Wisconsin communities hopeful summer travel will make up for slow winter tourism season

After a warm winter negatively affected tourism in Wisconsin, communities are optimistic for a rebound this summer. According to a recent travel sentiment survey by Longwoods International, 92 percent of Americans plan to travel in the next six months, with 30 percent intending to spend more money this summer compared to last year.

In response to the winter revenue loss of $6.5 million in the Northwoods region, Gov. Tony Evers and U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin clarified that affected businesses were eligible for disaster loans through the U.S. Small Business Administration. Krystal Westfahl, president of the Let’s Minocqua Visitors Bureau, praised the loans for helping businesses stay afloat during the challenging winter.

As summer approaches, businesses in the Minocqua area are already seeing an increase in travelers and reservations. Gov. Evers recently visited the Packers Hall of Fame at Lambeau Field to promote tourism, emphasizing the industry’s importance to the state economy.

In the Wisconsin Dells, businesses were also impacted by the warm winter, but the community remains confident heading into the summer season. Andy Larsen, a spokesperson for the Wisconsin Dells Visitor & Convention Bureau, highlighted the area’s resilience and strong demand from travelers.

With access to waterways and a hospitable community, Wisconsin continues to attract visitors year after year. Larsen emphasized the state’s welcoming nature and the lasting memories that visitors create, making it a popular destination for travelers.