The DeKalb Tourism Visitor Center (DTVC) in Fort Payne, Alabama has taken a significant step towards enhancing its visibility and welcoming more visitors. The center, located at 2114 Gault Ave. N, has installed new signage both on the building and the lawn, making it easier to spot and attracting more attention to its services.
The new signs, created by Accel Graphics, have been met with positive feedback. John Dersham, President/CEO of DeKalb Tourism, expressed satisfaction with the improvements: “The new signs have made a big difference. People used to ask where we were located, but now we’re hearing, ‘We love your new sign,’ which is great for increasing awareness of our location.”
The DTVC’s move to its current location, a remodeled building, was prompted by the damage to its previous site, situated in a flood zone. The funding for the new signage comes from DeKalb Tourism’s share of lodging taxes collected from hotels, campgrounds, and vacation rentals. This lodging tax, levied by the state at a rate of 5%, supports various tourism initiatives in the Alabama Mountain Lakes region, which includes DeKalb County.
Beyond the new signage, DeKalb Tourism continues to invest in creating resources to enhance visitor experiences. The organization recently updated two popular brochures: “Hallelujah Trail” and “Mural Trail.” The “Hallelujah Trail” brochure showcases 20 historic churches in DeKalb County that are over 100 years old and still in use. The “Mural Trail” brochure encourages travelers to explore the county’s 19 murals, providing an artistic journey through the region’s communities.
These brochures were initially introduced by Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourism, but DeKalb County has expanded on them by creating localized versions that highlight the county’s specific attractions. Marketing Manager Kayla Worthey explained, “We’ve adapted their brochures to feature even more of what DeKalb has to offer. It’s a way to give visitors more insight into our unique culture and attractions.”
The DTVC is open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., providing visitors with information about local attractions and events. A QR code on the front door allows visitors access to online information even after hours. Additionally, A-frame signs outside the center advertise upcoming festivals and events happening across DeKalb County.
For more information on local attractions, visitors can follow Lookout Mountain Alabama on Facebook or visit the website at visitlookoutmountain.com. DeKalb County continues to expand its tourism efforts, drawing in visitors with updated resources and enhanced visibility, making the region a top destination for travelers in Alabama.
