National Travel and Tourism Week 2021 (May 2-8) spotlights  the collective strength of the U.S. travel industry.

This National Travel and Tourism Week (NTTW), there is more reason than ever to celebrate the collective strength of the U.S. travel and tourism industry and its dynamic workforce.

The 38th annual NTTW, taking place May 2-8, recognizes the Power of
Travel and the critical role our industry will play in bringing back our vibrant communities, restoring the economy, rebuilding our workforce and reconnecting America.

Prior to the pandemic, the travel industry was a powerful economic engine, supporting jobs and driving local economies in every pocket of America. The industry had experienced 107 straight months of growth, generated $2.6 trillion in economic output, supported 17 million American jobs and delivered a $51 billion trade surplus to the U.S.

Unfortunately, that strong growth trend plummeted last year due to the pandemic. Travel spending in the U.S. declined 42%, costing the economy $1.1 trillion, while hardworking Americans supported by travel made up a staggering 65% of all U.S. unemployment. Here in Jacksonville, Blessings on State Bed & Breakfast and other local hotels, restaurants, bars, historic sites and shops were hit incredibly hard.

However, Jacksonville — and the travel industry — is resilient.

While we faced extraordinary challenges in the past year, our industry united like never before, lifted each other up, assisted one another, and fully devoted ourselves to the task of supporting and restoring all sectors of travel. This year’s NTTW is an opportunity to turn the page to a new chapter in our industry’s story and celebrate its collective power by spotlighting the innumerable ways travel will drive recovery, bring Americans together again and help define our country’s path forward.

Our town, Jacksonville, is participating in NTTW by sharing the Jacksonville Looking for Lincoln tourist experience with “Flat Lincoln.” The Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau is hosting a game sheet for selfies with Flat Lincoln as participants follow clues to discover some great sites in the Jacksonville area and win prizes. Tourism stakeholders will be sharing regular posts highlighting the #PowerOfTravel and all it means to our community. Join us as we celebrate this important industry for National Travel and Tourism Week 2021!

From learning more about the Underground Railroad (UGRR) to world-class sprint car races, Big Eli Ferris wheel rides, baseball at our great sports complex, specialty shops and restaurants, the travel and tourism industry contributes so much to our local economy and our community’s unique character. From all of us at Blessings on State Bed & Breakfast, we are so excited to share the full power of our industry—and the strength and spirit of Jacksonville, Illinois this NTTW!

Blessings on State Bed & Breakfast is an award-winning all-suite inn located in Jacksonville, Illinois. We offer many amenities, including overnight accommodations in a 130-year-old vintage mansion, Wi-Fi, expansive lawn and gardens, all-season fireplaces, and multi-course breakfasts. Come see us! Our reviews reflect that guest satisfaction is a high priority. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube to see how we’re moving forward in 2021. We are still in business!