Dane County hits tourism spending record, beats Wisconsin growth

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Direct visitor spending in Madison and Dane County reached a record $1.55 billion in 2024, WMTV15 reports. The county exceeded Wisconsin’s growth average in all categories of a report released Tuesday.

A record 9.2 million Dane County visitors spent an average of $4.2 million per day, and the county’s hospitality industry added 500 jobs last year. Additional findings included: 

  • Food and beverage spending rose $15 million to total $450 million; 

  • Lodging was up $13 million to total $375 million;

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  • Retail spending was up $10 million to total $381.5 million; and 

  • Recreation and entertainment increased by $11 million to total $193 million.

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