Award Categories

Recognizing the Best of the Best

At Richmond Region Tourism, we know that tourism depends on each one of us. The people who work in the industry directly impact the experience of our visitors. Our people are our biggest assets, and the Richmond Region has some of the best.

The annual Tourism Awards supported through our foundation recognizes the best of the best with Tourism Leadership and Customer Service awards.

Customer Service Award Criteria: The individual must be a Richmond Region non-management frontline employee who has personal contact with both business and leisure travelers, or a behind-the-scenes service employee who can enhance the visitor experience. Please nominate an employee who makes an extraordinary first impression, boasts good communication skills and consistently exceeds customer expectations. The winner will also be someone who handles problems effectively and makes a lasting impression.

Tourism Leadership Award Criteria: Recognizes an individual who best exemplifies outstanding leadership in the pursuit of excellence and who has advanced the tourism industry. The winning nominee will have dedicated many years to tourism and nominations may include contributions over an entire career or details about a recent, notable single accomplishment. Judging will consider accomplishments, innovation, performance, empowerment of others, integrity and respect. This individual exemplifies all the qualities of a good leader while directing and motivating his/her staff and ultimately driving tourism and increasing visitation to the Richmond Region. Nominations will open in early 2027.

Additional Honorees will be Revealed Live at the Event

Jack Berry Tourism Impact Award

Chairman's Award

Attraction of the Year  

Event of the Year 

Hotel of the Year

MVP Sports Award 

Partner of the Year 

Restaurant of the Year