Annual Gala Honors DLI Partners Shaping the Region’s Tourism Industry
Photo Credit: Benny Migs | Tourism Legacy Winner Nancy Melius pictured with DLI’s Sharon Wyman & Mitch Pally
LONG ISLAND, NY (December, 2025) - Discover Long Island (DLI), the region’s only accredited destination marketing organization, unveiled the recipients of the 2025 Tourism Awards at the organization's 7th annual gala, held Tuesday, December 9th, at Watermill Caterers in Smithtown. The annual event brings together DLI’s partner businesses and recognizes the diverse group of local leaders, organizations, and business owners who continue to shape and further Long Island's thriving tourism industry. This year featured nine award categories, the most in the event's history, reflecting the elite caliber of partners driving the region's visitor economy.
This year's award categories and the winners included:
- Partner of the Year Award – CM Performing Arts Center
- Tourism Trailblazer Award – Destination KP
- Industry Advancement Award – Cornell Cooperative Extension's Long Island Seafood Trail App
- Media Award – Cameron Advertising
- Cultural Heritage Spotlight Award – The Washington Spy Trail, Route 25A Culper Spy Ring
- Long Island Experience Innovator Award – North Fork Sights, Bites & Flights
- Hidden Gem Award – Artemis Speakeasy
- Hospitality Excellence Award – The Southampton Inn
- Tourism Legacy Award – Nancy Melius
"Each year, we are honored to bring together Long Island’s tourism community to celebrate the incredible individuals and organizations whose passion and dedication drive our industry forward," said Discover Long Island COO, Sharon Wyman, CDME. "The work we do together has a profound impact on our community, supporting local businesses, creating jobs, and enhancing the quality of life for our residents while showcasing Suffolk County and the greater Long Island region as a premier destination. These annual awards remind us that when we collaborate and champion one another's successes, we strengthen not just our tourism economy, but the fabric of our entire region."
The sold-out celebration brought together more than 200 guests for an elegant evening that included a champagne reception with several Suffolk County partner activations, dinner with a performance by renowned vocalist Mike DelGuidice, and the highly anticipated awards ceremony.
More on Winners & Finalists
The Tourism Legacy Award is a lifetime achievement award for industry icons shaping Long Island's tourism economy. This year's recipient, Nancy Melius, has spent decades elevating Long Island's global profile through her visionary leadership at the iconic Oheka Castle. Beyond her role at Oheka, Nancy founded the 'Gold Coast Mansions Historic Long Island' initiative, uniting the region's historic estates under one brand, and strengthened heritage tourism as a co-chair of the statewide 'Path Through History' program. Her partnership with and support of Discover Long Island, along with her influence throughout the region, has left an enduring mark on Long Island's hospitality legacy.
"Receiving the Legacy Award for Tourism is an incredible honor,” said Nancy Melius. “Over the past 20 years, I have learned that tourism is not just about attracting visitors from around the World, it is about preserving history, creating experiences, and continuing to tell the stories of the mansions in compelling ways. I believe that when we protect these places and invite the world to experience them through responsible tourism, we play our part in America’s history. Thank you to Discover Long Island for this honor, and to everyone who shares the mission of celebrating and preserving Long Island’s Gold Coast Mansions for generations to come."
The Partner of the Year Award recognizes partners exhibiting strong engagement and continued activation in the tourism industry. Finalists included Staller Center and Splish Splash. CM Performing Arts Center was named the winner for its longstanding dedication to the Long Island tourism community.
The Tourism Trailblazer Award honors new attractions, renovations, or promotional campaigns that enhance tourism opportunities. Finalists were Long Island Rail Road and The Hedges Inn of East Hampton. Winner Destination KP has emerged as a transformative force, creating a buzz-worthy sports destination.
The Industry Advancement Award recognizes initiatives fostering understanding of tourism's value as an economic driver. Finalists included Long Island Game Farm and Long Island Hospitality Association. Winner Cornell Cooperative Extension's Long Island Seafood Trail App connects visitors with the region's seafood heritage while supporting local businesses.
The Media Award, one of the many new categories this year, recognizes impactful media coverage of Long Island as a destination. Finalists included Longisland.com and News 12 Long Island. Winner Cameron Advertising has elevated Long Island's visibility through the art of connection—bringing together customers, clients, and creative solutions across Long Island and beyond
The Cultural Heritage Spotlight Award celebrates organizations sharing Long Island's rich history and heritage. Finalists were Guild Hall and Curry Club at SaGhar & The Meadow Club. The Washington Spy Trail won for bringing Revolutionary War history to life.
The Long Island Experience Innovator Award celebrates partners delivering immersive, curated tourism experiences. Finalists included North Fork Taste and Bellport Inn. Winner North Fork Sights, Bites & Flights offers expertly curated tours showcasing Long Island's wine country.
The Hidden Gem Award spotlights smaller, off-the-beaten-path locations making big impacts. Finalists were Loughlin Vineyard and Six Harbors Brewing Company. Artemis Speakeasy won for creating a new, unique and memorable destination.
The Hospitality Excellence Award honors lodging partners enhancing guest experience and driving visitation. Finalists included Northport Hotel and Montauk Yacht Club. Winner The Southampton Inn has consistently delivered exceptional hospitality.
To stay up to date with Discover Long Island’s efforts and regional happenings, visit discoverlongisland.com.
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ABOUT DISCOVER LONG ISLAND:
Discover Long Island is the region’s official destination marketing and leadership organization charged with furthering the destination’s thriving visitor economy, which saw recent record-breaking highs of $7.9 billion in visitor spending. The organization ensures Long Island’s coveted quality of life, thriving industries, and dynamic destination offerings are promoted on a global level, furthering economic development, and benefiting residents and businesses throughout the region. Awarded “Best Social Media” in the nation by the US Travel Association, the organization produces engaging content featuring local businesses and attractions garnering upwards of 10 million views. Additionally, the organization hosts a popular YouTube series, Long Island TV, as well as the Long Island Tea podcast. To learn more, please call 631-951-3900 or visit www.DiscoverLongIsland.com.
