Hendricks County sees healthy uptick in tourism spending
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Tourism officials in Hendricks County are touting a 5% increase in visitor spending as travel continues to open up after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Visit Hendricks County, the area’s tourism arm, points to a new report from Rockport Analytics showing just over $370 million in visitor spending in 2024. That number is up from $352 million in 2023, and Visit Hendricks County CEO Jaime Bohler Smith said that data gives the county momentum.
“This growth not only underscores the county’s appeal but also strengthens our local economy, benefiting businesses and enhancing the quality of life for residents,” Smith said in a news release. “We are thrilled to see more visitors discovering our unique experiences and warm hospitality.”
The increase in spending resulted in $215 million in new net value added to Hendricks County.
The report estimated tourism spending supported about 4,840 jobs in Hendricks County. Of those, 3,815 positions are directly employed by the tourism industry, making it the ninth largest industry in the county.
In recent years, Hendricks County has seen progress on a boardwalk at the Echo Hollow Nature Park near Plainfield. That project is using funding from the Regional Economic Acceleration and Development Initiative, or READI, program.
Visit Hendricks County also credited the new Hendricks Live entertainment venue, which opened in Plainfield in March 2024, with helping boost tourism spending.