Woodbine Hospitality, which owns and operates a portfolio of hotels and resorts in Central New York, has been named Developer of the Year, Lifestyle U.S., by Hilton as part of the company's 2025 Americas Development Awards. The awards recognize owners, development partners, and hotel teams driving growth, innovation, design excellence, brand development, and community impact across the Americas. Woodbine's portfolio includes Tailwater Lodge, part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton, located on the Salmon River, and multiple properties in Skaneateles, including the Skaneateles Boutique Hotel and Skaneateles Fields Resort & Spa, part of the Curio Collection by Hilton.
Upcoming Skaneateles Development Woodbine is preparing to open Hilltop Skaneateles,
a multifaceted destination comprising four components: Hilltop Coffee, described as "a buzzy modern café with specialty coffee and grab-and-go breakfast items"; Hilltop Social, "a lively recreation hall with games and a tap room focused on New York producers"; Hilltop Hotel, offering accommodations in Skaneateles; and Sprig, "an elevated restaurant featuring globally inspired cuisine and a thoughtfully curated wine program." The recognition reflects Woodbine's commitment to high-quality hospitality development under CEO Norm Swanson and President Tom Fernandez. According to Hilton, the annual Americas Development Awards celebrate projects that contribute to brand growth and long-term value while strengthening host communities.
Why It Matters For hospitality operators, the award signals Hilton's
confidence in Woodbine's execution model and validates the company's focus on experiential, place-based hospitality—a strategy increasingly valued by upscale travel segments and destination-conscious guests seeking authentic local connections.
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Written by FBM Publications Editors
