Start out by visiting the Cherokee Heritage Museum and Gallery, as well as the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, and the Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual to learn about the land that the city is located on. Next, discover nature that surrounds Cherokee hotels. The most popular area is the nearby Great Smoky Mountains National Park, where you can hike, cycle, and trek along the Appalachian Trail. Another option is to go trout fishing in the streams that run through the Qualla Boundary.
Other outdoors recreational areas include the Oconaluftee River Trail, the Cherokee Rapids, and Mingo Falls. Plus discover places like the Mountain Museum Farm, the Oconaluftee Indian Village, and Blue Ridge Parkway. For shopping, head to Saunooke Village, where you can also pick up some souvenirs to bring back home.
In the evening, play a few rounds at the Casino at Harrah’s Cherokee and get dinner downtown. During the warmer months, don’t miss the Unto These Hills outdoor theater performance.
