Fox Cities Convention Bureau reports $571M tourism spending and significant economic impact

The Neenah City Council meeting on May 7, 2025, featured a significant presentation from Pam Bridal, the executive director of the Fox Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB). Bridal outlined the bureau's role in promoting tourism across the Fox Cities region, which includes Neenah, Kaukauna, Hortonville, and Sherwood, among others.

Bridal emphasized the importance of tourism to the local economy, noting that in 2023, visitors spent $571 million in the Fox Cities, contributing to a total economic impact of $748 million. This activity supported over 6,700 jobs and generated $64 million in state and local taxes. The CVB operates on funding from hotel and motel room taxes, which are paid by guests, not local residents. This funding model allows the bureau to reinvest in community projects, with over $12 million allocated back into local tourism development initiatives.

A key focus of Bridal's presentation was the economic impact of two major facilities funded by room taxes: the Fox Cities Exhibition Center in Appleton and the Community First Champion Center in Grand Chute. Both venues have become vital to the region's tourism strategy, hosting numerous events and tournaments that draw visitors and generate revenue. For instance, the Champion Center hosted 74 tournaments in 2024, bringing in over $6.2 million in direct visitor spending.

Bridal also addressed the recent NFL Draft event, which had mixed results for local hotels. While some hotels reported being sold out, others experienced lower occupancy compared to the previous year. Bridal noted that many visitors likely chose to stay in Green Bay, impacting local business revenues. However, she highlighted a 25% increase in home rentals, indicating a shift in visitor accommodation preferences.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on the ongoing efforts to enhance tourism in the Fox Cities, with Bridal encouraging collaboration among local municipalities to maximize the benefits of tourism for the community. The council's engagement with the CVB underscores a commitment to leveraging tourism as a key driver of economic growth and community development in Neenah and the surrounding areas.