Whether you're located right off a major thoroughfare or in the middle of nowhere, you can be sure that there will be visitors from out of town, out of state or even out of the country. Following are some ideas on how to plan a strategy to attract more vacationers to your establishment this summer.

Encourage regular diners to bring in family and friends who are visiting from out of town by offering patrons with out-of-state driver's licenses a free drink or appetizer with purchase of an entree.

One of the best advertisements is a billboard with “Exit Now” signage and a “Kid's Eat Free” offer. If you're not near a highway, maximize what you have. Make sure signage welcomes visitors and promotes specials. Keep the outside area as clean and inviting as possible or people may not even consider a visit. Advertise your specialty on signage, so people passing through know what they can look forward to at your establishment.

Take advantage of hotel marketing. Coupons and discounts for hotel guests can increase business and bring large groups when conferences come to town. A small flyer at the front desk can add up to considerable unplanned sales. Make sure hotels in your area have copies of the menu and personalized maps with directions to your location. Also consider making hotel staff an offer to come in to the restaurant or bring samples of food. After all, hotel guests will often ask for suggestions of good places to eat and staff will usually recommend what they like, so a small investment can add up to large profits.