BUFFALO, N.Y. — Local hospitality experts are getting ready for a big boost in business ahead of the first home playoff game for the Bills. Whether it's Bills Mafia members from out of town or Pittsburg Steelers fans making the trip, they are expected to help rescue a slow tourism month.
Local hospitality experts are expecting a big influx of people coming from Pittsburgh, especially since its about three and a half hour drive.
Visit Buffalo Niagara CEO, Patrick Kaler, said that is great news for us. They expect visitors going to our hotels, restaurants and bars. January is usually a slow month, but this game will give our local businesses a much needed boost.
"We do have an early game on Sunday, I anticipate more hotel overnight stays on Saturday night but because we are close. I anticipate there will be some people that will come in on Friday too and make it a long weekend especially because it is a holiday weekend as well," Kaler said.
There's over 10,000 hotel rooms in Erie County. Kaler said it's not too late to book a room. Rates are slightly up because it is a big weekend and there will be lots of demand.
Kaler predicts Saturday night to be the busiest, but Friday night will also have momentum, especially since people may stay through Monday because of the holiday weekend. He said even if football fans don't have a ticket, they may still come to Buffalo for the experience.
"We absolutely found that last year with the playoff games that people actually come to Buffalo, go to a brewery, go to one of our bars, go to Chippewa just to watch and be a part of the overall excitement and enthusiasm in the city," Kaler said.
If you have friends coming up for the game or you just want to join in on the action, here's a list of things happening over the weekend.