Pomona, California, is a city full of culture, history, and vibrant attractions, drawing visitors from across the state and beyond. For local businesses, this inflow of tourists presents an exciting opportunity to expand customer bases and boost revenue. However, capturing tourist traffic takes strategic planning and implementation of targeted marketing tactics. By leveraging local SEO, creating partnerships, and collaborating on memorable experiences, businesses can transform visitors into loyal customers.
Harness the Power of Local SEO
One of the easiest ways to attract tourists is by optimizing your business’s online presence. Local SEO ensures your business appears in search results when visitors look up keywords like “things to do in Pomona,” “Pomona family activities,” or “Pomona events.”
- Optimize Your Website and Listings
Ensure your Google Business Profile, Yelp page, and website include accurate information such as your operating hours, address, and contact details. Use engaging descriptions that incorporate keywords like “Pomona dining,” “unique gifts in Pomona,” or “Pomona attractions.” - Create Visitor-Centric Content
Writing blog posts or guides catered to tourists is an effective way to attract and engage potential customers. For example, a bakery could publish a guide titled “Top Spots for Coffee and Pastries Near Popular Pomona Attractions”, while a boutique could create content around “Best Souvenirs to Take Home from Your Day in Pomona.” These types of content boost your visibility on search engines while showcasing your offerings.
Build Collaborations That Expand Your Reach
Collaborative efforts with other businesses and organizations are a win-win for promoting tourism and driving traffic to your store or services.
- Partner with Hotels and Attractions
Work closely with local hotels, museums, or event venues to create exclusive offers for their guests. For instance, a local restaurant could collaborate with a boutique hotel to include a discount coupon in the guest’s welcome package. Similarly, a retail store could partner with a nearby museum to offer discounts on entry tickets with a qualifying purchase. These partnerships ensure tourists have exposure to your business during their visit. - Join Forces for Tourist Itineraries
Collaborating with other local businesses on tourism-focused itineraries is another great strategy. Consider co-creating brochures showcasing an ideal day in Pomona—complete with breakfast at one local café, a visit to an art gallery, and shopping at your store. By coordinating with neighboring businesses, you can collectively encourage tourists to explore all the city has to offer, with each stop benefiting the next.
Market to Tourists and Locals Simultaneously
While tourism plays a crucial role, never forget the importance of connecting with your local audience. Blending tourism-focused strategies with community-oriented efforts can double your reach and impact.
- Highlight Local Events
Promoting events like art walks, farmers’ markets, or festivals can bring both visitors and locals to your business. Feature event calendars on your website or social media platforms, and emphasize your offerings during these events, such as event-exclusive discounts or themed products. - Personalize Your Messaging
Consider segmenting your email marketing into two audiences. For locals, share loyalty incentives or exclusive insider deals. For tourists, highlight the unique experiences your business offers, such as local crafts, cuisine, or services that stand out from other destinations. - Leverage Social Media
Platforms like Instagram and Facebook are excellent tools for showcasing both the community-focused and tourist-friendly aspects of your business. Use hashtags like #PomonaTourism, #PomonaLocalBusiness, or #VisitPomona to gain visibility among both audiences. Share visuals that capture the essence of your offerings, including testimonials from tourists and locals alike.
Inspire Visitors to Return (and Refer Your Business)
The ultimate goal is not just to gain a tourist’s one-time business, but to convert them into repeat customers or advocates for your brand.
- Offer Memorable Experiences
Make your business stand out by providing personalized, unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s a custom service offering or a small keepsake with each purchase, these touches create lasting impressions tourists are likely to share with others. - Encourage Reviews
Online reviews on sites like Tripadvisor, Yelp, or Google play a crucial role in attracting future visitors. After providing stellar service, kindly ask your tourists to leave a review about their experience. This boosts your visibility while building trust with potential customers. - Stay Connected
Invite tourists to sign up for your newsletter or follow your social media accounts. Share ongoing updates, like upcoming Pomona events, to keep your business on their radar long after they’ve returned home.
Empower Your Business with the Pomona Chamber of Commerce
Pomona is a city poised for growth, and your business can be part of this exciting movement. By implementing these tourism tactics, you can transform visitors into lifelong customers while strengthening your connection with the local community.
Ready to grow, connect, and lead in our vibrant local economy?
Join the Pomona Chamber of Commerce and become part of a network dedicated to supporting businesses like yours.
📞 Contact us today at (909) 622-1256 or 📧 info@pomonachamber.org — let’s build a stronger business community together!
