With the aim of better understanding audiences, catering to people’s needs, and staying relevant to people’s lives in a rapidly changing world, three institutions look to uncovering visitors’ motivations as a guide. Denver Botanic Garden, Newfields, and Thanksgiving Point Institute have used similar models, namely John Falk’s model of identity-related motivation, as well as divergent approaches to better understand and further engage its audiences. These methods also assist in planning, promoting, and measuring success, all while being focused on the various motivations for choosing a particular leisure-time activity. Staff institution-wide can use this valuable information to help create programs, exhibitions, and other experiences, and market those experiences.
Visitor Motivations: How They Can Help Plan Experiences & Measure Success

MORE RESOURCES:
Public Garden Magazine Index 2024
Public Garden Index—Volumes 1–39 (1986—2024) PG Cumulative Index—volumes 1–39 (1986—2024) 1 Note: All page numbers refer to the printed magazine....
READ MORE
Disaster Readiness Virtual Workshop (March 2025)
This recording captures Session One of the virtual workshop which took place on Wednesday, March 12, 2025. Please note that...
READ MORE
Slicing and Dicing Your Data
Presented by the Development & Membership Community Watch this webinar to learn about how two organizations use their data to...
READ MORE
Supporting Partners Across the Southeast Region to Create National Impact for Plant Conservation
Presented by the Native Plants and Plant Conservation Communities Based at Atlanta Botanical Garden, the 'Southeastern Partners in Plant Conservation'...
READ MORE