Interested in Native American heritage, mountain scenery, and outdoor adventure? Head to Cherokee, North Carolina! Located at the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cherokee is rich in cultural history and natural beauty. From museums and traditional crafts to hiking, waterfalls, and elk watching, Cherokee offers a unique experience in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Cherokee, NC Highlights:

  • For History Buffs: Visit the Museum of the Cherokee People – Discover the story of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians through artifacts, exhibits, and storytelling.
  • For Scenic Explorers: Drive the Blue Ridge Parkway – Start your mountain journey right from Cherokee on one of America’s most scenic routes.
  • For Outdoor Adventurers: Hike in Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Access waterfalls, wildflower trails, and wildlife viewing just minutes from town.
  • For Culture Seekers: Attend "Unto These Hills" Outdoor Drama – A powerful evening performance retelling Cherokee history under the stars.
  • For Families: See elk at Oconaluftee Visitor Center – Visit a historic mountain farmstead and spot elk grazing at dusk in the fields.

Best Time to Visit Cherokee, NC

The best time to visit Cherokee is in the spring (April–June) and fall (September–October) when the mountains are vibrant with blooming wildflowers or colorful foliage. Summer is ideal for hiking and festivals, while winter is quieter but great for cozy retreats and scenic snow-dusted views.

How to Get to Cherokee, NC

  • By Car: Cherokee is located at the intersection of U.S. Route 441 and U.S. Route 19, about 1 hour from Asheville and 3 hours from Atlanta or Knoxville.
  • By Air: The nearest airport is Asheville Regional Airport (AVL), approximately 1.5 hours away. Knoxville’s McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) is another option.
  • By Bus: Limited public transportation is available; most visitors drive or join group tours.

Where to Stay in Cherokee, NC

  • Recommended for Families: Cherokee KOA Holiday – Campground with cabins, pools, and trout fishing right on the river.
  • For Casino Enthusiasts: Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort – Upscale resort with a casino, spa, restaurants, and entertainment.
  • For Nature Lovers: River’s Edge Motel – Quaint riverside stay close to shops and trails with mountain charm.

Best Things to Do in Cherokee, NC

Great Smoky Mountains National Park


Explore scenic trails and discover breathtaking sights in this exciting, year-round destination.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

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Encompassing over 800 square miles of stunning natural beauty and diversity, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the US, straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. The best way to see a reasonable amount of the park is to set off on a scenic drive – there are over 300 miles of roads to explore that will lead you to a variety of view points and historic sites and through miles and miles of towering forests.

There are dozens of hiking and biking trails, several campgrounds and campsites, horseback riding trails, and excellent opportunities for year-round fishing and brilliant wildlife watching. Downloading the Smoky Mountains App for your phone is a great way to plan your visit.

Mingo Falls


Visit this stunning waterfall, perfect for a quick, easy trip surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Mingo Falls

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Located on the Cherokee Indian Reservation close to Great Smoky Mountain National Park, the Mingo Falls are over 120 feet tall, making them the tallest and one of the most impressive waterfalls in the southern Appalachian Mountains.

You can get to within half a mile of the falls by car along Big Cove Road, which leads to the Mingo Falls Campground.

From there you will need to set off on foot along the Pigeon Creek Trail, which will take you to the viewing platform at the base of the waterfalls.

Although the trail is less than a half a mile long, it is steep and there are 160 steps to climb; however, everyone agrees that seeing the falls are well worth the effort.

Mingo Falls, Eastern Cherokee Reservation, Cherokee, NC 28719

For History Buffs

Mountain Farm Museum


Walk along historic grounds and admire unique farm structures from the past.

Mountain Farm Museum

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Located adjacent to the Oconaluftee Visitor's Center in Great Smoky Mountain National Park, the Mountain Farm Museum contains an historical collection of log buildings, including a house, barn, smokehouse, and more.

Most of the structures were originally built in the 19th century and were brought to their present site from all over the national park.

As you stroll around the outdoor museum, which includes a working blacksmith shop, you can get a glimpse of everyday life as it was 100 years ago.

After touring the museum, you may like to get some exercise along two of the great hiking trails in the vicinity – the Oconaluftee Trail and the Mingus Trail.

The Museum of the Cherokee People


Discover the rich history of the Cherokee Nation through fascinating exhibits and displays.

The Museum of the Cherokee People

© The Museum of the Cherokee People

The Museum of the Cherokee People showcases over 13,000 years of the history of the Cherokee people using modern computer-generated animation and special effects to generate an entertaining and fascinating journey in the footsteps of the Cherokee tribe. To bring the history to life for younger visitors there are special pop-up books and graphic panels. The museum offers a series of workshops each year, where you can learn the traditional skills of pottery and basket making and informative lectures are regularly presented. The museum store stocks a wide range of books, clothing, and crafts, including an educational coloring book for children.

589 Tsali Boulevard, Cherokee NC 28719, Phone: 828-497-3481

Oconaluftee Indian Village


Explore a living history village to see authentic Native American traditions in action.

Oconaluftee Indian Village

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You can cast aside pre-conceived ideas about stuffy museums as you step inside the Oconaluftee Indian Village to learn about the lifestyle of the Cherokee during the 16th century. A Cherokee cultural expert will take you on a fascinating interactive experience to learn all about Cherokee history and culture as you make your way through this life-like village where you can admire Cherokee homes, working areas, and even some of their sacred sites. You will be able to watch traditional cultural dancing, canoe building, basket weaving, and many other crafts. One of the highlights of the visit is watching a re-enactment of the tribe preparing for war, which includes a blowgun demonstration.

Oconaluftee Indian Village, 218 Drama Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719, Phone: 828-497-2111

Recommended Activities for Families

Santa's Land Fun Park and Zoo


Enjoy a family-friendly weekend full of exciting attractions and animal encounters.

Santa's Land Fun Park and Zoo

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Located just 3 miles from the southern entrance to Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Santa's Land Fun Park and Zoo has been delighting generations of families since 1966. The park is seasonal, so you need to plan your visit for some time between mid May and the end of October. Children (and adults) can enjoy a ride in Santa's sleigh on the Rudicoaster, ride the miniature train, and get to meet Santa in his very own mountain hideaway. There is a petting zoo where you can see several exotic animals from around the world and the kids will love being a part of the magic show.

Santa's Land Fun Park and Zoo, 571 Wolfetown Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719, Phone: 828-497-9191

Smokemont Riding Stables


Go horseback riding through the Smoky Mountains for an unforgettable, scenic adventure.

Smokemont Riding Stables

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Equestrians will be happy to know that the Smokemont Riding Stables offer a variety of horseback trail rides within lovely Great Smoky Mountain National Park, just 5 minutes north of Cherokee. The stables have a selection of well-trained friendly horses to suit all levels of riding ability, and even beginners will be saddled up and riding in no time at all. Most of the trails lead you through beautiful scenery along the banks of the Oconaluftee River, and vary in duration from 2 to 4 hours. Children have to be over 5 years old to ride, but families with younger children can go on a relaxing wagon ride instead.

Smokemont Riding Stables, 135 Smokemont Riding Stable Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719, Phone: 828-497-2373

Smoky Mountain Gold and Ruby Mine


Pan for gold and rubies in this fun, affordable family activity.

Smoky Mountain Gold and Ruby Mine

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You can strike it rich as you follow in the footsteps of the pioneer gold miners at the Smoky Mountain Gold and Ruby Mine. Children can have hours of fun and excitement as they pan for gold or gemstones (and get wet and dirty for free).

Everything you need to find your very own gemstones is supplied, and you can even take your precious stones to be identified and polished on site. Imagine taking home a lasting reminder of your Cherokee vacation – you can have your very own gemstone set into a lovely item of jewelry to take home with you. The on-site shop sells a variety of jewelry, gemstones, and panning equipment.

971 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee, NC 28719, Phone: 828-497-6574, See the Map

For Couples and Singles

Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort


Try your luck at the casino and savor exciting nightlife in this resort setting.

Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort

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Nestled in a beautiful mountain setting in western North Carolina, Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort is a great base for exploring Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the Blue Ridge Parkway. The resort encompasses over 1,000 guest rooms spread over 21 floors and boasts an impressive selection of facilities to ensure a relaxing stay. Besides enjoying the popular tables and gaming machines in the casino, guests can treat themselves to a pampering session at the spa, have a work-out in the on-site gym, or simply relax beside the indoor or outdoor swimming pools. The resort hosts regular concerts by big-name musicians and there are two golf courses in close proximity.

Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort, 777 Casino Drive, Cherokee, NC 28719, Phone: 828-497-7777

Where to Eat in Cherokee, NC

  • Recommended for Families: Peter’s Pancakes & Waffles – A breakfast favorite with friendly service and riverside views.
  • For Local Flavor: Sassy Sunflowers Bakery & Cafe – Light fare, smoothies, and homemade desserts in a casual setting.
  • For Upscale Dining: Ruth’s Chris Steak House at Harrah’s – Elegant steakhouse dining in the casino resort.

If you are interested in local events:

  • For Cultural Heritage: Cherokee Indian Fair (October) – A traditional fair with music, crafts, food, and cultural exhibits.
  • For Summer Fun: Cherokee Powwow (July) – A colorful event with Native dancing, drumming, and authentic food.
  • For History & Drama: "Unto These Hills" (June–August) – A summer tradition honoring Cherokee stories and spirit.

Day Trip Itineraries Within 30–90 Minutes of Cherokee, NC:

  • For Scenic Views: Clingmans Dome (45 min) – Highest point in the Smokies with a half-mile hike to an observation tower.
  • For Arts & Crafts: Bryson City (20–25 min) – Explore local galleries, dine riverside, or ride the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.
  • For Waterfalls & Hikes: Deep Creek Trails (30 min) – Three waterfalls in a beautiful Smoky Mountain setting.
  • For Shopping & Dining: Waynesville, NC (60 min) – A charming mountain town with boutiques, bakeries, and breweries.
  • For Scenic Drives: Blue Ridge Parkway – Begin your adventure on one of the most iconic mountain routes in the U.S.

Frequently Asked Questions:

  • Where is Cherokee located?
    • The small town of Cherokee is located in the Oconaluftee River Valley in North Carolina, close to the southern entrance of Great Smoky Mountain National Park.
  • Where can I learn about the Cherokee tribe?
    • You can learn about the Cherokee tribe at The Museum of the Cherokee People and the Oconaluftee Indian Village.
  • What activities can visitors enjoy in Cherokee?

At a Glance:


Best Time to Visit Places to Stay Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, perfect for exploring nature. Stonebrook Lodge – A cozy and well-located hotel near attractions. Visit Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Enjoy scenic drives and hiking trails.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and vibrant, ideal for outdoor adventures and cultural events. Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort – A luxurious stay with entertainment and dining. Explore the Oconaluftee Indian Village – Experience Cherokee history and traditions.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and stunning fall foliage, perfect for scenic drives. Fairfield Inn & Suites Cherokee – A comfortable stay near the Blue Ridge Parkway. Drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway – See breathtaking autumn colors.
Winter (December-February) – Quiet and peaceful, great for cozy retreats and indoor activities. Baymont by Wyndham Cherokee Smoky Mountains – A budget-friendly stay near winter attractions. Visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indian – Learn about the history and culture of the Cherokee people.

Plan Your Trip