Showcasing Dunnville to the World
The Tourism Award recognizes a business or organization that makes a significant contribution toward improving tourism in the Dunnville area. Tourism is more than visitor numbers — it is storytelling. It is how a community shares its history, natural beauty, culture, and experiences with those who travel from near and far.
When visitors come to Dunnville, they support restaurants, shops, accommodations, and local services. Tourism strengthens the local economy while reinforcing pride in what makes this area unique.
This year’s nominees reflect the diverse ways Dunnville attracts and welcomes guests: Dunnville Grand Tour, No. 6 RCAF Dunnville Museum, Spotless Serenity Stays Inc., Treasured Moments Travel, and Grand River Outdoors – Guided Hunts. Each nominee contributes to positioning Dunnville as a destination worth discovering.
And the 2026 Winner Is…
No. 6 RCAF Dunnville Museum
The No. 6 RCAF Dunnville Museum stands as a powerful reminder that tourism and history often walk hand in hand.
One nomination noted:
“Draws ~2,000 people each year to the area. This past year the organization completed the restoration of their on-site memorial. Not only does the museum promote the past history of the Dunnville Airport but also the area as a whole.”
Located on the original site of the World War II Service Flying Training School, the museum preserves and shares artifacts and training aircraft from the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. It represents a significant chapter of aviation history — not only for Dunnville, but for Canada and the Allied war effort.
Another nomination emphasized the museum’s reach:
“The museum displays artifacts and training aircraft from the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan from WWII and is located on the original site of the Service Flying Training School. Volunteers provide tours to numerous visitors each year from all over the globe.”
From international visitors to local families, the museum welcomes hundreds — and often thousands — of guests annually. Many discover it through Facebook, museum listings, and word of mouth, demonstrating the strength of its reputation.
One nominator shared simply:
“This museum is a WW2 attraction and brings people in from everywhere. The eclipse event was a very unexpected success.”
Events like the recent eclipse viewing highlight how the museum continues to evolve, finding new ways to draw visitors while honouring its historic roots.
What makes the No. 6 RCAF Dunnville Museum especially remarkable is that it is volunteer-driven. The dedication of those who provide tours, maintain exhibits, and preserve artifacts ensures that Dunnville’s aviation legacy remains visible and value
Sponsored by Hartzel Marine
This award was proudly sponsored by Hartzel Marine — a business originally based in Thorold whose owner has called Dunnville home for the past several years. With their official grand opening scheduled for this spring, Hartzel Marine has already made the decision to invest in and support their new community.
Their sponsorship reflects a belief in the importance of tourism, recreation, and drawing visitors to our waterfront and surrounding area. By choosing to establish their business in Dunnville, they contribute directly to strengthening the town’s profile as a destination.
Why This Award Matters
Tourism introduces new audiences to our history, natural beauty, and community spirit. It fuels economic activity while reinforcing civic pride.
Organizations like the No. 6 RCAF Dunnville Museum ensure that visitors leave with a deeper understanding of Dunnville’s role in history — and often with a desire to return.
Congratulations to all nominees for helping position Dunnville as a place worth visiting, and congratulations to this year’s recipient for preserving the stories that continue to bring people here from around the world.
The Dunnville Chamber of Commerce exists to support, connect, and celebrate local business. Through leadership, collaboration, and community-driven initiatives, the Chamber brings together entrepreneurs, organizations, and volunteers who are committed to helping Dunnville thrive. From business advocacy to signature events and recognition programs, the Chamber is proud to champion the people and enterprises that shape our community every day.