Florida is known as the theme park and attractions capital of the world. It's a land of make-believe and magical memories that the whole family can enjoy. Of the world’s top 15 theme parks, seven are located in our region. This is a tremendous component of our tourism industry, since no other city in the world has more than one. In the year 2001, our area hosted 37.7 million domestic visitors, making tourism one of the most important economic drivers in Central Florida.

But Florida’s tourism has more to offer than theme parks and attractions alone. With our space program in Cape Canaveral, Florida makes history with every launch. Additionally, our unique environment has given rise to dozens of botanical gardens, zoological venues, major aquariums and wetland attractions. More and more, residents and visitors continue to enjoy our region’s museums, galleries, historical sites and outdoor sports, as well as the unique and rich architecture that Central Florida has to offer.

Because our region is full of fascinating contrasts, Volusia County has pioneered the unique concept of ECHO (Environmental, Cultural, Historical and Outdoor) tourism. Whether one’s interest is the environment, cultural arts, heritage or outdoor recreation, there’s something for everyone.

The purpose behind this idea is to promote the balance of eco-sensitive development and positive economic growth with the protection of historical sites, cultural heritage, natural wetlands, ecosystems and diverse species. ECHO tourism encourages a responsible, quality travel experience that conserves the environment and sustains the well-being of local people while at the same time connects visitors and residents to the unique assets of the area. Since Volusia County is within a one-hour drive from Metro Orlando, the initiative is expected to draw visitors from all over the world.

Volusia County’s geographic location, climate, tourist attractions, and numerous recreation sites make it an attractive vacation destination and the perfect test-site for the ECHO tourism concept. Abundant public land and water resources offer some of the greatest hiking, bicycling, wildlife observation and fresh- and salt-water boating and fishing opportunities in Florida. There are also numerous museums, historical sites, and charming small towns that chronicle the region’s rich history.

Currently, Volusia County is ranked as one of the 25 fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States, and its population is expected to increase by 23 percent in the next decade. So far, there are over 136,700 acres of land designated for resource-based outdoor recreation under the ownership and management of federal, state, and county governments and the water-management district. With all these resources at hand, Volusia County will certainly succeed at this endeavor with this wonderful model to follow.

Data collected by myregion.org show that that our region is experiencing a boom in cultural, historical and ecological tourism. The map to the right (click map to enlarge), showing the region’s major attractions and major tourism destinations, proves it. If you want to know more about Volusia County’s innovative initiative, go to www.echotourism.com. You may also access the Tourism Workshops notes or any other notes of the Essential Activities Workshops by visiting the Document center of www.myregion.org.