Impacts of Tourism
Tourism in Boone County is more than just a weekend visit or a festival crowd—it’s a vital part of our local economy and community life. Every visitor who dines at a local restaurant, shops in a small-town boutique, or stays overnight in one of our welcoming accommodations contributes directly to the health and vibrancy of our region.
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In 2023 alone, visitors spent $69.8 million in Boone County. That includes:
- $11.2 million on lodging
- $13.5 million on food and beverage
- $22 million on shopping
- $9.2 million on transportation
- $13.8 million on entertainment and recreation
With 869 rooms across 12 active lodging properties, our community is well-equipped to welcome travelers—and when they spend money here, it makes a big difference. In fact, 52 cents of every dollar spent by visitors stays local, directly supporting Boone County’s economy and contributing to our Gross County Product through a ripple effect that benefits local workers, suppliers, and service providers.
Tourism also supports 697 jobs in Boone County, placing it as the 14th largest industry by employment in our area. These aren’t just jobs in hotels or attractions—they include positions in transportation, food service, retail, and many small businesses that are part of the broader tourism supply chain.
Boone County ranked 38th out of 92 Indiana counties for total visitor spending in 2023 and saw an 8.6% growth in tourism spending, placing us among the top 25% of counties in terms of growth. That momentum supports year-round benefits—from busy downtown weekends to seasonal festivals like Viking Fest, Fall Festival, and Christmas on the Square, where local vendors and artisans see major boosts in sales.
Tourism is, in essence, an export industry—bringing money from outside the region and investing it directly into the businesses, workers, and communities that make Boone County special. It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about the pride of place, the thriving small businesses, and the shared experiences that make Boone County feel like home to visitors and residents alike.
