Thanksgiving Travel Surge Hits Western New York: Hotels, Roads, and Airports Prepare
As Thanksgiving approaches, Western New York is gearing up for what is expected to be the busiest travel period on record. According to AAA, the holiday weekend will see an unprecedented surge in travelers, with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) also bracing for a significant increase in airline passengers.
In Erie County, particularly in downtown Buffalo, hotel availability is already becoming a pressing issue. The combination of Thanksgiving festivities and major local events is driving demand for accommodations to new heights. This year, the busy holiday weekend coincides with the highly anticipated Buffalo Bills game against the San Francisco 49ers, the World’s Largest Disco event, and two home games for the Buffalo Sabres.
Elizabeth Carey, the Director of Public Relations for AAA of Western and Central New York, highlighted that this Thanksgiving is unique due to these overlapping events. “This time of year, Buffalo tends to become an inbound hub as many individuals who have moved away return home for the holiday to spend time with family,” Carey explained. “People are eager to participate in local traditions such as the Turkey Trot and other community activities. Thus, while some residents may travel out of town, many former locals are flocking back to the region.”
With an influx of visitors, hotel occupancy rates are expected to reach full capacity, leading to bustling streets and crowded venues across the area. “This weekend promises to showcase everything that Western New York has to offer, and we are excited to welcome both locals and visitors alike,” Carey added.
To ease the potential stress of returning home after the holiday, Carey suggests that travelers consider extending their stay in the Buffalo Niagara region. Staying until late Monday or even Tuesday could help avoid the anticipated crowds on the roads and at the airports.
In light of this busy travel season, local transportation services, including airlines and Amtrak, are also preparing for the surge. Travelers are encouraged to plan ahead, arrive early at their departure points, and stay informed about any travel advisories or updates.
As families and friends gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, the combination of local events and holiday travel is set to create a vibrant atmosphere in Western New York. The region’s hospitality industry is ready to accommodate the influx of visitors, ensuring a memorable holiday experience for everyone.
With the excitement building for Thanksgiving and the accompanying events, Western New York is poised for a bustling holiday weekend. Whether attending a football game, participating in festive activities, or simply enjoying time with family, the region is prepared to welcome all with open arms.
