The Windy City Woos Them In: How Many Tourists Did Chicago REALLY Charm in 2022?
Ah, Chicago. Land of deep-dish pizza that could feed a small army, jazz that soothes the soul (and maybe puts you to sleep), and enough architectural marvels to make your neck sore from looking up. But what about the tourists, those brave souls who descend upon the city with selfie sticks and dreams of seeing a celebrity chef in the wild (looking at you, Rick Bayless)?
In 2022, Chicago saw a tourist stampede (or maybe more of a delighted throng?) that would make even the Cloud Gate bean blush. We're talking numbers, folks, big, beautiful numbers:
Nearly 49 million tourists débarqued (that's French for "got off the plane") in the Windy City in 2022. That's a whopping 60% increase from the previous year, folks! Seems like everyone and their cousin was itching to snag a Chicago-style hot dog (with all the toppings, naturally) and see what all the fuss was about.
But Wait, There's More! (The Tourist Dollars, That Is)
Those 49 million tourists weren't just here for the selfies and the skyline. Oh no, they came to spend some serious cash-money. We're talking a cool $17 billion pumped into the city's economy. Now, that's enough dough (pun intended) to buy a whole lotta deep-dish and maybe even a new hat for the Cloud Gate bean.
Still Not Convinced? Here's What the Tourists Themselves Are Saying (Probably)
- "Wow, this wind REALLY lives up to the name!" - Brenda from Des Moines, probably.
- "Is that...a giant metal bean? I love it!" - Literally everyone who sees Cloud Gate for the first time.
- "Man, I could get used to this deep-dish. My cardiologist, not so much." - John from California, definitely.
- "This jazz music is making me sleepy...but in a good way." - Everyone at a late-night jazz bar, ever.
So, the Next Time You See a Tourist...
Instead of giving them the side-eye for blocking the sidewalk with their selfie stick, remember: they're the ones keeping the deep-dish flowing and the jazz scene hoppin'. Plus, they might just be here for that perfect Instagram shot of the bean (we've all been there). So next time you see a tourist, offer them a friendly "welcome" (and maybe a tip on where to find the best deep-dish in town). After all, a little tourist love goes a long way (and keeps those delicious Chicago treats coming our way).
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