Weekend Destinations: Top Things to Do in Cherokee, North Carolina

Explore Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an absolute must-visit. Covering a staggering 800 square miles of unspoiled wilderness, it’s one of the most-visited national parks in America. You can hike through trails of varying difficulty levels, camp under a star-filled sky, and capture breathtaking photos. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in this natural wonderland.

While there is no entrance fee, you’ll need to purchase a daily parking pass at the visitor’s center, unless you have the National Parks annual parking pass.

Hike to Mingo Falls

Prepare to be awestruck at your first sight of the majestic Mingo Falls. At 120-feet tall, the cascading waterfall is one of the tallest and most spectacular in the southern Appalachians. The hike to the waterfall is less than half a mile, but is considered to be moderate in difficulty.

Mingo Falls is just outside Great Smoky Mountains National Park, and is just a short drive from the town of Cherokee.

Mingo Falls, image by Deposit Photos

Visit the Museum of the Cherokee Indian

Delve into the rich heritage of the Cherokee people at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian. Interactive exhibits, artifacts, and storytelling sessions provide insights into 11,000 years of Cherokee history, culture, and traditions. Learn about the Trail of Tears, traditional crafts, and the resilience of this remarkable community. Explore exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that narrate the tribe’s past.

Step Back in Time at Oconaluftee Indian Village

Experience life as it was centuries ago at the Oconaluftee Indian Village. This living history museum transports you to an authentic 18th-century Cherokee village. Interact with costumed interpreters, witness traditional crafts, and gain a deeper understanding of Cherokee life and customs.

Admission is $25 for adults and $15 for children. There is a concession stand, picnic area, and gift shop on the premises.

Try your skill at gambling

You might be surprised to find out that North Carolina sports betting is now legal. The new legislation allows up to 12 new online sports betting operators to start up in the state, beginning in March of 2024.

And if you’re feeling really lucky, head to Harrah’s Cherokee Casino for gaming, entertainment, and dining. The resort offers slots, table games, and live performances.

Shop at the Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual

Support local artists and shop for unique handmade crafts at the Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual. From intricately woven baskets to vibrant pottery, you’ll find treasures that reflect Cherokee artistry, made with techniques that have been passed down for generations. Creating art from materials found in nature is part of Cherokee heritage.

Go river tubing

For a little adventure, float down the Oconaluftee River in a tube! Cherokee Rapids is a local tubing outfitter with a great reputation. For just $14, you’ll get tube rental, a bus ride to your starting point up river, and a life jacket. This is a great family activity!

Drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway

If hiking is not your thing, take a scenic drive along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway and stop at overlooks for breathtaking vistas. The southern end of the Parkway starts at Cherokee and the Parkways continues into Virginia. There’s a self-guided audio tour of the Blue Ridge Parkway that you can download and listen to along the way. Don’t forget a picnic lunch!

Relax and Rejuvenate

Rent a cabin or cottage in Cherokee to truly get away from it all. Relax on the porch as you take in the scenery, sip your morning coffee, bird watch in the afternoon, and enjoy a glass of wine of wine at night.

You could also treat yourself to a relaxing spa treatment. Cherokee offers serene spas where you can unwind with massages, facials, and soothing therapies.

Remember, Cherokee is more than a destination—it’s an experience that connects you to nature, history, and the vibrant Cherokee community. So pack your sense of adventure and explore this gem in the heart of North Carolina!