Mission & Vision

Mission:

Vision:

An organization's vision is a written picture of where it sees itself in 15-20 years. It's emotional, yet measurable; lofty, yet achievable. We firmly believe that well within the next 15 years, Lancaster County will be known as the most compelling experiential destination in America.

Experiential tourism is all about the "Wow!" factor; providing unique, innovative, unforgettable experiences. It exemplifies the shift from mass marketing to mass customization and -- depending on a visitor's desires and expectations -- can range from behind the scenes to hands-on to immersion.

• Behind the Scenes is ideal for the individual who seeks education and understanding but with limited physical involvement. It provides the visitor with an understanding of how things work from a combination of seeing the "back of the house" operations and dialogue with locals or experts. It's the back stage tour to which most other theatre patrons aren't privy... or visiting with the artist in his private studio to learn about his thought process and experience his creative environment.
   
• Hands-on is the second tier of experiential tourism. It combines seeing + doing to meet the needs of participants through a moderate level of interaction. It's a private class on wine and cheese pairing... or the basics of quilting.
   
• Immersion is the third tier of experiential tourism. It provides the maximum level of interactivity with a culture, event or site, and engages people to a level of actually performing a task or activity. It's rolling up your sleeves to help plant a crop at a local farm or creating a new relish or jam with the guidance of a local woman who's been canning for decades.

The opportunities are infinite, and although the vision may take up to 15 years in accomplishing, our 3 year strategic plan is integrally woven with this "new tourism" approach.

We will continue to work with Lancaster County's tourism businesses to develop and market engaging and memorable experiences for both the group and leisure markets, and ultimately broaden our base of "Wowed" visitors.