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Hayward Lakes reports $155 million in tourism impact for Sawyer County in 2025
Summary
Hayward Lakes Visitors and Convention Bureau director Mindy Simons told the committee Sawyer County recorded an estimated $155,000,000 in tourism economic impact in 2025, a fourth consecutive record year, supporting roughly 958 local jobs and showing 3.1% year-over-year growth.
Mindy Simons, director of the Hayward Lakes Visitors and Convention Bureau, told the Sawyer County UW-Extension Committee that 2025 was another record year for tourism in the county, with an estimated $155,000,000 in total tourism economic impact.
Simons said the figure represents an average of about $424,657 per day and supports roughly 958 local jobs tied to lodging, restaurants, retailers and attractions. She described 3.1% year-over-year growth, outpacing inflation and marking the county's fourth straight record year.
Simons described marketing successes that contributed to the results, including shoulder-season campaigns on YouTube and outreach to nearby markets such as the Twin Cities, Chicago, Madison and Milwaukee. She also said statewide tourism remained strong and that Wisconsin is currently ranked around 21st or 22nd among the 50 states in tourism metrics.
Committee members thanked the presenter and asked about regional performance and comparisons; Simons said neighboring counties also posted gains but that Washburn County experienced a small dip. The director said more detailed annual data will be presented in her full annual report next month.
The committee received the report; there was no formal action taken.
