Travel Guide
Information
Things To Do
Elk Viewing
Be a little closer to nature at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center. At dawn and dusk (and very often in between) you will see herds of elk roaming the fields and roadway at the entrance to GSMNP. The visitor center is located 2.5 miles from us. If you are lucky you will get to see these beautiful animals in the river from your balcony.
"Unto These Hills" Outdoor Drama
Watch the true story of the Cherokee Nation unfold under twinkling stars at Cherokee’s outdoor Mountainside Theater. The triumph has been taking place here since July 1, 1950. We are located 0.5 miles from the ampitheater. The show runs Monday – Saturday at 8pm May through August. For tickets go to : visitcherokeenc.com
Fish Cherokee
30 miles of streams, arguably the longest stretch of managed private fishery in the eastern US, stocked to the gills with trout: rainbow, brook, golden, and brown. What are you waiting for? A Cherokee tribal permit is required, which can be obtained at any visitor center or on the visitcherokeenc.com website.
Museum of the Cherokee People
Established in 1948, the Museum of the Cherokee People has shared the vibrant culture and story of its nation. From exhibitions interpreting ancestral connection to the mountains, events showcasing the latest art, film, and music from trailblazing Cherokee creatives, there is always something new to learn. Hours are 9am-5pm excluding winter holidays. We are locate 0.5 miles from the museum.
Fire Mountain
The Fire Mountain Trails are Cherokee’s newest source for big adventure—a multiuse trail system that’s made to mountain bike, hike, or run. The network of trails is more than 10.5 miles total, so there’s plenty of room for everyone. We are located just .75 miles from the entracne of the Fire Mountain trail system.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
America’s most beloved park, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is known for its magnificent diversity of plant and animal life. Take advantage of the hiking, swimming, biking, and kayaking opportunities in the park. We are located just 2 miles from the entrance to the park.
Mingo Falls
Mingo Falls is one of the top rated destinations in the Smoky Mountains. Mingo Falls is approximately 120 feet tall and one of the tallest waterfalls in southern Appalachia. The waterfall majestically cascades down nearly 200 feet of rock face and boulders. The trail to see the falls is short, but intense. The hike is a ¼ mile and includes 161 steps. 3.5 miles from us, you’ll be at the base in no time.
Blue Ridge Parkway
The Blue Ridge Parkway and is one of the most visited attractions in the National Park Service and happens to be immediately accessible from Cherokee. So while you’re here, be sure to take a ride on this glorious route. Enjoy panaromic views and plenty of hiking trails. The entrance to the Blue Ridge Parkway is 0.6 miles from us.
Harrah's Cherokee
North Carolina’s first casino nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky MountainsThey offer live concert entertainment, restaurants, spas and casino. Harrah’s is located 1.5 miles from us.
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Restaurants
There are a variety of dining options in Cherokee, from fine dining to casual southern cuisine. Some are located within Harrah’s Cherokee and some are within walking distance from our property. We must give a special mention to Cherokee’s beloved breakfast restaurant, “Peter’s Pancakes and Waffles”. It is located .2 miles from us. Try to get there early for a table!
Shopping
Whether you are on the prowl for the perfect handcrafted basket to give to your mother for her birthday, or some practical suede moccasins for your nephew, there are plenty of shopping spots to quell your desires. For authentic arts and crafts handmade by local Cherokee artists, visit Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc. If something more casual strikes your fancy, downtown Cherokee is full of quaint shops for you to buy anything from T-shirts to tomahawks at reasonable prices.
Bars & Lounges
Western North Carolina is flooded with mircobreweries and trendy lounges. Cherokee hosts a few itself:
Native Brews Tap & Grill
Angry Elk Brewing
Wicked Weed
Myst Bar & Lounge
Shows & Entertainment
Cherokee Cinemas and More is a movie theater located 1.0 mile from us. Harrah’s Cherokee hosts infmaous comedians, musicians, and entertainers throughout the year at the MultiStar Entertainment Center. Tickets can be bought directly through their website. There are trout derbies, annual PowWows and much more to keep your party entertained.
Day Trips
We are nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, making us the perfect homebase for your day trips. This might include a trip to:
Fontana Dam – 29 miles from us
Tail of the Dragon – 34 miles from us
Sugarlands Visitor Center – 18 miles from us
Western Carolina University – 15 miles
Asheville, NC – 50 miles
Great Smoky Mountain Railroad – 9 miles from us
These are just very few of options of day trips to take from Cherokee. There are many more. Ask us when you arrive!