For Immediate Release: February 2, 2022
Iowa tourism supporters hosted their annual Tourism Showcase at the Iowa State Fairgrounds on Tuesday, February 1, 2022. Iowa communities, attractions and organizations participated in the event which highlights the importance of tourism to Iowa’s economy and economic development efforts.
Lisa Riggs, Manager of the Danish Windmill was among other tourism leaders who visited with legislators to thank them for their past support of tourism development and promotion.
“The iconic Danish Windmill is one of Iowa’s favorite travel destinations. In 2021 we welcomed visitors from all fifty states and 26 different countries before July 1!” said Riggs.
In its 26th year, the showcase is hosted by the Travel Federation, a statewide, grassroots organization dedicated to growing Iowa’s tourism industry.
“Tourism in Iowa is a major contributor to the state’s economy,” said Anne Drannen, President of the Travel Federation of Iowa. “Visitor spending infuses new money into local economies, and tourism highlights the unique assets that make Iowa a great place to visit, work, or start a business.”
Tourism is a revenue generating industry. In 2020 visitors spending totaled $4.6 billion in Iowa, supported 60,218 jobs, and generated $864 million in state and local taxes according to the Economic Impact of Visitors in Iowa 2020, Tourism Economics.
Download the Economic Impact of Visitors in Shelby County 2020 here.
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The Travel Federation of Iowa is a statewide, grassroots organization dedicated to growing Iowa’s tourism industry through advocacy and education. For more information visit www.travelfederationofiowa.com
Lisa Riggs with Debi Durham, Executive Director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority 
State Senator Jason Schultz 
Lisa with Representative Steven Holt
