At least some visitors had trouble finding hotel rooms, because the University of Missouri's graduation weekend is one of the city's busiest times.

The Hauck family traveled to Columbia from Washington state for their son-in-law's graduation, and they're enjoying the new hotel.

Candlewood Suites Hotel said it filled up three months ago, and it has had to turn away 200 people. Hilton and Candlewood have policies against changing rates for special events.

"There's a certain amount of rooms that are allocated at lower rates, and when those are filled up, it works up to the higher rates," said Dan Carlson of Candlewood Suites.

Seven out of 10 Columbia hotels KOMU called Thursday night are full for this weekend.

So, what's the best advice for avoiding the graduation rush? Make reservations when you find out the graduation date, even if it's months in advance.

If you're still looking for a room this weekend, check with hotels early in the evening. Rooms could open up about 6:00 p.m. if guests who didn't guarantee their reservations don't show up.