The annual economic splash created by the S.C. Aquarium and the visitors it helps draw to Charleston and the state each year has climbed to nearly $414 million, a 46 percent increase compared to a decade ago, according to new study.

The “ripple effect” report by the College of Charleston’s Office of Tourism Analysis was released May 24. It measured operations at the 23-year-old waterfront Concord Street attraction and spending by the estimated 500,000 guests who check out the centerpiece “Great Ocean Tank” and other exhibits each year.

The total statewide economic impact has grown by more than $130 million since the previous study was conducted in 2013.

Among the highlights: the aquarium drew 12 percent more out-of-town visitors last year, bringing the total to about 270,000 and increasing their spending on lodging, meals, shopping and other expenses during their stays to about $378 million.

Helen Hill, CEO of Explore Charleston, the region’s tourism marketing arm, said the aquarium is an “integral part” the hospitality industry.

“The increase in annual attendance and impressive economic impact reflect how its exhibits and programs continue to resonate with local and out-of-town guests,” she said in a written statement. “Not only is the aquarium a unique and renowned family attraction, it is a leader in education and conservation and a popular venue.”

Aquarium officials said the growth reflects its status as a statewide visitor attraction. Chief advancement officer Courtenay Lewandowski said the varied programming reaches all corners of South Carolina.

For example, about 260,000 school-age children, including 113,000 from 44 of the state’s 46 counties, have come to the aquarium in person through educational outreach offerings provided through corporate sponsorships. That doesn’t include thousands of virtual visits from every state and 50 countries.

“The growth of the … economic impact is an important indicator of our identity as a statewide institution, not simply a Charleston attraction,” Lewandowski said.

Opened in May 2000, the aquarium is home to more than 5,000 animals from South Carolina habitats stretching from the mountains to the coast. It also researches and rehabilitates injured sea turtles at its working onsite hospital, where more than 375 turtles have been treated for release back into the ocean.

Last year, the aquarium announced plans for a $7 million renovation of the city’s nearby Maritime Center into a learning lab “where students of all ages will be inspired to protect our waters, wildlife and wild places,” said Kevin Mills, president.

“It will be a vibrant community center where scientists can meet the public, and where area partners can convene programs and engage in dialogue,” Mills said.

Also, the aquarium just commissioned a 10-year plan for its flagship building.

Attractions are a small but vital piece of the tourism industry’s financial impact. A separate study by the College of Charleston released last week found that the visitor business generates $12.8 billion in annual economic impact, surpassing pre-pandemic levels.

Source: Megan Fernandes, SC Aquarium making a bigger economic splash, new study finds, (Post & Courier, 2023)https://www.postandcourier.com/business/study-finds-sc-aquarium-drawing-more-visitors-and-economic-impact/