The Heritage Tourism Division, within the City of Austin Office of Arts, Culture, Music and Entertainment, provides leadership and management for the City's heritage tourism programs aimed to attract tourists and convention delegates and to derive economic, business, and community benefits associated with honoring and preserving Austin as a place of personal heritage.
Objective
The Heritage Tourism Division preserves and promotes rich histories of people and places in Austin that also support the hospitality industry, as well as, legacy businesses, creative sectors, parkland and greenspace, and current tourism assets in the Austin Region.
Services
Administer Hotel Occupancy Tax funds allocated to the Historical Preservation Fund, which is the primary funding source for the Heritage Grant program, to support thriving establishments host long-term and short-term visitors; and help build capacity of tourism sites.
What is Heritage Tourism?
The National Trust for Historic Preservation defines heritage tourists as those who travel to experience the places, artifacts and activities that authentically represent the stories and people of the past and present.
Economic Benefits of Tourism
Tourism creates jobs, new business opportunities, and strengthens local economies. It protects heritage, natural and cultural resources, which improve the quality of life for residents and travelers who participate in the services and attractions.