The Hoosier state welcomed more than 3.5 million people to Indiana, and generated $45 million during April’s Total Solar Eclipse, according to numbers from a study from the Indiana Destination Development Corporation.
The study, which was conducted by Rockport Analytics, estimates that Indiana saw a 45% increase in regular visitor volume, and a 41.1% increase in regular visitor spending.
Local businesses saw significant revenue increases, the study says, including:
- Lodging: $45 M;
- Food & Beverage: $63.8 M;
- Recreation & Entertainment: $65 M;
- Transportation: $9.7 M;
- Retail: $5.4 M.
“Indiana capitalized on this unique event through IDDC’s targeted and enhanced digital marketing and local communities hosting engaging events,” Elaine Bedel, IDDC’s secretary and chief executive officer, said in the release. “Planning for the 2024 eclipse was truly a statewide effort with state and local governments, visitor bureaus and local businesses coordinating efforts to ensure a safe and exciting event for both visitors and Hoosiers.”
The 2024 Total Solar Eclipse was the first time a total eclipse was visible in the U.S. since 2017, and the second total solar eclipse of the 21st century.
The next total solar eclipse that will be visible in the U.S. won’t happen until August 2044.
