HomeMy WebLinkAbout07. Discover Vail Board Book Appendix - VLMD_Brand Perception Report 2024Comprehensive Report November 2024
Vail Local Marketing District
Brand Perception Research
Table of Contents
Research Objectives
Methodology
Executive Summary
Detailed Findings
Vail Perceptions
Competitive Landscape
Demographics
Appendix
3
4
6
17
31
49
57
2Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Research Objectives
This report presents the findings of a brand perception study conducted on behalf of Vail
Local Marketing District (VLMD) by Future Partners. The primary objective of this research
is to understand Vail as a summer season travel destination. Specifically, this study was
designed to:
•Uncover unaided perceptions of Vail’s unique value proposition
•Measure key brand metrics such as familiarity, appeal, likelihood to visit, and past
visitation
•Understand core motivations and deterrents to visiting Vail
•Identify perceptions of Vail in terms of both important destination attributes as well as
general destination characteristics
•Evaluate Vail’s competitive position among specified destinations
3Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Methodology
To address the objectives of this research, Future Partners collected data through two approaches: quantitative online survey and qualitative in-depth interviews.
Online Survey
To qualify for the survey, respondents must have met the following requirements:
●Adults, aged 25+
●Household income of at least $100,000
●Taken a t least one overnight leisure trip in the past 12 months
●Resides in one of the following markets: Atlanta, Austin, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis, New York City, Omaha, San Diego, San Francisco, Seattle,
Tampa, Arizona, Colorado (excluding Vail), or Utah
Future Partners collected survey data through two sources: third-party panel provider and VLMD’s owned audiences. Data was collected from July 23 to August 21, 2024. This
report includes topline data for each source.
●Panel (n = 600): This source includes an even distribution of respondents across the markets above. The data is weighted based on market population size.
●Owned (n = 274): This source represents a convenience sample. The data is unweighted.
4Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Methodology
In-Depth Interviews
To be considered for an interview, participants had to meet the following requirements:
●Adults, aged 25+
●Household income of at least $100,000
●Taken a t least one overnight leisure trip in the past 12 months
●Resides in one of the following markets: Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Los
Angeles, Miami, New York City, Phoenix, or Seattle
●Familiar with Vail and its competitor destinations: Aspen, Breckenridge, Telluride, and Park
City
Future Partners conducted 10, 45-minute interviews. The participant composition was
balanced across demographics (see participant grid on slide 56). Each participant was
compensated $125 USD for their time.
5Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Executive Summary
7
Vail is considered an upscale destination that offers premium skiing, engaging outdoor activities, and beautiful natural scenery.
01
Interview participants describe three major strengths for Vail:
•Exceptional skiing for winter sports enthusiasts.
•Luxury accommodations and service combined with a sense of exclusivity that creates an unforgettable experience.
•A charming and walkable town that provides visitors with a convenient and picturesque environment to explore and enjoy.
They also report one primary weakness:
•Vail is perceived as an expensive destination. While Vail offers exceptional experiences, rising costs may deter some visitors or impact the overall value of the trip.
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
8
Vail exhibits strong brand health among travelers who have previously visited the destination.
02
Most travelers within VLMD’s owned audience have visited the destination in the past three years (94.9%). They are familiar with the destination’s offerings (98.9%),
consider it appealing (84.7%), and are likely to visit in the next three years (89.4%). However, the same cannot be said for travelers within the panel audience. Few have
visited the destination in the past three years (12.9%). While around half of the panel audience is familiar with Vail’s offerings (45.6%) and find it an appealing destination
(51.8%), a smaller share say they are likely to visit Vail in the next three years (28.1%).
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
12.9%
45.6%51.8%
28.1%
94.9%98.9%84.7%89.4%
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Have Visited Past 3 Years Familiarity Appealing Likely to Visit Next 3 Years
Panel
Owned
Vail Key Brand Metrics
9
Vail excels in attributes that align with its brand, but these attributes tend to hold less significance in selecting a travel destination.
03
Travelers were asked to rate a set of attributes on their importance when selecting a Colorado destination and later asked to evaluate Vail on those same attributes. Among
the panel audience, travelers rate Vail highly on luxury experiences (+34pp), boutique shopping (+33pp), and family-friendly activities (+20pp) but few consider these
attributes important when selecting a Colorado destination. Notably, the panel audience believes Vail overperforms on summer season outdoor recreation (+14pp), which
is considerably higher in terms of importance to destination selection. A similar pattern emerges for the owned audience. These travelers rate Vail highly on luxury
experiences (+45pp), boutique shopping (+38pp), and family-friendly activities (+30pp) but few consider these attributes important when selecting a Colorado destination.
The owned audience is more critical on how well Vail delivers on summer season outdoor recreation (+3pp), but it is still important to their destination decision.
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
10
Vail underperforms for the destination attributes that are most important to selecting a travel destination.
04
Both audiences consider affordability (-49pp panel, -68pp owned), value for the money spent (-45pp panel, -59pp owned), and a welcoming atmosphere (-19pp panel, -
12pp owned) important in their destination decision. However, few rate Vail highly on these same attributes.
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
11
Travelers prefer visiting Vail in the summer.
05
Travelers are most excited to visit Vail in the summer (48.8% panel, 79.9% owned), with fall and winter following closely
behind. The panel audience says they would most likely visit Vail in the summer (50.8%), while the owned audience is split
between summer (67.5%) and winter (63.5%). Interview participants also report a desire to visit Vail in either the summer
or the winter seasons. This flexibility in seasonal preferences underscores Vail's appeal as a year-round destination.
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
48.8%47.2%43.7%36.3%
79.9%
60.9%74.5%
29.2%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Summer
(June - August)
Fall
(September - October)
Winter
(November - March)
Spring
(April - May)
Panel Owned
Excitement to Visit Vail in Each Season
22.3%
50.8%
37.2%
33.6%
13.5%
67.5%
33.9%
63.5%
0%20%40%60%80%
Spring (April - May)
Summer (June - August)
Fall (September -
October)
Winter (November -
March)
Panel Owned
Season Most Likely to Visit Vail
12
In the summer, Vail attracts potential visitors seeking scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, a culinary scene, and lively events/festivals.
06
When asked to provide Vail’s top summer season visitor experience, both survey audiences provide the unaided response of hiking (41.0% panel, 37.6% owned), followed closely by
general outdoor recreation (22.3% panel, 19.0% owned). The owned audience also reports events/festivals (21.9%) as another top summer season experience compared to the panel
audience (2.7%). Top motivators to visit Vail in the summer include incredible scenic beauty (93.6% panel, 95.6% owned), outdoor recreation (83.2% panel, 93.8% owned), and a
desirable local culinary scene (79.4% panel, 81.0% owned). The owned audience would also be motivated by special events and festivals (85.8%) and live music (78.5%). The top
deterrent to visiting Vail in the summer is the perception that the destination is too expensive (41.3% panel, 46.7% owned). The panel audience is also deterred because they don’t
know enough about Vail’s summer offerings (35.4%) and believe the destination is not easily accessible (20.5%). Interview participants who have visited Vail in the winter anticipate
that a summer visit would allow them to enjoy a broader range of activities at a more relaxed pace. Interview participants who have yet to visit Vail imagine a summer trip that
seamlessly merges adventure and relaxation.
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
13
The Vail brand typically falls behind Lake Tahoe, Aspen, and Breckenridge.
07
The panel audience has visited Lake Tahoe the most in the past three years (24.8%). As such, they are most familiar with the things for visitors to see and do in Lake Tahoe
(60.3%) and say they would most likely visit Lake Tahoe in the next three years (43.7%). Vail falls further behind in terms of past visitation (12.9%), familiarity (45.6%), and
likelihood to visit (28.1%). Conversely, the owned audience has visited Vail the most in the past three years (94.9%), is most familiar with Vail’s offerings (98.9%), and is most
likely to visit Vail in the next three years (89.4%) compared to the other destinations tested.
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Visitation Past 3 Years
24.8%
14.7%
13.7%
13.5%
12.9%
7.8%
5.8%
49.9%
15.0%
48.5%
27.4%
62.0%
94.9%
33.9%
27.7%
1.1%
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Lake Tahoe, CA
Aspen, CO
Park City, UT
Breckenridge, CO
Vail, CO
Steamboat, CO
Telluride, CO
None of the above
60.3%
52.0%
45.6%
41.3%
39.2%
30.8%
29.9%
36.1%
67.5%
98.9%
39.8%
78.5%
56.2%
42.0%
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Lake Tahoe, CA
Aspen, CO
Vail, CO
Park City, UT
Breckenridge, CO
Steamboat, CO
Telluride, CO
43.7%
38.1%
28.2%
28.1%
19.8%
19.6%
18.2%
17.5%
27.7%
52.2%
54.4%
89.4%
52.2%
32.8%
45.3%
0.7%
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Lake Tahoe, CA
Aspen, CO
Breckenridge, CO
Vail, CO
Telluride, CO
Park City, UT
Steamboat, CO
None of the above
Familiarity Likely to Visit Next 3 Years
Panel
Owned
14
Marketing should play to Vail’s perceived strength in cultivating luxury experiences.
08
In a quantitative competitive analysis, travelers believe Vail’s strength is its luxury experiences. Additionally, the owned audience says Vail is also strong in offering year-
round activities, local events/festivals, family fun, and urban experiences. However, Vail may need to differentiate itself from nearby destinations as travelers say some of its
competitors exhibit the same strengths.
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
15
There’s opportunity to increase desired perceptions about Vail.
09
In the same quantitative competitive analysis, the brand characteristics of an authentic local community, a charming downtown, and year-round activities are either
considered neutral or small weaknesses for Vail depending on the particular survey audience. Therefore, Vail could develop marke ting campaigns to increase desired
perceptions and fill gaps where its competitors fall short.
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
16
Qual competitive analysis
10
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
VAIL
Visitor Experience
•Luxurious amenities and services
•Scenic nature
•Outdoor activities
•Quaint community atmosphere
Emotional Connection
•Excitement
•Serenity
•Nostalgia
Strengths
•Exceptional skiing
•Luxury and exclusivity
•Charming and walkable town
Weaknesses
•Expensive
Adventure Seekers Elite
Jetsetters
ASPEN
Visitor Experience
•Outdoor adventure
•Glitz and glamour
Emotional Connection
•Excitement
•Thrill
•Intrigue
Strengths
•Premium skiing
•Luxury and exclusivity
•A place for both adventure and
relaxation
Weaknesses
•Expensive
•Crowded
BRECKENRIDGE
Visitor Experience
•Scenic nature
•Outdoor activities
•Laid-back, local scene
•Rich culture and history
Emotional Connection
•Happiness
•Nostalgia
•Authenticity
Strengths
•Historic charm
•Welcoming atmosphere
•Outdoor adventure, particularly
for skiing
Weaknesses
•Increasing popularity
•Historical significance not known
•Less brand recognition
TELLURIDE
Visitor Experience
•Outdoor adventure
•Cultural experiences
Emotional Connection
•Excitement
•Joy
Strengths
•Ability to attract diverse
audiences
•Small-town charm
•Authentic community
•Fewer crowds
Weaknesses
•Accessibility
•Marginally expensive
•Less brand recognition
PARK CITY
Visitor Experience
•Outdoor activities
•High-quality dining and
entertainment
Emotional Connection
•Nostalgia
•Tranquility
Strengths
•Upscale and exclusive
•Scenic nature
•Outdoor activities
•Easily accessible
•Small-town feel
Weaknesses
•Marginally expensive
•Proximity to Salt Lake City
•Lacks small-town charm
Vail Perceptions
About half of the panel audience is familiar with Vail’s offerings, with 51.8 percent finding it
an appealing destination; yet a smaller share say they are likely to visit Vail in the next three
years (28.1%).
The percentages for these metrics are much more elevated for the owned audience compared to the panel audience.
18
12.9%
45.6%51.8%
28.1%
94.9%98.9%
84.7%89.4%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Have Visited Past 3 Years
(yes)
Familiarity
(familiar + very familiar)
Appealing
(8 + 9 + 10 extremely appealing)
Likely to Visit Next 3 Years
(yes)
Panel Owned
Vail Key Brand Metrics
Question: Key brand metrics (see following slides)
Base: Panel audience (n = 600). Owned audience (n = 274).Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
19
Vail Attribute Importance
Question: How important would each of the following be when selecting the places you
would visit in Colorado? | Please rate Vail as a leisure destination for the following attributes.
Base: Panel audience (n = 600).Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
-4%
-19%
-1%
-45%-49%
-19%
14%
-29%
5%
-3%
8%
20%
34%26%16%
33%
-60%
-40%
-20%
0%
20%
40%
60%
However, they also believe Vail underperforms on attributes that are important to their destination decision including affordability (-49pp), value for the money spent (-45pp), and a
welcoming atmosphere (-19pp).
The panel audience believes Vail overperforms on attributes important to its brand
including luxury experiences (+34pp), family-friendly activities (+20pp), and summer
recreation (+14pp).
OVERPERFORMS
More panel travelers rate Vail
as good or very good for the
attribute than say the
attribute is important or very
important when selecting a
Colorado destination
UNDERPERFORMS
More panel travelers say the
attribute is important or
very important when
selecting a Colorado
destination than rate Vail as
good or very good for the
attribute
(Attributes ordered from least to most important when selecting a Colorado destination)
20
Vail Attribute Importance
Question: How important would each of the following be when selecting the places you
would visit in Colorado? | Please rate Vail as a leisure destination for the following attributes.
Base: Owned audience (n = 274).Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
-1%-1%-12%
3%
-59%
2%
-68%
11%
-29%
10%
45%
30%31%38%
-9%
16%
-80%
-40%
0%
40%
80%
However, they also believe Vail underperforms on attributes that are important to their destination decision including affordability (-68pp), value for the money spent (-59pp), and a
welcoming atmosphere (-12pp).
The owned audience believes Vail overperforms on attributes important to its brand
including luxury experiences (+45pp), boutique shopping (+38pp), and family-friendly
activities (+30pp).
OVERPERFORMS
More panel travelers rate Vail
as good or very good for the
attribute than say the
attribute is important or very
important when selecting a
Colorado destination
UNDERPERFORMS
More panel travelers say the
attribute is important or
very important when
selecting a Colorado
destination than rate Vail as
good or very good for the
attribute
(Attributes ordered from least to most important when selecting a Colorado destination)
Travelers are most excited to visit Vail in the summer (48.8% panel, 79.9% owned), with fall
and winter following closely behind.
Travelers are least excited to visit Vail in the spring (36.3% panel, 29.2% owned).
21
48.8%47.2%43.7%
36.3%
79.9%
60.9%
74.5%
29.2%
0%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
Summer
(June - August)
Fall
(September - October)
Winter
(November - March)
Spring
(April - May)
Panel Owned
Excitement to Visit Vail in Each Season
Question: How excited would you be to visit Vail, Colorado for leisure in each of the following
seasons?
Base: Panel audience (n = 600). Owned audience (n = 274).
(% showing 8 + 9 + 10 extremely excited)
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
The panel audience says they would most likely visit Vail in the summer (50.8%).
The owned audience is split between summer (67.5%) and winter (63.5%).
22
Season Most Likely to Visit Vail
22.3%
50.8%
37.2%
33.6%
13.5%
67.5%
33.9%
63.5%
0%20%40%60%80%
Spring (April - May)
Summer (June - August)
Fall (September - October)
Winter (November - March)
Panel Owned
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Question: In which season(s) would you most likely visit Vail, Colorado? Select all that apply.
Base: Panel audience (n = 600). Owned audience (n = 274).
I definitely want to go back to Vail. I’d
check into a hotel, plan on a hike, find
where I want to eat. Maybe go out for
some drinks at night. There's endless
choices on that aspect.
23
Interview participants who have visited Vail in the winter believe a summer visit would
allow them to explore the destination’s outdoor and social offerings.
Base: Interview participants (n = 10).Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
A Different Vail Experience
Among interview participants who visited Vail, most skied in the winter season. They anticipate that a summer
visit would allow them to enjoy a broader range of activities at a more relaxed pace, moving away from the
intense focus on skiing to a more leisurely exploration of Vail’s outdoor and social offerings. They expect to:
•Engage in outdoor activities available in the summer months including hiking, mountain biking, and e-biking.
This shift in focus from skiing to other outdoor recreation suggests a desire to engage with the natural beauty
of the area in a different way.
•Explore the town which would provide opportunities for shopping, dining, and socializing in a more relaxed
atmosphere compared to the bustling ski and holiday season.
•Enjoy various arts and cultural attractions as well as community-oriented events such as concerts and
festivals, which may not be accessible during the winter months.
The pleasant summer temperatures are seen as added value to those from hotter climates like Miami and
Phoenix.
“
”
I haven’t really explored the
downtown area, so I’d like to do that.
Check out some restaurants,
breweries, maybe some art galleries.
“
”
I would like to go explore, do nature
walks, get fresh air. I’d also like to go
shopping in their downtown and pick
up knickknacks. I love buying
souvenirs.
24
Interview participants who have not visited Vail envision a summer trip filled with
outdoor activities, nature exploration, and a peaceful atmosphere.
Base: Interview participants (n = 10).Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
A Potential Summer Trip to Vail
Interview participants who have not yet visited Vail imagine a summer trip that seamlessly merges adventure
and relaxation. They envision immersing themselves in nature and enjoying various outdoor activities, with a
particular emphasis on hiking and nature walks. Their summer trip includes tranquil moments in nature, coupled
with the ease of exploring downtown and the comfort of upscale amenities. This indicates a preference for
activities that allow them to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Furthermore, they anticipate
dining outdoors to enjoy the pleasant summer temperatures while savoring the local cuisine. Some even
mention seeking out fine dining options, capitalizing on Vail’s reputation for luxury.
“
”
I'm a big lover of walking tours. So, if
there is a downtown walking tour or
a ranger-led walk in the park, I would
like that.
“
”
When asked to provide Vail’s top summer season visitor experience, the panel audience
predominately says hiking (41.0%).
The owned audience also says hiking (37.6%). However, they overwhelming report events/festivals (21.9%) as another top summer season experience compared to the panel
audience (2.7%).
25
Vail’s Top Summer Season Visitor Experience (unaided)
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Question: Think of Vail, Colorado as a place to visit for leisure during the summer. What is the
top summer season visitor experience Vail offers?
Base: Panel respondents (n = 600). Owned respondents (n = 274).
41.0%
22.3%
9.7%
2.7%
2.7%
2.2%
1.5%
1.2%
1.2%
1.0%
3.0%
11.7%
37.6%
19.0%
6.9%
21.9%
3.6%
1.5%
4.0%
1.5%
0.0%
0.7%
2.6%
0.7%
0%10%20%30%40%50%
Hiking
Outdoor recreation
Scenic views
Events/Festivals
Weather
Unique experiences
Dining
Cultural activities
Family/Group activities
Relaxation/Wellness
Other
Not sure/Don't know
Panel Owned
Top motivators to visit Vail in the summer include scenic beauty (93.6% panel, 95.6%
owned), outdoor recreation (83.2% panel, 93.8% owned), and culinary scene (79.4% panel,
81.0% owned).
The owned audience would also be motivated by special events and festivals (85.8%) and live music (78.5%).
26Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Question: In terms of motivating you to take a trip to Vail during the summer, how appealing
do you find each of the following?
Base: Panel audience (n = 600). Owned audience (n = 274).
93.6%
83.2%
79.4%
72.9%
63.3%
59.5%
57.6%
53.2%
95.6%
93.8%
81.0%
85.8%
78.5%
48.5%
40.1%
35.8%
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Incredible scenic beauty
Outdoor recreation such as hiking, biking, etc.
Desirable local culinary scene
Special events/festivals
Live music
Family-friendly attractions
Brewery and distillery experiences
Spa and wellness activities
Panel Owned
Motivations to Visit Vail in the Summer
(% showing appealing + very appealing)
The top deterrent to visiting Vail in the summer is the perception that Vail is too expensive
(41.3% panel, 46.7% owned).
The panel audience is also deterred because they don’t know too much about Vail’s summer offerings (35.4%) and believe the destination is not easily accessible (20.5%).
27Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Question: What keeps you from visiting Vail, Colorado during the summer season? Select all
that apply.
Base: Panel audience (n = 600). Owned audience (n = 274).
Deterrents to Visiting Vail in the Summer
41.3%
35.4%
20.5%
11.4%
8.3%
7.1%
6.8%
4.4%
2.9%
18.4%
46.7%
7.3%
10.9%
15.3%
1.5%
15.7%
6.2%
0.4%
4.4%
33.9%
0%10%20%30%40%50%
Vail is too expensive
I don’t know much about Vail’s summer offerings
Vail is too difficult to get to
Vail is too crowded
I am not interested in what Vail offers as a travel experience
Been there, done that
There is not enough to do in the destination outside of winter
Too remote, rural, or wild
Vail does not have enough for kids to do
None of the above
Panel Owned
Less than one-in-five of the panel audience recalls seeing advertisements for Vail in the past
twelve months (16.0%).
Conversely, the owned audience recalls seeing advertisements for Vail in the past 12 months (77.3%).
28Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Question: In the past 12 months, do you recall seeing any advertisements for Vail, Colorado as
a place to visit?
Base: Panel audience (n = 600). Owned audience (n = 274).
Paid Ad Recall P12M Vail
Yes
16.0%
No
77.3%
I don't know
6.7%
Panel Owned
Yes
78.8%
No
14.2%
I don't know
6.9%
Similar to ad recall, earned media recall is relatively low amongst the panel audience
(14.2%).
Meanwhile, two-thirds of the owned audience recalls seeing articles, stories, and blogs written about Vail in the past 12 months (66.8%).
29Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Question: In the past 12 months, do you recall seeing any articles, stories, or blogs written (in
print or online) about Vail, Colorado as a place to visit?
Base: Panel audience (n = 600). Owned audience (n = 274).
Earned Ad Recall P12M Vail
Yes
14.2%
No
81.5%
I don't know
4.3%
Panel Owned
Yes
66.8%
No
24.5%
I don't know
8.8%
Word -of-mouth recall for the panel audience is higher than both ad recall and earned media
recall (23.7%).
A majority of the owned audience, however, recalls hearing friends and family talk about Vail in the past 12 months (79.2%).
30Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Question: In the past 12 months, do you recall any of your friends or relatives talking (in
person or on social media) about Vail, Colorado as a place to visit?
Base: Panel audience (n = 600). Owned audience (n = 274).
Word of Mouth Recall P12M Vail
Yes
23.7%
No
73.6%
I don't know
2.8%
Panel Owned
Yes
79.2%
No
18.6%
I don't know
2.2%
Competitive Landscape
The panel audience most wants to visit Denver (61.3%) in the summer, followed by Colorado
Springs (29.6%) and Aspen (22.8%).
Conversely, the owned audience most wants to visit Vail (64.2%) in the summer, following by Telluride (33.6%) and Aspen (26.6%).
32
Colorado Destination for Summer Season (unaided)
61.3%
29.6%
22.8%
19.9%
13.5%
9.8%
7.2%
7.2%
5.7%
4.8%
1.2%
1.2%
0.3%
13.5%
8.4%
26.6%
4.4%
64.2%
12.4%
8.0%
4.7%
33.6%
13.9%
9.9%
7.3%
12.8%
0%20%40%60%80%
Denver
Colorado Springs
Aspen
Boulder
Vail
Breckenridge
Durango
Estes Park
Telluride
Steamboat
Crested Butte
Ouray
Beaver Creek
Panel Owned
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Question: When you think of your next vacation within Colorado during the summer season,
where do you most want to visit?
Base: Panel respondents (n = 600). Owned respondents (n = 274).
(% showing top 10 responses per audience)
The panel audience has visited Lake Tahoe the most in the past three years (24.8%), with
fewer who have visited Vail (12.9%).
33
24.8%
14.7%
13.7%
13.5%
12.9%
7.8%
5.8%
49.9%
15.0%
48.5%
27.4%
62.0%
94.9%
33.9%
27.7%
1.1%
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Lake Tahoe, CA
Aspen, CO
Park City, UT
Breckenridge, CO
Vail, CO
Steamboat, CO
Telluride, CO
None of the above
Panel Owned
In fact, half of the panel audience has not visited any of the destinations listed in the past three years (49.9%). On the other hand, the vast majority of the owned audience has
visited Vail in the past three years (94.9%), followed by Breckenridge (62.0%) and Aspen (48.5%).
Have Visited Destination in Past 3 Years
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Question: Which of the following destinations have you visited as part of a leisure trip in the
past three (3) years? Select all that apply.
Base: Panel audience (n = 600). Owned audience (n = 274).
The panel audience is most familiar with the things for visitors to see and do in Lake
Tahoe (60.3%), followed by Aspen (52.0%) and Vail (45.6%).
34
Conversely, the owned audience is most familiar with Vail’s offerings (98.9%), followed by Breckenridge (78.5%) and Aspen (67.5%).
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
60.3%
52.0%
45.6%
41.3%
39.2%
30.8%
29.9%
36.1%
67.5%
98.9%
39.8%
78.5%
56.2%
42.0%
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Lake Tahoe, CA
Aspen, CO
Vail, CO
Park City, UT
Breckenridge, CO
Steamboat, CO
Telluride, CO
Panel Owned
Familiarity Destination
(% showing familiar + very familiar)
Question: How familiar are you with the attractions and things to see and do in each of these
destinations?
Base: Panel audience (n = 600). Owned audience (n = 274).
The panel audience says they are most likely to visit Lake Tahoe (43.7%) and Aspen
(38.1%) in the next three years, followed by Breckenridge (28.2%) and Vail (28.1%).
35
However, the owned audience reports it is most likely to visit Vail in the next three years (89.4%), with Breckenridge (54.4%), Aspen (52.2%), and Telluride (52.2%) next in line but
falling much further behind.
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
43.7%
38.1%
28.2%
28.1%
19.8%
19.6%
18.2%
17.5%
27.7%
52.2%
54.4%
89.4%
52.2%
32.8%
45.3%
0.7%
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Lake Tahoe, CA
Aspen, CO
Breckenridge, CO
Vail, CO
Telluride, CO
Park City, UT
Steamboat, CO
None of the above
Panel Owned
Likely to Visit Destination in Next 3 Years
Question: Which of the following destinations are you likely to visit as part of a leisure trip in
the next three (3) years? Select all that apply.
Base: Panel audience (n = 600). Owned audience (n = 274).
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024 36
Attributes Destination 1 Destination 2 Destination 3 Destination 4 Destination 5 Destination 6 Destination 7
Attribute 1
Attribute 2
Attribute 3
Attribute 4
Attribute 5
Attribute 6
Attribute 7
Attribute 8
Attribute 9
Attribute 10
Big weakness Small
weakness
Small
strength
Big strength
Brand Image Profiling: A Competitive Analysis Tool
Brand image profiling is a tool used to easily distinguish one brand (or destination) from another across a set of attributes. Oftentimes, bigger or well-known brands receive higher ratings
in surveys compared to smaller or lesser-known brands because respondents are more familiar with those brands. Brand image profiling mathematically eliminates brand size to showcase
each brand’s strengths and weaknesses in relation to one another. The difference in actual versus expected scores determines the magnitude of each brand’s strengths and weaknesses.
How well a brand performs depends on the competitors and attributes included in the survey.
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024 37
Attributes Vail, CO Aspen, CO Breckenridge,
CO Steamboat, CO Telluride, CO Lake Tahoe, CA Park City, UT
Outdoor recreation (e.g., hiking, biking)
Luxury experiences (e.g., gourmet dining, elevated accommodations)
Year-round activities and attractions
Charming downtown
Local events and festivals
Family fun
Authentic, active local community
Urban (city) experiences (e.g., arts and culture, nightlife)
Summer vacation
Value for money spent in the destination
The panel audience believes Vail excels in luxury experiences but falls short on being a
summer destination and good value for the money spent – similar to Aspen’s evaluation.
Big weakness Small
weakness
Small
strength
Big strength
Question: For each attribute below, please select the destination(s) that best align with that
attribute.
Base: Panel audience (n = 600).
While Lake Tahoe is the only competitor viewed as a summer destination, it also has many perceived weaknesses including luxury experiences, a charming downtown, local
events/festivals, and an authentic, active local community.
AC
T
U
A
L
V
A
I
L
R
A
T
I
N
G
S
(h
i
g
h
t
o
l
o
w
)
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024 38
Attributes Vail, CO Aspen, CO Breckenridge,
CO Steamboat, CO Telluride, CO Lake Tahoe, CA Park City, UT
Year-round activities and attractions
Outdoor recreation (e.g., hiking, biking)
Summer vacation
Local events and festivals
Luxury experiences (e.g., gourmet dining, elevated accommodations)
Family fun
Charming downtown
Urban (city) experiences (e.g., arts and culture, nightlife)
Authentic, active local community
Value for money spent in the destination
Big weakness Small
weakness
Small
strength
Big strength
Question: For each attribute below, please select the destination(s) that best align with that
attribute.
Base: Owned audience (n = 274).
The owned audience believes Vail excels in luxury experiences, year-round activities, local
events/festivals, family fun, and urban experiences.
Vail’s perceived weaknesses include value for the money spent, a charming downtown, and an authentic, active local community. In terms of a summer vacation destination, this is
a perceived strength for Lake Tahoe but a perceived weakness for Aspen and Park City.
AC
T
U
A
L
V
A
I
L
R
A
T
I
N
G
S
(h
i
g
h
t
o
l
o
w
)
39Base: Interview participants (n = 10).Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
VAIL, COLORADO – QUALITATIVE ASSESSMENT
Top of Mind Association
Most travelers perceive Vail as an elite destination offering premium skiing experiences, breathtaking scenery, engaging outdoor activities, and ample relaxation. However, one traveler expresses
negative sentiment, stating that the town’s reputation did not align with their expectations – Vail was not visually appealing, charming, or welcoming.
Visitor Experience
Expectations around a Vail visitor experience typically fall into one of three categories:
•Upscale and luxurious: Indulge in high-quality dining, accommodations, and customer service
to unwind and pamper oneself.
•Nature exploration: Explore Vail’s natural beauty through outdoor activities such as hiking and
skiing.
•Community life: Experience the local community by exploring the town’s quaint atmosphere
and engaging in dining and shopping opportunities.
Travelers are divided between visiting Vail in the winter for skiing or the summer for hiking,
biking, and/or golf. This flexibility in seasonal preferences underscores Vail's appeal as a year-
round destination.
Strengths
Travelers report three big strengths for Vail:
•Exceptional skiing for winter sports enthusiasts.
•Luxury accommodations combined with a sense of exclusivity that create an unforgettable
experience.
•Charming and walkable town provides visitors with a convenient and picturesque environment
to explore and enjoy.
Other notable strengths include a wide range of family-friendly activities and a tranquil, inviting
atmosphere.
Emotional Connection
Travelers generally express excitement and enthusiasm for Vail’s skiing opportunities, luxurious
amenities, and exclusive ambiance. Moreover, Vail evokes a sense of serenity, providing an
escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and allowing visitors to reconnect with nature.
Those who have previously visited Vail express feelings of “pure happiness” and nostalgia,
particularly when recalling family vacations, emphasizing the town’s family-friendly atmosphere.
Weaknesses
Most travelers perceive Vail as an expensive destination. While Vail offers exceptional
experiences, rising costs may deter some visitors or impact the overall value of the trip. A few
travelers suggest that rising expenses may limit access to a more diverse set of visitors while
another traveler expresses concern around how this may impact quality of service if hospitality
staff cannot afford to live in the area. Interestingly, one traveler indicates that Vail’s biggest
weakness is the perception that the town revolves solely around ski season.
40
“The biggest strength for Vail is that it has the best
options for everything: from the skiing to the dining
options to the freedom of walking around from
village to village. I love the place.”
- Kirk (Male, Gen X, Houston)
Question: What is Vail’s biggest strength as a place to visit?
41Base: Interview participants (n = 10).Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
ASPEN, COLORADO – QUALITATIVE ASSESSMENT
Top of Mind Association
Travelers perceive Aspen as a glamorous ski destination offering luxury, upscale experiences and outdoor adventure. While one participant refers to Aspen as a “direct competitor to Vail,” another
says it is slightly larger than Vail that offers a vibrant après ski culture, suggesting that it is perceived as a more bustling and lively mountain town.
Visitor Experience
Travelers expect a unique blend of adventure and glamour. They desire outdoor recreation as
well as upscale dining and accommodations with high-quality service. This is a destination for
those willing to splurge. One participant expects to engage in unique, sophisticated events. Most
travelers want to visit Aspen in the winter for skiing, though a handful would choose a different
season to experience other outdoor activities such as hiking or biking.
Strengths
Travelers perceive three major strengths for Aspen:
•Premium skiing experience for winter sports enthusiasts.
•Beautiful natural surroundings contribute to its reputation as a desirable location for both
adventure and relaxation.
•Hub for luxury and exclusivity draws visitors seeking high-end experiences.
Other notable strengths include access to unique events and festivals.
Emotional Connection
Travelers express feelings of excitement about skiing as well as a sense of thrill and intrigue at the
thought of being in a place frequented by celebrities and influential individuals. This emotional
connection indicates that Aspen offers not only recreational opportunities but also a sense of
belonging to an elite social scene, enhancing its allure as a travel destination.
Weaknesses
Most travelers perceive Aspen as an expensive destination. While Aspen offers upscale
experiences, increasing costs may deter some visitors or impact the overall value of the trip. One
participant expresses concerns about the availability of service staff in the area due to the high
cost of living, which may affect the quality of service received. Furthermore, some travelers say
Aspen can be very crowded, especially during peak season or special events. This congestion may
detract from the overall experience for some visitors, particularly those seeking a more tranquil
environment. One participant mentions that Aspen is "a bit remote," which may make it less
accessible compared to other mountain destinations.
42
“I would say a lot of adventure, fun, unexpected
meetings with people you might meet there. You
don’t know who you may come across. I just get this
luxurious, high-end feeling. Like red carpet-ish
feeling.”
- Tiffany (Female, Gen X, Powder Springs)
Question: What type of experience would you expect to have while visiting Aspen?
43Base: Interview participants (n = 10).Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
BRECKENRIDGE, COLORADO – QUALITATIVE ASSESSMENT
Top of Mind Association
Most travelers perceive Breckenridge as a mountain destination that offers outdoor recreation, particularly skiing. A few mention its rich history and culture, while one perceives it as a “younger”
version of Vail, catering to a more youthful and hipper demographic.
Visitor Experience
Most travelers anticipate immersing themselves in nature and engaging in outdoor recreational
activities such as skiing, hiking, or biking. They envision a laid-back experience, indulging in local
cuisine and handcrafted libations. One participant expresses interest in learning about the town’s
history, while another fondly remembers family-oriented activities. Travelers say they would visit
Breckenridge in any season, though their responses lean toward winter for ski season.
Strengths
Travelers perceive a couple major strengths for Breckenridge:
•Historic charm creates a quaint, welcoming, and authentic atmosphere.
•Desirable location for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly for skiing.
Other notable strengths include affordability, family-friendly environment, and a local culinary
scene.
Emotional Connection
Travelers who have visited Breckenridge recall experiences with a sense of happiness, fondness,
and nostalgia for the destination. Travelers who have not visited Breckenridge have limited
familiarity and thus do not express a strong emotional connection to the destination. One
participant, however, appreciates the town’s authenticity and historical significance.
Weaknesses
A few perceived weaknesses are reported by travelers:
•Breckenridge’s growing popularity can lead to overcrowding, potentially detracting from the
overall experience for those seeking a more relaxed environment.
•Breckenridge may not be as well-known for its historical significance, which could attract
certain visitors.
•Breckenridge may not have the same level of recognition or prestige as destinations like Aspen
or Vail, which could influence some visitors’ destination decision.
44
“It has a lot of culture, so you can learn something
new.It has parks and beautiful mountains, so lots of
outdoor activities to do.It's charming, it has a lot of
historic charm.”
- Marlene (Female, Millennial, Miami)
Question: What first comes to mind when you think about Breckenridge as a travel destination?
45Base: Interview participants (n = 10).Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
TELLURIDE, COLORADO – QUALITATIVE ASSESSMENT
Top of Mind Association
Most travelers perceive Telluride as a mountain destination characterized by outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, biking, and golf. One participant considers Telluride a charming and inviting
place, emphasizing its community-oriented atmosphere while another describes it as a "festival town."
Visitor Experience
When visiting Telluride, travelers anticipate a unique blend of outdoor adventures and cultural
experiences, reflecting the destination’s diverse offerings. Telluride is perceived as a place that
provides year-round outdoor activities, allowing individuals to immerse themselves in nature’s
beautiful surroundings. Additionally, visitors expect a vibrant and lively atmosphere centered
around music, events, and festivals, catering to a wide range of interests. Travelers say they
would visit Telluride in any season, indicating the variety of experiences available throughout the
year.
Strengths
Travelers perceive many strengths for Telluride:
•Offers beautiful natural landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities.
•Ability to attract diverse audiences with different demographics and interests through various
outdoor adventures and cultural events.
•Has a small-town charm and an authentic, friendly community which makes visitors feel
welcome and at home.
•Feels less crowded than other mountain destinations, which can create a more relaxed,
enjoyable, and intimate experience.
Other notable strengths include walkability and a family-friendly environment.
Emotional Connection
Most travelers express a sense of excitement and joy when thinking about Telluride. For some,
this positive sentiment is tied to the ability to connect with nature and engage in outdoor
adventure. For others, it’s their experience with the town’s festivals and community-driven
atmosphere, suggesting an emotional connection tied to the people and the arts. As one
participant puts it, being in Telluride gives them a “natural high.”
Weaknesses
Telluride is often described by travelers as “very remote,” making it more challenging to reach
compared to other mountain destinations. The town’s accessibility is limited, despite having a
nearby regional airport, which may contribute to the higher travel costs associated with visiting.
Additionally, Telluride can become quite expensive during peak festival seasons. Some travelers
note that Telluride may not have the same level of recognition as destinations like Aspen or Vail,
which could influence some visitors’ destination decision. One traveler suggests that Telluride’s
small-town feel might be a drawback for some visitors seeking more in-market options.
46
“I'm a big Telluride fan.I think of it primarily as a festival
town.They have a lot of festivals in the park.My wife and
I enjoy these festivals and the music, which spreads into
the town. There’s the main street and other places where
these bands show up.And it's just really a fun town.”
- Rod (Male, Boomer, Phoenix)
Question: What first comes to mind when you think about Telluride as a travel destination?
47Base: Interview participants (n = 10).Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
PARK CITY, UTAH – QUALITATIVE ASSESSMENT
Top of Mind Association
Most travelers perceive Park City as an upscale mountain destination known for its exceptional skiing, outdoor exploration, cultural events, and proximity to Salt Lake City,
Visitor Experience
Travelers expect to participate in seasonal activities such as skiing during the winter and hiking,
biking, and camping during the summer. Additionally, they seek to immerse themselves in the
town’s vibrant atmosphere, characterized by its “amazing main street.” This central throughfare
offers a diverse array of high-quality dining, captivating entertainment options, and exceptional
customer service, all of which contribute to the overall experience. One traveler appreciates the
opportunity to explore nearby Salt Lake City, enriching their vacation with an urban adventure.
Travelers acknowledge that Park City can be visited year-round, making it difficult to select one
season in which to visit.
Strengths
Travelers perceive three primary strengths for Park City:
•Reputation as an upscale destination, which contributes to its exclusive appeal.
•Opportunity to connect with nature and its abundance of seasonal outdoor activities.
•Near Salt Lake City, making it easily accessible while still offering a small-town feel so that
travelers can enjoy both city and mountain experiences.
Other notable strengths include local festivals and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Emotional Connection
Travelers who have visited Park City express a sense of fondness and nostalgia for the
destination. Travelers who have not visited Park City still have a strong positive connection to the
destination and see it as a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, indulge in its
tranquility, and reconnect with the outdoors. One participant feels a sense of belonging to an
exclusive crowd while another expresses a sense of comfort in knowing that it is easy to access.
Weaknesses
Travelers mention a few perceived weaknesses for Park City:
•While travelers acknowledge Park City’s proximity to Salt Lake City may attract visitors, some
also say it can invite more crowds.
•Some travelers perceive Park City as an expensive destination. The exclusive nature of the
town can deter and limit the diversity of visitors.
•A few travelers believe Park City might not fully embody the quintessential charm of a quaint
mountain town.
48
“You can go skiing in the winter or hiking in the
summer. You can go there and really disconnect,
enjoy the different scenery. It’s pretty close to Salt
Lake City, so more accessible. A small town, but
close to the big city.”
- Kylea (Female, Millennial, Redmond)
Question: What type of experience would you expect to have while visiting Park City?
Demographics
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024 50
Demographics: Survey Panel Audience
Gender Generation Ethnicity Orientation
● Male, 49.0%
● Female, 51.0%
● Gen Z, 2.2%
● Millennials, 29.5%
● Gen X, 33.5%
● Boomers+, 34.8%
● White, 82.8%
● Black or African American, 4.6%
● Asian, 7.9%
● Hispanic or Latino, 9.3%
● Other, 2.8%
● Heterosexual, 95.4%
● Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual, 4.0%
● Other, 0.6%
Mean Age =
52.9 years
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024 51
Marital Status Children in Household Household Income
● $100,000-$124,999, 21.8%
● $125,000-$149,999, 26.0%
● $150,000-$199,999, 27.2%
● $200,000-$249,999, 13.7%
● $250,000 or more, 11.4%
● 0 children, 63.0%
● 1 child, 14.1%
● 2 children, 18.7%
● 3+ children, 4.1%
● Single, 12.3%
● Married/Partnered, 77.8%
● Divorced/Separated, 7.6%
● Widowed, 2.3%
Mean =
1.7 children
Mean HHI =
$167,006
Demographics: Survey Panel Audience
52
18.0%
11.8%
8.5%
7.4%
6.9%
5.8%
5.7%
5.2%
4.2%
3.7%
3.7%
3.4%
3.1%
3.1%
3.0%
2.3%
1.7%
1.4%
0.9%
0.2%
0.0%
0%5%10%15%20%
New York City
Los Angeles
Chicago
Dallas - Ft. Worth
Houston
Atlanta
Miami - Ft. Lauderdale
Phoenix - Prescott
San Franciso - Oakland - San Jose
Colorado Springs - Pueblo
Seattle - Tacoma
Minneapolis - St. Paul
Salt Lake City
Tampa - St. Pete - Sarasota
San Diego
Austin
Denver
Tucson - Sierra Vista
Omaha
Yuma - El Centro
Grand Junction - Montrose
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Question: How important would each of the following be when selecting the places you
would visit in Colorado?
Base: Panel audience (n = 600). Owned audience (n = 274).
Top Origin States Top Origin DMAs
19.0%
18.0%
16.6%
8.8%
7.8%
6.8%
5.8%
5.4%
3.7%
3.4%
3.1%
0.8%
0.7%
0.1%
0.0%
0.0%
0%5%10%15%20%
California
New York
Texas
Florida
Illinois
Arizona
Georgia
Colorado
Washington
Minnesota
Utah
Nebraska
Indiana
Iowa
Connecticut
New Jersey
Origin Markets: Survey Panel Audience
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024 53
Gender Generation Ethnicity Orientation
● Male, 47.8%
● Female, 52.2%
● Gen Z, 1.5%
● Millennials, 23.7%
● Gen X, 30.3%
● Boomers+, 44.5%
● White, 91.2%
● Black or African American, 0.0%
● Asian, 4.4%
● Hispanic or Latino, 7.7%
● Other, 2.2%
● Heterosexual, 95.3%
● Gay/Lesbian/Bisexual, 2.6%
● Other, 2.2%
Mean Age =
55.1 years
Demographics: Survey Owned Audience
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024 54
Marital Status Children in Household Household Income
● $100,000-$124,999, 13.5%
● $125,000-$149,999, 12.4%
● $150,000-$199,999, 19.3%
● $200,000-$249,999, 17.2%
● $250,000 or more, 37.6%
● 0 children, 77.4%
● 1 child, 8.4%
● 2 children, 10.9%
● 3+ children, 3.3%
● Single, 8.4%
● Married/Partnered, 86.1%
● Divorced/Separated, 4.0%
● Widowed, 1.5%
Mean =
1.4 children
Mean HHI =
$198,677
Demographics: Survey Owned Audience
55
59.1%
6.2%
5.1%
3.6%
3.3%
3.3%
2.9%
2.6%
2.6%
1.8%
1.8%
1.8%
1.1%
1.1%
1.1%
0.7%
0.7%
0.4%
0.4%
0.4%
0.0%
0%20%40%60%80%
Denver
New York City
Dallas - Ft. Worth
Minneapolis - St. Paul
Chicago
Colorado Springs - Pueblo
Miami - Ft. Lauderdale
Houston
Phoenix - Prescott
Los Angeles
Atlanta
Seattle - Tacoma
Salt Lake City
Austin
Omaha
San Franciso -Oak - San Jose
Tampa - St. Pete - Sarasota
San Diego
Tucson - Sierra Vista
Grand Junction- Montrose
Yuma - El Centro
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Question: How important would each of the following be when selecting the places you
would visit in Colorado?
Base: Panel audience (n = 600). Owned audience (n = 274).
Top Origin States Top Origin DMAs
62.8%
8.8%
5.5%
3.6%
3.6%
3.3%
2.9%
2.9%
1.8%
1.8%
1.1%
1.1%
0.4%
0.4%
0.0%
0.0%
0%20%40%60%80%
Colorado
Texas
New York
Florida
Minnesota
Illinois
California
Arizona
Georgia
Washington
Utah
Nebraska
Connecticut
New Jersey
Indiana
Iowa
Origin Markets: Survey Owned Audience
56
Name Residence Gender Age Ethnicity Income Household Education
Mackenzie Denver, CO Female Millennial White $250000 or more Single Completed graduate
degree
Regina Los Angeles, CA Female Gen X Asian $100000 to $124999 Single Completed graduate
degree
Timothy Fort Worth, TX Male Millennial Black or African American;
White $100000 to $124999 Married/Partnered, 1 Kid College graduate
Tiffany Powder Springs, GA Female Gen X Black or African American $150000 to $199999 Married/Partnered, 1 Kid College graduate
Kirk Houston, TX Male Gen X White $100000 to $124999 Separated/Divorced College graduate
Kylea Redmond, WA Female Millennial Asian; Hispanic or Latino;
White $100000 to $124999 Single Completed graduate
degree
Jack Sea Cliff, NY Male Gen Z White $100000 to $124999 Married/Partnered College graduate
Rod Pheonix, AZ Male Baby Boomer White $100,000-$124,999 Married/Partnered College graduate
Marlene Miami, FL Female Millennial Hispanic or Latino $100000 to $124999 Married/Partnered, 2 Kids Some college
Joe Chicago, IL Male Millennial White $150000 to $199999 Single College graduate
Experience Olympia & Beyond – Website Usability Study 2024
Demographics: Interview Participants
Appendix
Destination Attributes
58
Importance of Destination Attributes
96.0%
92.5%
91.7%
91.1%
85.6%
78.4%
71.5%
68.6%
66.2%
62.0%
56.1%
54.5%
46.3%
45.1%
43.0%
38.0%
97.8%
92.0%
94.9%
91.2%
82.5%
67.2%
91.6%
38.7%
83.2%
66.1%
69.3%
44.5%
45.6%
40.5%
37.2%
40.5%
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Scenic beauty
Welcoming atmosphere
Natural & scenic attractions
Value for the money spent
Affordability
Hidden gem attractions
Summer season outdoor recreation
Museums & historic sites
Local events/festivals
Arts and cultural attractions
Live music and entertainment
Family-friendly activities
Luxury experiences
Spa & wellness activities
Nightlife experiences
Boutique shopping opportunities
Panel Owned
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Question: How important would each of the following be when selecting the places you
would visit in Colorado?
Base: Panel audience (n = 600). Owned audience (n = 274).
(% showing important + very important)
Vail Attributes
59
Vail Rating for Destination Attributes
91.6%
90.7%
85.4%
80.1%
74.1%
73.6%
71.5%
70.8%
70.8%
63.6%
59.3%
59.2%
58.7%
46.4%
39.2%
36.7%
96.7%
94.2%
94.5%
90.9%
74.1%
79.6%
71.9%
85.0%
78.1%
80.7%
38.7%
75.9%
53.3%
31.8%
29.9%
15.0%
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Scenic beauty
Natural & scenic attractions
Summer season outdoor recreation
Luxury experiences
Family-friendly activities
Welcoming atmosphere
Spa & wellness activities
Local events/festivals
Boutique shopping opportunities
Live music and entertainment
Hidden gem attractions
Arts and cultural attractions
Nightlife experiences
Value for the money spent
Museums & historic sites
Affordability
Panel Owned
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Question: Please rate Vail as a leisure destination for the following attributes.
Base: Panel audience (n = 600). Owned audience (n = 274).
(% showing good + very good)
Destination Characteristics: Survey Panel Audience
60
Alignment with Destination Characteristics
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Question: For each attribute below, please select the destination(s) that best align with that
attribute.
Base: Panel audience (n = 600).
(% showing destination selected)
Attributes Vail, CO Aspen, CO Breckenridge,
CO Steamboat, CO Telluride, CO Lake Tahoe, CA Park City, UT
Outdoor recreation (e.g., hiking, biking)47.5%51.6%40.6%37.5%41.0%59.1%44.7%
Luxury experiences (e.g., gourmet dining, elevated accommodations)47.1%62.1%24.6%18.5%26.0%40.3%29.7%
Year-round activities and attractions 39.2%44.4%33.2%30.3%32.3%62.7%39.0%
Charming downtown 35.2%42.8%32.4%27.7%28.2%30.7%32.1%
Local events and festivals 34.8%41.0%31.6%28.4%30.5%37.4%40.4%
Family fun 32.0%39.5%34.1%35.0%24.6%49.9%37.9%
Authentic, active local community 31.6%37.1%33.0%34.4%33.4%40.1%34.8%
Urban (city) experiences (e.g., arts and culture, nightlife)27.3%40.2%19.9%12.4%18.2%34.9%33.9%
Summer vacation 27.2%30.5%26.3%29.6%28.7%65.7%32.3%
Value for money spent in the destination 17.1%20.3%30.4%29.4%21.9%34.2%33.7%
Destination Characteristics: Survey Owned Audience
61
Alignment with Destination Characteristics
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Question: For each attribute below, please select the destination(s) that best align with that
attribute.
Base: Owned audience (n = 274).
(% showing destination selected)
Attributes Vail, CO Aspen, CO Breckenridge,
CO Steamboat, CO Telluride, CO Lake Tahoe, CA Park City, UT
Year-round activities and attractions 78.5%38.7%43.1%28.8%29.9%33.9%26.6%
Outdoor recreation (e.g., hiking, biking)71.2%43.1%46.4%40.5%40.1%35.0%33.2%
Summer vacation 68.2%36.5%36.5%31.0%34.7%40.9%20.1%
Local events and festivals 66.8%36.1%33.2%19.0%32.5%13.1%17.9%
Luxury experiences (e.g., gourmet dining, elevated accommodations)60.9%76.6%9.1%9.5%25.9%14.6%20.4%
Family fun 58.0%16.1%50.0%35.0%14.6%16.4%24.1%
Charming downtown 47.1%44.9%37.2%26.6%44.2%7.3%22.6%
Urban (city) experiences (e.g., arts and culture, nightlife)44.9%48.2%11.7%7.3%7.7%15.3%27.4%
Authentic, active local community 36.1%20.4%33.6%42.3%35.0%15.0%16.8%
Value for money spent in the destination 21.5%4.4%43.4%35.4%9.5%17.9%22.3%
Travel Inspiration
62
Travel Inspiration Sources
56.1%
55.0%
44.2%
37.3%
34.8%
32.4%
29.6%
28.3%
25.8%
23.8%
21.2%
17.1%
16.4%
14.9%
8.4%
8.3%
8.3%
4.9%
2.6%
1.9%
51.8%
64.6%
36.1%
42.0%
36.9%
35.0%
18.2%
39.4%
39.1%
8.8%
11.3%
10.9%
8.8%
10.6%
6.2%
10.9%
10.9%
27.7%
2.9%
3.6%
0%20%40%60%80%
Online searches
Friends/family via direct contact
Travel review sites (e.g., TripAdvisor, etc.)
Friends/family via social media
Social media (e.g., Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, etc.)
Official destination websites
Online videos (e.g., YouTube, etc.)
Online articles
Magazines—print or online
Online travel agencies (e.g., Expedia, Priceline, etc.)
TV—streaming or broadcast
Travel planning apps
Travel agents/travel advisors
Films/movies
Podcasts
Influencers
Blogs
Email newsletters
Radio
None of the above
Panel Owned
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Question: Where do you look for travel inspiration? Select all that apply.
Base: Panel audience (n = 600). Owned audience (n = 274).
Media Usage
63
Media Frequency
71.2%
53.6%
49.8%
46.9%
47.6%
40.4%
38.3%
39.0%
30.6%
27.5%
22.0%
7.0%
62.4%
67.9%
38.0%
39.1%
37.6%
38.3%
29.6%
28.5%
35.4%
14.6%
18.6%
6.2%
0%20%40%60%80%
Use social media (e.g., Facebook, Instagram)
Read news articles (print or online)
Watch subscription services (e.g., Netflix, Disney+)
Watch traditional cable TV
Watch streaming TV (e.g., Hulu + Live TV, Sling)
Listen to streaming audio (e.g., Spotify)
Listen to AM/FM radio
Watch online video content (e.g., YouTube)
Listen to streaming radio (e.g., Sirius XM)
Play video and/or computer games
Read email campaigns from businesses you subscribe to
Read lifestyle magazines (print or online)
Panel Owned
Vail Local Marketing District – Brand Perception Study 2024
Question: How often do you [media]? | Which social media platforms do you typically use?
Select all that apply.
Base: Panel audience (n = 600). Owned audience (n = 274).
(% showing at least once a day)
83.1%
69.9%
64.6%
37.2%
29.9%
29.8%
26.9%
21.7%
1.7%
74.1%
63.0%
67.9%
21.4%
14.8%
18.9%
17.7%
9.1%
0.4%
0%20%40%60%80%100%
Facebook
YouTube
Instagram
Twitter/X
TikTok
Pinterest
Reddit
Snapchat
BeReal
Panel Owned
Social Media
(among those using at least a few times a year)