Campaign Invites Vacationers to ‘See Arkansas First’
March 2003

Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism

Though the first “See Arkansas First” campaign, which is designed to encourage Arkansans to visit sites within their own state when making vacation plans, debuted in the 1980s, Arkansas Tourism Director Joe David Rice said the timing for such an initiative couldn’t be better than it is today.

“Surveys and research conducted since 9/11 have shown that travelers are less inclined to fly and are willing to drive farther distances,” he said. “And they are also more concerned about spending quality time with loved ones in places that offer a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We think Arkansas has an abundance of such destinations.”

Because of this, Rice said the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism has decided to bring back the “See Arkansas First” campaign for 2003, which started March 1 and will run through August.

Rice also said that because travelers are willing to drive farther, the department has decided to market the campaign in key out-of-state cites – Dallas and Memphis – where high percentages of visitors to Arkansas originate. Advertisements in major newspapers will appear in both of these cities. In addition, advertising will appear on Travelocity.com, one of the Internet’s most visited sources for travel information. In-state advertising for the 2003 campaign includes radio, television and newspaper placements. Totaled, “See Arkansas First” includes $251,410 in media buys, and an additional $32,293 is budgeted in 2003 for the Travel and Win part of the promotion.

As in previous years, Travel and Win cards, which qualify people to win prizes while exploring Arkansas, are a much anticipated component of the campaign. Those that visit at least five of 33 “See Arkansas First” destinations in the state between March and August will qualify to receive a pair of Natural State binoculars. Those that visit 10 or more will win a Natural State sports bag and be entered in a drawing for the grand prize – a 26-foot Tropical Series 250 Aloha pontoon boat equipped with a 90-horsepower motor and trailer from Aloha Pontoon Boats of North Little Rock. The craft and trailer are valued at $27,345.

Travel and Win cards are available at Coulson Oil Shell Superstops, Arkansas State Parks, Arkansas Tourist Information Centers and the participating destinations throughout the state.

Individuals may call 1-800-NATURAL or visit www.arkansas.com to order a free Vacation Planning Kit. For more information about “See Arkansas First,” visit www.arkansas.com or contact the Department of Parks and Tourism by phone at (501) 682-7777.