Whether you’re planning a quick weekend getaway or simply passing through on your latest road trip, our 48-hour essential guide will help you make the most of every moment in Cherokee, NC. Located in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Cherokee offers a rich blend of outdoor adventure, cultural heritage, and family-friendly fun. From scenic hikes and river tubing to immersive cultural experiences and local dining, this vibrant mountain town promises unforgettable memories in just two days.
Where to Stay
First things first – you’ll need a place to stay. And once you stay in Cherokee, a part of you never leaves. Whether you’re searching for a rustic outdoor experience or a more up-scale stay complete with spa treatments, Cherokee offers it all.
Cabins & Cottages
There’s nothing more relaxing than waking up to the sound of babbling brooks and wildlife. Cherokee, NC offers a number of cabins and cottages that offer a cozy and rustic alternative to traditional lodging.
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Prefer a night under the stars? Cherokee offers a number of safe and comfortable campgrounds and RV parks, perfect for really connecting to nature on a deeper level.
Hotels & Motels
There’s nothing more relaxing than waking up to the sound of babbling brooks and wildlife. Cherokee, NC offers a number of cabins and cottages that offer a cozy and rustic alternative to traditional lodging.
For a more elevated escape, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort and Spa offers an opportunity for luxurious relaxation with a serene backdrop.
What to Do
Now that you’ve got a place to rest your head at night, here are some of the essential things you must do in your 48 hours in Cherokee.
Outdoor Adventure for All Ages
Cherokee, NC is known for its outdoor allure, so we’d be remiss not to start this essentials guide with things to do in the great outdoors. From serene strolls to adrenaline-fueled adventures, Cherokee offers something for every adventurer.
Explore over 800 miles of trails in the Great Smoky Mountains, where sacred Cherokee sites and “living garden” landscapes await – including gorgeous waterfalls, let the river take you away with a tubing adventure on the Oconaluftee River or hop on a mountain bike and conquer Fire Mountain Trails’ 10.5-mile network of flowy single track, or take a road/gravel ride along the Blue Ridge Parkway just minutes from downtown.
Find One-of-a-Kind Treasures
The art and culture of Cherokee, NC is anything but artificial. The Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual, Inc. – which is part shopping experience, part gallery – is dedicated to the preservation of Cherokee’s craftsmanship and skill and is an absolute must for any visitors.
Immerse Yourself in Culture
Perhaps the greatest thing you can do when you visit a new place, is immerse yourself in the local history and culture and nowhere offers more than Cherokee, NC.
The Museum of the Cherokee People is a great starting point for those interested in diving into the Cherokee people. Oconaluftee Indian Village is a living cultural experience that allows visits to step back into time and immerse themselves deeply in our culture. And, Unto These Hills is an outdoor drama with heart-wrenching action and soaring triumph as it tells the story of The Trail of Tears.
Fuel Up (Your Belly!)
One of the best parts of any trip is the food. And in Cherokee, dining becomes an experience all its own, where local flavors, warm hospitality, and unforgettable meals come together to create something truly special.
Two Days, One Heartfelt Adventure in Cherokee
As your 48 hours in Cherokee, NC comes to an end, don’t be surprised if you find yourself already planning your return trip. With breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural traditions, and warm, welcoming community, Cherokee is more than just a stop along the way—it’s a destination that leaves a lasting impression.
