Cherokee, North Carolina Travel Guide

Located In the Oconaluftee River Valley in North Carolina, Cherokee is a place of great beauty best-known for the preservation of the Cherokee Culture, Heritage and History. It's also the headquarters of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation. The town is so rich in Cherokee culture that visitors can easily spot street signs written in both English and Cherokee. Previously known as yellow hill or Elawodi in Cherokee, the town has gradually become popular with tourists and has plenty of attractions to see and things to do.

Things to Do in Cherokee, North Carolina

There's so much to do when visiting Cherokee. With mountain climbing or biking, sightseeing, family attractions, hike trails, playing golf, kayaking, elk watching, Cherokee Indian art, shopping, outdoor activities, waterfalls, outdoor sports, and first-hand participation in Cherokee culture, there's never a dull moment here.

Surrounded by beautiful streams, mountains and valleys, the Cherokee town has so much to offer to nature-lovers. Explore the rich culture and heritage of age-old mountains in the Great Mountain national park, or go fishing for trout, biking and hiking at the Blue Ridge Parkway. Alternatively, the Mingo Falls boasts a picturesque view of a 200ft waterfall on the Qualla Boundary, while the Sequoyah National Golf Club has a 18-hole course and breathtaking views of the mountains.

For cultural, fun and educational things to do that deal with learning about the rich history and culture of Cherokee, visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indian and the Oconaluftee Indian Village, a recreated village from 1760. There's also the Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual Inc. displaying authentic Cherokee arts of beadwork, pottery, wood and stone carving, finger weaving, basketry, and so much more.

Don't forget the Mountainside Theater production either! Considered as one of the longest-running outdoor dramas in the U.S, visitors can watch performances in the open picturesque countryside -- one of the most popular things to do in Cherokee.

After a busy day of exploring, head to The Mandata Spa at Hurrah's Cherokee Casino Resort which offers ultimate relaxation and pampering.

Best Places to Stay in Cherokee, North Carolina

The town isn't too big, so most areas are great to stay and close to all the amenities you could need for a vacation. There's a wide selection of vacation rental homes and unique places in Cherokee, ranging from cabins, cottages, apartments, hotels, and home rentals. There's also a large number of pet-friendly accommodations in the area, so your furry pals can join in the fun with friends and family.

Best Time to Visit Cherokee, North Carolina

Visit around mid-June to mid-August when temperatures average 80 degrees, or from mid-September to late December when the festive period comes to life and the temperatures drop to add to the cozy atmosphere.

Food in Cherokee, North Carolina

Being a cultural and festive town there are a few food festivals you just can't miss in Cherokee. The Rainbow and Ramps is a popular one-day local food festival where the public are invited to enjoy the two most delicious things found in the mountain: rainbow trout and wild leeks. There's music, dancing, fresh trout, cornbread, and more at the festival.

The Cherokee Indian fair is another fun festival that comes with food, music, and dancing. There are additionally food contests where vendors compete for the title of best bean bread or best fry bread.

If you are looking for restaurants that serve traditional dishes visit Granny's Kitchen, Little Princess, Paul's restaurant, and Newfound lodge.