Destination Dutchess Earns Three 2026 New York State Tourism Excellence Awards

Destination Dutchess, the officially designated destination marketing and management organization (DMO) for Dutchess County, has been honored with three 2026 New York State Tourism Excellence Awards by the New York State Tourism Industry Association (NYSTIA). Presented September 17 at the 2026 New York State Tourism Excellence Awards & Summit in Corning, N.Y., they recognize the non-profit’s innovative marketing initiatives that connect visitors with Dutchess County’s history, agriculture and craft beverage experiences.
 
These three bring Destination Dutchess’ total to 12 New York State Tourism Excellence Awards in four years across seven different categories, including recognition for Overall Tourism Marketing in 2023 and 2026. The wins reflect the organization’s continued investment in strategic, forward-thinking marketing and program development designed to boost tourism, visitor spending and strengthen the county’s economy. FourthIdea, Destination Dutchess’ advertising agency of record and a key creative partner, has been instrumental in developing the creative and marketing strategies behind these award-winning projects. They also solidify Destination Dutchess’ role as an industry thought leader with staff annually invited to share best practices at Summit workshops and other state and international conferences.
 
“The Tourism Excellence Awards are about much more than this very well-deserved recognition for our team,” said Melaine Rottkamp, president & CEO of Destination Dutchess. “They demonstrate what’s possible when tourism investment in development and promotion is paired with inspiration, impactful partnerships and a clear, data-driven understanding of what entices people to travel.” She added, “Our work delivers for Dutchess in a big way – not only for our hospitality and tourism-related attractions, but for all those small businesses who support them, the people they employ, and for our residents who benefit from increased amenities and a reduced tax burden to the tune of $875 per household.”

“The continued success of Dutchess County’s tourism industry is an important part of maintaining the economic stability and quality of life for county residents,” said Dutchess County Executive Sue Serino. “The work done by Melaine and her team at Destination Dutchess plays an important role in bringing visitors and their travel dollars to our communities. We’re so proud of the way they showcase Dutchess County as a great place to live, work, play and invest.”

WINNING PROJECTS: 

Destination Dutchess Rev250 
Excellence in Tourism Marketing Campaigns, Projects & Programs: Overall Tourism Marketing 
Destination Dutchess Rev250 is a multiyear tourism initiative celebrating Dutchess County’s significant role in the American Revolution and the nation’s 250th anniversary. Funded by a special grant from county government, the program brings Revolutionary-era stories to life through immersive technology, craft beverages, events, itineraries, partnerships and other experiences, creating new ways for residents and visitors to connect with the county’s history.

Commander in Cheers Beers 
Excellence in Tourism Marketing Campaigns, Projects & Programs: Digital Marketing Campaign 
As a part of its Rev250 initiative, Destination Dutchess connected craft brewing with Revolutionary history through four limited-edition beers in collectible cans, digital storytelling and content collaborations. Program partners included the Culinary Institute of America, Mill House, King’s Court and Zeus brewing companies. The campaign was also featured in a Best Practice Workshop presented by Manager of Digital Media Strategy & Content Raphael Beretta, who shared the project with tourism professionals from across New York State.

Destination Dutchess Farm Finder 
Excellence in Tourism Marketing Campaigns, Projects & Programs: The Great Outdoors of New York State 
The Farm Finder transformed a traditional farm directory into an experience-first guide showcasing agritourism activities throughout Dutchess County. President & CEO Melaine Rottkamp and Senior Director of Marketing & Communications Kristina Mukherjee presented the approach, sharing lessons for destinations looking to rethink traditional print marketing.

The award-winning projects were made possible through strong collaboration with creative partners, local businesses and historical experts. FourthIdea, Destination Dutchess’ advertising agency of record, was instrumental in the creative development of the Commander in Cheers brand and augmented reality component, as well as the Rev250 logo. Dutchess County Historian William helped ensure the stories and experiences accurately reflected the county’s Revolutionary history in all Rev250 programming and promotion. Craft beverage producers, farms and other destination partners also played an important role in bringing these programs to life and creating experiences that visitors can enjoy throughout Dutchess County.

“Destination Dutchess provides a strong example of how strategic tourism investment can translate into innovative programs that create new reasons and resources people can use to help them make the most of a trip,” said Bob Provost, president of the New York State Tourism Industry Association. “Their history of award-winning projects demonstrate creativity, collaboration and a clear understanding of how destination marketing contributes to the broader visitor economy. Just as importantly, their willingness to share their knowledge, strategies and lessons learned with tourism professionals across New York reflects the leadership and spirit of collaboration that strengthens our entire industry for the future.”

Destination Dutchess’ role as a resource for the broader tourism industry was also highlighted through Mukherjee’s participation with industry partners Susan Green of Paperkite and Ryan Geraghty of Destination Marketing Corp. in presenting a case study on the My New York Vibe campaign. As a member of the campaign’s marketing committee for New York Destination Marketing Organizations (NYSDMO), Mukherjee helped develop and execute the statewide initiative. The workshop explored how more than 20 New York destinations collaborated around a shared message while showcasing their individual destinations and experiences. The campaign earned two NYSTIA Tourism Excellence Awards. 

Destination Dutchess’ commitment to excellence extends beyond its award-winning marketing, program development and business support services. It is also accredited through the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program (DMAP) of Destinations International, maintaining high standards for accountability, leadership and organizational excellence. Accreditation requires DMOs to demonstrate compliance across 15 disciplines, composed of over 120 mandatory standards and is globally recognized by the industry as the highest achievement in destination excellence.
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