With 26 years of industry experience, Kris Hoff is no stranger to the world of travel. Her journey began with a leap of faith after working as a paralegal, knowing in her heart a change was needed. After the persistent urging of a close friend, Hoff mustered the courage to try something new.
"She encouraged me to consider a position with a local tour operator, assuring me that my skill set would be an ideal match," Hoff recalled. "Reluctantly, I accepted the role, still unsure of where the path would lead."
But something quickly clicked; the work energizing Hoff in a way being a paralegal never had. She quickly realized this was her true calling—to be the orchestrator behind the scenes, seamlessly bringing travel experiences to life.
"It was as if a missing puzzle piece had finally fallen into place," Hoff said. "After years of feeling unfulfilled, I'd at last discovered my passion and purpose. It proved to be one of the best decisions I ever made."
Now, as President of Distinctively Detroit Tours & Happy Times Tours, Hoff loves creating memorable tour experiences for groups, offering a unique experience people couldn't get otherwise.
Founded in 2023 by Hoff and Tami Manton, Distinctively Detroit is a true steward of Detroit culture, emphasizing authentic experiences that benefit local communities through actions like hiring local celebrity guides (including Detroit hip hop pioneer Ron Watts aka Phat Kat), educating businesses on handling group tours, promoting meaningful interactions that respect and preserve local traditions and sensitive sites, and more. Hoff is particularly proud of the company's behind-the-scenes tours.
"From going behind-the-scenes of the music industry in Detroit to offering the first and only Hip-Hop History Tour of Detroit, we've accomplished some big things ... and, there's more coming," she shared. "We know groups also really enjoy the vintage car rides we've lined up at the Packard Proving Grounds, as well."
Hoff and Distinctively Detroit were honored by Groups Today earlier this year at the 2025 ABA Marketplace in Philadelphia with the TODAY! Award, given annually to an ABA member for making a profound impact on the group travel industry through relevancy, impact, growth, advocacy and innovation.
"I feel totally honored," Hoff said. "It means that people really appreciate what we've done and really think a lot of us. I was honestly shocked!"
Over the years, Hoff has learned to never be afraid to ask.
"I frequently drive around looking for new things. If I find something, I'll stop, learn about it, and see about doing tours," Hoff said. "This is exactly how I've been able to add new attractions and experiences to many of our tours. I'm not afraid to do something different."
She encourages industry newcomers to embrace their uniqueness and take creative risks, as failure is part of the path to achievement.
"I believe to make a tangible impact you need to leverage unique qualities in order to shape perceptions and drive meaningful change, but it must be done while maintaining authenticity, integrity, and a strong work ethic for success."
Fun Fact: Hoff plays the violin! "Not many people think that I'd be a musician, but I am."
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for Groups Today.
This article originally appeared in the May/Jun '25 issue of Groups Today.
Photo courtesy of Kris Hoff & Distinctively Detroit.
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