2025 Wisconsin Tourism Economic Impact

Tourism Continues to Fuel Lincoln County's Economy in 2025

Tourism remains one of the strongest drivers of economic activity in Lincoln County, bringing visitors, revenue, and opportunities to communities throughout the region. Newly released tourism impact data for 2025 demonstrates the important role visitors play in supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and contributing to the overall quality of life enjoyed by residents.

Whether travelers are casting a line on area lakes, exploring miles of ATV and snowmobile trails, attending community events, shopping locally, or enjoying a weekend getaway in the Northwoods, every visit contributes to the local economy.

According to the latest tourism economic impact report, visitors generated an estimated $115 million in total economic impact for Lincoln County during 2025. Visitor spending reached $76 million, supporting local lodging establishments, restaurants, retailers, attractions, recreation providers, and service businesses throughout the county.

Tourism's benefits extend far beyond the businesses that interact directly with visitors. The industry supported approximately 674 jobs across Lincoln County and generated $20.2 million in labor income. In addition, tourism activity produced $6.3 million in state and local tax revenue, helping support public services and infrastructure while reducing the tax burden on local residents.

The positive local results mirror another record-setting year for tourism across Wisconsin. Statewide, tourism generated a record $27 billion in economic impact during 2025, welcomed nearly 118 million visits, and contributed more than $1.7 billion in state and local tax revenue.

For the Tomahawk area, these numbers reflect more than economic statistics—they represent real opportunities for local businesses, employees, and communities. Tourism dollars support family-owned restaurants, local retailers, lodging properties, guides, outfitters, event organizers, and countless other businesses that help make the Northwoods a memorable destination.

Communities such as Tomahawk and the surrounding towns continue to attract visitors seeking authentic Northwoods experiences. From boating and fishing in the summer to fall color tours, hunting seasons, snowmobiling adventures, and winter recreation, Tomahawk offers year-round attractions that keep visitors returning year after year.

Tourism also plays a key role in community development. Increased visitation supports investments in parks, trails, events, downtown districts, and recreational amenities that benefit both visitors and residents. As communities continue to thrive and improve, tourism serves as an important economic development tool that strengthens the region's long-term vitality.

As Lincoln County looks toward the future, continued collaboration between local businesses, municipalities, tourism organizations, and community partners will help ensure that the area remains a premier Northwoods destination for generations to come.

Every visitor who chooses Tomahawk contributes to a stronger local economy—and every positive experience helps create another ambassador for the Northwoods.