The number of overnight stays in Adams County, Pa., through October, is more than 4.1 percent higher than the same timeframe in 2014, according to the Smith Travel Research report which measures hotel occupancy, average daily rates and revenue generated through participating lodging properties.
Lodging is more than 11,000 room nights ahead of 2013—the year the community celebrated the 150th Anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg and the Gettysburg Address.
“The anniversary year was not the pinnacle of tourism in Adams County, Pa.,” says Norris Flowers, President of Destination Gettysburg. “It was the beginning to a new era of tourism, and we’re seeing the success of that right now.”
Soon after the landmark event, Destination Gettysburg launched a different marketing approach, focusing on experiences outside of the Civil War and highlight the region’s culinary tourism, shopping, outdoor recreation and other ways for families and younger visitors to enjoy the area.
In 2015, through October, more than 393,000 room nights have been reserved, generating nearly $42 million among the hotels that participate in the study of overnight lodging. The average daily rate in 2015 is $106.50, more than $3 higher than 2014.
“These lodging numbers are positive encouragement that the marketing we have implemented is working,” said Flowers.
