We are pleased to announce that Island House Hotel has been named a finalist for the 2025 Historic Hotels of America® Awards of Excellence. The hotel is nominated for Legendary Family Historic Hoteliers of the Year, recognizing the Ryba-Callewaert Family’s dedication to preserving the hotel’s rich history while providing exceptional guest experiences.

The Historic Hotels of America® Awards of Excellence honor hotels and hoteliers who demonstrate innovative leadership, stewardship, and a commitment to preserving and celebrating America’s most distinguished historic hotels. Winners will be announced at the 2025 Historic Hotels Annual Awards of Excellence Ceremony and Gala at the Fairmont Olympic Hotel in Seattle on October 30.

“To be a nominated once again for the Legendary Family Historic Hoteliers of the Year Award is an incredible honor for our family and our team,” said Todd Callewaert, President of Island House Hotel. “Since our family reopened Island House Hotel in 1972, we have welcomed guests to Mackinac Island with a spirit of preservation, hospitality, and tradition. This recognition reflects not only our dedication to protecting the hotel’s history but also our ongoing commitment to providing an unforgettable experience for every guest who visits Island House Hotel.”

About Island House Hotel
Established in 1852 and proudly listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Island House Hotel is the oldest hotel on Mackinac Island and a cherished member of Historic Hotels of America. The Ryba-Callewaert Family acquired the hotel in 1969, renovated it, and reopened in 1972, preserving its historic charm while updating it for modern hospitality. Today, the hotel features 94 uniquely appointed guestrooms, two on-site restaurants, waterfront views, a welcoming front porch, bike rentals, and easy access to downtown Mackinac Island — all offering guests a memorable historic experience. For more information, visit theislandhouse.com.

About Historic Hotels of America®
Historic Hotels of America® is the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, recognizing and celebrating the finest historic hotels in the United States. To be nominated, a hotel must be at least 50 years old, designated as a National Historic Landmark or listed (or eligible) in the National Register of Historic Places, and recognized as having historical significance. Of the more than 300 historic hotels inducted from across the country, all faithfully preserve their sense of authenticity, sense of place, and architectural integrity. For more information, visit HistoricHotels.org.

For a full list of winners and more details about the 2025 Historic Hotels of America® Awards of Excellence, view the official press release here.