Callewaert Family and Island House Hotel on Mackinac Island Named 2026 Awards Finalists
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The Callewaert family has been named a Nominee Finalist for Legendary Family Historic Hoteliers in the 2026 Historic Hotels of America Annual Awards of Excellence.
This marks another meaningful chapter in the family’s history with the awards program. The Callewaert family received the Legendary Family Historic Hoteliers Award in 2020 and returned as a finalist in both 2024 and 2025.
Island House Hotel also earned recognition this year as a Nominee Finalist for Best Social Media of a Historic Hotel.
Celebrating Generations of Family Stewardship
The Legendary Family Historic Hoteliers recognition honors the Ryba-Callewaert family’s longstanding commitment to Island House Hotel and hospitality on Mackinac Island.
The family acquired Island House Hotel in 1969 after the historic property had fallen into disrepair. Following an extensive renovation, the hotel reopened in 1972. The family has continued caring for this Michigan Historic Landmark while thoughtfully improving the experience for each new generation of guests.
Established in 1852, Island House is the oldest operating hotel on Mackinac Island. Its preservation reflects decades of family stewardship, supported by dedicated employees who bring the hotel’s welcoming spirit to life each season.
Sharing the Island House Story
Island House Hotel’s recognition for Best Social Media of a Historic Hotel celebrates the stories and experiences shared through its social channels.
Historic photographs offer a look at the hotel’s remarkable past. Present-day moments invite followers to experience its waterfront setting and timeless Mackinac Island character. Social media also gives Island House a meaningful way to stay connected with guests long after their visits.
We are grateful to everyone who follows along and shares their Island House memories with us
Experience Historic Island House Hotel on Mackinac Island
Located along the waterfront near downtown, Island House Hotel offers a welcoming place to experience the history and natural beauty of Mackinac Island. Its convenient location places guests within walking distance of the ferry docks. Fort Mackinac and many popular island attractions are also nearby.
The hotel features 94 individually appointed guest rooms and suites, with many offering views of the harbor or hotel grounds. Guests can dine overlooking the water at the 1852 Grill Room. Evening fire pits offer a relaxing place to end the day, while bicycle rentals make it easy to begin an island adventure just outside the hotel.
Island House blends carefully preserved historic character with the comforts travelers appreciate today. Its waterfront setting and convenient location make it an inviting choice for guests searching for a historic hotel near downtown Mackinac Island.
About the Historic Hotels Annual Awards of Excellence
Historic Hotels of America is the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Its Annual Awards of Excellence recognize exceptional historic hotels along with the hoteliers and preservation leaders who help their stories endure.
More than 700 nominations were submitted across 14 award categories for 2026. Award recipients will be announced during the Historic Hotels Annual Awards of Excellence Ceremony and Gala on October 15 at Williamsburg Lodge in Williamsburg, Virginia.
We are honored to see the Callewaert family recognized once again. We are also proud to have Island House Hotel’s social media storytelling honored alongside some of the country’s most distinguished historic properties.
