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.

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.

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


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:
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.
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.













