UPDATE: Savannah, Georgia, is experiencing a significant economic surge this October, with local tourism officials reporting a remarkable $20 million boost driven by its haunted reputation and seasonal festivities. As visitors flock to the city for ghost tours, hotels, and events, Savannah solidifies its status as America’s most haunted city.
New data from Visit Savannah confirms that October consistently ranks among the top months for tourism, with credit card spending soaring close to $20 million in just 31 days. This month alone has witnessed hotel occupancy rates reaching the high seventies, surpassing the average by 10%.
“October is a top-performing month every year, thanks to a mix of factors,” said Lauren Cleland, Vice President of Strategic Marketing for Visit Savannah. She emphasized that the city’s mild weather and walkable downtown complement the spooky allure, making it a premier destination for tourists seeking thrilling experiences.
Savannah’s bustling October calendar features major events such as the SCAD Film Festival, Savannah Pride, Tybee Pirate Fest, and Wag-O-Ween, all contributing to the city’s vibrant atmosphere and increased visitor spending. Ghost tours, in particular, are seeing record early bookings this year, indicating a robust interest in the paranormal.
“We typically see a surge in bookings toward the end of the month, but this year, interest peaked earlier,” said Enocha Edenfield, spokesperson for the Savannah Association of Local Tours. She noted that many operators are already fully booked for the upcoming weekend, signaling a strong recovery from the economic slowdown experienced earlier in the summer.
The urgency of this October boost is palpable as local businesses and tour operators prepare for the influx of visitors. Tourism analysts point out that October generates the highest economic activity in Savannah for the second half of the year, with visitor spending making a substantial impact on local commerce.
As October unfolds, Savannah’s haunted charm continues to captivate visitors, solidifying the city’s reputation not just as a destination for ghostly encounters, but as a vital contributor to the regional economy. With a series of events lined up, the coming weeks promise to bring even more economic vitality to this historic city.
Stay tuned for updates as Savannah embraces the spooky season!
