Innovative Experiences, Creative Spirit: Kris Hoff’s Journey in Distinctive Tourism
When Kris Hoff launched Happy Times Tours and Experiences in July 2020, the world was facing unprecedented challenges, especially within the tourism industry. Yet, rather than being deterred, Kris saw opportunity — a chance to innovate and create uniquely immersive experiences that would captivate travelers even during uncertain times.
With over two decades of industry expertise, Kris has consistently prioritized creativity, innovation, and community connections. Her ventures, Happy Times Tours in Milwaukee and Distinctively Detroit Tours, highlight her knack for turning the ordinary into extraordinary journeys.
“I pride myself on offering distinctive, unique experiences,” says Kris. “When I couldn’t find what I envisioned, I decided to create it myself. Sometimes that means literally knocking on doors to discover hidden gems.”
Crafting Experiences That Delight
For Kris, standard tours simply aren’t enough. Driven by a passion for storytelling and creativity, she constantly reinvents her offerings, blending elements of history, entertainment, and intrigue.
Notably, she developed immersive experiences such as “The Great Gatsby 100th Anniversary Experience” and the “Motown’s 65th Anniversary VIP Experience,” showcasing her talent for capturing cultural milestones in engaging, memorable ways.
“Doing a boring, typical tour doesn’t excite me,” Kris explains. “I love the creative process. When an idea hits, I dive in fully, refining until it’s an unforgettable experience.”
One such example is Kris’s new line of murder mystery walking food tours in Detroit, which she conceived and scripted, driven by inspiration and a commitment to delivering extraordinary experiences.
Rewarding Connections and Genuine Joy
The most fulfilling part of Kris’s role is witnessing guests discover something new — particularly when they least expect it. “When I see people happy, genuinely surprised, and thoroughly entertained, that’s when I know I’ve done my job,” Kris shares enthusiastically.
Whether it’s surprising visitors with hidden gems around Detroit or introducing them to unexpected historical stories, Kris’s motivation comes from a deep-seated desire to connect and delight.
This desire is deeply rooted in her personality, driven by a genuine passion for making others happy and creating meaningful experiences.
Adapting to Change and Embracing Challenges
Running distinctive tours hasn’t always been easy. Especially post-pandemic, Kris faced significant hurdles, including shifting consumer behavior, financial constraints, and evolving trends in travel. Staying ahead required constant vigilance, market awareness, and adaptability.
“I continuously follow global trends, watch international news, and rely heavily on industry networks and professional organizations like Visit Milwaukee, Visit Detroit, and the American Bus Association,” Kris explains. “Networking, collaboration, and shared insights have been essential, especially after COVID.”
Her proactive approach led her to launch affordable yet engaging tours, ensuring travelers could continue experiencing joy, even on tighter budgets. These innovative offerings reflect Kris’s dedication to adapting creatively to the changing needs and interests of her guests.
Kris’s vision extends beyond just current offerings. She actively explores ways to expand her experiences, including developing interactive classes led by Detroit’s industry professionals, such as a hip-hop history series that blends education with entertainment.
“If tours ever face disruptions again, we have plans ready,” Kris notes confidently. “We can pivot swiftly, offering classes, virtual tours, or curated at-home experiences — much like we did successfully during the pandemic.”
This flexibility and foresight highlight Kris’s exceptional leadership qualities, making her an innovator who can navigate any industry challenge.
Kris’s Advice: Embrace the Bold and Unusual
For new tour operators entering the industry, Kris emphasizes the importance of bravery and innovation. “Don’t be afraid to try something quirky or different. You might fail occasionally, but each failure paves the way for greater success,” she encourages. “Tourism thrives on novelty, creativity, and the unexpected.”
Her philosophy is clear — innovation and bold thinking distinguish the best from the rest.
She stresses that being willing to fail and adapt is crucial. “You have to push boundaries,” Kris insists. “People might be skeptical initially, but when they see something truly original and engaging, they become enthusiastic supporters.”
Kris’s innovative spirit and dedication haven’t gone unnoticed. She recently received the prestigious 2025 TODAY! Award from the American Bus Association for her outstanding contributions to the group travel industry. Additionally, Kris was recognized as a Woman of Excellence by P.O.W.E.R. (Professional Organization of Women of Excellence Recognized), highlighting her leadership and visionary contributions.
Experience Kris’s Vision Firsthand
If you’re visiting Milwaukee or Detroit, don’t miss out on Kris Hoff’s uniquely crafted experiences. Visit Happy Times Tours or Distinctively Detroit Tours to discover tours that promise not just sightseeing, but genuinely memorable moments that embody Kris’s passion for creativity and connection.
Tour operators are the heart of their communities, serving as local stewards preserving stories that matter. UpLevel Tourism helps tour operators book more private groups and highlights their impact. Know a tour operator doing great things? Maybe it’s you! Email team@upleveltourism.com for inclusion in our Tourism Innovator series.
