We are proud to announce that Skana Spa at Turning Stone Resort Casino was named the No. 1 spa in North America by Spas of America, a website that has become one of the most trusted sources of information about spas and wellness.

The honor came as part of Spa of America’s annual Top 100 Spas list, which provides a definitive ranking of travelers’ favorite spas of the year. For the 2021 awards, spas across 38 states, Canada, and Mexico were ranked, and Skana was travelers’ top choice on the continent.

Spas of America’s annual Top 100 Spas provides a definitive ranking of travelers’ favorite spas of the year. For the 2021 awards, spas across 38 states, Canada, and Mexico were ranked — with Skana placing as travelers’ No. 1 choice in all of North America.

It is the latest milestone in a banner year for Turning Stone, with best-in-class recognitions from icons such as Forbes Travel Guide, Casino Player Magazine, Golf Digest, and Conde Nast Johansens.

Skana was hailed for a “unique experience” that has redefined wellness in Upstate New York.

In its write-up, Spas of America hailed the fact that Skana was the first Native American-inspired spa in the Northeast, and celebrated the way the spa pays homage to Oneida and American Indian culture through décor, ambiance, treatments, and gracious hospitality. The magazine also noted how many of the services incorporate ingredients essential in the Oneida culture, including strawberries, sage, and white pine.

This was a source of pride for Ray Halbritter, Oneida Indian Nation Representative and Oneida Nation Enterprises CEO. In a statement, Mr. Halbritter said this award is particularly special because Skana has continued to provide strong, dedicated service to help guests relax and embrace self-care during an incredibly challenging year.

“These unprecedented times have elevated the importance of self-care, and Skana has provided a safe and tranquil place for our guests when they needed it most,” Mr. Halbritter said. “While navigating evolving health and safety protocols, our talented spa team continued to provide an exceptional guest experience, which makes this recognition all that more meaningful.”

Shane Bird, director of spa operations at Turning Stone, agreed, noting that his staff worked “beyond hard” to achieve this recognition.

“Everything we do, we do to create an exceptional experience for our guests,” said Shane. “The fact that Spas of America has rewarded us for these efforts with this kind of honor is fulfilling and validating in a multitude of ways.”

To recap, it has been quite a year for Turning Stone. Upstate New York’s most awarded resort was recognized by Forbes Travel Guide with four esteemed Forbes Four-Star Awards, voted Best Overall Gaming Resort in New York and Best Overall Dining by Casino Player Magazine, and named by Golf Digest as one of the Best Golf Resorts in the Americas with its Editors’ Choice Awards. Turning Stone earned accolades from AAA with three Four Diamond Awards, and received the elite Award of Excellence from Conde Nast Johansens. Turning Stone also was ranked as one of USA Today’s Best 10 Casino Hotels, and Golf Advisor named all three of Turning Stone’s 18-hole courses as the top three courses in New York.