of the Ozaukee County Tourism guide available at area chambers and visitor centers; and follow the Ozaukee County Tourism Facebook page.