Visit California launched Visit Native California in September to showcase the state’s myriad Native experiences while honoring the vibrant cultural heritage and lands of the tribes.
The Visit Native California platform will educate visitors on the ways to respectfully visit Native lands and learn about the critical role Native communities play in the Golden State while helping to ensure that all areas recover from the pandemic.
“We’re committed to partnering with California’s tribes and creating spaces to uplift and honor their voices, communities and cultures.”
Native Americans preserved this land for centuries. These same communities were some of the most damaged by the pandemic, and increasing awareness of tourism to Native regions can have a positive effect on their economies.
“We see the power of cultural tourism to support preservation and perpetuation of our culture. This is a tremendous opportunity for California’s tribes.”
Visit California received federal relief funding as part of the American Rescue Plan Act to help the communities hardest hit by the pandemic, including $1 million to increase awareness of and travel to California’s tribal tourism experiences.
Sustainable and responsible travel is key to a healthy tourism industry and keeping all of California’s beauty and unique cultures protected.
To ensure the utmost respect, Native storytellers will help expand the California Responsible Travel Code’s emphasis on preserving the state’s cultural heritage and natural resources, while bolstering the people who provide and promote Native experiences across the state.
The Visit Native California platform serves to uplift Native voices and to showcase their communities and experiences. California prides itself on the All Dreams Welcome ethos that embraces people from all cultures and backgrounds.
Visitors to the Golden State can learn from the 109 federally recognized tribes, along with a vast network of Native communities to take California’s appreciation of diversity and cultures home with them.
The Young Family performs at the Visit Native California luncheon in Palm Springs, California on September 14, 2022.
Visit California/Max Whittaker
Native experiences in the state can include recognizing the traditional homelands of Native people stretching from the redwoods in the north to the deserts in the south. There are also opportunities to visit cultural heritage centers and museums or attend annual festivals.
Housed on VisitCalifornia.com, the new hub will feature blogs, podcasts, itineraries and more to showcase the state’s cultural centers, museums, parks, trails, festivals and hotels where travelers can appreciate the state’s Native experiences.
As California’s Native communities continue to recover from the pandemic, Visit Native California will ensure travelers are educated about ways they can do their part by being responsible – and more engaged – stewards of our Native lands.
