LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — As we inch closer to the total solar eclipse on April 8, people have been trying to find places to stay.
According to Airbnb, Arkansas is one of the most booked states behind Texas and New York.
Airbnb Communications Manager, Jackie McGraw, said Little Rock is one of the most booked destinations across all of North America for the eclipse.
"We're very excited that our platform and our hosts really can help the state accommodate this influx of visitors who are coming to see the eclipse," she added.
McGraw also said there's been a 1,000% increase in searches for Airbnb listings within the path of totality.
Since Arkansas is on that path, it's one of the most popular places to witness the solar phenomenon.
"It really helps drive tourism to some of these smaller communities, which is really great to see. And they'll they'll see a lot of economic benefits of the eclipse," McGraw added.
She also said that the bookings aren't just limited to Little Rock either. Airbnbs in Jonesboro, Hot Springs, Rockwell, and Conway are also welcoming visitors for the eclipse.
Even though most are already reserved, there's still some good news for last-minute travelers.
"Across the state of Arkansas there's approximately 30% of Airbnb listings that are still available," she said.
Paul Dodds still has one of his two units left in Little Rock and said he expects someone to snatch it up soon.
"I think there's a lot of interest and many people will be coming," Dodds said.
Dodds is now lowering the price to make it more attractive to visitors.
"We had it pretty high. But we bumped it way down yesterday, just to get get it filled," he added.
While he waits for someone to book it, he looks forward to the historic day and hosting visitors from out of town.
"I hope people have a great time and that we have sunshine. We [can] watch the sun go away and come back," he said.
Airbnb also shared that 10% of the people booking on the platform for the eclipse are first-timers.
According to the Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, statewide occupancy for Arkansas state parks during the eclipse is at almost 74%.