Clarkdale destination offers immersive cultural experiences, Hopi art and a growing community vision.
“Taawaiki” means “sunhouse” in the Hopi language, and the inn – adorned with Hopi artwork and built on land tied to historical migration routes – lives up to its name. Located near Tuzigoot National Monument on former Yavapai-Apache land, the 44-room hotel blends cultural education with hospitality.
Taawaiki Inn opened in July 2024, featuring two stories, a conference room that accommodates up to 35 guests, and a small kitchen serving breakfast. Renovations are underway to expand its culinary offerings, including traditional Hopi dishes. In the meantime, the staff has added a barbecue and fryer to enhance the menu, with upgrades expected by June 15.
An on-site art gallery showcases works by Hopi artists, with plans for Saturday demonstrations and talks. Locals are already visiting to view the artwork and enjoy coffee, pastries and food made from traditional Hopi blue corn.
The project is overseen by the Hopi Tribe Economic Development Corporation. CEO Nick Brokeshoulder, a member of the Hopi Tribe, said the inn is already self-sustaining and summer tourism is expected to bring even more visitors. “We want to create a bridge for tourists,” he said.
The inn employs 13 staff members, including five Hopis. “This is an opportunity site where people can get jobs to help take care of their families. I take a lot of pride in that,” added Brokeshoulder.
Revenue generated from the hotel supports the tribe’s broader community goals, including educational and cultural initiatives. Recently, the corporation supported the Hopi High School football team and is pursuing the development of a visitor center and museum at the Hopi Cultural Center located at Second Mesa about 60 miles north of Winslow on Hopi land.
Brokeshoulder, who served 20 years in the Army, holds a master’s degree in educational leadership. He also studied macro and microeconomics. He says his favorite part of the work is giving back. “We need to balance the revenue with helping the community.”
Taawaiki Inn is one of seven properties managed by the corporation, with others including properties in downtown Flagstaff and the Hopi Cultural Center. Future projects being considered include a museum, biking trail, apartment development near Twin Arrows Casino and the acquisition of nearby businesses to expand economic opportunity.
“I never thought I would use [economics], and now I’m living it,” Brokeshoulder said. VVBN
By Stan Bindell, VVBN
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