It wasn't all gloom and doom over the Labor Day weekend for the tourism industry.
The official numbers aren't yet available, but anecdotal information from various tourist destinations including Eagle River, Door County, Wisconsin Dells, and Hayward shows the state's tourism industry has done pretty well over the Labor Day holiday.
"You know we had a real rocky start and probably our most challenging season starting into the summer. And we were so blessed with wonderful weather in July and August."
Tourism Secretary Kelli Trumble says despite a "rocky start" to the summer with the devastating floods, a looming economy, and high gas prices, we weren't willing to compromise on our vacation plans. Trumble says we just need that time to get away and recharge, even if it meant staying closer to home.
She says state grants promoting tourism helped the industry to stay afloat.
"And we are hearing that, you know, we may be equal to last year and that really would be a victory for us."
Trumble says July and August were busy months for the major tourist destinations.
