The Tampa Bay Rays’ World Series appearance is drawing visitors to the region and giving local tourism businesses a welcome lift. Hotels and vacation rentals in Pinellas County report stronger bookings during what is usually a quieter stretch of the year, as fans arrive ahead of the team’s return to Tropicana Field for a Monday night game.
Key takeaways
- The Hollander Hotel in St. Petersburg reported being fully booked from Friday through Wednesday, with some guests staying later.
- Tampa International Airport expected more than 78,000 passengers on both Sunday and Monday.
- Tourism leaders say postseason games can bring substantial spending, with benefits extending to local service businesses.
The increased demand comes during the fall shoulder season, when weekday stays are typically softer and vacation rentals often see less business.
Hotels see unusual fall demand
Liz Holland, general manager of the Hollander Hotel, said guests had reserved rooms across several days, including some who planned to stay beyond Wednesday in case of another game. She described the hotel’s full occupancy during that period as unusual for the time of year.
Fans were heading to Pinellas County before the Rays’ scheduled Monday-night return to Tropicana Field. The airport’s passenger forecast for Sunday and Monday offered another sign of the travel activity surrounding the series, though it includes travelers with many reasons for visiting the area.
Postseason visitors support local businesses
The St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce said Major League Baseball estimates postseason games can generate as much as $7 million per game in regional economic impact. Visit St. Pete-Clearwater’s president and CEO, Brian Lowack, said the weekday games were especially helpful because Monday through Wednesday are generally less in demand.
Visitors staying for several days can also spend at restaurants and other local businesses, beyond their hotel or rental. The boost is particularly welcome for vacation-rental operators, who say September and October are normally among their slowest months.
A boost after a difficult recovery
Troy Walset, co-owner of Azul Bay Vacation Rentals, said the business typically receives more bookings from January through spring. He also recalled cancellations and reduced activity after the 2024 hurricanes damaged parts of the area, especially along the beaches.
Co-owner Christine Mitchell said the new bookings create work for cleaners and handymen, while giving operators opportunities to connect guests with boat charters and other local services. She described that activity as a ripple effect across the community. Mitchell also said the Rays’ run is a striking reminder of how much the region has rebuilt since the damage shown in stadium-area images from two years earlier.