Tourism Development

Tourism development can be an important part of a community's strategy for building a sustainable economic future. Many Appalachian communities have developed successful tourism strategies based on the Region's cultural heritage, history, and natural beauty.

ARC supports a wide variety of tourism projects, including

• building and rehabilitating facilities and infrastructure to make the Region more accessible and attractive to visitors;
• training artisans and artists to improve their business and marketing skills;
• developing strategic plans and feasibility studies to help communities maximize the potential of their cultural assets; and
• investing in new technologies that create new experiences for visitors.

Each project has specific and community-based goals, but all contribute to the overall impact of  tourism as a key component in building long-term economic health in the Region.

Some tourism projects are funded through ARC's Asset-Based Development Initiative.

Tourism Development Links

Research Reports
Examples of Tourism Development Projects
ARC–National Geographic Geotourism Project