LAFAYETTE–WEST LAFAYETTE (February 2026) – Tourism continued to be a major economic driver for Tippecanoe County in 2024, generating $630.7 million in visitor spending and $368.5 million in net new economic value, according to a new study released by the Indiana Destination Development Corporation.
The study also highlights the impact of tourism-related employment, with 8,235 jobs supported by visitor spending, including 6,727 direct jobs, contributing $214.2 million in total wages.
In 2024, tax revenue from travel, tourism, and hospitality reached $43.3 million in Tippecanoe County, with $69.9 million generated in state and local taxes. Tippecanoe County ranked 7th out of Indiana's 92 counties for overall visitor spending. Visitors spent the largest share on food & beverage places (34%), followed by shopping (28%), lodging (14%), transportation (13%), and entertainment (11%).
“Tourism is not just about visitors, it’s about economic vitality for our entire community,” said Jo Wade, President of Visit Lafayette – West Lafayette. “From job creation to tax relief for residents, the industry plays a measurable and meaningful role in Tippecanoe County’s success. Without tourism, households would need to pay an additional $939 annually to maintain current levels of state and local services.”
This study was commissioned by IDDC and conducted by Rockport Analytics, an independent market research and consulting firm. It utilized data from multiple sources, including Longwoods International, Reach Market Planning, and the U.S. Commerce Department's National Travel & Tourism Office, and was cross-referenced with data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Indiana Department of Revenue, and Smith Travel Research.
