awards & recognition

Awards & Recognition in Cherokee, North Carolina

In Cherokee, part of you never leaves. Here, every experience, from soaring mountain views to centuries-old artistry, tells a story of excellence, heritage, and heart.

Our attractions have been honored with national awards and recognitions that celebrate not only their quality but also the living culture of the Cherokee people. From championship golf to handcrafted Native art, these accolades reflect the authentic, unforgettable experiences that await every visitor.

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Golf Recognition

Sequoyah National Golf Club – Awards & Rankings

Perched in the breathtaking Great Smoky Mountains, Sequoyah National Golf Club offers more than a game, it is an invitation to explore a landscape steeped in natural beauty and Cherokee history. With sweeping mountain vistas, strategic course design, and meticulously maintained greens, it is no wonder golfers and industry leaders alike have taken notice.

  • #1 in Loyalty / Net Promoter Score
  • Recognized among Premium Public Golf Courses nationwide
  • Celebrated for guest satisfaction and verified golfer feedback

This honor reflects the club’s dedication to creating experiences that linger long after a round ends.

  • Ranked #11 in North Carolina for public-access courses
  • Recognized for its scenic setting and approachable design

Golfers returning from Sequoyah often remark not just on the challenge, but on the serenity and sense of adventure the course inspires.

Featured in Best in State rankings for excellence in design, conditions, and overall experience

Included among the Top 50 Casino Courses for its unique mountain setting and engaging layout

  • GolfPass Rating: 4.6 / 5
  • 18Birdies Community Rating: ~4.7 / 5

Visitors consistently praise:

  • Panoramic mountain scenery
  • Impeccable course conditions
  • Playable yet strategic design
  • Friendly, welcoming staff
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Cultural & Artistic Recognition

Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual – Honors

Cherokee’s art is not just seen, it is felt. At Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, centuries-old traditions come to life in handcrafted masks, pottery, jewelry, and baskets. This cooperative, one of the oldest Native American artist collectives in the U.S., preserves both history and culture while sharing it with visitors in ways that are tangible and unforgettable.

  • Members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild since 1949
  • Recognized by the Indian Arts & Crafts Board in 1980

These affiliations affirm a commitment to authenticity, quality, and cultural stewardship that spans generations.

  • 1992 PICA Award of Excellence
  • Celebrated for craftsmanship, heritage preservation, and artistic innovation

Every piece tells a story, from traditional techniques to inspired modern designs, giving visitors a chance to hold history in their hands.

What these awards represent

Recognition is more than a trophy or ranking. In Cherokee, awards reflect the values woven into every visitor experience:

  • Outdoor adventure that inspires awe
  • Authentic cultural connections
  • Preservation of Cherokee heritage
  • Warm, welcoming hospitality
  • Creative excellence rooted in tradition
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a destination defined by excellence

Awards shine a spotlight on individual attractions, but the heart of Cherokee is its story, one of enduring culture, breathtaking landscapes, and immersive experiences. Whether you are exploring Native art galleries, teeing off on a mountain golf course, or attending a Cherokee cultural event, these recognitions reinforce why Cherokee is a premier destination in Western North Carolina.

Visitors consistently leave with memories of:

  • Majestic mountains and serene forests
  • Rich storytelling and cultural immersion
  • Engaging experiences for all ages
  • A sense of connection to history and nature

Plan Your Award-Winning Cherokee Experience

From nationally recognized golf to centuries of artistic tradition, Cherokee invites you to experience excellence firsthand.

Step onto the greens of Sequoyah National Golf Club, wander the galleries of Qualla Arts and Crafts, or simply breathe in the beauty of the mountains, and see why Cherokee continues to earn accolades from travelers and experts alike.

Your adventure awaits. Come discover a place where awards are just the beginning of the story.

Fire Mountain Trails
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Fire Mountain Trails

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we are cherokee

We are not simply from our land; we are of our land.

The Cherokee people’s connection to our ancestral homeland is integral to our identity, shaping art, ceremonies, government, and so much more. The endurance of the Cherokee people over thousands of years, as documented through both archaeological evidence and oral histories, emphasizes the longstanding and rich heritage of the Cherokee people.