Category Archives: Property Spotlights

Honoring the Legacy of The Indian Craft Shop

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After over 87 years of celebrating and promoting American Indian arts, Guest Services will no longer be operating The Indian Craft Shop and will have its final day of business on June 6. For generations, the Shop has been a beloved cultural gem inside the U.S. Department of the Interior, connecting visitors with authentic Native American art, jewelry, and traditions from across the country.

Founded in 1938 and managed by Guest Services, Inc. since its inception, the Shop has served as more than a retail space, providing a hub for learning, cultural appreciation, and human connection. Whether you were a first-time visitor, a long-time regular, or even a third-generation supporter, The Indian Craft Shop became part of countless personal journeys and family traditions.

Join Our Final Celebrations

As part of its farewell, the Shop is hosting two Open House Celebrations. The first, held on May 8, welcomed guests for an afternoon of connection, shared memories, and celebration. Attendees enjoyed cake and refreshments in the sculpture garden behind the Shop. 

During the event, Guest Services President & CEO Nico Foris and Michael “Mick” Rusten, Director of Facilities and Administration for the Office of the Secretary, had the honor of cutting the ceremonial cake. (Photo by Susan Schramm)

The final celebration will take place on Thursday, May 22, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., and all are invited to stop by, wear their favorite pieces collected over the years, and join in recognizing the community the Shop has fostered for generations.

Visitors can also take part in a blowout sale from May 20 to May 30, featuring the last of the Shop’s beautiful and unique inventory as one final chance to take home a meaningful treasure from this historic space.

Honoring Susan Pourian’s 42-Year Legacy

The closing coincides with the retirement of Susan Pourian, who has worked for Guest Services for an incredible 42 years — managing the shop, as district manager in specialty retail, working special events, and even in Marketing at the corporate office. Coming full circle to directing the Shop, her legacy is one of deep knowledge, tireless dedication, and unwavering support for Native artists and their stories. Her passion has shaped the Shop into the remarkable place it is today.

“Let’s take this time to celebrate the many years of special arts, people, experiences, and shop connections,” the Shop team shared in their recent newsletter. “This is indeed a time to have a look back and celebrate.”

Looking Ahead with Hope

As the Department of the Interior works to identify a new operator for the Shop, there is hope that another entity will carry the baton forward and continue to showcase American Indian arts for another 87 years to come.

Guest Services, Inc. extends heartfelt gratitude to the Shop’s dedicated team, its talented artists, the Department of the Interior, and every visitor who has helped make The Indian Craft Shop a vibrant and meaningful part of our shared history.

DoubleTree Naples Earns Hilton’s Prestigious 2024 Award of Excellence

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Guest Services, Inc. is proud to announce that DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Naples has once again earned the Hilton Award of Excellence, one of the most coveted recognitions across the global DoubleTree portfolio. This honor acknowledges the hotel’s unmatched dedication to service, guest satisfaction, and quality values deeply rooted in both the DoubleTree and Guest Services culture.

Located along the shimmering Gulf of Mexico coast in Naples, Florida, this award-winning property continues to raise the bar in hospitality. Just off the scenic Tamiami Trail, beside the Cocohatchee River, the hotel provides easy access to Delnor-Wiggins Pass State Park, Vanderbilt Beach, and the upscale Mercato shopping and dining district. The riverfront pool, just steps outside every suite, offers a serene escape for those seeking relaxation without ever leaving the property.

This achievement is especially significant, as it marks a celebrated return to the Hilton spotlight. While the DoubleTree Naples has been recognized in the past for its commitment to excellence, being named a 2024 Award of Excellence winner signifies a powerful comeback and underscores the property’s resilience, adaptability, and unwavering hospitality. “We’re thrilled to be ranked #2 among all DoubleTree properties,” said General Manager Jennifer Robbins. “This recognition reflects our team’s passion for delivering an exceptional experience, every step of the way.”

And of course, no stay at a DoubleTree would be complete without the signature warm chocolate chip cookie at check-in—a symbol of the comfort and care that defines the brand.

Over the years, the DoubleTree Naples team has embraced feedback and responded with meaningful renovations, rolled out in carefully planned phases. These upgrades have helped refresh the guest experience while maintaining the warm, welcoming atmosphere that loyal guests have come to expect.

Even among challenges like renovations and evolving travel expectations, the Naples team remained committed to excellence. “Their dedication is genuinely inspiring,” said Shawn McAteer, Global Brand Leader for DoubleTree by Hilton. “When we CARE, it shows.” Their recognition this year is a tribute to that perseverance.

Congratulations, DoubleTree Naples! Your excellence is well-deserved and deeply appreciated.

Iconic Tower and Upgraded Retail Await at Everglades Florida Adventures

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Everglades Florida Adventures is known for unforgettable experiences deep in the heart of Everglades National Park. We spoke with Phil Williams, General Manager, who shared insights into what makes this property so special and gave us a glimpse into exciting new developments on the horizon.

An Iconic View from the 10,000 Islands Tower

A must-see landmark, the 10,000 Islands Observation Tower, built in 1984 by Thomas Mitchell, rises 75 feet above the Everglades landscape. “It takes exactly 120 steps to reach the top,” says Phil. “And when you get there, you’re rewarded with breathtaking views of the 10,000 Islands and Chokoloskee Bay.”

Adventures on Land and Water

Everglades Florida Adventures provides an array of experiences to help guests immerse themselves in this unique ecosystem:

  • 10,000 Islands Catamaran Tour: “This three-hour tour aboard our 45-foot catamaran departs twice daily, guiding visitors through the serene Faka Union Canal into pristine wilderness,” Phil explains. Guests can expect close encounters with dolphins, manatees, alligators, and countless bird species.
  • Mangrove Wilderness Tour: Guests navigate deep into the iconic mangrove tunnels on this 1-hour and 45-minute guided exploration. “Our expert guides reveal the hidden beauty and complexity of these remarkable ecosystems,” Phil says. “It’s an unforgettable way to experience the Everglades.”
  • Kayak and Canoe Rentals: For visitors looking for a more personal adventure, rentals are available by the hour or day. “Whether you’re exploring winding mangrove pathways or embarking on a multi-day expedition, we offer easy access to unforgettable paddling routes,” he adds. Guests can also reach any of Everglades National Park’s 46 backcountry campsites directly from their rental location.

Enhanced Retail Space, Better Guest Experience

Recent renovations have significantly improved the retail space following challenges from hurricanes. “After Hurricane Ian, we rebuilt thoughtfully,” says Phil. “We flood-cut our retail area at four feet, replaced drywall with waterproof concrete board and tile, elevated electrical wiring, and installed epoxy flooring. These upgrades make cleanup after storms much easier, and our new store layout provides guests with a better shopping experience overall.”

 

Looking Toward an Exciting Future

Phil is enthusiastic about upcoming developments at Everglades Florida Adventures. “We’re eagerly awaiting the opening of the new National Park Visitor Center right across the street, which will significantly boost our area’s foot traffic,” he shares. “We’re also exploring possibilities like adding campground and RV sites on our property. There’s a lot to look forward to!”

We appreciate Phil and the Everglades Florida Adventures team for their dedication to creating exceptional visitor experiences and preserving the natural beauty of the Everglades.