Brad Barnett Nominated for Hospitality Award in Keweenaw

News Summary

Keweenaw’s own Brad Barnett has been nominated for the Convention and Visitors Bureau Star of the Year award. This honor highlights the teamwork and community spirit of Keweenaw, coinciding with the rise in winter tourism. As the area sees increased visitor numbers and local business growth, Barnett’s nomination showcases the region’s flourishing hospitality scene. The winner will be announced at a gala on April 16.

Keweenaw’s Own Brad Barnett Nominated for Prestigious Hospitality Award

In the charming city of Keweenaw, residents have something to celebrate as their very own Brad Barnett, the Executive Director of Visit Keweenaw, has snagged a nomination for the coveted Convention and Visitors Bureau Star of the Year award. This exciting award comes as a part of the annual Stars of the Industry Awards ceremony, hosted by the Michigan Restaurant & Lodging Association.

Marked by Joy and Community Spirit

Upon receiving the nomination notification, Barnett was filled with surprise and joy. He humbly credits this recognition to the unwavering support of his incredible team and the vibrant Keweenaw community. It’s a fantastic example of how teamwork can lead to significant accomplishments, even shining a national spotlight on this picturesque region.

Rubbing Elbows with Other Hospitality Stars

Barnett isn’t alone in this quest for the award, however! He’s competing against two other shining stars in the hospitality industry: Linda Freyble from Calhoun County and Trevor Tkach from Traverse City Tourism. The competition is stiff but good-natured, and the winner will be revealed at an elegant awards dinner scheduled for April 16 in Novi, Michigan. This gala ties in perfectly with Governor Whitmer’s Conference on Tourism, which takes place from April 15 to 17, spotlighting Michigan’s thriving tourism landscape.

Good News for Winter Tourism in Keweenaw

This nomination comes at a time when Keweenaw is witnessing a surge in winter tourism. The area’s occupancy rates are on the rise, reflecting a robust interest from travelers. For instance, data shows occupancy rates climbed from 27.6% in December 2023 to an impressive 30.8% in December 2024. Similarly, January brought an even more substantial jump from 38.8% to 57.1% in the same period.

Boosting the Local Economy

Many visitors are flocking to the charming landscapes of Keweenaw, with the average visitor estimated to shell out around $397.44 per trip. This influx is expected to contribute an astounding $3 million boost to local spending, culminating in a grand total of approximately $15 million this winter! It’s a clear sign that Keweenaw is not just a lovely spot for a winter getaway, but also a significant contributor to Michigan’s hospitality economy.

A Look at Local Businesses Thriving

Local businesses are reaping the benefits of this booming tourist season. For example, Krupp’s Resort is bustling with activity, hosting about 200 snowmobilers daily, marking a remarkable turnaround from last winter when they barely made an income. AmericInn in Calumet has enjoyed a whopping 75% increase in guest attendance, while Mariner North Resort in Copper Harbor saw an impressive 90% increase in business! The snowmobilers and skiers are clearly making their presence felt all around the region.

Snowmobile-Friendly Developments

To support this tremendous uptick in winter activities, the Portage Lake Lift Bridge has been opened for snowmobiles, providing an easier route for visitors crossing between Houghton and Hancock. Local city workers and the Keweenaw Snowmobile Club have worked together to prepare the bridge, laying down rubber mats and hauling snow to keep it safe and accessible.

Explore More with Visit Keweenaw

Visit Keweenaw continues to be the go-to resource for both residents and visitors, offering important information about snowmobile trail conditions and lodging options across the stunning Keweenaw Peninsula. With a vibrant tourism landscape and dedicated leaders like Barnett, it’s no wonder Keweenaw is becoming a favorite winter destination!

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Additional Resources

• Upper Michigan’s Source: Keweenaw’s Own Brad Barnett Nominated for Prestigious Hospitality Award
• Mining Gazette: Winter Tourism Rebounds in Area
• Upper Michigan’s Source: Visit Keweenaw Executive Director Named Vice President
• MLive: Double Decker Lift Bridge in UP Opens to Snowmobile Traffic
• World Atlas: Keweenaw Peninsula, Michigan
• Wikipedia: Keweenaw Peninsula