Restaurants, hotels reporting boost from spring training

JUPITER, Fla. - It’s the last weekend to catch a spring training game in our area and as a result thousands of people are filling the seats at Roger Dean Stadium.

But it’s not just the players scoring home runs.  Many business owners said the games have been great for the local economy.

At Saturday afternoon’s game, some fans, like Margie Hibel, drove from Jacksonville. “We’ve never been here before, the stadium is awesome,” said Hibel.

Other fans flew in from Missouri/ “It's beautiful weather and it's nice to see new stadiums,” said Jeremy Wolters from the 'Show Me' state.

And a few fans crossed the ocean from England. “It's just the thing to do in America, you've got to broaden your horizons,” said Mary Mottram.

They’re spending their money inside on everything from treats to T-shirts but they’re also venturing outside the stadium walls.

The Manger of Blue Moon Diner said business is up this month over last. “It has been better this year much better this year, I think last year it took a little from us,” said Sandra Bunnell.

Down the street at Hurricane Grill and Wings they have also experienced an increase in customers. “Spring training has been very helpful, we're up this year, we see a lot of Cardinals fans, Marlins fans,” said Jack Kugel.

The manager of Homewood Suites said this has been their best spring training month since 2007, almost every room has been booked every night of the month.

For the fans, it’s a last chance to see their players up close and wait for the regular season to begin.