Indiana’s tourism industry is experiencing significant growth, with over 80 million visitors in 2024, a 2% increase from the previous year. According to Indiana Destination Development Corporation Interim Amy Howell, tourism acts as an economic strategy that boosts business for the state’s hotel rooms, restaurants, and shops.
Tourism Impact
Howell notes that the state’s natural resources, such as its state parks, have become a major draw for tourists. The Indiana Dunes National Park designation has been particularly successful, attracting visitors from neighboring states like Illinois, Michigan, and Ohio. The park is the number one tourism destination in the state, with many visitors flocking to the area.
Other popular tourist destinations in the state include Holiday World and Splashin’ Safari in southern Indiana, which is investing over $20 million in a new ride, the Cannonball Water Coaster. The resort community of French Lick and the Pete Dye Golf Trail are also major attractions.
Howell emphasizes that the challenge for the state is to maintain growth while competing with neighboring states that have larger budgets. To address this, the state is focusing on marketing its unique offerings, such as its national park and resort communities.
Original reporting: 93.1 WIBC (Indianapolis) — read the source article.
