Skip to Content
Hotels in Cherokee, NC

Cherokee, North Carolina is the official gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains and the home of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians. The town is rich in cultural heritage, offering the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, the Oconaluftee Indian Village, and the Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual. Visitors can also experience the thrill of Harrahā€™s Cherokee Casino Resort, or take a peaceful drive on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat in the mountains, or an outdoor adventure, or a family vacation, Cherokee has something for everyone. With a variety of accommodations to choose from, Cherokee is the perfect place to stay and play in the Great Smoky Mountains.


The natural beauty of Cherokee is your playground. Hike the Great Smoky Mountains, fish in the clear streams, or just take in the scenery. You can also explore the Oconaluftee Indian Village, a living history museum that brings the 18th century Cherokee experience to life. And when youā€™re ready to relax, youā€™ll find a comfortable place to stay, whether youā€™re looking for a full-service resort or a cozy cabin. No matter what kind of trip youā€™re planning, Cherokee is the perfect place to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Explore Cherokee

Check out our travel tips before booking your hotel.

Cherokee beckons you to explore the verdant, lively landscapes that embrace the city. The Blue Ridge Mountains present awe-inspiring panoramas and extensive hiking routes, catering to nature lovers of every caliber. Be it a gentle stroll or a more demanding ascent, the nearby Smoky Mountains National Park is replete with trails, allowing you to inhale the crisp mountain air and revel in the tranquil allure of the woodlands. Opt for a distinctive adventure with a visit to the Oconaluftee River Trail, a picturesque track that meanders alongside the river, offering breathtaking vistas and the chance to glimpse indigenous wildlife.

Water enthusiasts will find an array of activities to indulge in. The Oconaluftee River is a prime location for fly fishing, its clear, cool waters home to an abundance of trout. Canoeing and kayaking are also popular ways to explore the river, and equipment can be rented from local outfitters. For a more laid-back experience, consider a scenic ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, which offers a variety of themed excursions through the regionā€™s picturesque landscapes. Whether youā€™re a thrill-seeker or simply in need of a tranquil getaway, the natural splendor of Cherokee is certain to invigorate your soul.

This page uses AI-generated content, which may contain inaccuracies. Please verify key details as needed.

The spirit of Cherokee is steeped in the legacy and customs of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, offering you a one-of-a-kind journey into the heart of Native American history and contemporary culture. Marriott Bonvoy's Cherokee hotels serve as your welcoming door to this vibrant tapestry, with convenient proximity to the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, where captivating exhibits and ancient artifacts weave the tale of the Cherokee people through the ages. After a day of discovery, relax in the comfort of your hotel, complete with complimentary Wi-Fi, fitness centers, and refreshing outdoor pools, all thoughtfully designed to elevate your experience.

Cherokee is also a vibrant hub for arts and crafts, with numerous galleries and studios showcasing the intricate work of local artisans. The Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual is a must-visit, featuring authentic Cherokee crafts such as basket weaving, pottery, and beadwork. For a more hands-on experience, participate in a cultural workshop or attend a performance at the Cherokee Heritage Center, where traditional dances and storytelling come to life, providing a rich and engaging glimpse into the cityā€™s living culture.

This page uses AI-generated content, which may contain inaccuracies. Please verify key details as needed.

Cherokee is a place of four seasons. Summer, from June to August, is warm and humid, with temperatures in the 70s and 80s. This is the best time for water activities and hiking. Fall, from September to November, is cool and dry, with temperatures in the 50s and 60s. The leaves in the mountains are beautiful, and it is a great time for scenic drives and hikes. Winter, from December to February, is cold, with snow and ice possible. Spring, from March to May, is cool and wet, with temperatures in the 50s and 60s. This is the best time for fishing and bird watching.

Winter, from December through February, brings cooler temperatures, typically in the 30s and 40s, with occasional light snow. While snow is not common, it can provide a beautiful and peaceful setting for those looking for a more tranquil Cherokee experience. Spring, from March to May, offers temperatures warming into the 60s and 70s, with the mountains coming alive with blooming wildflowers and greenery. Spring is a great time to explore the areaā€™s rich cultural heritage and outdoor activities, as the weather is mild and inviting.

This page uses AI-generated content, which may contain inaccuracies. Please verify key details as needed.

When you're planning your visit to Cherokee, you'll find a few different ways to get here. The closest major airport is in Asheville, about a 1.5-hour drive. Once you land, you can rent a car, take a taxi, or use a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft to get to your destination. If you're driving, you can take the Blue Ridge Parkway or US Highway 441, both of which are beautiful ways to get to Cherokee.

Once youā€™re in Cherokee, youā€™ll find itā€™s a breeze to get around. Many of the cityā€™s most popular attractions, like the Harrahā€™s Cherokee Casino Resort and the Oconaluftee Indian Village, are within walking distance of the city center. For longer trips or to explore the surrounding area, car rentals are available and highly recommended. And if youā€™re just looking to get across town, taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. Whether youā€™re on foot, behind the wheel, or in the backseat, Cherokee makes it easy to see and do everything the city has to offer.

This page uses AI-generated content, which may contain inaccuracies. Please verify key details as needed.

In Cherokee, the Great Smoky Mountains are a playground of adventure for families with kids of all ages. Start your journey at the Oconaluftee Indian Village, where your kids can step back in time and immerse themselves in the rich history and culture of the Cherokee people through interactive demonstrations and make-and-take crafts. The Museum of the Cherokee Indian offers a fun, hands-on experience with exhibits and stories that make learning about our history a pleasure, not a chore. And for the family that loves the great outdoors, Cherokee is the perfect place for a family-friendly hike.

Animal enthusiasts will be delighted with a visit to the Cherokee Bear Zoo, where a variety of bears and other wildlife reside, offering an educational experience in conservation and a chance to see these magnificent creatures up close. The Harrahā€™s Cherokee Casino Resortā€™s indoor water park, River Rock, is a family favorite, with slides, pools, and a lazy river for endless fun. After a day of excitement, you can enjoy a family meal at one of the many restaurants in town, where children can indulge in local flavors and parents can unwind in a welcoming, family-oriented setting. Cherokee is a destination that ensures cherished memories for the entire family.

This page uses AI-generated content, which may contain inaccuracies. Please verify key details as needed.