Background on Heritage Tourism

Heritage tourism is a growing trend within the tourism sector. More than 17 per cent or 34.5 million American adults are heritage tourism enthusiasts and of these 63 per cent sought out heritage experiences as part of their last visit to Canada, and 11 per cent or 2.6 million Canadians are heritage tourism enthusiasts and of these 55 per cent sought heritage experiences as part of their last trip. 

The World Tourism Organization’s definition of Heritage Tourism is: “an immersion in the natural history, human heritage, arts, philosophy and institutions of another region or country.” Every region across British Columbia has a wealth of heritage stories and experiences. The concept of heritage tourism provides a new way of experiencing the best of what the province has to offer. Visitors can include any historical site into their travels, which will help them to gain an understanding and appreciation of the past. 

In British Columbia, heritage tourism includes anything from visiting a traditional museum or gallery to exploring bridges, mining sites, First Nations communities, restaurants, wineries, gardens and castles.