Creative events and package deals let operators take advantage of fall tourism

This year has been especially challenging for restaurants that depend on travelers for a good percentage of their business. But the year’s not over yet, gas prices are falling and savvy operators can still take advantage of the fall-color season to bring in customers.

“You have to really get creative,” said Bobby Bowers, spokesman for Smith Travel Research in Nashville, Tenn. Hotels and resorts with food and beverage components may benefit from putting together value-added packages to