Los Alamos County Wins Eight Honours at 2026 TopHAT Awards
Los Alamos County and local tourism partners received eight awards at the New Mexico Hospitality Association’s 2026 TopHAT Awards ceremony on October 27, according to a county news release published by the Los Alamos Reporter.
The honours covered tourism, hospitality, marketing and visitor experiences.
The county and its partners were recognised in eight of 22 award categories, with winners spanning scientific attractions, outdoor recreation, community programmes and hospitality services.
Eight Awards Across Tourism Categories
The Bradbury Science Museum received Outstanding Attraction for its 2026 New Exhibits, while the Los Alamos Ambassador Program earned the Community Engagement award.
The Los Alamos Nuclear Forum received Outstanding Event recognition. Los Alamos County’s New Mexico Singletrack: Stage 1 mountain-bike race won Best New Experience, highlighting the county’s outdoor recreation activities.
In tourism promotion, the county secured two marketing awards. Adventure Guide 2026 won Best Print Campaign, while Curiosity Takes You Further received Best Digital Campaign.
Local Tourism Professionals Recognised
County Marketing Specialist Ellyn Felton was named Tourism Professional of the Year, recognising her work within Los Alamos County’s tourism sector.
Sonia Ruiz, of Wingate by Wyndham Los Alamos, received Front-of-House Hospitality Employee of the Year, adding hotel services to the area’s recognised achievements.
County Highlights Tourism Partnerships
Linda Matteson, Los Alamos County’s Deputy County Manager, credited the recognition to cooperation among organisations supporting local tourism.
“These awards recognize the people, partnerships, and creative work that help make Los Alamos County a distinctive destination.”
Matteson also highlighted the connections between outdoor activities, museum exhibitions, community participation and visitor services.
“From the new singletrack race, to engaging our community through new exhibits, to promoting our attractions and welcoming visitors, this recognition reflects the collaborative effort behind our tourism industry.”
Scientific Heritage and Outdoor Recreation
According to the county news release, Los Alamos offers three national park sites and more than 200 miles of trails, combining opportunities for scientific and cultural exploration with outdoor activities.
The recognised projects involve county staff, local businesses, attractions and community organisations, demonstrating the range of partners involved in promoting and supporting tourism in Los Alamos.
