West Virginia Department of Tourism Receives US Travel ESTO Award for 2026 Vacation Guide
By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on August 31, 2026
CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The West Virginia Department of Tourism has been awarded a prestigious U.S. Travel ESTO Award for Excellence in Print Marketing for the 2026 West Virginia Vacation Guide.
The U.S. Travel ESTO Awards honor the nation's highest achievements in destination marketing for creative excellence, innovation, and impactful promotion. The Excellence in Print Marketing category specifically recognizes exceptional print materials such as visitor guides, brochures, maps, and specialty publications that inspire travel through strong storytelling, thoughtful design, and strategic distribution.
Demand for the 2026 Vacation Guide is shattering previous records, with more than 350,000 copies distributed since its January launch. Copies of the guide have been sent to travelers in all 50 states and multiple countries around the world.
From beloved traditions to secrets off the beaten path, this guide uncovers the best ways to experience all four of West Virginia’s unique seasons. Readers can explore stories that celebrate Appalachian cuisine, local lore, deep-rooted history, majestic waterfalls, the spirit of mountain music, and more.
Thoughtfully designed with a blend of paper types, the guide features textile elements, charming illustrations and designated note sections ideal for jotting down personalized trip ideas and packing lists.
The 2026 Vacation Guide was produced in partnership with People Inc., America’s largest publisher, producing publications such as Better Homes & Gardens, People, Southern Living, and Travel + Leisure magazines.
To request your free copy of the 2026 West Virginia Vacation Guide, click here. To access a digital version of the guide, click here. To access the media kit, click here.
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