Choose Chicago held its 2026 Annual Meeting at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, focusing on continued growth in the city’s tourism and hospitality sector. The event, sponsored by American Airlines, gathered industry and civic leaders to discuss results from 2025 and plans for the coming years.
During the meeting, Choose Chicago shared that hotel room demand in 2025 increased by 2.3% compared to the previous year, despite a national decline of 0.5%. The city filled 11.9 million room nights, generating $2.9 billion in hotel revenues and achieving a Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR) of $168.15. Leisure travel set a new record with 8.2 million leisure hotel room nights.
Kristen Reynolds, President and CEO of Choose Chicago, said: “Chicago proved in 2025 that this city can compete—and win—even in the most challenging times. Leisure travel reached historic highs, overall hotel performance exceeded national benchmarks, and Chicago continued to deliver unforgettable experiences for visitors from around the world. Today is about getting back to business and laying out how we keep that momentum going in 2026, 2027, and beyond—because Chicago is Never Done and Never Outdone.”
Governor JB Pritzker highlighted tourism’s role in Illinois’ economy: “Since the 1893 World’s Fair, Chicago has been known across the globe as one of the world’s greatest cities. More than 100 years later, Choose Chicago has captured that spirit and spread the message of Chicago to people around the world. Chicago’s tourism plays a key role in Illinois’ economy – generating more than $20 billion in economic impact and supporting more than 100,000 jobs. Through strong partnership, we’ll continue to bring the world to Chicago and bring Chicago to the rest of the world.”
Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasized tourism’s local benefits: “When visitors come and experience everything Chicago has to offer, everyone benefits. Tourism supports independent businesses, local artists, and venues across our city. Choose Chicago’s work helps tell the real story of our city—one rooted in pride, creativity, equity, and opportunity for all 77 neighborhoods. They understand that our diversity is one of our greatest strengths, both as a city and a destination. I’m proud to work alongside this incredible team to share our stories with the world.”
The meeting also reviewed several initiatives from 2025:
– Launching “Never Done. Never Outdone.” as a new brand platform.
– Running an “All for the Love of Chicago” campaign that led to millions of social impressions.
– Achieving strong convention performance with twelve major conventions setting attendance records.
– Securing commitments for sixty-five future citywide conventions.
– Hosting global events such as NASCAR races and international sports matches.
Don Welsh, President and CEO of Destinations International said: “What’s happening in Chicago is being watched closely by destination organizations around the world,” adding that Choose Chicago shows how strategy and investment can benefit both residents and visitors.
Looking ahead to 2026, Choose Chicago plans to increase year-round visitation; highlight neighborhood stories; grow international markets; prepare for major meetings; celebrate milestones like Route 66’s centennial; mark America’s semiquincentennial; and host international sporting events.
The organization also released its latest Visitors Guide and Annual Report at this event.
For further details about these efforts or upcoming events visit ChooseChicago.com.
