BUFFALO, NY (WKBW) — It's been a rough travel season and according to AAA Western and Central New York, this will be the first summer since 2009 that travel volume has gone down.
"For 11 years we saw travel grow and people explore the world," Elizabeth Carey, Director of Public Relations said. "There's limited opportunities but people are making the most of those opportunities."
Like a getaway closer to home. The campgrounds at Six Flags Darien Lake opened their lots Thursday afternoon with a number of reservations.
"People have been cooped up," Mike Arena, Communications Manager said. "They're ready to start embracing life again and get back to that summer feel that they're used to here in Western New York."
Check-ins can be done electronically and all of their cabins and campers have been cleaned from head to toe. But the good thing about camping is that it's already safe.
"When you're in a cabin with your family, people that you're spending most of your time with anyway, you don't have to be as concerned about that," Arena said. "So it's a little easier to relax, put your mind at ease, and just have a good time."
For others, short road trips to get out of town are the way to go.
"You feel like you're at some faraway resort and really you're only a couple hours from home," Nick Scott, president of Scott Enterprises said.
They own Splash Lagoon in Erie, Pennsylvania and Peek'n Peak Resort in Clymer. They're aiming to provide guests a vacation-like getaway.
"We've got great packages on our websites where they can see our terrific values," Scott said. "For the first time ever, we're offering a double dip package where they can enjoy both resorts."
Social distancing will be enforced and a mask will be required when walking around the properties, all to make sure families feel comfortable being around others.
"We've spent a lot of time making sure that the surfaces and everything in the place is as safe as it can be," said Scott. "Everything's fresh and new and repainted and in great shape so we're looking forward to welcoming guests back."
Providing an enjoyable and safe summer, and a much needed escape during these difficult times.
