In this article the historical aspect of the development of tourism is examined. This theme is actual in connection with the creation of special economic zones of a tourist-recreational type in the Russian Federation and as a consequence with an increase of the importance of tourism in a national economy. In the article stages of the development of tourism and the activity of the trade-union organizations in the given direction are described. Typical features of a tourist-excursion activity in the territory of Western Siberia in 1970th years are revealed.