Seattle tourism trade reveals indicators of a rebound

Hotel occupancy in Seattle on Memorial Day weekend was higher than since February 2020.

SEATTLE – Experts say Memorial Day weekend drew tourists to Seattle in numbers that have not been seen since before Covid.

Hotel occupancy had increased and the numbers all around show that tourists are ready to explore again.

“This is our first big adventure, it feels great to be outside,” said Carrie Ceniseroz and Jonathan Rothman.

Visiting the Seattle Waterfront was a breath of fresh air for the Northern California couple.

“It’s something to be outside after so long that is really relieving and really refreshing,” said Rothman.

Visit Seattle President Tom Norwalk says he believes the excitement about vaccinations and the great weather made tourists enjoy the area during Memorial Day weekend.

“It has been a wonderful change for the city after 14 months of pain and sacrifice,” said Norwalk.

Last weekend, the hotels in the city center had the highest occupancy rate since February last year.

Seattle is one of the most popular long-stay destinations on Airbnb, according to Airbnb.

The weekend was a bright spot after a tough year in the national spotlight.

“I think we are all more critical of our city than many other people at times, it was a tough year for us in the national press,” said Norwalk.

Though unexpected, Norwalk says last weekend proves the demand is there – and tourists are eager to travel again.

“I didn’t know how much you missed it, we missed it,” said Ceniseroz.