Philanthropist Alice Walton has transformed cultural tourism in Arkansas with her visionary leadership, founding Crystal Bridges Museum and the Momentary in Bentonville. Through her initiatives, including the Art Bridges Foundation and the Alice L. Walton School of Medicine, Walton has significantly enhanced access to arts, education, and healthcare.
Arkansas Tourism recognized the winners of the 2025 Henry Awards at the 51st annual Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism, held in Bentonville on February 25. These prestigious awards celebrate individuals, organizations, and attractions that have made significant contributions to the state’s tourism industry.
The Henry Awards, named after Henri de Tonti, founder of Arkansas Post in 1686, honor those who drive tourism forward, enhancing Arkansas’ reputation as a top destination.
2025 Henry Award Recipients:
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Tourism Person of the Year: Jack Moyer
Selected by former honorees, this award honors individuals who have made a significant impact on the tourism industry. Moyer has been instrumental in shaping Eureka Springs’ tourism through strategic partnerships and community engagement. -
Tourism Attraction of the Year: Peel Compton Foundation – Coler Mountain Bike Preserve (Bentonville)
This award recognizes local attractions that excel in drawing visitors and delivering excellent customer service. The Coler Mountain Bike Preserve offers world-class biking, camping, and outdoor experiences in Northwest Arkansas. -
Individual Innovation in Tourism: Bobby Finster – Rural Innovation Group (Batesville)
Finster’s innovative projects, like the White River Gravel Trail, have revolutionized outdoor tourism in rural Arkansas and helped drive local economic growth. -
The Natural State Tourism Development Award: Moon Over Main (Russellville)
This multi-day event, celebrating the 2024 solar eclipse, brought over 46,000 visitors and showcased Russellville’s creativity and community pride. -
Tourism Organization of the Year: Visit Hot Springs
Visit Hot Springs excelled in drawing visitors for the 2024 Great American Eclipse, creating a significant economic impact through strategic marketing efforts. -
Tourism Hall of Fame Inductees: Joe DeVito and Alice Walton
These inductees are recognized for their long-standing contributions and leadership in Arkansas tourism.
Shea Lewis, Secretary of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism, praised the winners, stating, “The 2025 Henry Award winners represent the best of Arkansas tourism—visionaries, innovators, and champions of The Natural State.”
The Henry Awards highlight the state’s tourism successes and inspire continued growth and innovation within the industry.
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