In Lake County, tourism is far more than a collection of summer festivals and weekend getaways; it is a multi-billion-dollar economic powerhouse that serves as a cornerstone of regional development. As we celebrated National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW) this May at Six Flags Great America, the data reinforced a clear reality: tourism is a cornerstone of Lake County’s economy.
From the quiet trails of our forest preserves to the high-octane thrills of our theme parks, tourism supports local businesses, funds public infrastructure, and creates a diverse array of jobs. This year, as Six Flags Great America celebrates its 50th anniversary in Lake County, we are reminded that the hospitality industry is both a part of our history and a catalyst for future growth.
The $2 Billion Impact: Why Every Visitor Matters
“The travel industry in Lake County generates nearly $2 billion in annual visitor spending,” notes John Maguire, the president of Visit Lake County. “This capital flows directly into the cash registers of local restaurants, the payrolls of small boutiques, and the maintenance of the community’s hospitality infrastructure.”
The benefit of this spending is the tax revenue it produces. Tourism in Lake County generates more than $68 million in local tax receipts every year. For residents, this is a vital contribution. These funds are reinvested into the community to pave roads, support first responders, and enhance local parks and schools. Without the influx of visitors, the tax burden on local households would be significantly higher to maintain the same level of public services.
A Workforce Built on Hospitality
Beyond the dollars and cents, tourism is one of Lake County’s largest employers. The industry currently supports 16,000+ jobs across the county. These roles span a massive spectrum of skill sets—from executive leadership at major resorts and marketing specialists at destination organizations to the frontline workers who ensure that every guest has a world-class experience. Their work creates a welcoming environment that encourages repeat visitation, ensuring that the economic cycle of tourism remains sustainable.
Six Flags Great America is an Anchor Business
There is no better example of tourism as a long-term economic anchor than Six Flags Great America in Gurnee. Since opening its gates 50 years ago, Six Flags has been a central pillar of Lake County’s identity, attracting millions of visitors from across the Midwest and around the globe.
A 300-acre theme park with 17 world-class roller coasters does more than provide entertainment; it acts as a magnet. A family visiting for the 50th Anniversary celebration—featuring drone shows, nostalgic entertainment, and specialty food—rarely visits the park in isolation. They stay in nearby hotels, dine in Gurnee and surrounding municipalities, and fill their gas tanks at local stations.
Six Flags’ commitment to innovation—from the introduction of the world’s tallest water coaster at Hurricane Harbor to its summer-long 50th-anniversary festivities—ensures that Lake County remains a premier destination in the competitive regional market.
“Six Flags is a central hub in Lake County, a place where residents and visitors alike gather together to enjoy our amenities and high quality of life,” noted Gurnee Mayor Tom Hood. “Gurnee continues to demonstrate the strength and vitality of its business community, with commerce, tourism, and investment helping drive economic momentum throughout the region. For 50 years, Six Flags Great America has been a cornerstone of that success — attracting visitors from across the Midwest, creating jobs, and contributing to the community in countless ways. We congratulate Six Flags on this incredible milestone and look forward to seeing its continued impact and growth in Gurnee for generations to come.”
The Collaborative Ecosystem
Lake County’s economic success is not an accident; it is the result of a highly coordinated economic development strategy, pursued in collaboration with local partners including Visit Lake County, local municipalities and leaders representing businesses of all sizes and industries.
Lake County’s vibrant tourism scene signals that the community is a dynamic place to live and work. It speaks to quality of life, safety, and community spirit. When businesses look to relocate or expand, they seek locations where their employees will be happy. Our robust hospitality industry provides the amenities—the festivals, the dining, and the recreation—that make Lake County an attractive destination for top-tier talent and corporate investment.
As we move into the heart of the 2026 tourism season, the outlook is exceptionally bright. With a 5% increase in regional interest and a packed calendar of events, Lake County is poised for another record-breaking year. Click here to see what’s in store.