Ashland, Ore. — According to AAA there will be an estimated five million more travelers on Pacific Northwest roads this Labor Day weekend.
However while many people are headed out of town, others are heading in to Southern Oregon.
“We’re definitely going to hang out at the park and definitely hang out at Renaissance Rose,” said Megan Ellis who lives in Sacramento, California as she walked through Lithia Plaza Friday afternoon.
Ellis and her friends are on a girls trip to Southern Oregon.
“We get an extra day just to come here and have fun and go shopping, spend an extra day at Paddington Station,” said Ellis.
She’s not alone. Carol Burg, who lives in Lake Oswego, came to Southern Oregon with her family for the weekend.
“Happy to be in Southern Oregon, lovely weather,” said Burg.
Hotels are close to being fully booked up, tourists are in town for the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and lots of people are perusing Ashland streets.
“It’s a great time of year when people are traveling to our area,” said Dana Preston with the Ashland Chamber of Commerce.
“With the economy coming back to the level it has, it’s the best it’s been since the recession and people are ready to travel now,” said Matthew Conde, Regional Manager for AAA.
Conde said tourists are willing to spend more money. It’s good news for businesses.
“Tons of people are coming and spending lots of money. It’s awesome for business. We’re doing great,” said Kayleigh Schoen who works at Renaissance Rose.
It’s not just Ashland looking at a boost this Labor Day weekend. Campgrounds, the coast and national parks are looking busy too.
“We’re going to Crater Lake tomorrow which we’re looking forward to,” said Burg.
Families and friends from out of town, taking in the beauty, sights and sounds of Southern Oregon.
Information on trip planning is available at AAA’s website.
For a heads up on what traffic is looking like in Oregon, visit www.tripcheck.com
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