The South Central Tennessee Tourism Association (SCTTA) is a state-recognized, nonprofit regional tourism organization dedicated to strengthening communities by maximizing the economic impact of travel throughout South Central Tennessee. As one of nine official Regional Tourism Organizations (RTOs) recognized by the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development, we serve as a collaborative partner to local governments, destination marketing organizations (DMOs), tourism businesses, attractions, community organizations, and industry leaders working to grow the region's visitor economy.

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Our region is home to thirteen counties, thirty-seven incorporated communities, and hundreds of unique rural destinations, each with its own story to tell. Rather than promoting a single destination, SCTTA works to strengthen the entire regional tourism ecosystem by connecting visitors with authentic experiences while supporting the communities and businesses that make those experiences possible.

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Tourism is one of the most powerful economic development tools available to our communities. Every visitor—whether traveling for leisure, business, sporting events, meetings, family gatherings, or simply passing through—creates opportunities for local businesses, supports jobs, generates tax revenue, and contributes to the long-term vitality of our communities. Our mission is to ensure South Central Tennessee captures the greatest possible benefit from every travel opportunity.

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Our work extends far beyond destination marketing. Through four interconnected service areas, SCTTA provides a comprehensive framework for developing and supporting tourism across the region.

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Government Services

We work alongside local governments by providing travel impact analysis, tourism development consulting, grant assistance, policy guidance, legislative advocacy, and strategic support that helps communities leverage tourism as an economic development tool.

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DMO Services

We serve as an extension of local destination marketing organizations by providing strategic planning, marketing support, media relations, grant administration, tourism consulting, and destination development services that strengthen local tourism efforts.

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Industry Services

Through our Tourism Ready Program, we support tourism businesses, attractions, nonprofits, and community organizations with memberships, partnerships, education, networking, marketing opportunities, and industry advocacy designed to strengthen the region's tourism industry.

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Regional Visitor Services

Headquartered at the Tennessee Whiskey Trailhead & Welcome Center in Lynchburg, our Regional Visitor Services Program connects visitors with destinations throughout South Central Tennessee through travel planning, visitor communications, welcome center partnerships, regional publications, destination information, and strategic visitor engagement initiatives.

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Supporting all four service areas is Experience Tennessee, SCTTA's regional destination brand. Through ExperienceTN.com, regional travel guides, storytelling, photography, digital marketing, media relations, and signature programs like After Jack and our Experience Guides, we inspire travelers to discover more of South Central Tennessee while helping local communities reach new audiences.

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In 2024, SCTTA was honored with the Purple Iris Award for Destination Marketing Organization of the Year, recognizing our commitment to innovative regional collaboration, tourism development, and community impact.

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We believe that stronger communities create stronger destinations, and stronger destinations create stronger regional economies. Every program, partnership, and initiative we undertake is built around a single purpose: connecting people with places in ways that strengthen communities, support local businesses, and maximize the economic impact of travel throughout South Central Tennessee.