HoCo in the Know: Tourism Ambassador Program
Visit Howard County presents HoCo in the Know, our tourism ambassador program
HoCo in the Know Graduates September 2024
September 2024 Graduates: "What new Howard County destinations did you discover and what is your top recommendation for visitors?"
Rebecca Haid, Columbia Association
I live in Howard County and was familiar with many of the locations and businesses that we visited. However, many of those places I had never visited. Thanks for making me stop. The one business that I have never heard of is Manor Hill Brewery. On a beautiful day, that would be a great place to meet with family and friends. I definitely would recommend it. My top recommendation would be Clark's Elioak Farm. I was so surprised at the variety of animals and the activities. What a fun and educational family outing.
Julie Via, Howard County Community College
I have always been a fan of Clark's Elioak Farm, but visiting during baby goat season gave me joy, and a mental health boost I wasn’t expecting. Baby Goats!!!! Also, honorable mention to Bra La La and the Maple Lawn shops. I didn’t know they were there. Thanks for the wonderful experiences.
Chris Johnston, Columbia Association
The vast destinations that we explored I discovered Mary’s Land Farm, the Shrine of St. Anthony and Manor Hill Brewing. My top recommendation for visitors would depend on their interest. The destinations that we explored covered history, fun outings for children, nightlife for adults in downtown Columbia and Merriweather. Popular Culture; something for everyone.
Kiera Charlemagne, Residence Inn Fulton at Maple Lawn
The new Howard County destinations that I have discovered would be Manor Hill Brewery and Clark's Elioak Farm. These two are also the destinations that I would recommend to visitors. The Brewery provides a beautiful intimate scenery with a very diverse choice of drinks. On the other hand, Elioak's Farm is perfect for families as they have very enticing activities such as their Enchanted Forest and petting zones that are truly the best attraction for kids (or adults that are kids at heart) - especially their cute baby goats! They also offer the most precious gift shop!
Shantol Nembhard, Turf Valley Resort
I am thrilled to have gained such vast knowledge on tourism in the Howard County area. While I have been working in Ellicott City for roughly 2 years now, I had no idea many of these locations existed. It is so hard to choose when all locations play a virtual role to different crowds of travelers. However, my top two recommendations to visitors would be the Clark's Elioak Farm, as this is a fun filled adventure for families with children, so many activities for the kids, such as feeding the baby goats and riding the pony, etc. and the Manor Hill Brewery, which is an exquisite site to behold, beautiful, elegant decor and a scenic atmosphere. It is the perfect spot for adults to relax and wind down with friends after a long journey or hard day's work. They offer a wide variety of beers and wines, along with the most fascinating souvenirs.
Ginny Morsberger, Turf Valley Resort
It's hard to pick a favorite from all of the places we were taken to. Although I have worked in Howard County for many years, I do not live in Howard County. This was my first time visiting the Robinson Nature Center, which will be a great recommendation to families as well as Clark's Elioak Farm. The baby goats at the farm are adorable and hard to let go of once you hold them. The Clarksville Commons area with all of the different ethnic foods (The Common Kitchen) was also a wonderful treat with so many options to choose from. I enjoyed the shopping at the Mary's Land Farm.
Participate in 2025
There's plenty of time to participate in the program! Find all the details below:
Do you have a front-of-house employee who gets a ton of questions about where to go, what to do, where to eat? Would you like your employees to be “in the know” about Howard County? Visit Howard County's ambassador program does just that!
We are seeking diverse businesses with passionate, service-oriented employees with strong communications skills. This program will educate Howard County employees on how to inform visitors on the ins and outs of the area based on their interests. Every six weeks, we will meet in person and learn about what Howard County offers through site tours and educational sessions.
What is required of businesses:
Every two months, there is a meeting/tour:
- 4 meetings are required, including an orientation in historic Ellicott City
- Average meeting length is four hours
- Some homework (fun!) may be assigned
- 21 or older
- Must be a Tourism member - join here!
Save the date:
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December 11th - Savage
Interested in having your employee/business be an ambassador for Howard County? Fill out THIS FORM with your employee so they may be considered for the program!
Participate as a business:
Interested in welcoming the ambassadors to your business, offering a tour or experience? More information to come! Check back often! Make sure to register as a member to receive our newsletter.
Questions? Contact Kaelynn@HowardCountyTourism.com.