In this Issue

Looking Back to Move Forward 

As the world continues to move forward at a breakneck pace and technological advances reshape our daily lives (hello, AI), travelers are increasingly looking backward. 

The history and heritage market has experienced significant growth in recent years, fueled by a global surge in interest in cultural preservation and a growing desire among travelers to engage with historical sites and traditions. The numbers back this up as the global heritage tourism market size was estimated at $604 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $778 billion by 2030. Heritage is no longer just history, it’s big business. 

This issue of Leisure Group Travel, the History and Heritage edition, understands travelers’ fascination with the past and features a host of fabulous stories filled with top-flight attractions and stunning photographs.

One such example is a piece written by our award-winning writer Randy Mink, who shares how the country, along with the travel industry, is gearing up for the massive America250 celebration in 2026.  

LGT also shines a spotlight on some of the most iconic landmarks that have shaped the American west while in the south, we unearth five states that serve some of the best African American food on the planet.  

Our Faces of Live Theater profiles highlight a few of the many creative forces working tirelessly to make each performance possible. They take you behind the curtain and show how the shows you love go from an idea to an event. 

This year’s Live Theater guide is robust, featuring some of the finest theaters in the country. Whether your group wants to see a Broadway show, be wined and dined or take a behind-the-scenes tour, this guide is for you. 

LGT even takes a trip to Thailand, where we discover the cultural quirks and intriguing idiosyncrasies of one of Asia’s great travel destinations. 

So, whether you’re tracing the footsteps of pioneers, savoring stories through soul food or applauding the magic of live theater, this issue proves one thing: the past isn’t just preserved — it’s being passionately experienced, one journey at a time. 

Happy travels, 

Jason Paha 

Chief Editor