Consideration of historical authenticity in heritage tourism planning and development

Abstract

A review of heritage tourism literature reveals a fundamental tension over the use, function, and degree of authenticity of historic resources used for tourism development. Using a case study approach, this paper explores how stakeholder beliefs regarding historical authenticity influence the heritage tourism products, services, and experiences created for visitors and the value of historical authenticity to community stakeholders relative to other factors involved with heritage tourism development. Heritage tourism stakeholders in Manistee and Ludington, Michigan consider historic preservation and historical authenticity to be important components of heritage tourism development; however, other factors, such as providing an engaging and entertaining experience, have resulted in the creation of inauthentic contexts, stories, and experiences at some sites. Enhanced development of interpretive services is suggested as a way to preserve authenticity while also providing a more engaging experience.