Kuiper, the executive director of Visit Fort Dodge, didn’t know that Fort Dodge had been anonymously nominated by well-known content creators and travel writers.

“It was a complete surprise,” said Kuiper. “We were not aware that we had been nominated and were very honored to bring the award home. To know that we have content creators who trust and recognize us is humbling, but also something we are beyond proud of.”

The Midwest Travel Network is comprised of more than 100 communities in 16 states and works with convention and visitors bureaus, tourism bureaus, as well as content creators that promote regional travel.

Visit Fort Dodge often hosts content creators and travel writers who focus on the many unique restaurants, hotels, events, and destinations in Fort Dodge and the surrounding area.

-Submitted photo
Visit Fort Dodge Executive Director Kerrie Kuiper was surprised and honored to learn that Fort Dodge had been awarded the title of 2024 Destination Partner of the Year with the Midwest Travel Network. Kuiper and her staff received the award earlier this month at the Midwest Travel Network’s annual conference in Shipshewana, Indiana.

“Our staff works extremely hard to market the Fort Dodge region as a visitor destination,” said Kuiper. “We have unique and entertaining places to go, exciting things to do, and great events to feature. It’s amazing to see travel professionals who can go anywhere and choose to come to Fort Dodge and love it.”

Kuiper noted that her staff also helps creators and writers with their community research, itinerary building, follow up story distribution, and even looks for innovative ways to utilize their content outside the norm for other communities.

“This is a huge win for us,” said Kuiper.

At the Midwest Travel Conference, Kuiper also hosted a Visit Fort Dodge booth where more than 100 content creators, influencers, and travel writers were invited to try a snack from The Community Orchard as well as to add a piece to a custom-fused glass creation by Studio Fusion.

Kuiper also presented a session during the conference on the considerations that should be taken by communities, organizations, and creators as they partner together to promote a destination.

“This constant flow of positive information truly represents what our community has to offer visitors as a destination,” said Kuiper.