Area hotels fill up fast as football fans book rooms

Tampa, Florida -- The countdown begins today with only thirty days until the big day, when the Super Bowl comes to Raymond James Stadium, where preparations are already underway.

A few miles from the stadium, the Tahitian Inn is ready to rumble. "We're fortunate to have the Super Bowl here at such a crucial time," said manager Hani Haddad.

The Tahitian has newly renovated rooms that are special for the Super Bowl. The inn also built brand new townhomes for luxury living. Still, the Tahitian is not booked up yet. "We are close to three-quarters full," said Haddad.

Hoping to pack the place, the Tahitian offers package deals for Super Bowl weekend with a four-night-minimum stay and food is included. "We are going to have barbeques and do a pork loin smoke, Tampa-style," said Haddad.

For the St. Pete style, 10 Connects went over the bridge to the Don CeSar hotel on the beach. "We are booked solid here. Sold out!" said resort host Ron MacDougall. Thanks to the NFL, VIP's and family members of players will take over the whole hotel.

All that, before tourist season even starts!

"I don't think the timing could be any better to have it here," said MacDougall.

A dominant force in the area, "The Don" does not need to lure football fans in, but if the big hotel is doing well the smaller ones should too.

"I think it's the shot in the arm we all need," said MacDougall.

The last time the big game came to town, it brought in $250 million dollars for our local economy.