Macombopoly Wins Lt. Governor’s Hometown Award

By: Forgottonia Times™ Report

Visit Unforgettable Forgottonia has been honored with the Lt. Governor’s Hometown Award for its newest attraction, Macombopoly, recognized in the Promotion Approach category at the 2024 Illinois Main Street Conference. This app-based, Monopoly-inspired game celebrates Macomb’s history and culture while promoting local businesses in the downtown district.

Macombopoly pays tribute to Elizabeth “Lizzie” Magie, inventor of The Landlord’s Game, the predecessor to Monopoly. Launched on Magie’s birthday, May 9, 2024, the app-guided game takes players on an interactive journey through 60 locations across Macomb. This innovative project was developed through a collaboration between the Macomb Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, adventure app developer eATLAS, the City of Macomb, Enjoy Illinois, and numerous local businesses and volunteers.

“The support from our community has been overwhelming, and the results have been almost too incredible to be true,” said Jock Hedblade, Executive Director of the Macomb Area Convention & Visitors Bureau. Since its launch, Macombopoly has attracted over 500,000 visitors from across the U.S. and beyond.

Macombopoly’s success has significantly increased foot traffic and revitalized interest in the downtown square, benefiting local businesses and fostering a sense of pride within the community. Participants from all 50 states and countries as far away as Canada, France, Brazil, and Egypt have explored Macomb through the app, which features two dozen local businesses and highlights the town’s rich history.

Visit Unforgettable Forgottonia and eATLAS will celebrate this achievement at the Illinois Main Street Conference on November 13, 2024, further solidifying Macombopoly’s role as a standout example of community revitalization through innovation and collaboration.