Hidden Gems: Encouraging Tourists to Explore Local Neighborhoods

When visitors think of a city, they often imagine iconic landmarks and the biggest attractions. But some of the most memorable experiences can come from less obvious places: corner coffee shops, murals tucked away on side streets, local markets, and family-run shops. By encouraging tourists to explore neighborhoods beyond the typical hotspots, cities can deliver richer travel experiences, spread economic benefits more evenly, reduce overcrowding in busy zones, and deepen the connection between visitors and residents.

Here’s how cities can highlight neighborhood gems, what recent US research says, and how local people can help make this happen.

Why Neighborhood Discovery Matters

• Authentic Experience: Tourists who explore neighborhoods get to see how people live, eat, and contribute to the local culture. It adds depth to a trip.

• Economic Spread: Small businesses outside tourist hubs benefit when visitors wander off the usual paths—cafés, shops, street vendors all gain.

• Relief for Overcrowded Areas: Guiding people toward less-visited neighborhoods helps reduce congestion and wear on top landmarks.

• Inclusivity & Sustainability: Neighborhood discovery can foster more sustainable travel, with environmental and social benefits, by involving more parts of the city and more kinds of people.

Strategies for Highlighting Hidden Neighborhood Gems

1. Create Curated Neighborhood Guides:

   • Themed maps (e.g. street art, local food tours, historic architecture).

   • Profiles of local artisans, store owners, or residents.

2. Walking Tours & Local Hosts:

   • Tours by residents who can tell stories unsung by guidebooks.

   • Themed walks—food, heritage, music, or nature—focused on neighborhoods.

3. Use Digital & Interactive Tools:

   • Apps or interactive maps that suggest off-the-path spots.

   • Social media features or blogs highlighting “hidden” stories or personal discoveries.

4. Partner with Neighbors and Local Businesses:

   • Involve neighborhood associations in planning what gets promoted.

   • Help small businesses with visibility: signage, promotion, special events.

5. Craft Messages that Spark Curiosity:

   • Tease surprises (“Have you ever visited this mural alley?”).

   • Use visuals—photos, short videos—to invite exploration.

What Recent US Research & Trends Indicate

• A 2024 Airbnb economic impact report showed that nearly half of guest spending in the U.S. occurs in the neighborhoods of their Airbnb listings—not just in downtown or landmark zones. This means that encouraging stays in neighborhood listings can meaningfully distribute tourism dollars (3).

• The “US Latin & Hispanic Traveler Report” from 2024 found that Latino and Hispanic travellers often prefer accommodations and travel arrangements that let them connect with family or local communities, indicating strong demand for authentic, neighborhood-focused experiences (2).

• The 2023 National Resident Sentiment Study (by Longwoods International and Destinations International) shows that American residents increasingly want tourism to benefit all parts of their city—residents are more supportive when tourism policy and promotion include neighborhood input and ensure resources are distributed fairly (3).

Potential Challenges & How to Navigate Them

ChallengePotential SolutionNeighborhoods becoming overcrowded after being promotedRotate which neighborhoods are featured; spread promotion over time; manage capacity with signage or scheduling.Local residents feeling overshadowed or displaced by tourismEngage residents early; protect affordable housing and business ownership; ensure benefits flow to locals.Lack of awareness or usability of hidden spotsImprove signage, transit access, local guides; ensure online and offline visibility.

My Perspective: Discovering Neighborhoods as both Resident & Traveller

During my early 20s I did a lot of solo traveling, and some of my favorite discoveries happen outside the usual “must-see” places. A small bakery tucked into a residential block, a mural alley I found by exploring, or a weekend market that locals flock to—these places feel more like home than tourist zones.

When cities promote these gems—through concise neighborhood guides, social posts, or local storytelling—it’s easier for me to plan meaningful experiences. It also gives me chances to support people in my own community: the local artist, café owner, or family‐run store. When tourism goes beyond landmarks, everyone benefits: visitors enjoy richer travel experiences, and neighborhoods feel valued rather than overlooked.

How did I find them? Social media (or just by wandering)!

Conclusion: Cultivating Neighborhood Discovery in US Cities

Hidden gems aren’t just “nice extras” in a travel guide—they’re essential for more equitable, memorable, and sustainable tourism. Cities that:

• highlight neighborhood charm,

• responsibly promote lesser-known spots, and

• involve residents in what gets showcased

…can build stronger tourism ecosystems. For visitors, the payoff is an immersion in real city life. For locals, it’s economic benefit, cultural pride, and neighborhoods that thrive.

References

1. Airbnb. “Airbnb Guest Spending Boosts US Economy by a Record $90 Billion in 2024.” 2025. Hospitality Net

2. Airbnb. “US Latin & Hispanic Traveler Report.” September 2024. Airbnb Newsroom

3. Destinations International & Longwoods International. “2023 National Resident Sentiment Studies (US Edition).” 2023-2024. Destinations International