SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — The $117 million Denny Sanford Premier Center is bringing top-notch entertainers to Sioux Falls — and it’s also attracting tourism dollars.

More than half of the tickets sold for the first few concerts at the soon-to-open venue have been bought by out-of-towners. About one-fifth have gone to people in eight other states, including Minnesota and North Dakota.

“One of the biggest selling points for building the event center was not only would it be a quality-of-life hit for the city, but it would be a rock solid economic development generator as well,” Mayor Mike Huether said. “When these folks from out of town visit our new event center, they bring their wallets, purses and credit cards with them, as well.”

Tourists who stay overnight in the city generally spend about $350 each, according to Sioux Falls Convention and Visitors Bureau Executive Director Teri Schmidt.

Rocker Joan Jett is scheduled to play the 12,000-seat center Sept. 24. The facility’s grand opening is Oct. 3, with country superstars Jason Aldean and Florida Georgia Line headlining.

Other musical acts scheduled before the end of the year are Demi Lovato, Cher, Slipknot and Eric Church. The center also will host football, basketball and hockey games, along with rodeos.