Five Towns, One Vision: Inside Visit Haywood’s 10-Year Destination Master Plan

Send us a text As outdoor tourism continues to grow, how can mountain communities plan with intention—not just for visitors, but for the residents, businesses, and natural spaces that make them unique? In this episode, I sit down with Corrina Ruffieux, Executive Director of Visit Haywood, to talk about Haywood County’s innovative approach to tourism. Their comprehensive 10-year destination master plan is designed not just to attract visitors, but to do so in a way that aligns with the values of the community and protects what makes the area special. We explore how Haywood County’s plan is rooted in stewardship, inclusivity, and a commitment to attracting visitors who share the local values of environmental respect, community care, and responsible tourism. The plan’s focus is on sustainable growth that ensures long-term benefits for residents, local businesses, and the area’s exceptional natural assets. Through community-driven engagement and a clear brand identity, Haywood County is proving that it’s possible to grow tourism while protecting the very things that make the place worth visiting in the first place. https://visithaywood.com/ https://haywoodtda.com/ Mike Andress Host, Exploration Local 828-551-9065 mike@explorationlocal.com Podcast Website Facebook Instagram: explorationlocal