ELKTON, MD — This year, the Maryland Tourism Coalition honored a Cecil County business and a local non-profit at the 42nd annual Maryland Tourism & Travel Summit. Both entities were recognized for their significant contributions to local tourism and community development.
Great Wolf Lodge in Perryville received the award for the Best Product or Event – Large Category for 2023. The resort represents a $250 million investment in Maryland, creating 1,200 jobs, and is expected to attract over half a million visitors annually. Nora Campbell, Chair of the Maryland Tourism Coalition Board of Directors, praised the resort for its economic impact and community engagement efforts. The resort boasts 700 family-friendly suites and a 128,000-square-foot indoor water park, making it an all-season attraction.
Nadine Miracle, General Manager of Great Wolf Lodge, expressed her delight at the recognition. She highlighted the lodge’s commitment to the local community and vowed to continue driving tourism in the state. Dee Becker, Director of Sales and Catering for Great Wolf Lodge, accepted the award on behalf of the company.
The Byway Alliance, including Cecil County Tourism, was presented with the 2023 Cooperative Partnership Award for their collaborative work on the Chesapeake Country Scenic Byway All American Road. The alliance comprises nine Eastern Shore tourism offices and three Heritage Areas. Their joint efforts earned the Byway the highest level of Scenic Byway designation: All American Road status. This year, the partnership completed the Interpretive Plan phase of the project, which aims to create an impactful travel experience for visitors and Maryland locals.
Cecil County Tourism Manager, Sandy Maruchi-Turner expressed the team’s pride in receiving this recognition and their appreciation for being part of such a beneficial partnership. The Byway spans 419 land miles from Chesapeake City to Crisfield, and east to Snow Hill, featuring significant attractions along the route.
County Executive Danielle Hornberger commended the tourism team’s efforts, stating that Cecil County is a prime example of how tourism can fuel economic development. She praised the county’s tourism team for their dedication in promoting Cecil County as a leading destination for exciting tourism initiatives.
The annual Maryland Tourism & Travel Summit was held at the Marriott in Owings Mills, where it hosted educational sessions, professional development seminars, a trade show, and the annual award ceremony.
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