Location: Cherokee
Top Things to do in Cherokee
Top 10 Things to do Good for Big Groups in Cherokee, North Carolina (NC)
Located at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cherokee is the headquarters for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Signs around town are in English and Cherokee, and the city itself is anchored by the Harrah's Cherokee Casino. The tourist-oriented area is rich in outdoor activities for the entire family. The tribe runs a botanical garden, cultural museum, Indian village recreation, historical dramas, and an arts and crafts center.
Restaurants in Cherokee
1. Smokemont Riding Stables
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 411 reviews
Smokemont Riding Stables is located within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park just off US 441, 6 miles north of Cherokee, North Carolina. We offer guided horseback riding trips from one hour to 4 hours long. Each ride is unique and may feature river crossing or waterfall views. We also have a horse drawn wagon ride that goes along the Oconaluftee River on the historic turnpike road.
Reviewed By Phoinix15 - Tampa, United States
What a great hour ride we took here. Our leader on the ride BRETT? was so great. Telling us about the area, different trees, plants and took his time with the ride. We went through the creek, under a overpass and thru the tunnel, up and down the hills. The horses were great. I definitely would go again and definitely do the longer ride. The dat was beautiful!!!
2. Museum of the Cherokee Indian
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,484 reviews
This site tells the history and culture of the Cherokee Indians through displays and modern computer images.
Reviewed By 79shirleyj - Boones Mill, United States
You'll need an hour or two to do this fine museum justice.It is a very well done and accurate telling of the history of Cherokee people.. You have headphones and can take as much time as you like touring.The exibits and artwork are very well done.History lovers will thoroughly enjoy it.I think the $11 fee for seniors is fair and well worth it.The gift shop is large and has a really wide selection of books as well as other items.
3. Mingo Falls
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,144 reviews
Reviewed By CastleBe0wulf - The Villages, United States
This was my first time visiting. I knew from doing my research that there would be quite a very steep staircase up the side of the mountain. Woof those 160 steps are pretty rough. They're not impossible even if you're not in the best shape. The staircase is wide and has rails on both sides. And once you reach the top of the stairs it's a level short walk to the waterfall. the waterfall is actually quite high and has a long fall, luckily we were there after a rainstorm so the water was coming off of the mountain quite heavily. there's a small wooden bridge close to the base of the waterfall where you can set up a tripod and take an amazing photo of the water. Mingo falls is what I would clarify as off the beaten path there is only one sign that tells you when to turn into the parking lot other than that if you don't do your research you'll have no idea how to get there. Overall is the drive and the staircase worth it, I say YES.
4. Oconaluftee Indian Village
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 905 reviews
A guided tour of the Oconaluftee Indian Village; a replica of a 1750s Cherokee Village. See Cherokees making traditional trades using centuries old techniques. The Village Square Grounds is a place of ceremony where you will learn about traditional songs and dance, our clan system and beliefs. Inside the Village Council House you will learn of our government, family and structure. We welcome you to our home.
Reviewed By Tyaskin - Mebane, United States
While it is well promoted, the village is easy to miss, as it is tucked away up a hill, removed from the bustle of the main drag through Cherokee. If you are interested in actual, bona fide Cherokee traditions and history (as opposed to the sometimes hokey tourist junk peddled in some stores in town. Now, I will tell you, your guide can make or break this tour. My daughter (15) and I were fortunate to have a young man who seemed both knowledgeable and enthusiastic about what he was doing. Your guide, dressed in traditional Cherokee clothing from the late 1700's (generally) will walk with you through the reconstructed village, explaining to you about the Cherokee language and history, and giving you some brief glimpses of how this group of Native people lived prior to and shortly after the coming of the settlers. Woodworking, beadwork, fingerweaving, canoe making, cabins, governance, and religion are all covered, and at various points you will see members of the Nation demonstrating various crafts, such as pottery or basket making. We also were shown the use of the Cherokee blowgun, used for small game hunting. It is informative, and you are encouraged to ask questions (but don't expect your guide to be an expert on EVERY aspect of Cherokee culture and history; many of them are young and still learning) There is a gift shop, which we didn't visit, and a Plant trail showing various plants used for different things by the Cherokee. The path through the village is generally easy to travel, even in a stroller, but there are some gentle grades that may require an extra minute for the elders in your party. I would think that wheelchairs could handle it with some assistance. So when you pass through the area, add this to your list of things to visit, but call ahead to make sure they are open, as they close for a while during the winter months. And, as always, Happy Motoring.
5. Mountain Farm Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 495 reviews
Reviewed By JackL448 - East Syracuse, United States
The complex is composed of eleven original wooden farm buildings that came from North & South Carolina & Tennessee. Structures in order viewed-Davis House, Meat House, Hen House, Apple House, Sorhum Mill & Furnace, Corn Crib, Storage House, Main Farm Barn, Hog Pen, Blacksmith Shop & Spring House. Each building has detailed interpreter stands with large & small photos & what the building would be used for. Life was very hard with very few comfortable days to enjoy during this time period. A sign on the rear of the main farm building says-Any person caught defacing/craving their name in any building in North Carolina's historic structures will be arrested & issued a ticket costing $100.00 to $500.00. RESPECT THE PAST. The museum is located on the grounds of the Oconaluftee Visitor Center of Cherokee, N.C. The center has much information on the museum. A tour probably will last at most 45 minutes depending on how much time is spend on each building-reading each interpreter stand, checking the structure-inside & out-and visiting all structures. A gravel pathway connects one building to the next site. Any person with an interest in farm structures of the 1800's into the early 1900's, the museum will not be disappointed. Probably the main farm building has the most farm equipment- horse drawn field plows, slags, wagons & the hay loft. A visit is highly recommended. There is no admission.
6. Oconaluftee Islands Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 438 reviews
Reviewed By gabriellethornhill - Berea, United States
Great for families, friends, and anyone who is looking for a nice walk along the Oconaluftee River. The water is constantly flowing, and very clear to ensure a safe area for people to put their feet in or to even swim, tube, or fish within. They have plenty of picnic tables, and bridges to add some scenic value, and they also even have a river cane forest located within the park. This park is located in the middle of the town and is the only place I’ve ever been where I have witnessed families congregate daily at the river to enjoy the fresh mountain air.
7. Unto These Hills
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 726 reviews
2021 You can feel a slight chill run up your spine; but not from the mountain winds shifting their direction in anticipation of the coming dusk. It is from your anticipation of the coming drama. Unto These Hills drama is the tragic and triumphant story of the Cherokee that traces back to the years before the heartbreak of the Trail of Tears to the present day. Millions of people have witnessed America’s most powerful drama, which rewrites the Cherokee’s place in the world. A place based on traditional Cherokee values and modern sensibilities.
Reviewed By cromrulzme1 - Gatlinburg, United States
EXCELLENT outdoor drama that tells the true story of the trail of tears,some of the actors are decendents of the ones removed.Very moving story,come prepared cause show will go on rain or shine.
8. Smoky Mountain Tube & Raft
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 72 reviews
Cherokee's and western North Carolina's number one tube and raft trip with over 200 tubes in stock, which means no waiting! We have tube and raft trips designed for everyone of every age. A great experience to see the Smokies from a unique point of view. Always cool and refreshing during the summer heat, a relaxing float down the Oconoluftee River is a welcome departure from the crowds of the reservations busy summer months. A Cherokee favorite for over 20 years! AGES 5 AND UP.
9. Cherokee Rapids Tube & Kayak Rentals
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 77 reviews
Welcome To Cherokee Rapids. We are the biggest, best and friendliest tubing and kayaking outfitter in Cherokee, North Carolina — home to the Oconaluftee River, which is widely known as one of the cleanest, clearest and most beautiful rivers in the SE United States. Our Little Princess location is the only one with direct access to the Oconaluftee River. Cherokee Rapids... more rapids, more fun, longer trips, better scenery, BEST value!
10. Casino at Harrah’s Cherokee
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 3,944 reviews
A popular all-video gambling center.
Reviewed By 408cathyk
Harrah's Cherokee Casino provided fun, excitement, enjoyment and comfort during our stay. Many slot machines to choose from and attentive staff to make you feel welcomed. A great way to spend some time away from the ordinary.
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