As the solar eclipse approaches, hotels in Fredericksburg, Texas, are experiencing high demand, with bookings stretching years in advance.

Anticipating Record Visitor Numbers

The Fredericksburg Convention and Visitor Bureau anticipates welcoming approximately 100,000 visitors on April 8, marking the largest event in the city’s history.

McKenzie Moellering, the communications manager at the bureau, highlights the unprecedented scale of the event, indicating a significant boost to the local economy.

Hanger Hotel Fully Booked for Years

Courtney Walker and Hailey Harrison, owners of the Hanger Hotel at the Gillespie County Airport, reveal that their establishment has been fully booked for the past three to four years in anticipation of the eclipse.

With the announcement of the eclipse’s path, they experienced a surge in inquiries and have maintained a waitlist for accommodation for several years.

Eclipse 2024: We Are Blood Calls for Donations

With less than two weeks until the solar eclipse, We Are Blood, a local blood donation organization, is urging people to donate ahead of the expected influx of visitors.

Preparing for Increased Demand

The owners of We Are Blood are ramping up staffing, hiring security, and arranging food services to accommodate the surge in visitors, recognizing the logistical challenges associated with hosting large crowds.

Rising Demand and Preparation Challenges

As the eclipse draws near, hotels, short-term rentals, and RV parks are experiencing high occupancy rates, with demand expected to increase further.

Moellering reports that as of March 29, hotels were 65 percent booked, short-term rentals were 85 percent booked, and RV parks were fully booked. These figures underscore the need for visitors to plan their accommodation well in advance.

Ross Suber, who has listed his property near Alamo Springs Cafe for rent on Facebook Marketplace, highlights the need for additional infrastructure to accommodate RV guests, reflecting the proactive measures taken by locals to capitalize on the event.

Solar Eclipse 2024: Traffic Preparations Underway

With the influx of visitors expected in the Austin area, the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) is gearing up for high traffic volumes leading up to, during, and after the eclipse.

Addressing Infrastructure Challenges

Property owners like Suber are adapting to the increased demand by making necessary improvements to their properties, such as adding road bases and enhancing facilities for RV guests.

Conclusion: Embracing Responsible Tourism

As Fredericksburg braces for the solar eclipse event, locals and authorities emphasize the importance of responsible tourism.

From ensuring adequate provisions to encouraging safe and considerate behavior among visitors, the community is united in its efforts to make the event a memorable and enjoyable experience for all.

For the latest updates and available lodging options, visitors are encouraged to download The Local News App and visit the city’s eclipse website.

Source