Tag Archives: USA Today

Ford International Airport voted Best Small Airport in the Country by USA Today

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Ford International Airport was voted the Best Small Airport in the Country by USA Today 2025. (Photo Courtesy, Ford Airport)


By WKTV Staff
greer@wktv.org


The Gerald R. Ford International Airport earned the top spot in the USA TODAY Reader’s Choice Awards for best small airport.

The 20 finalists for the category were selected by a panel of experts and then voted on by the public. Voting was open from Sept. 8 until Oct. 6 with the public being invited to cast one vote per person, per day.

The panel consisted of editors from USA TODAY and 10Best.com, expert contributors and industry sources. The USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards series highlight top-notch attractions and businesses, providing readers with trusted recommendations.

“We are honored that the best guests in the country have helped us win the No.1 spot for the best small airport,” Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority President & CEO Tory Richardson said. “The community’s incredible support continues to propel our commitment to providing a world-class airport experience, and we are thrilled to have won this award for the community.”

The top 10 winners in the best small airport category were:

  1. Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) 
  2. Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP)
  3. Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD)
  4. Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) 
  5. Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO) 
  6. Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC) 
  7. Huntsville International Airport (HSV)
  8. Wichita Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport (ICT) 
  9. Pensacola International Airport (PNS)
  10. Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FAT) 



Surpassing a record-breaking number of 4 million passengers in 2024, the Ford International Airport serves as West Michigan’s gateway to the world. The Airport is managed and operated by the Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority, which has more than 100 team members who are responsible for the infrastructure and maintenance of airport facilities. Additionally, more than 1,300 team members from eight airlines, food and beverage providers, maintenance facilities and several other partners come together to offer air service and amenities to guests.

“We thank everyone who took the time to cast their vote for the Ford International Airport,” Richardson continued. “We also thank our dedicated team members and partners who help provide an exceptional guest experience to this award-winning airport.”

Meijer Gardens once again recognized as top sculpture park in the nation

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By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org


Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is thrilled to announce its recent recognition as one of the nation’s top sculpture parks as part of USA Today’s Readers’ Choice 10Best awards!

This recognition serves as a testament to the park’s commitment to showcasing exceptional art and horticulture and providing a captivating experience for guests.

Highlighting outstanding parks

USA Today’s 10Best Sculpture Parks is an annual ranking that highlights outstanding parks across the United States. Meijer Gardens has been selected as a finalist based on its remarkable collection of world-class sculptures, picturesque landscapes, and immersive visitor experiences.

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park (Supplied/by Johnny Quirin)

Nominees for the USA Today’s Readers’ Choice 10Best awards are submitted by a panel of experts. 10Best editors narrow the field to select the final set of nominees for the Readers’ Choice Awards. Readers can vote once per category, per day.

How to vote

After winning the title of the nation’s Best Sculpture Park in 2023, USA Today invites the community to rally together and help Meijer Gardens retain this prestigious award by voting daily at bit.ly/FMG10Best24.

(Courtesy of Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park)

Voting is now open and will continue until Monday, Feb. 19 at 12 p.m. ET. Winners will be announced on Friday, March 1st at 12 p.m. EST.

By voting daily, community members can help raise awareness about this incredible destination and showcase the vibrant arts and culture scene within West Michigan.

About Frederik Meijer Gardens

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a destination for art enthusiasts, nature lovers, and families alike. The park’s dedication to engaging exhibitions, educational programs, concerts and community events has made it an integral part of our region’s cultural fabric since first opening in 1995.