FY 2023/24 Highlights
President/CEO Message
VisitMercerCountyPA is the marketing leader for the travel and industry in Mercer County with the goal to expand and strengthen travel and tourism and enhance the overall economy of Mercer County.
2024 Solar Eclipse Takes Center Stage The northwest corner of Pennsylvania had the rare opportunity to witness one of nature’s most breathtaking displays during the solar eclipse of 2024. For a brief couple of minutes at about 3:15 pm on April 8, 2024, our small area on earth was plunged into total darkness. Throughout Mercer County the excitement could be felt as parts of the sun became obscured by the moon until total darkness reigned. For most locations, the excitement began and ended at the times below. • Start of Partial Eclipse – 1:59 PM • Start of Total Eclipse – 3:15 PM • End of Total Eclipse – 3:20 PM • End of Partial – 4:35 PM Our office spent about seven months preparing to showcase Mercer County during this event. We encouraged our members to host viewing parties and sent out countless email blasts, social media announcements, blogs and native content advertising on the activities taking place in Mercer County. Over 2300 pairs of solar eclipse glasses were distributed to the public. We were successful beyond all expectations. Viewing parties were completely sold out. Most of our hotels sold out for both the Sunday before the eclipse and Monday, the day of the eclipse. Tens of thousands of visitors came to Mercer County and the surrounding area, some from as far away as Nebraska and Puerto Rico.
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We extend our thanks to the following locations for hosting viewing parties/activities to help us draw visitors to Mercer County for this once in a lifetime experience. • Buhl Park • Conneaut Cellars Winery & Distillery • Gatehouse Winery • Gibson House Manor • Greenville Chamber of Commerce (Event at Greenville Sports Complex) • Grove City Premium Outlets • Pymatuning and Maurice K Goddard State Park • Vacationland Campground