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Home Heritage Tourism Partnering to Promote Heritage Tourism in Local Communities: Guidance for Federal Agencies

Each year, millions of travelers visit America’s historic places. Such tourism – heritage tourism –can result in a variety of tangible and intangible benefits for visitors, the historic resources, and the communities where they are located. Federal agencies have an important role to play in encouraging the realization of these potential benefits.

In 2003, President Bush signed Executive Order 13287: “Preserve America,” which tasks Federal agencies with certain responsibilities regarding heritage tourism. The following information provides guidance to agencies on effectively fulfilling these responsibilities.

Defining Heritage Tourism

Heritage Tourism Requirements of Executive Order 13287

Why is the Federal Government Interested?: The Benefits of Heritage Tourism

Challenges of Heritage Tourism

Principles of Successful Heritage Tourism

Recommendations for Federal Land Managers

Recommendations for Federal Assistance Agencies

Locating Heritage Tourism Contacts

Links to Innovative Initiatives and Success Stories

Other Resources and Links

Updated March 15, 2006