KNAU NewsRoom

Hopi Try to Create Culturally Compatible Tourism

Flagstaff, AZ (2009-08-28) A couple weeks ago there was a big hand painted sign stuck on the side of the road on Second Mesa, on the Hopi Reservation "Snake Dance closed to non-Indians." Village leaders cited a lack of respect for Hopi traditions. It's not a new problem. But it underscores a difficult balance for the Hopi how to encourage tourism while also protecting their ancient culture. Arizona Public Radio's Daniel Kraker has the final story in our series Tourism in Tough Times.

Recession Hits Home in Prescott

Flagstaff, AZ (2009-08-27) When you think of tourism hotspots in northern Arizona, most people don't automatically think of Prescott. But every summer hordes of visitors from the Valley make the quick drive up to Prescott to cool off, and to soak in the old-west history of Courthouse Square and Whiskey Row. Those tourists are still coming, but they're spending less money, and the recession seems to have taken a firm hold. Lucrezia Cuen has the latest story in our series Tourism in Tough Times.

Sedona Tourism Industry Feeling Recession's Pinch

Flagstaff, AZ (2009-08-27) Whether you're an avid hiker, an art collector, a vortex seeker, or just want to get pampered for a few days, Sedona offers something for just about every vacationer. Nearly three million tourists flock to the red rocks every year, pumping millions of dollars into the community. But that tourism-heavy economy has felt the impacts of the recession. Lucrezia Cuen has the next installment of our series Tourism in Tough Times.

Flagstaff Moves from Tourist Way Station to Destination

Flagstaff, AZ (2009-08-27) If you live in Flagstaff you're probably accustomed to the occasional rental car going the wrong way down a one way street; or the fanny pack sporting, camera toting tourist asking for directions. But before you get too exasperated, consider this: those tourists provide a half billion dollar annual jolt to the economy. In the latest installment of our series Tourism in Tough Times, Arizona Public Radio's Laurel Morales reports.

In the Midst of Recession, Grand Canyon still a Grand Attraction

Flagstaff, AZ (2009-08-27) The Grand Canyon is Arizona's biggest tourist attraction. It's 277 miles long, and it attracts about 4 million visitors each year. The Canyon has felt the tremors of the national economic recession. But its unique offerings from mule rides down the Bright Angel Trail to roaring raft trips through the Colorado River's whitewater have kept most tourists coming. Lucrezia Cuen has the first story in our series "Tourism in Tough Times.