DC Hotels Fill Up As Trump’s Inauguration Nears

Hotels across Washington, DC are rapidly booking up ahead of President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration on Monday. According to data from analytics firm STR, 70% of hotel rooms in the city are already reserved. While this figure is lower than the 94% occupancy during Trump’s first inauguration in 2017, local tourism officials are optimistic that bookings will continue to rise in the days leading up to the event.

Elliott Ferguson, president of Destination DC, expressed confidence in growing interest. “People are still interested in coming, and we’re seeing more and more momentum from hotels,” Ferguson told WTOP News. He emphasized the importance of tourism for the city’s economy, saying, “It’s all about economic impact, creating jobs and the stimulus associated with the number of people coming into the city.”

First-term presidential inaugurations typically draw larger crowds, which helps explain why Trump’s 2017 inauguration saw a higher hotel occupancy rate. Similarly, former President Barack Obama’s first inauguration in 2009 reached a record 97% hotel booking rate, compared to only 78% during his second term in 2013.

Despite the slightly lower hotel occupancy rate this year, DC hotels are seeing soaring prices due to increased demand. A search on Expedia revealed rooms at the Marriott Marquis near the Washington Convention Center listed at over $1,500 per night, with only a couple of rooms left. Smaller hotels like the Windsor Inn and The Poppy Georgetown are charging nightly rates around $900.

The local hospitality industry is eager to recover after struggling through scaled-back events in recent years. President Joe Biden’s 2021 inauguration had strict crowd limitations due to COVID-19 restrictions and heightened security following the Jan. 6 protests. This year, approximately 250,000 ticketed guests are expected to attend Trump’s inauguration, offering a much-needed economic boost to local businesses.

Restaurants, hotels and shops are preparing for the influx of visitors. Ferguson noted, “The hotels, the restaurants — all those who actually work in hospitality are banking on people showing up. We’re really, really optimistic.”

DC officials are also preparing for security measures and road closures as large crowds arrive for the event.

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