The town of Cherokee, North Carolina is unlike anything else that you have ever seen or experienced. It is one of only three Cherokee tribes that are recognized by the federal government, and it is situated in a location that is conveniently near the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is just 50 miles from Asheville.
It is also the home of the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation. Over 15,000 people of the Qualla tribe call the reservation, which is known as Qualla Boundary, home.
The reserve is little more than 56,000 acres. However, despite the fact that it is a protected reserve, the Cherokee people are exceedingly hospitable, and there is a wide variety of sights and activities for tourists to enjoy while they are here.
Gain an understanding of the Cherokee people's history.
The Museum of the Cherokee Indians is one of the greatest sites to learn about the Cherokee Indians in the city with the same name, despite the fact that there are many other venues to learn about the Cherokee Indians in this city.
Their goal is to "perpetuate the history, culture, and stories of the Cherokee people," and they achieve this goal through a series of exhibits that feature artifacts, artwork, photographs, video, animation, and life-size figures. Their mission statement reads as follows: "perpetuate the history, culture, and stories of the Cherokee people." The exhibit "Story of the Cherokees: 13,000 Years" was selected by USA Today as one of the Top Ten Best Native American Experiences, making it an absolute must-see while you're there.
You can also sign up for additional programs through the museum, such as classes in arts and crafts or a hike on the Cherokee Heritage Trail, during which members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee will tell you stories and legends as you travel along the trail. If you want to learn more, you can do so by signing up for these additional programs.
Bring Home a Work of Art That Has Been Handcrafted
When you travel to Cherokee, you just must pick up a memento of your trip to take home with you, and there is no better location to do it than at Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual, Inc.
In point of fact, it is the most extensive collection of genuine Cherokee arts and crafts found east of the Mississippi! They have a veritable treasure trove of wonderful things here, including hand-woven baskets, jewelry, hand-carved wooden masks, and hand-sculpted jars and ceramics.
This cooperative is the oldest and most successful Native American Arts Cooperative in the United States. Because no two products are precisely the same, this is an excellent place to look for one-of-a-kind souvenirs or presents.
Ride a Reindeer Roller Coaster
Santa's Land Fun Park and Zoo in Cherokee are one of those places that, no matter what time of year you go there, will transport you back to being a child. This amusement park is just three miles north of Cherokee, and it has a limitless number of activities that are suitable for both children and adults.
At the zoo, in addition to the many different types of animals, such as kangaroos, monkeys, and bears, there is also a magic show, game area, arcade, as well as attractions, such as a roller coaster that is guided by Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.
In addition, there are a number of gift stores, such as Frosty's Shirt Shop, as well as a vast selection of mouthwatering foods and sweets, such as funnel cakes, snow cones, and handmade fudge. But don't forget about the most essential part of it all: a visit with Santa, during which your children (or you!) will earn their "good behavior credential."
Take a hike up to the Mingo Falls.
Mingo Falls is a wonderful hidden gem that is nestled away in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It is located around 10-15 minutes west of Cherokee in the Great Smoky Mountains.
These alluring waterfalls have a height of around 60 meters (about 200 feet), which makes them an incredible background for photographs.
Even though there is a parking lot close by and the walk to the waterfalls is quite short, the journey up may be rather dangerous due to the fact that there are around 150 stairs to climb in order to reach the summit. But the effort is more than justified by the scenery!
Experience the Thrill of a Captivating Outdoor Drama
Unto These Hills, an outdoor play, is another one of the most well-known and highly recommended things to do while in Cherokee. Over six million people have visited the museum since it first opened its doors in 1950.
It chronicles the history of the Cherokee people, beginning in 1780 and continuing into the 21st century. Every night from June to August, with the exception of Sundays, the play is put on at the Mountainside Theatre, which has just undergone renovations and is presented outside beneath the stars.
Be prepared to wrap yourself in a warm blanket, find a comfortable seat, and get ready to be wowed by a play that will teach you about the bravery and beauty of the Cherokee people while simultaneously captivating you with its dramatic events and stunning visuals.
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