Tourism Hub
SIU Tourism Hub: Research, Education, and Development
In the United States, the total direct travel spending losses amounted to a staggering $755 billion by the close of 2021. UN Tourism reports that international tourism has now almost fully rebounded, with an estimated 1.4 billion international tourist arrivals in 2024, equal to about 99% of pre‑pandemic levels, according to its latest World Tourism Barometer.
Illinois tourism has not only recovered from the pandemic but set new records, with 2024 visitor volumes and spending surpassing 2019 levels. According to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity’s Office of Tourism, the state welcomed about 113 million domestic and international visitors in 2024, who spent roughly $48.5 billion, about 500,000 more visitors and $1.3 billion more in spending than in 2023. While Southern Illinois experienced noticeable setbacks as well, there has also been recovery. Positioned as an ideal destination for travelers seeking authentic experiences in a more rural landscape, the Southern Illinois region is benefiting from emerging travel trends.
The Center for Delta Studies - Tourism Hub is committed to facilitating the revitalization and growth of the Southern Illinois tourism industry. Through a multifaceted approach encompassing collaboration, education, and research, it serves as a central resource hub for tourism stakeholders within our region.
Our overarching mission is to promote sustainable tourism development, elevate the visitor experience, and stimulate economic growth throughout the region. Three main initiatives –research, outreach, and training – will help us achieve this mission.
In essence, the Tourism Hub is dedicated to driving positive transformation within the Southern Illinois tourism landscape, fostering resilience, innovation, and prosperity for years to come. Join us in shaping the future of tourism in our region.
Our overarching mission is to promote sustainable tourism development, elevate the visitor experience, and stimulate economic growth throughout the region. Three main initiatives –research, outreach, and training – will help us achieve this mission.
In essence, the Tourism Hub is dedicated to driving positive transformation within the Southern Illinois tourism landscape, fostering resilience, innovation, and prosperity for years to come. Join us in shaping the future of tourism in our region.
Brand Differentiating Service: Delivering an Elevated Experience by The Ritz-Carlton Leadership Center
January 29, 2024, we partnered with Ritz-Carlton to host a no-cost workshop at the Southern Illinois Center DuQuoin State Fairgrounds. The event offered invaluable insights into creating emotional connections, implementing Ritz-Carlton's service principles, and optimizing customer interactions. Attendees learned practical strategies for enhancing their service strategies, including the importance of consistency and surprise-and-delight techniques. This was an exceptional opportunity for businesses to elevate their customer experience without financial barriers.
Initiatives
Research
Research conducted by faculty and students associated with the Tourism Hub help inform strategic decision-making processes for tourism stakeholders. Key research priorities include visitor management studies, economic impact assessments of events, and community engagement evaluations.
Education
We endeavor to empower students at Southern Illinois University through practical learning experiences, thereby bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world application. The projects allow students to work directly with regional tourism stakeholders on research and creative activities, exposing both to trends and best practices. Through these opportunities and experiential learning initiatives, students gain valuable insights and skills essential for success in the hospitality and tourism industries.
Training
The development of the hospitality and tourism workforce is incredibly important for Southern Illinois to enhance its competitiveness as a destination. To address this need, comprehensive training programs are provided throughout the year. These include customer service training and marketing workshops for small businesses.
Resources
Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity – Office of Tourism
Licensed Convention and Visitors Bureaus in Southern Illinois
Phone: (618) 257-1488
Coverage Area: Bond, Clark, Clinton, Crawford, Cumberland, Edwards, Fayette, Jasper, Hamilton, Lawrence, Marion, Monroe, Perry, Richland, Randolph, St. Clair, Wabash, Washington, and Wayne Counties
Mt. Vernon Convention and Visitors Bureau
Phone: (618) 242-3151
Coverage Area: Mt. Vernon
Southernmost Illinois Tourism Bureau
Phone: (618) 833-9928
Coverage Area: Alexander, Gallatin, Hardin, Jackson, Johnson, Massac, Pope, Pulaski, Saline, and Union Counties
Phone: (618) 997-3690
Coverage Area: Williamson County
Rend Lake Area Tourism Council
Coverage Area: Franklin County
Additional Tourism Marketing Entities in Southern Illinois
Phone: (618) 549-5302
Coverage Area: Carbondale
Phone: (618) 524-5025
Coverage Area: Metropolis
Coverage Area: Murphysboro and Jackson County