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Published on September 7, 2025
Brad Peters, Founder, Director, CEO of HRBUniversal & The Plate & Pour Collective Equity Partner Program
As the roar of the crowd signals another exciting football season, the hospitality industry prepares for a surge in visitors. Many hotels will simply offer a room, but savvy establishments recognize the immense potential in crafting bespoke promotional packages designed to attract football fans. By offering more than just a bed, hotels can score big, creating memorable experiences that resonate long after the final whistle.
With the local football stadium being a major draw for both professional and high-profile college games, and a passionate local fanbase, demand for game-day accommodations is high. To truly stand out, however, hotels must move beyond standard rates and tap into the emotional connection fans have with their teams and the overall game-day experience.
Here’s how Houston hotels can implement winning strategies with promotional room packages:
Winning Room Package Strategies:
The “Ultimate Game Day Getaway” Package:
- Premium Accommodation: Offer a discounted rate on a spacious room or suite.
- Transportation Perks: Include shuttle service to and from the Stadium (or a designated fan zone) to alleviate parking hassles.
- Pre-Game Fuel: Provide a credit for breakfast, or a themed “Tailgate Takeaway” breakfast bag featuring local treats.
- Fan Welcome Amenity: A branded welcome basket with team merchandise (scarf, hat, mini-football), local snacks, and a schedule of local game-day events.
- Late Checkout: Allow fans to sleep in after a late game or celebratory evening.
The “Die-Hard Fan Experience” Package:
- Exclusive Viewing Access: If the hotel has a bar or lounge, offer reserved seating for guests to watch out-of-market games on big screens, complete with discounted food and drink specials.
- Team-Themed Decor: Offer the option to “fan-ify” the room with team-colored linens or small decor items.
- Post-Game Wind Down: Include a credit for the hotel bar/restaurant to celebrate a win or commiserate a loss.
- Local Sports Souvenir: Partner with a local sports store for a discount voucher.
The “Family Football Fun” Package:
- Connecting Rooms/Suites: Offer a special rate for families needing extra space.
- Kid-Friendly Amenities: Welcome amenity with football-themed activities or games for children.
- Family Meal Deal: Include a credit for a family meal at the hotel restaurant or a pizza delivery voucher.
- Pool Access & Activities: Highlight hotel amenities like pools or game rooms for entertainment beyond the game.
The “Rivalry Weekend” Special:
- Targeted Discounts: When a major rival comes to town (e.g., Cowboys vs. Texans, SEC rivalry games), create specific packages for fans of both teams (or offer a slightly better deal for the local team’s fans!).
- Friendly Competition: Host a “rivalry” happy hour with themed drinks representing each team.
- Extended Stay Discount: Encourage fans to make a full weekend out of it with a discounted third night.
Partnering for a Playoff Win:
- Local Restaurant Vouchers: Collaborate with popular local restaurants (especially those known for their game-day atmosphere) for exclusive dining discounts for hotel guests.
- Attraction Bundles: Partner with local attractions (e.g., Space Center, Museum District) to offer discounted tickets, giving fans more to do beyond the game.
- Luxury Transport Upgrade: Offer an option for premium car service to and from the stadium.
Marketing Your Winning Lineup:
Hotels should leverage digital marketing to promote these packages aggressively. Utilize social media with targeted ads, create dedicated landing pages on their websites, and work with local tourism boards and sports news outlets. High-quality visuals showcasing happy fans enjoying the package benefits will be key.
By crafting thoughtful, value-added room packages, Houston hotels can turn the intense competition of football season into a clear victory, attracting more fans, increasing occupancy, and building lasting guest loyalty.
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