High Demand and Astronomical Prices for Lodging During Western New York’s Total Solar Eclipse
Western New York is gearing up for an extraordinary event that is set to draw hundreds of thousands of people to the region – the total solar eclipse taking place on April 8. With such high demand, hotels, motels, and Airbnbs are charging exorbitant prices for lodging during this once-in-a-lifetime event.
Unprecedented Demand
“We’ve never seen anything like it,” says Sara Harvey, spokesperson for tourism bureau Destination Niagara USA. “People have been planning for years.” Hotels have opened their reservation books early to accommodate eclipse seekers, and some have had rooms booked a year in advance. While many hotels are already fully booked, others have just a few rooms remaining.
A Boon for the Local Economy
The surge in demand for lodging during the total solar eclipse is a welcome boost for the local economy, especially during the tourism industry’s slow season. “Anything that brings people to the area, especially at a time when it’s normally a little slower, it’s something to celebrate,” says Harvey. Hotels, motels, and Airbnbs are charging more than five times their usual rates for the event, resulting in a significant economic impact for the region.
Astronomical Prices
The Sheraton on Third Street in Niagara Falls, which typically charges $80 to $100 for a similar night, is now charging $1,800 per night on eclipse Sunday and Monday. The Buffalo Airport Hotel in Cheektowaga has a special hotel package for April 8, including an eclipse viewing party, live music, and early check-in, priced at $428. Even Airbnbs in the region are going for thousands of dollars per night.
All-Hands-On-Deck
The total solar eclipse is expected to sell out the entire city of Buffalo. Matt Chiazza, general manager of the Reikart House hotel in Amherst, says, “I have no doubt that the entire city’s going to be sold out for that event.” The event falls at the perfect time after the slow Easter week, providing a much-needed boost for the tourism industry.
Welcoming a New Crowd
The eclipse is an opportunity to welcome a whole new crowd of people to Buffalo who may not have experienced the city’s food, architecture, and attractions before. Patrick Kaler, president and CEO at tourism bureau Visit Buffalo Niagara, says, “It’s an opportunity to welcome a whole new crowd of people to Buffalo that may not have been here to experience our food and architecture and what we have to offer.”
Beyond the Eclipse
While the premium hotel rates may seem steep for a three-minute celestial spectacle, the region’s tourism and hospitality professionals are working hard to encourage visitors to explore other local attractions. Local attractions and cultural centers are offering special events to cater to the crowds. Niagara Falls State Park, which is hosting NASA for the event, may be the most popular destination on the globe on the day of the eclipse.
A Phenomenon Worth Traveling For
The total solar eclipse in Western New York is a phenomenon that people are willing to travel for. Local attractions have planned their programming for the days leading up to and following the event, ensuring that visitors have plenty to do and see beyond the eclipse itself. This major event is expected to sell out not only Buffalo but the entire region, creating an exciting buzz in Western New York.
In Conclusion
The total solar eclipse in Western New York has sparked unprecedented demand for lodging in the region. Hotels, motels, and Airbnbs are charging astronomical prices for accommodations during this once-in-a-lifetime event. While the high rates may seem steep, they are a welcome boost for the local economy during the tourism industry’s slow season. Visitors to the region will not only have the opportunity to witness the celestial spectacle but also explore the rich offerings of Buffalo and its surrounding areas. With special events and attractions planned, Western New York is ready to welcome a whole new crowd of eclipse enthusiasts.