INDIANAPOLIS -- Indianapolis tourism officials credit a multimillion dollar marketing campaign for an expected surge of visitors this holiday weekend.

The Indianapolis Convention and Visitors Association spent $1.4 million this summer on television, radio and print ads targeting eight cities within driving distance of Indianapolis, with a heavy focus on Chicago, 6News' Tanya Spencer reported.

The group said that last summer, more than 40 percent of leisure visitors to Indianapolis were from the Chicago area, while Trip Advisor just named Indianapolis as the Windy City's No. 2 travel destination for Labor Day drivers this year.

"We see more leisure visitors from Chicago to Indianapolis than any other city in the nation," said ICVA Associate Director of Communications Chris Gahl.

He said while other major cities have lost tourists, Indianapolis has maintained, with hotels more than 70 percent full and gate admissions up at downtown attractions.

Gahl said the city makes $3 for every $1 spent on tourism advertising.

"We see that return on investment again and again," he said.

Some families arriving in the Circle City on Friday said they were excited to spend the weekend exploring the city.

"It's a beautiful State Capitol and a beautiful city," said Dave Bergman, who is visiting with his family from Pennsylvania.

"I brought these three young ladies, they've never been here, to see the game and enjoy your city. It's beautiful," said Monica Thomas, who is visiting from Louisville, Ken. "You're all very popular with us in Louisville, so you've got us coming."

This summer was the second year for the ICVA's media blitz. The said they are planning another ad campaign for next summer.