The Henry Awards honor the very best of Arkansas’ tourism community, recognizing the individuals, organizations, and attractions whose leadership and vision leave a lasting impact on the Natural State. These awards celebrate innovation, dedication, and excellence in service, storytelling, and destination development.
This year’s 52nd Annual Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism once again showcased the people and places helping Arkansas shine on a national and international stage.
TOURISM HALL OF FAME
2026 Inductee: Steve Arrison
Presented annually to individuals who have made substantial, long-term contributions to Arkansas tourism, the Hall of Fame welcomed Steve Arrison as the 2026 inductee for his decades of leadership and industry impact.
TOURISM PERSON OF THE YEAR
Pati Brown – Mountain Harbor Resort & Spa
Pati Brown, longtime Lodge Manager and marketing leader at Mountain Harbor Resort & Spa in Mount Ida, was recognized for her sustained excellence and dedication to Arkansas hospitality and destination growth.
THE NATURAL STATE DEVELOPMENT AWARD
Winner: King of the Crag – Independence County
Independence County’s King of the Crag stood out as the winner, representing grassroots tourism development at its finest. Hosted at Jamestown Crag in the Ozarks, the event has grown from just 55 climbers into a multi-state draw.
Beyond recreation, King of the Crag serves as the sole annual fundraiser supporting conservation and public access at the climbing site. Its blend of outdoor adventure, stewardship, and authentic community spirit has created a lasting tourism and preservation impact for the region.
Other Finalists:
Argenta Downtown Council
Bentonville Bike Fest
TOURISM ATTRACTION OF THE YEAR
Winner: Beatles at the Ridge – Walnut Ridge
Beatles at the Ridge was recognized as Tourism Attraction of the Year. The festival transforms Walnut Ridge’s historic 1964 Beatles stop into a nationally recognized celebration of music, arts, and heritage.
Drawing thousands of visitors from across the United States and abroad, the event generated significant economic impact in 2025 with record attendance, more than 100 vendors, and multiple major performances. The festival continues to blend small-town hospitality with international cultural appeal, strengthening tourism in Lawrence County and Northeast Arkansas.
Other Honorees:
North Little Rock Parks – Crystal Bluff Climbing Crag
Scott Family Amazeum – Bentonville
EXCELLENCE IN HOSPITALITY AWARD
Winner: Marshal Stettler – 21c Museum Hotel
Marshal Stettler was honored for delivering exceptional guest experiences across multiple roles at 21c Museum Hotel. Known for going above and beyond — from personalized service to hands-on problem solving — Stettler exemplifies Arkansas hospitality at its highest level.
Other Honorees:
Dillon Garcia – Allsopp & Chapple Restaurant + Bar
Julie Pennington – Experience Fayetteville
INDIVIDUAL INNOVATION IN TOURISM
Winner: Chris Kent – Argenta Downtown Council
Chris Kent earned top honors for his creative leadership in downtown North Little Rock. Through fresh programming, strategic partnerships, and community-driven initiatives, Kent has redefined how tourism development can enhance both visitor appeal and local pride.
Other Honorees:
Bill Solleder – Visit Hot Springs
Emily Manasco – @somewhere.in.arkansas
TOURISM ORGANIZATION OF THE YEAR
Winner: Visit Bentonville
Visit Bentonville received top honors for excellence in destination management, community engagement, and innovative tourism initiatives. Through strategic event recruitment, public-private partnerships, and resident-focused programs, the organization continues to set a statewide benchmark for modern tourism leadership.
Other Honorees:
Discover Fort Smith
Western Arkansas Mountain Frontier Regional Tourism Association
The 52nd Annual Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism highlighted how local creativity, conservation, hospitality, and innovation are driving the Natural State forward. From Independence County’s King of the Crag to Walnut Ridge’s Beatles at the Ridge, Arkansas communities continue to demonstrate that tourism is both an economic engine and a source of lasting pride.
Listen to Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and First Gentleman Bryan Sanders join Open Mic with Bob Connell at the 2026 Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism and Outdoor Recreation — click the video below to hear their full remarks on Arkansas’ record tourism growth and outdoor expansion.
Listen to Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism Secretary Shea Lewis join Open Mic with Bob Connell at the 2026 Arkansas Governor’s Conference on Tourism and Outdoor Recreation — click the video below to hear his insights on Arkansas’ booming tourism industry and outdoor economy growth.
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