Visit Mason City Celebrates Local Tourism Champions
Visit Mason City proudly announces the recipients of its 2024 annual awards, recognizing significant contributors to the growth of Mason City’s tourism industry. These awards celebrate the achievements of individuals, businesses, and attractions that have made a substantial impact on local tourism, supporting the community’s economy and overall appeal.
The awards were presented at Visit Mason City’s Annual Meeting on Thursday, November 7th at The Music Man Square. The evening highlighted tourism milestones from FY23-24 and featured remarks from two speakers: Amy Zeigler, State Tourism Manager, and Lora Friest, Tourism Liaison at the Iowa Tourism Office.
This year, Visit Mason City is thrilled to honor three outstanding award recipients who have made exceptional contributions to Mason City's tourism industry.
FRIEND OF TOURISM: Terry and Mary Balek Presented to an individual who promotes and enhances Mason City tourism, the Friend of Tourism Award celebrates Terry and Mary Balek for their dedication to showcasing the city’s unique history and attractions through geocaching. The Baleks, long-time residents of Mason City, turned a family hobby into a community-centered experience by creating the "Mr. Toot Geocaching Adventure," which introduces geocachers to the city’s historic landmarks and attractions. Through their leadership with the Iowa Geocachers Organization, the Baleks brought the "Hike & Seek" geocaching convention to North Iowa in 2022.
SPIRIT OF TOURISM: Mason City Farmers Market The Spirit of Tourism Award honors the Mason City Farmers Market for transforming itself into a beloved Saturday morning tradition. By drawing regional vendors and attendees, the Farmers Market has become a staple of the local economy, benefiting nearby businesses, restaurants, and hotels. Its dedication to community partnerships — including events with the annual Pride Festival and the Mason City All-Year Class Reunion — has cultivated a warm and inviting space for all. The Power of Produce booth, local musicians, and gluten-free options ensure a memorable and inclusive experience for all who attend.
TOURISM EXCELLENCE: Mason City Pickleball Classic This year’s Tourism Excellence Award was presented to the Mason City Pickleball Classic, an annual tournament organized by the Mason City Pickleball Club. Held at Iowa’s only outdoor 12-court pickleball complex, the tournament has attracted over 100 teams from nine states, positioning Mason City as a prominent hub for sports tourism. Through effective event promotion, the Mason City Pickleball Classic has not only drawn players from across the country but also stimulated the local economy, earning official recognition from Mayor Bill Schickel as “Pickleball Classic Days.”
Visitors Choice Golden Pineapple Awards: Voted on by visitors to Mason City, the Golden Pineapple Awards recognize standout local businesses for their excellence in hospitality:
- Visitors Choice Hotel: Country Inn & Suites
- Visitors Choice Attraction: The Music Man Square
- Visitors Choice Restaurant: State Street Deli
- Visitors Choice Restaurant: Lorados
In 2023, tourism generated substantial economic benefits for Mason City and Cerro Gordo County. Direct visitor spending reached $152 million, demonstrating the community's strong draw as a destination for leisure travel. Visit Mason City responded to 61,429 requests for visitor information from all 50 U.S. states and 19 countries, and the Mason City Visitor Information Center welcomed 3,320 walk-in guests, providing them with key resources for a memorable experience in Mason City.
ABOUT VISIT MASON CITY
Founded in 1985, Visit Mason City is the designated marketing and sales organization for Mason City, Iowa. Funded through hotel/motel tax dollars, a county investment, and private partnerships, its mission is to enhance the economy of Mason City and the North Iowa area through the promotion of the region as a destination for overnight visitors.
