Destination Development

Destination development supports stronger, more resilient tourism destinations through improved experiences, infrastructure, and services. This work is delivered in partnership with Destination BC and tourism organizations across British Columbia.

On this page:

• Destination development in B.C.
• Developing iconic experiences in B.C.
• How to get involved
• Destination development success
• Additional resources

Destination Development in B.C.  

Communities across B.C. are putting regional and planning‑area destination development strategies into action. These strategies focus on improving key parts of the tourism system, including: 

• Transportation and access 
• Infrastructure 
• Policy and land use 
• Workforce development 

Developing Iconic Experiences in B.C. 

Building on years of destination development work, Destination BC’s Invest in Iconics Strategy supports long-term tourism growth across the province. It focuses on building globally competitive experiences, expanding tourism to more places, and supporting year-round travel.  

Each of B.C.’s iconic destination brands are supported by a dedicated destination development strategy that identifies priorities for experience development, infrastructure, and future investment. They also help refine and strengthen existing regional and planning‑area destination development activities to better match the iconic destination brands.  

Across B.C., six destination development strategies have been created, to support the destination brands. 

How to Get Involved 

To find out more about destination development in B.C. or to determine the best way to participate, your Regional Destination Management Organization can help you get started.  

If you’re looking to grow Indigenous tourism destinations or experiences, Indigenous Tourism BC's Indigenous Tourism Specialists offer guidance, resources, and support. 

Destination Development Success

The following case study series demonstrates how communities and partners work together to strengthen tourism through destination development.  

These examples provide inspiration, practical insights, and lessons that other communities can apply to their own tourism initiatives. 

The series was developed by Destination BC in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, Culture and Sport and B.C.’s six Regional Destination Management Organizations. 

 Destination Development - Destination BC - Destination BC 

Additional Resources 

Tourism and Community Development Guide - discover how tourism can support your community.  

Destination BC Learning Centre - find tools, courses and resources to strengthen your destination or tourism business. 

Support for businesses in B.C. - access resources to start, manage and grow a small business in British Columbia. 

Farm Tourism Guide - information to help B.C. farmers explore tourism opportunities and understand regulations.  

Tourism Investment Attraction Guide - guidance for communities to prepare for, attract, and manage tourism investment. 

Working with Indigenous Communities - provides guidance on working respectfully with Indigenous communities.