Hotels Not Sold Out for FL-GA Weekend

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- It's the game that draws tens of thousands of people to the First Coast. However, area hotel officials said the "vacancy" sign is on because it has not been a sell-out weekend.

Hotel officials tell First Coast News with only days left to the game, it is unusual that rooms are still available. In past years, the Hyatt and Omni downtown usually sell out.

"We have rooms available and also still taking reservations," said Dan Busillo with the Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront.

"We're not full but we look at that still as a positive," said Dave DiSalvo with the Omni Jacksonville Hotel.

DiSalvo believes team spirit has a lot to do with filling up hotel rooms.

"I think a lot of has to do with how good your team is or how good your team isn't, if you are going to travel there. I think a lot of people make last minute plans," said DiSalvo.

Staff at the Hyatt think slow economic times could have something to do with the vacancies.

"In years past, we've sold out relatively quick, about two weeks out, we usually sell out. I think it has to do with the 'E' word, the Economy," said Busillo.

At the Hyatt, a bulldog and gator made of marzipan candy greet the fans coming through. Busillo said the Hyatt is more than 90 percent full.

"There will be a lot of last minute travelers from Gainesville, as well as Georgia," said Busillo.

Meanwhile the Omni is about 80 percent booked. DiSalvo said more rooms mean last minute fans won't have to stay far from the stadium.

"There are still a few rooms left so come on down," said DiSalvo.

First Coast News Reporter Monica Landeros spoke with staff at some Jacksonville Beach hotels.

Reservations agents at a few hotels said they usually get football fans who were not able to get rooms in Jacksonville. However, this year, some of those Jacksonville Beach hotels have not received as many walk-ins as in past years.

CLICK HERE for more information on hotel vacancies.

CLICK HERE for all your Florida-Georgia weekend needs.

©2010 First Coast News. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, rewritten, or redistributed.