Big weekend, and August for Milwaukee tourism

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- It's bound to be a busy weekend in Milwaukee, as the month of August begins! Milwaukee plays host to several events this weekend, including the National Governors Association special meeting, a Black Caucus of elected officials, the Wisconsin State Fair, African World Festival, the Air & Water Show, and events to mark the one-year anniversary of the Sikh Temple shooting -- among other events.

"There's not a community in the country that knows how to pack more fun into summer and more action in the summer than Milwaukee. I think the message is Milwaukee is a heck of a lot of fun and you can find something to do that you're going to enjoy," Paul Upchurch with Visit Milwaukee said.

Upchurch says he thinks August will be a record-setter -- even for Milwaukee!

The grand finale is set for Labor Day weekend, as Harley-Davidson celebrates its 110th anniversary.

"That has an economic impact of well over 20 million, so you look at all of those events, it will be a big August," Upchurch said.

Hotels in the Milwaukee area are set to be busy as the summer comes to a close and we head into fall.

The Iron Horse Hotel is offering hotel food and beverage packages, in anticipation of Harley's 110th.

"It speaks to a very discerning customer and we've been booking them slowly but steadily and we're nearing full capacity," Michael Falkenstein with the Iron Horse Hotel said.

Officials say booking in advance is vital!

"We should just encourage everybody to book in advance so we can make the proper arrangements for you before you arrive," Falkenstein said.

There are hotels available for this weekend heading into State Fair and the Air & Water Show. However, for Harley's 10th, hotel rooms are running low.

Visit Milwaukee encourages booking right away -- but you're encouraged to check daily because availability may change.