Thematic itineraries: An approach to tourism product development

Throughout the U.S., scenic byways, heritage corridors, and similar concepts are being developed to: (1) preserve and interpret natural and cultural resources unique to an area, (2) coordinate the efforts of private, public, and non-profit organizations; and (3) market the new product to targeted audiences. Growing interest in nature and culture travel provides an opportunity to integrate interpretation with tourism product development and marketing. Examples will be discussed, including: Scenic Byways in the Great Lakes Region, the Western North Carolina Heritage Craft Trail, California's thematic itinerary program for San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego, and in Hawaii, the Hilo Hamakua Heritage Coast and South Maid Heritage Corridor. This paper discusses how interpretive planning can contribute to visitor itinerary and destination area development.