Cultural heritage tourism is traveling to experience the places, artifacts and activities that authentically represent the stories and people of the past and present. It includes cultural, historic and natural resources.

Kentucky’s Cultural Heritage Tourism Strategic Plan was created in 1999 to coordinate the efforts of state and local entities and provide a blueprint to guide the efforts of the cultural heritage tourism program in the Kentucky Department of Travel.

The strategic plan identifies specific ways for Kentucky to utilize the Commonwealth's rich heritage and culture to capture a greater share of the cultural heritage tourism market. National studies show that a third of all tourists include a historic site or cultural attraction in their travel plans.

In addition to the economic benefits of cultural heritage tourism, a well-managed program also improves the quality of life for residents and builds community pride. Cultural heritage tourism can galvanize local support for important historic preservation projects and encourage the preservation of traditional crafts or local ways of life that might be otherwise lost forever.

For program information contact Kimberly Clay, Cultural Heritage Tourism Manager

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