Inviting destination signage welcomes visitors and points them to local delights.
Vacation season presents a prime opportunity for businesses to attract tourists and visitors. One powerful tool that often is overlooked is destination signage. Whether it’s a quaint bed and breakfast or a bustling city brimming with historical landmarks, inviting destination signage can make all the difference in encouraging guests to explore what your location has to offer. In this article, we will explore the role of destination signage in hospitality and outline seven tips for making it compelling.
Destination Signage is Influential
It’s critical to make a great first impression on every visitor, and your destination signage holds the key to making that happen. When you think of it as the initial interaction people have with your locale, you can see how it can set the tone for their entire experience. A well-designed sign not only informs but also entices, creating excitement and intrigue. It highlights key attractions, directs travelers where to go, and enhances the overall appeal of the area.
Seven Keys to Making Destination Signage Inviting
1. Keep it clear and concise.
Ensure that your signage provides straight-forward, simple information. Use plain language and avoid clutter to convey your message. This clarity helps visitors quickly understand important details, such as directions or local attractions, without feeling overwhelmed. The goal of effective signage is to guide and inform, making the visitor experience seamless and enjoyable.
2. Rely on eye-catching design elements.
A visually appealing sign is more likely to grab attention and leave a lasting positive impression. Think vibrant colors that echo your brand, attractive but easy-to-read fonts, and imagery that captures the local vibe.
3. Showcase your uniqueness.
What makes your destination special? Whether it’s historical landmarks, breathtaking scenery, or local delicacies, emphasize these features on your signage to spark curiosity. By highlighting unique attractions, you’ll not only draw in visitors but also encourage them to explore and share their experiences.
4. Make the most of directional signage.
Strategically place directional signage in advance of key points to seamlessly guide visitors. Make sure they are easy to see and positioned properly to enhance the travel experience. For example, arrows pointing to popular attractions or locations should be large and color-coded for quick recognition. Proper lighting can ensure that the signage remains visible in the evening hours.
5. Add a nod to the local language and culture.
If your destination attracts international visitors, consider using multilingual signage to cater to diverse audiences. Respect local customs and traditions in your messaging to create a welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
6. Use gateway signs, if appropriate.
Gateway signs are displayed for the sole purpose of sending a ‘welcome’ or ‘thank you for visiting’ message for arriving or departing travelers or promoting a regional theme.
These signs are typically located on the approach to a state/territory border, local tourism region, local government or town site boundary, or at the beginning of a themed tourist route. They are excellent tools for placemaking because they delineate entries and exits and create visual branding for the area.
7. Don’t forget the maintenance.
Regularly maintain your signage to ensure it remains current and in good condition. This includes things like cleaning, repairs, replacing faded or worn signs, and changing burned-out bulbs. As new attractions are added or when they are no longer relevant, make sure those updates are reflected in your destination signage system.
By implementing these key strategies, you can create inviting destination signage that enhances the visitor experience and drives tourism to your location. This vacation season, let your signage be a beacon that encourages people to explore and enjoy all that your area has to offer.
Destination signage is more than just practical—it’s a powerful tool for attracting visitors and ensuring they return time and time again. For more than 85 years, the professionals at Adler Display have been creating destination signage solutions that work. Please contact our knowledgeable team to learn more.
About Adler Display: For over 85 years, Adler Display has been one of the best-kept secrets behind so many businesses looking their best. Designing and producing a wide variety of high-quality recognition displays, trade show displays, signage and exhibits, lobby and corporate interiors, and historical timelines, Adler’s expert team includes consultants, designers, project managers, and fabricators. Working from a 17,000-square-foot facility in Baltimore that includes a precision woodworking shop, Adler Display handles printing, construction, and finishing on site. Learn how to achieve your imaging goals and make your business look amazing at: www.AdlerDisplay.com.