With its world-class shopping and culinary scene, unparalleled hotels, long history of innovation and important role as a business hub, it’s no wonder The Windy City set a new tourism record in 2017.

Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced visitors to the city in 2017 reached 55.2 million, a new record and a 2.5 percent increase over the previous year. The increase of 1.4 million reaches the mayor’s goal of 55 million annual visitors — two years early.

“Tourism in Chicago means jobs throughout Chicago,” said Mayor Emanuel. “By continuing to set new tourism records and bring millions more people to Chicago every year, we are generating economic opportunities that reach every Chicago neighborhood.”

Last year was a big one for incoming leisure travel, as Chicago hotels reported an overall annual increase of 6.3 percent. Exciting openings likely played a part in that, including Cambria Chicago Loop, located above the historic Oriental Theatre; Ace Hotel Chicago, offering a trendy rooftop bar and lounge; and Marriott Marquis Chicago, the largest North American property opened by the hotel chain in 2017.

Another key segment generating visitors is the convention and meetings industry, convening at McCormick Place. To build on the progress, the Global Business Travel Association committed to hosting its annual convention, the world’s largest business travel event, in July 2019.