INDIANAPOLIS -- Despite the tough economy, Indianapolis is holding its own in the convention business, city leaders said.

The Circle City draws more than 22 million visitors each year, injecting the local economy with $3.6 billion. Even with the recession, tourism officials said they expect to match or surpass that number this year, 6News' Renee Jameson reported.

"A lot of cities have seen a sharp decline, from Orlando to Chicago, (but) 'staycations', our affordability and the ability that half the nation's population can drive here in a day or less, makes us an affordable destination," said Chris Gahl with the Indianapolis Convention & Visitors Association.

But managers at the downtown Marriott said their business has been down slightly from last year, despite predictions hotel usage would be up by as much as 9 percent in 2009.

They said they expect to make up the difference by the end of the year, and agreed that Indianapolis is better off than some other cities.

"Indianapolis is staying very competitive and faring much better then some of the other top ten convention cities," said Marriot Resident Manager Dallas Collins. "It could be worse. I think we're very fortunate here in Indianapolis."

Tourism dollars are the main focus for the local hospitality industry this weekend, with more than 25,000 gamers expected to pack in for GenCon, providing the city with a $26 million economic boost.

Champions restaurant bartender Jennifer Barns said without conventions, it would be hard to earn a living.

"This is our main important time. This is what pays the bills and everything," she said. "When we don't have a convention, you hardly see anybody. For me personally, if there's not a convention, there's no money or anything in here."

Coming up this year, big crowds are expected at the FFA convention and the Circle City Classic, both in October, which are set to bring in a combined $54 million in direct visitor spending, along with the Bands of America competition in November, which could draw $16 million.

Indianapolis intends to boost its share of the convention-hosting pie in 2011, when the expansion of the Indiana Convention Center will be complete, doubling the space currently available.

Officials said the facility is already 75 percent booked for that first year.