Elkhart’s continued growth in visitors stems from Elkhart County CVB’s partnership with local businesses

The Elkhart County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) is a cornerstone in the City of Elkhart and surrounding area’s visitor business. A not-for-profit corporation, the Elkhart County CVB is committed to promoting and enhancing the area’s offerings.

As a business based in the area, Goshen Brewing Company works in partnership with the Elkhart County CVB to provide not only its product but also a warm and inviting atmosphere to visitors.

“Goshen Brewing Company serves as an important visitor draw by pairing our family-friendly, eco-conscious atmosphere with a rotating craft beer selection and a locally sourced, seasonal food menu,” said Jesse Sensenig, co-founder for Goshen Brewing Company.

The brewery sees both local and non-local visitors. This diversity in visitor segments that visit Goshen Brewing Company can be attributed by the Elkhart County CVB’s marketing of the brewery and its events.

“Travelers and locals alike flock to the brewery for popular weekly events, including free live music on Wednesdays during the warmer months, Pad Thai Tuesdays, and Sunday brunch,” Sensenig said. “By blending distinct regional flavors with vibrant community entertainment, this destination significantly boosts downtown foot traffic and enhances the area’s cultural appeal.”

Purely Pressed is another business with a presence in Elkhart and they have two other stores just outside Elkhart. They have benefited from the “Do Downtown Elkhart” campaign, which highlights the businesses in Elkhart to continue attracting local and non-local visitors. 

“When we launched our third Purely Pressed store, we strategically chose Elkhart for its location,” said Ryan Blake, co-owner of Purely Pressed. “Working with the Elkhart County CVB to market its presence was essential, and we had a tremendous experience with their team. Today, we continue to work closely with them, and our relationship continues to pay nothing but tremendous dividends.”

When The Lerner Theatre turned 100 last year, the Elkhart County CVB helped to amplify the fanfare around this milestone. It communicated the theater’s history, community impact, and events associated with the 100-year anniversary. The Elkhart County CVB is able to do this with businesses across different sectors with strong results.

“Our business like Goertzen Pottery, Main Street Roasters, and Das Dutchman Essenhaus – all very different business with all very different histories – have worked with the Elkhart County CVB to grow and also to attract visitors,” said Terry Mark, director of communications and public relations for the Elkhart County CVB. “It’s always rewarding and fun to partner.”

The Elkhart County CVB even encourages locals to stay a night or two to really immerse themselves in all that Elkhart has to offer.

“Whether you live near Elkhart County or farther away, the Elkhart County CVB markets the opportunity to maximize your experience with a few days’ stay,” Mark said. “There are plenty of restaurants, shops, boutiques, outdoor venues, events, and other opportunities here. We love working hand-in-hand with the businesses to showcase how visitors can experience the community through the lens of various forms of commerce.”

The work the Elkhart County CVB is doing brings new visitors from across the state. Some come to enjoy the cuisine, others the rustic charms of Elkhart County’s more rural communities, and more for the fun events hosted throughout the county every year.

“I enjoy Steelyard Coffee Co and Birds Gotta Fly as well as restaurants like Artisan,” said Granger Resident Lauren Imfeld. “I also hope to attend the Elkhart Jazz Festival in the future, especially if they bring in big acts again like Diana Krall.”

With a partner like Elkhart County CVB, local businesses and event initiatives are empowered to provide an excellent hospitality experience for visitors. Through mutual efforts, these partnerships are helping the area continue to grow, thrive, and provide a best-in-class experience to local and non-local visitors visiting the area.

For more information on the Elkhart County CVB, you can visit visitelkhartcounty.com/eccvb.