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Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual
Founded in 1946, Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual preserves Cherokee traditions through handmade works by enrolled members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. Inside, you’ll find baskets, carvings and jewelry crafted using techniques passed down for generations — each piece offering a deeper connection to Cherokee culture, artistry and story.
Museum of the Cherokee People
Preserving the past is only the start at the Museum of the Cherokee People. This Appalachian institution, operating for nearly 80 years, advances the living culture and identity of the Cherokee with rotating exhibits, live talks and hands-on workshops.
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
Set against the backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort makes a seamless home base for your itinerary. Between cultural stops, return to spacious accommodations, standout dining and live entertainment — all just minutes from Cherokee’s key experiences, making it easy to explore by day and unwind at your own pace.
Oconaluftee Indian Village
Nearby Oconaluftee Indian Village continues the Cherokee story. You can witness live craft demonstrations, traditional dances and historical buildings throughout this re-created 18th-century Cherokee community in NC's Great Smoky Mountains.
Native Brews Tap & Grill
Native Brews Tap & Grill brings Cherokee heritage to the table through craft beverages and a menu rooted in comfort and creativity. This women-owned spot pairs house-made brews with dishes like meatloaf and stacked burgers.
Oconaluftee Islands Park
Oconaluftee Islands Park offers an easy, scenic break along the Oconaluftee River, just minutes from downtown Cherokee. With picnic areas, open green space and access to the water, it’s ideal to stretch your legs, cool off or slow the pace between cultural stops.
Mountainside Theatre
Watch the first stars of the night twinkle overhead while seated in Cherokee’s beloved Mountainside Theatre. The timeless “Unto These Hills” live drama debuted in 1950 and continues to share the story of the Cherokee people before and after the Trail of Tears. Catch the show late May through late August.
Granny’s Kitchen
Granny’s Kitchen has been a local favorite since 1984, serving up hearty, homestyle meals in a family-run setting. The cafeteria-style buffet, including a 25-item salad bar, features classic comfort dishes alongside traditional Native-inspired options.
Mingus Mill
Mingus Mill offers a look at late-19th-century ingenuity just north of the Oconaluftee Visitor Center. Built in 1886, this historic gristmill still stands at its original site, powered by a water-driven turbine. While interior access is limited, you can explore the grounds and nearby trails for a closer connection to the region’s landscape and history.