WABASH — More exciting news for tourism in Wabash County.
Visitor spending reached $80.6 million dollars during 2023. An increase of more than $3.5 million than the previous year.
It’s also a $12-million jump from 2022 according to a study released last week by Rockport Analytics, which conducted the economic assessment via a co-op program organized by the Indiana Destination Development Corporation, a state tourism agency.
The figures are reflective of tourism spending from 2023 because it takes an entire year for metrics and data analysis to be compiled, according to tourism officials.
According to the study, visitors spent $7.2 million on lodging; $22 million on food and beverages; $23.4 million on retail, $10.5 million on entertainment and recreation; as well as $17.5 million on transportation.
“Tourism breathes life into Wabash County, fueling our economy, celebrating our incredible assets, and creating unforgettable experiences for visitors and locals alike. It’s not just about exploring; it’s about building a vibrant, connected community,” said Adam Stakeman, 2025 board president for Visit Wabash County. “Those numbers reinforce how big of an impact tourism has on the Wabash County economy.”
Visitor spending in Wabash County supported 1,132 jobs and $20.2 million in labor income. Tourism is the fifth largest industry in the community. Approximately 8 percent of all jobs in Wabash County are supported by tourism to the region. In addition to the hotel and restaurant industry, tourism directly supports jobs in retail trade, transportation, and the arts.
Tourism-initiated tax revenue generated $7.6 in local taxes and another $4.1 million in federal taxes.
According to the study, If Wabash County tourism did not exist, each of the 12,554 households in the county would have to pay an additional $609 per year in taxes to maintain current state and local tax levels.
“The study revealed that Wabash County reached record-tourism spending,” said Christine Flohr, executive director of Visit Wabash County. “It is critical for key decision-makers and residents to know the significant impact that tourism has and how it directly affects the quality of place and growth of Wabash County. We report these findings annually in addition to our year in review report as a way to ensure that the public is aware of the critical work that the team at Visit Wabash County is executing successfully.”
Visit Wabash County is governed by Stakeman, Vice President Jan Roland, Secretary Nate Fansher, Treasurer Howard Kaler, Beth Gillespie, Jennifer Bailey, Keli Cordill, Deb Conner, and Matt Jasen.
“Visit Wabash County is dedicated to enhancing the local economy by attracting visitors, new residents, and businesses to Wabash County,” added Flohr. “Through engaging programming, community partnerships, and strategic marketing initiatives, Visit Wabash County continues to promote the county as a premier destination for living, recreation, and business.”
Visit Wabash County special events and programs include Bluegrass at Hopewell, Trolley No.85, LivelN Wabash County, and the Wabash County Fellowship Program.
The organization also boasts the Wabash County Adventure Series including Liking for Biking, Wabash River Run Club, the Dam to Dam Bike Ride, and Wabash Run the River.
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