Issue 002 | What's Your Content Strategy?

?????? Cultural Travelers Are a Force! More than 35 million U.S. adults choose their travel destinations based on art, food, culture, and heritage. ( Americans for the Arts ) These travelers are searching for authentic experiences that immerse them in local traditions, arts, history, and cuisine.

?? Why does this matter? Cultural travelers spend more, stay longer, and seek meaningful connections. Hospitality providers—like artisans, guides, restauranters, cultural centers, and more—can attract these visitors by sharing insider tips, compelling stories, and unforgettable cultural tourism content.

?? Top Tips for Cultural Tourism Content

1?? Landmark Love: Showcase your must-see sites with stunning visuals, historical context, and tips for exploring. Visitors love iconic attractions but also crave local treasures that make them feel like insiders.

??? Example: The Desert Watch Tower at the Grand Canyon offers presentations by Native artisans, giving visitors a chance to experience cultural traditions while visiting one of the world’s most famous landmarks.

2?? Event Essentials: Don’t let visitors miss out on cultural highlights! Create a festivals & events calendar featuring powwows, artisan fairs, and cultural celebrations. Include tips for attending and highlight where your organization fits in—whether as a guide, vendor, or participant.

?? Example: New Mexico’s Pueblo Feast Days occur year-round, but visitors often hesitate to visit without guidance. Help them navigate these celebrations with an insider guide to local traditions and etiquette.

3?? Foodie Favorites: Cultural travelers LOVE food! Craft food & drink guides that highlight must-try dishes, food tours, local markets, and iconic culinary traditions. Bonus: Share recipes to keep visitors engaged after their trip!

?? Example: Louisiana’s Bayou Food Trail connects travelers to Cajun staples like gumbo and jambalaya. With a downloadable map and chef stories, it’s a foodie traveler’s dream—and a great way to showcase the area’s rich culinary heritage.

4?? Themed Trails: Link iconic attractions with hidden gems through themed itineraries or cultural trails. Whether for a few hours or several days, itineraries help visitors plan while spotlighting unique experiences.

?? Example: Indiana D Indiana Dunes’ 3 Pizza Challenge encourages visitors to explore the area while trying delicious pies. Winners even take home prizes, including their own pizza oven!

5?? Meet the Locals: Your people are your culture! Share stories about cultural bearers, artisans, historians, and local guides to create human connections that resonate with travelers.

?? Example: During COVID-19, Tim Tiller, a security guard at the Cowboy & National Heritage Museum, went viral by running the museum’s social media. His posts humanized the museum and boosted its online presence, inspiring connection during a difficult time.

?? Quick Wins for Cultural Tourism Providers

• Seasonal Guides: Help visitors explore year-round! From snowshoeing to apple picking, seasonal guides relieve high-season pressure while inspiring off-season exploration.
• Artisan Features: Share where to find authentic local art and crafts, while teaching ethical buying practices.
• Insider Secrets: Highlight hidden spots, workshops, or events that surprise and delight. Visitors LOVE discovering “secrets” that make them feel like locals.

?? #MarketingTip: Focus on high-priority content like food guides, events, and itineraries first. Build over time—each piece can attract media, inspire exploration, and drive visits.

??#CultureSwap: What cultural experience made YOU fall in love with a destination? Share your stories below!

#CulturalTourism #TravelMarketing #CulturalExploration