Cherokee is a hub of Native American heritage situated at the entrance of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This area is famous for its Cherokee history, natural wonders and the prominent Harrah’s casino.
Things to do in Cherokee
Visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indian to browse the exhibits presented by the Story of the Cherokee to see archaic tools, weighted nets and stone pipes. Afterwards, tour the Emissaries of Peace exhibit to hear the story of Henry Timberlake’s visit to the Cherokees in 1762.
For deeper insight into the area’s history, head to the Oconaluftee Indian Village to learn how the Native Americans lived. Tour the Village Square Grounds to experience traditional songs and dance and stop by the Village Council House to explore 1750s government and family structure.
Get out in nature with a trip to Mingo Falls, located just outside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Walk less than half a kilometre up more than 160 stairs to a viewing platform at the base of the falls to enjoy the views of the 60-metre-tall waterfall cascading onto granite boulders at your feet.
Test your luck at Harrah’s casino, the primary entertainment destination in town. Try your hand at the slots machines or play a few rounds of Texas Hold’em with a drink in hand. When you’ve worked up an appetite, dine on sizzling steaks at Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse.
Getting around Cherokee
The only way to get around Cherokee is by car or on foot. Cherokee is a little more than an hour’s drive from Asheville and is a two-hour drive from Knoxville.