Courtesy of IOT
Group of friends enjoying their drinks at Blaum Bros. Distilling Co.
Latest Illinois Office of Tourism program designed to inspire travel throughout the state
For Distribution
July 18, 2016
Contact: Marla Cichowski
312-324-3510
marla@timezoneone.com
Chicago – The Illinois Department of Commerce’s Office of Tourism launched Illinois Made, a new program featuring makers, creators and artisans from across the state. Throughout the summer, Commerce’s Office of Tourism will feature a series of in-depth videos, exclusive web content, and Illinois Made-inspired travel ideas at www.EnjoyIllinois.com/Illinoismade.
Experiential travel continues to be a defining factor in trip planning. According to a special 2014 report by Skift and Peak DMC, a global travel expert network, more than 72 percent of consumers would rather spend money on experiences than things. With Illinois Made, the the Department aims to bring the best of Illinois’ unique, creative and on-trend experiences to travelers of all backgrounds, encouraging people to extend their experiences beyond a day trip by exploring the local businesses and great attractions nearby.
From craft brewers and independent coffee roasters, to custom canoe makers and woodworking journeymen, Illinois is teeming with craftspeople that are proud to call the Land of Lincoln home, and this pride shines through in their work. Illinois Made brings all of these amazing experiences together in one location for travelers to explore.
Visitors can get an intimate glimpse into the lives of these craftspeople through a video series available on the website. In addition, in-depth editorial features allow visitors to dive deeper into the unique story behind each maker’s establishment. What’s more, each maker feature includes an interactive map highlighting other travel experiences, amenities and attractions near the maker’s location, allowing visitors to build an amazing customized travel itinerary unique to them.
“From our world-class museums and iconic attractions, to our beautiful state parks and historic sites, Illinois has something for everyone,” Department of Commerce Acting Director Sean McCarthy said. “Illinois Made highlights the people and experiences that make Illinois one of a kind, and will attract new visitors to explore our state, supporting local businesses and generating important tourism spending for our communities.”
“Illinois is home to a thriving culture of artisans and craftspeople, making unique products that are in high demand among people looking for authentic, out of the ordinary experiences,” said Cory M. Jobe, Director of the Office of Tourism. “By profiling the stories of these makers and how the state of Illinois shapes their work through Illinois Made, we hope to inspire both new and repeat travelers to discover the gems they didn’t know about on a trip to Illinois.”
Illinois Made is an ongoing program that will highlight the depth and diversity of Illinois’ makers, creators, and artisans. The program will introduce new featured craftspeople every few weeks throughout the summer months. The first set of makers featured includes:
Epiphany Farms – Bloomington, Illinois