Hamilton County exceeds tourism projections in 2024 with major events & new attractions

Hamilton County Tourism celebrates a record year that included a series of successful events throughout the county and the opening of several key venues, solidifying Hamilton County’s status as a premier destination in the Midwest.

To kick off the year, the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) held its inaugural Collegiate Championships and Midwest Open Jan. 3 to 7 at Grand Park Sports Campus in Westfield. The event aired on CBS Sports Network and featured pickleball players from across the nation.

The Total Solar Eclipse on April 8 was another highlight of 2024, attracting 89,600 visitors from around the globe to Hamilton County to witness the celestial phenomenon. Tourism served as a guide for safely viewing the eclipse, promoted major viewing locations and events and partnered with local businesses to offer photo opportunities and souvenirs. This major event attracted significant media attention in publications.

Conner Prairie in Fishers also witnessed a record-breaking moment this year, selling nearly 58,000 tickets to its Headless Horseman Festival, including one ticket to the singer/songwriter P!nk.

Radcliff

“This has been an extraordinary year for Hamilton County,” Hamilton County Tourism Vice President & Chief Strategy Officer Karen Radcliff said. “I’m proud of the way our partners and staff have showcased exceptional hospitality during large-scale events and provided positive experiences for millions of visitors.”

The county celebrated the opening of prominent venues this year like Hotel Nickel Plate, a Hilton Tapestry Collection Hotel in Fishers. The Fishers Event Center also opened to the public in November, home to Indy Fuel (ECHL), Indy Ignite (PVF), and Fishers Freight (IFL). It boasts a diverse line-up of shows in its inaugural year, including Blake Shelton, Tom Segura, and Cirque du Soleil.

To amplify the county’s major attractions and events, Hamilton County Tourism launched the “Discover You” advertising campaign in the Spring in the Chicago market and statewide. The campaign reached 950,000 leisure traveling households and generated $368 in visitor spending for every dollar invested in media.

Internally, Hamilton County Tourism experienced major updates that will propel the organization into its next chapter. In August, the Hamilton County Sports Authority rebranded, taking on an updated visual identity and unveiling its new strategic plans.

In October, the organization welcomed new President & CEO Dave West, after an extensive nationwide search following Brenda Myers’ retirement announcement.

West

“Hamilton County Tourism has seen tremendous growth and success this year during a time when many other destinations are trying to find their footing,” West said. “I’m excited to see what’s possible in 2025 as we continue to dream big and execute new initiatives alongside our partners.”

For those interested in exploring the diverse attractions and events Hamilton County offers, go to VisitHamiltonCounty.com for the latest updates and information.