The 250th anniversary of the United States, often referred to as the Semiquincentennial or America250, presents a monumental opportunity for the travel and tourism industry. In New York, the commemoration is known as REV250, and it’s far more than just a historical footnote. New York played a crucial and multifaceted role in the Revolutionary War, and this multi-year celebration is a chance to reintroduce the state’s rich, complex history to a new generation of visitors.

Why REV250 is a Game-Changer for New York Tourism

From the pivotal Battle of Saratoga—the turning point of the war—to the strategic importance of the Hudson Valley as the “Superhighway of the Revolution,” New York is a treasure trove of revolutionary history.

Heritage tourism is a powerful economic driver. Studies show that cultural and heritage tourists typically stay longer and spend more money than other travelers. By activating these historic sites and stories, destinations can attract a highly motivated audience eager to explore. This anniversary provides a perfect hook to create new, themed itineraries, events, and experiences that can be marketed both nationally and internationally.

How Marketers Can Best Capitalize on the REV250 Milestone

For marketers, REV250 is a chance to move beyond generic messaging and build authentic, engaging campaigns. Here are three key strategies:

1. Craft Compelling, Immersive Narratives: Instead of just listing historical facts, tell stories. Develop content—blog posts, short-form videos, and social media series—that humanize the history. Share the perspectives of women, Indigenous peoples, enslaved Africans, and everyday citizens who were part of this era. Create a sense of discovery and adventure for visitors, whether it’s through a “Historic Tavern Trail” or a digital passport program for revolutionary sites.
2. Develop Unique Experiential Offerings: The goal is to move from passive sightseeing to active participation. Partner with local businesses to create themed events and packages. Offer historical reenactments, lecture series, or culinary experiences that feature food and drink from the 18th century. Consider creating a “RevCon” or a series of community-based events that make history come alive.
3. Collaborate and Amplify: The collective impact of a statewide campaign is far greater than individual efforts. Work with your local historical societies, museums, and other destinations to create joint marketing campaigns. Use a consistent set of hashtags like #NY250 and #REV250 to amplify your message and build a broader conversation. By working together, you can ensure New York State stands out as a premier heritage destination throughout this multi-year commemoration.

By embracing these strategies, marketers can transform REV250 from a simple anniversary into a powerful, multi-year campaign that drives sustained interest, visitation, and revenue for their communities.

Advance Media New York and our partner Advance Travel & Tourism, has developed strategies to draw attention, interest and visitation to your REV250 destination.  Contact us to develop a custom strategy for your travel and tourism destination.