Despite predictions of up to four million people traveling for the total solar eclipse on April 8, only a small number of individuals had planned to visit New Hampshire and Maine, with even fewer living in those states. The focus was primarily on Texas and Arkansas, where the weather was expected to be better for viewing the eclipse.
Surprisingly, New Hampshire and Maine experienced clear skies during the eclipse, leading to a significant economic boost for both states. According to data from the Mastercard Economics Institute, the increase in economic activity was primarily seen in hotel, fuel, and dining spending in the 13 U.S. states that were in the path of totality.
New Hampshire saw a 729% spike in hotel sales compared to what would have occurred without the eclipse, as many eclipse-chasers changed their plans to head to the state with clear skies. Other states, such as Illinois and Maine, also experienced substantial increases in hotel sales. Overall, there was a 71% increase in hotel sales across the path of totality.
Fuel sales experienced a 7% daily increase across the path of totality, with New Hampshire and Maine seeing a 26% boost in fuel sales, the highest in the U.S. This was likely due to many individuals driving to get into the path of totality and swapping locations based on weather conditions.
Dining sales also saw a significant increase in the states within the path of totality, with Maine, New Hampshire, and Illinois leading in sales. On average, dining sales rose by 27%, showcasing the impact of the eclipse on the local economies. Michelle Meyer, chief economist at the Mastercard Economics Institute, highlighted the importance of experiential spending, especially for events like the total solar eclipse.
Overall, the total solar eclipse on April 8 had a positive economic impact on states like New Hampshire and Maine, contrary to initial predictions. The clear skies in these states led to a surge in hotel, fuel, and dining spending, showcasing the power of experiential travel and the willingness of consumers to prioritize experiences like witnessing a solar eclipse.
