Searching for issues to do in Cherokee throughout your subsequent go to? We might help with that!
Situated near the Tennessee border, Cherokee North Carolina is house to unimaginable nature, wealthy indigenous historical past, and pleasant individuals. Consequently, there are tons of issues to do in Cherokee, NC for nature and historical past lovers.
Discover the Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park by way of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Or, hit up Santa’s Land for a style of Christmas all 12 months spherical. Cherokee could also be within the South, however culturally you’ll be transported to an entire completely different world. The vibe of Cherokee is small city meets mountain oasis meets native tradition simply ready to be found.
With so many aspects to its distinctive persona, what precisely are the very best Cherokee, NC, actions? We advocate getting a superb mixture of the whole lot, which is why we’ve put collectively an inventory for you.
Issues to Do in Cherokee, North Carolina
Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park
The Nice Smokey Mountains are one of many essential causes that most individuals go to Cherokee, North Carolina. The gorgeous Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park spans over 800 sq. miles of land right here, so there’s loads to discover.
It’s additionally the most-visited nationwide park within the nation. With 300 miles of roads, driving might be the quickest method to uncover all of the park has to supply.
You’ll be able to take a look at GetYourGuide’s Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park Self Driving Journey when you’re undecided the place to start out.
There are additionally loads of mountaineering and biking trails you should utilize to discover by yourself two toes. The preferred mountaineering trails are the Oconaluftee River Path, the Mingus Creek Path, and the Smokemont Nature Path.
It’s also possible to go to historic websites inside the park, such because the Mingus Mill and the Cataloochee Valley. If you’re executed with the journey actions, there are additionally loads of good spots for tenting and picnicking.
Take a look at our article on waterfall hikes in Gatlinburg for some superb mountaineering strategies!
Museum of the Cherokee Indian
That is in all probability one of the vital vital actions you must do throughout your go to to Cherokee, North Carolina. This award-winning museum is house to artifacts preserving over 13,000 years of native historical past.
You’ll be capable of sift by way of dozens of images, animations, movies, music, arts and crafts, and extra. There’s additionally an interactive exhibit particularly designed for youths, so the entire household will take pleasure in this studying expertise. Dive into all there may be to know concerning the story of the Cherokee Indians. Simply remember to deliver some tissues, because the story is an extremely emotional one.
Oconaluftee Indian Village
The Oconaluftee Indian Village will transport you again to the late 1700s as quickly as you step foot inside. The village is ready in 1760 and is supposed to show the struggles and life-style of the Cherokee group.
You’ll expertise conventional Cherokee handicrafts, rituals, dances, and dwellings. You’ll be able to watch the natives at work sculpting pottery, weaving baskets, creating beads, and making ready for battle. This is among the most fascinating and academic issues to do in Cherokee, North Carolina.
Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual
That is the oldest Native American cooperative within the nation, so that you shouldn’t miss it. Residence to acclaimed Native American paintings created with strategies courting again nearly 10,000 years, it’s price a go to.
You’ll flick thru beadwork, pottery, woven items, instruments, dolls, and extra. You’ll additionally expertise conventional singing, dancing, and storytelling practices. Selling the work of greater than 350 artisans, that is the very best place to get genuine, one-of-a-kind Native American merchandise.
The Cherokee Bonfire
Would you want to assemble round a crackling bonfire and listen to tales from the daybreak of time? As day offers method to nightfall over the land Cherokee story and historical past tellers don native garb and share tales handed down by way of the generations.
Situated alongside the banks of the Oconaluftee River these bonfire occasions will memorize youngsters and adults each. Better of all, this sequence of occasions is completely free for any and all guests. In case you are visiting Cherokee in the summertime this positively an exercise you don’t wish to miss!
Tube or Kayak the Cherokee Rapids
Head down the Oconaluftee River in a tube or a kayak throughout your go to to Cherokee, North Carolina. That is house to about two miles of rapids, locations to swim, and delightful surroundings.
The rapids are grades I and II, so it’s not terribly tough however will present that adrenaline kick you’re craving. You’ll be able to select both a tube or a kayak on your float down this two-mile stretch of river. When you’re executed, end your time off with a little bit of swimming and go to one of many many eating places close by.
Mingo Falls
Mingo Falls is the tallest waterfall within the southern Appalachians, and due to this fact one of the vital fashionable. Dropping greater than 120 toes from the Blue Ridge Mountain Vary, the falls are the topic of many legends. It’s simple to see why – it’s not laborious to have a non secular expertise whereas gazing at this marvel of nature.
To get to Mingo Falls, begin on the Mingo Falls Campground and take the Pigeon Creek path. The path ends on the waterfall’s viewing platform. As a bonus, this can be a free exercise and is the right picture spot!
Fireplace Mountain Trails
These trails are positioned inside the Oconaluftee Indian Village and stretch for about 10.5 miles. This community of trails is ideal for mountaineering or biking, with views of the Smoky Mountains all through all the journey.
Alongside the way in which, be able to encounter native wildlife, rock gardens, waterfalls, and serene forest clearings. Utterly free and in addition dog-friendly, that is the right exercise for nature fanatics trying to get their coronary heart price up.
Soco Falls
Soco Falls is one other secluded waterfall surrounded by lush foliage. This double waterfall stands 120 toes tall. There’s additionally an commentary platform close by when you want to get a greater view on your picture op.
And to make it even higher, the Soco Hole was used as an entrance to native settlements throughout the 1700s. So not solely is that this waterfall beautiful to take a look at, however this can be a key historic location for Cherokee Indians.
Mountain Farm Museum
This is among the finest cultural issues to do in Cherokee, NC. The Mountain Farm Museum is house to a formidable assortment of historic log buildings dappling the Smoky Mountain panorama.
These Nineteenth-century buildings embrace a spring home, a barn, an apple home, and an lively blacksmith store. The farm additionally shows gardening and agricultural strategies from 100 years in the past. You’ll be able to stroll by way of and discover all the space, or you’ll be able to select to take the 30-minute self-guided strolling tour.
Smoky Mountain Gold & Ruby Mine
The Smoky Mountain Gold & Ruby Mine is among the most original experiences in Cherokee, NC. Situated on the Oconaluftee River, this place will educate you precisely how the pioneers of the 1800s mined.
You’ll pan for gold, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, and different treasured gems at Cherokee’s oldest gem mine. And as a bonus, the entire expertise is without cost. On the finish of your time right here, you’ll be able to select which gems you wish to buy. Don’t overlook to have them recognized and polished by professionals earlier than you are taking them house.
Mountainside Theatre
This occasion has been in operation since 1949 when Cherokee natives began performing Unto These Hills. That is the third oldest American historic drama and paperwork Cherokee historical past.
From its starting till the mid-1800s after they had been relocated by way of the Path of Tears, you’ll study the entire story. The Mountainside Theatre has about 2800 seats and the present takes place nightly from June to August. Even within the low season, although, the Mountainside Theatre is house to conventional dance performances, music, and different cultural occasions.
Harrah’s Cherokee On line casino Resort
Nestled deep within the Smoky Mountains, that is one of many space’s high resorts and casinos. With 1000 rooms spanning 21 flooring, it’s among the finest locations to remain when you’re on the lookout for top-notch amenities.
The on line casino itself is the principle attraction, with tons of video games and alternatives to strive your luck. But it surely’s greater than only a on line casino. The resort additionally options outlets and eating places, stay music, karaoke, just a few swimming swimming pools, and a spa. There’s additionally a program of occasions so that you’ll should verify the calendar on your journey dates.
Sequoyah Nationwide Golf Membership
Solely seven minutes by automotive from Cherokee’s downtown space, this lovely golf course is nestled deep within the Smoky Mountains. This 18-hole course is characterised by unimaginable vistas and panoramic views from nearly each gap.
That is the right method to calm down, have enjoyable with household, and check out your hand at golf throughout your journey. There’s additionally a restaurant onsite providing nonalcoholic and grownup drinks if you wish to cool your heels after your sport.
The place to Keep in Cherokee, NC
There are many choices for the place to remain in Cherokee, together with each luxurious inns and comfy mountain lodges. Listed below are just a few choices we advocate:
- Stonebrook Lodge: For those who’re on the lookout for quick access to the on line casino with out paying resort costs, that is your spot. Situated proper throughout the road from Harrah’s Cherokee On line casino Resort, this extremely rated lodge is cozy and inexpensive.
- Rivers Edge Motel: This lodge is conveniently positioned close to the Nice Smoky Mountains Nationwide Park. As a bonus, all rooms embrace a panoramic view of the Oconaluftee River.
- Bay Mountain Inn Cherokee Smoky Mountains: This lodge is positioned near the Museum of the Cherokee Indian. All the opposite main sights within the space are only a quick drive away.
There you have got it of us! Among the finest Cherokee actions to take a look at throughout your journey.
Residence to wealthy cultural historical past, improbable nature and wildlife, and lots of outside journey actions, this vacation spot is a deal with. Get began with these actions and discover the whole lot Cherokee, NC has to supply.
As all the time, comfortable travels and we hope to see you all on the highway!
