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When Tripadvisor released its 2026 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best list for Inns and B&Bs, six Association of Lodging Professionals members earned a spot among the top 20 in the country. That’s an incredible achievement considering these awards are based entirely on guest reviews and experiences.

Congratulations to:

  • #4 Inn of the Turquoise Bear – Santa Fe, New Mexico
  • #9 Cedar Crest Lodge – Pleasanton, Kansas
  • #10 Magnolia Inn Bed & Breakfast – Mount Dora, Florida
  • #15 Inn on Main – Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts
  • #16 Sheridan House Inn – Williams, Arizona
  • #20 Goldberry Woods – Union Pier, Michigan

Curious about their secret sauce? We asked several of these award-winning ALP members what they believe helped them earn the recognition—and their answers reveal some common themes.

It Starts With Genuine Hospitality

If there was one ingredient that appeared again and again, it was authentic guest connection.

At Inn of the Turquoise Bear, General Manager Alex Pikuza says the key is simple:

“Treating guests as if we already know them.”

He emphasizes that exceptional service isn’t about hovering.

“It’s all about guest interactions. Knowing when to engage and when to step back.”

Sheridan House Inn owners Mark and Debbie Santy agree.

“From the moment they book until the moment they leave, our mission is simple: do whatever it takes to help our guests make memories they treasure and talk about for years to come.”

Their guests consistently mention being remembered by name and receiving personalized attention—something increasingly rare in today’s lodging landscape.

The Little Details Matter

Award-winning properties don’t leave things to chance.

At Cedar Crest Lodge, owners Matt and Laura Cunningham describe themselves as detail fanatics.

“Good or bad, we overanalyze everything in great detail. It’s all about the guests.”

One lesson they learned early on was never to assume a room is perfect without checking it.

Today, every room receives a final inspection by management or a head housekeeper before guests arrive.

And those details extend beyond cleanliness. Cedar Crest has built much of its reputation around food, operating a scratch kitchen, sourcing locally whenever possible, and accommodating not only allergies and dietary restrictions—but even guest dislikes.

Invest in Your Team

Several winners pointed to staff culture as one of their biggest advantages.

Goldberry Woods owners Julie and Eric Haberichter say trying to do everything themselves was an early mistake.

“We continue to find amazing team members to make Goldberry more and more special.”

At Sheridan House Inn, team members are empowered to slow down, interact with guests, and pay attention to every detail.

“The rewards of guest satisfaction far outweigh the costs.”

Consistency Wins

While memorable moments matter, consistency may be the real superpower.

Alex Pikuza credits consistent communication before, during, and after each stay as one of the habits that has had the biggest impact on guest satisfaction.

And Goldberry Woods attributes part of its success to something many operators overlook: actively managing online reviews.

Julie and Eric recommend staying engaged with Tripadvisor reviews and responses.

“Our absolute commitment to being on top of reviews seems to have been the magic sauce this year.”

Create Experiences Guests Can’t Stop Talking About

These properties aren’t just places to sleep.

Goldberry Woods invites guests to experience its organic farm, orchards, prairies, and farm-to-table breakfasts while showcasing nearly 15 years of sustainability efforts.

Cedar Crest Lodge has transformed itself into a destination where guests can hike, fish, kayak, enjoy massages, and indulge in exceptional meals without ever leaving the property.

And Sheridan House Inn has focused on creating a deeply personal experience that guests remember long after they return home.

Advice for Fellow ALP Members

The winners’ advice can be summed up in one phrase: lead with hospitality.

Matt and Laura Cunningham of Cedar Crest Lodge say:

“If you have a staff, lead by example. We ask ourselves all the time, if we were coming to Cedar Crest Lodge, what would we want?”

Mark and Debbie Santy encourage fellow operators to go beyond expectations:

“Going above and beyond doesn’t have to cost a lot financially. It means listening intently to what a guest desires and taking the initiative to respond however you are able.”

And Goldberry Woods has a simple message:

“You can do it, too.”

Congratulations to Our 2026 Winners

ALP is proud to celebrate all six members recognized among Tripadvisor’s Best of the Best Inns and B&Bs.

These awards are a reminder that extraordinary hospitality isn’t about grand gestures or massive budgets. It’s about connection, consistency, and caring deeply about the guest experience.

And apparently, that’s a recipe guests are happy to rave about.