Applewood Orchards Honored with 2026 Tourism Excellence Award for Best to the Guest

Applewood Orchards Honored with 2026 Tourism Excellence Award for Best to the Guest

CANTON, NY — The St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce Tourism Team honors Applewood Orchards of Rensselaer Falls, recipient of the 2026 Best to the Guest Tourism Excellence Award.

Presented annually at the St. Lawrence County Tourism Dinner, the award recognizes tourism partners who demonstrate exceptional hospitality and create visitor experiences that strengthen St. Lawrence County as a destination.

Since taking ownership in 2023, Sheila and Sean Conklin and Andrew and Alicia Brice have expanded attractions, introduced new events, enhanced gathering spaces, and continued investing in the visitor experience. Their efforts have helped strengthen Applewood's reputation as a destination centered on bringing families together.

A defining characteristic of Applewood is the hands-on involvement of its ownership team. Whether welcoming guests, planning attractions, or coordinating events, owners and staff remain actively engaged in the visitor experience, creating a business that reflects their commitment to hospitality and family-centered experiences. 

Applewood's approach has created memorable experiences that encourage repeat visitation and family traditions. Visitors arrive for seasonal activities and events, but often leave with memories, photographs, and experiences they share with others.

Their impact extends beyond the orchard itself. Through community involvement, partnerships, support of local events, and active engagement throughout the county, the Applewood ownership team has become an ambassador for both Rensselaer Falls and St. Lawrence County.

"Applewood has made hospitality part of its identity," said Kathryn Puleo, Destination Manager for Visit St. Lawrence County. "Their commitment to creating meaningful experiences for visitors has helped establish a destination where families can create memories, build traditions, and find new reasons to return. That kind of hospitality benefits both the business and the destination as a whole." 

The award was accepted by Applewood Orchards owners Sheila and Sean Conklin and Andrew and Alicia Brice during the Tourism Dinner.

For more information about tourism opportunities throughout St. Lawrence County, visit VisitSTLC.com.

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