Tourism professionals at Convention and Visitors Bureaus – CVBs (or Destination Marketing Organizations – DMOs) are implementing some innovative programs to increase visitation in their destinations. We call them Tourism Best Practices.

Destination marketing isn’t just placing ads. It’s developing the product. Examples of DMOs leading destination development:

Hot, Sizzling Pickleball’s a Hit on Facebook

A Florida CVB’s Facebook promotion leads to commissioners’ decision to move ahead with a sports park suitable for regional and national tournament play in a variety of sports.

Tourism Leaders Propose Building New Concert Hall

The Brown County (IN) CVB leads vision and discussion of a 2,000-seat performing arts venue.

Some destination development is in the form of events.

Salisbury Rowan County Convention and Visitors Bureau Plans ‘Arts and Ag’ Promotion Next Year

The goal of Arts and Ag is a “new form of experiential tourism.” Imagined monthly themes North Carolina Beer Month, farm-to-table and fall harvest.

Other destination development is in the form of education… Free Tourism Public Relations Workshops

The workshops are in partnership with Virginia tourism corporation to offer a first-of-its-kind workshop where a tourism PR specialist from New York City will help give local businesses the tools they need to stand out.

Finally, destination development can be a new TIC. St. Joseph MO has been developing theirs. NewsPressNow gives us a sneak peak and insights into special accommodations for the hearing impaired.