Local Foods and Culinary Offerings are Basis of Downtown Tourism Niche

Feb. 1, 2012 - PRLog -- Many communities are reconnecting to their agricultural roots and culinary traditions as a way to revitalize theirdowntowns.

According to an article in the February issue of "Downtown Idea Exchange," 17 percent of all American leisure travelers consider themselves to be serious culinary travelers who intentionally seek out wine and food experiences.

A first step in developing a downtown program focused on a unique culinary or local food niche is assessing the foods and food resources downtown and developing a food asset map.

One example noted in the article is Asheville Food Tours in Asheville, NC, which invites guests to "Walk, Taste, Savour" the city, which is promoted as the "Paris of the South." The walking tour winds over antique cobblestones and past fiddling street musicians and includes enough food and beverage tastings to qualify as a meal for most participants. The tour also includes a discount passport to downtown merchants and seasonal take-home recipes.

Details on economic development through culinary tourism and local food niches is in the February issue of "Downtown Idea Exchange."

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About the Downtown Research & Development Center

For over 50 years, the Downtown Research & Development Center has acted as the information clearinghouse on practical strategies and tactics for revitalizing the hearts of our cities and towns.

The Group's main activities include publishing the widely influential "Downtown Idea Exchange" and "Downtown Promotion Reporter" newsletters; publishing relevant books and reports; and operating the DowntownDevelopment.com website.

Website: http://www.DowntownDevelopment.com