Island House Hotel, the oldest hotel on Mackinac Island, is proud to announce that it has been named a finalist in three prestigious categories for the 2024 Historic Hotels of America® Annual Awards of Excellence. These awards, presented by Historic Hotels of America, recognize the finest historic hotels and hoteliers worldwide for their dedication to preserving and celebrating their unique history.

Island House Hotel is a finalist in the following categories:

Historic Hotels of America Sustainability Champion

Historic Hotels of America Hotel Historian of the Year, Heather Tamlyn

Historic Hotels of America Legendary Family Historic Hoteliers of the Year, The Ryba-Callewaert Family

The winners will be announced at the Historic Hotels Awards of Excellence Ceremony and Gala, taking place on November 21, 2024, at The Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Virginia.

“We are deeply honored to be recognized as a finalist in three categories that highlight both our dedication to sustainability and the rich history of Island House Hotel,” said Todd Callewaert. “Being part of Historic Hotels of America is a testament to our commitment to preserving the legacy of this iconic hotel, and we are thrilled to be in the company of such distinguished properties and individuals from across the nation.”

Island House Hotel, originally established in 1852, is renowned for its timeless charm, architectural integrity, and longstanding commitment to sustainability practices on Mackinac Island. The Ryba-Callewaert family, who has lovingly restored and maintained the hotel, has been recognized for their contributions as Legendary Family Historic Hoteliers of the Year, continuing a legacy of family hospitality that has made Island House Hotel a treasured destination for generations of guests.

The Historic Hotels of America® program, an official initiative of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, recognizes over 300 historic hotels across the U.S. for their architectural significance, historical importance, and dedication to preservation. The 2024 awards nominees were selected from over 500 nominations submitted by hotels, preservationists, community leaders, and previous award recipients.

 “The Nominee Finalists exemplify the finest historic hotels and hoteliers in the United States. The historic hotels nominated include historic inns, boutique hotels, lifestyle hotels, and legendary resorts. We applaud the dedication and passion of the individuals working at these iconic properties.” said Lawrence Horwitz, Executive Vice President of Historic Hotels of America and Historic Hotels Worldwide.

For more information about the Historic Hotels of America Annual Awards of Excellence and a full list of nominees, visit https://www.historichotels.org/us/press/press-releases/the-2024-historic-hotels-of-america-awards-of-excellence-nominee-finalists-announced

Island House Hotel, established in 1852, is a National Historic Landmark and the oldest continuously operating hotel on Mackinac Island. Known for its Victorian charm, breathtaking waterfront views, and rich history, Island House Hotel offers guests a unique blend of modern amenities and historic ambiance. The hotel is part of the Historic Hotels of America® program, a testament to its significance in preserving American history.

Historic Hotels of America® is the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation for recognizing and celebrating the finest historic hotels across the United States. For more information, visit https://www.historichotels.org