Location: Cherokee
Top Things to do in Cherokee
Top 5 Hidden Gems Things to do 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. 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.
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. Bearmeats Indian Den
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 114 reviews
Reviewed By 917beare - Atlantic Beach, United States
In this time of made in China junk and typical tourist trap junk, it was a pleasure to enter this charming establishment. David Smith is the owner of Bearmeat's Indian Den. The Arts & Crafts are truly authentic and genuine. They take the time to explain what it is you are getting. The quality is top shelf. The entire staff is extremely friendly and knowledgable. Their mountain apples and cabbage are awesome.We will be returning in the near future.
5. Santa's Land
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 330 reviews
Reviewed By CarolynC790
Let's be honest. This is no Disney World or Universal! However, for what and where it is, it is perfect! This is a small, slow-paced carnival/zoo park. I found it to be very clean and quaint. There is plenty of shade, and many places to sit. In addition, the staff was quite friendly, and even offered advice on the most shaded benches to sit on, and where to find air conditioning! We had a five-year-old with us. The simple rides were perfect for him! Even the roller coaster was cute, with just enough excitement to keep elementary-aged kids entertained without being scared. We had lunch while in the park and found the food to be good. In fact, my husband was thrilled that his hamburger was made to order, just the way he likes it! We were privileged to get to see the first ever set of grizzly bear cubs Santa's Land has kept; however, they will only be there until November 30th, so act fast if you want to see them.
