Seeing and Being Seen

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You can see tourists exploring Indian art in Santa Fe, waiting for Old Faithful at Yellowstone, or enjoying shrimp cocktails on San Francisco's Fisherman's Wharf. The American West draws vacationers who seek the ultimate experience, but their presence has transformed the very landscapes they visit. This work delves into the history of tourism in the American West and its impact on both visitors and the regions they explore. Contributions from scholars across various fields, including Patricia Nelson Limerick and Hal Rothman, alongside insights from government and National Park Service professionals, address the challenges tourism presents to western communities, encompassing economic, environmental, and cultural dimensions. The essays are structured around three key perspectives: the historical context of tourism, its cultural effects on communities and tourists, and the influence of tourism on national parks, particularly regarding the balance between preservation and public enjoyment. Covering the evolution of tourism from early-twentieth-century "See America First" campaigns to contemporary issues like automobile use in parks, the authors highlight the policy dilemmas communities face as they attempt to revitalize economies through tourism. They also provide strategies for making informed decisions about tourism's role in local life. This work is essential reading for scholars, policymakers, residents, and tourists alike.