Cherokee Historical Association

Experience the breathtaking surroundings and long-range views of Sequoyah National Golf Club. Here, our exquisitely beautiful mountain course mixes with ancient Cherokee culture and the most modern golfing experience you can have. For instance, our new Visage GPS tracks your score, provides precise yardage, and lets you order from the golf shop or grill.

While in Cherokee, don’t miss your chance to experience one of the finest casinos in the Southeast. Harrah’s features over 21 stories of four-star luxury hotel rooms along with fine dining, the relaxing Mandara Spa, and all of the gaming you can possibly enjoy in the Smokies. Guests also enjoy a full schedule of world-class entertainment in the 3,000-seat event center.

It’s difficult to find authentic, handcrafted art in today’s world. Luckily, it has been a Cherokee tradition for centuries. Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc. is the oldest Native American cooperative in the country, with over 350 juried artisans creating traditional Cherokee masks, pottery, baskets, jewelry, and much more. Qualla gives you the chance to hold history in your hands, and even take it home.

Take a seat beneath the stars and prepare yourself for a Cherokee story. Filled with action, betrayal, love, and suspense, “Unto These Hills” portrays the most authentic reproduction of the Cherokee story ever told, set each evening within the 2,100-seat Cherokee Mountainside Theatre. Feast on the pageantry. Revel in the thrills. Rejoice in the triumph.

Travel back to the 18th century in the Oconaluftee Indian Village and witness the struggle between the Cherokee and early European settlers in “A Time of War” live demonstrations. Participate in crafting, explore replicas of Cherokee homes, and meet the native people. This immersive village experience will surround you with native culture and shed light on all aspects of Cherokee history.

The Museum of the Cherokee Indian, named “One of the top ten native sites east of the Mississippi” by Cowboys & Indians Magazine, is open year round and gives families a unique, fun way to experience the history of the Cherokee people and their beautiful stories. Immerse yourself further by making special reservations for the museum’s “Cherokee Experience.”

Bask in the earthly pleasures of Mandara Spa.

Inspired by elements of native culture and Balinese-influenced treatments, Mandara Spa brings casino guests the highest quality of therapeutic luxury. The Mandara brand emphasizes beauty, rejuvenation, and exotic indulgence, aiming to enhance each guest’s resort experience by providing luscious opportunities for pampering.

Cherokee is situated just outside the gateway to the legendary Great Smoky Mountains National Park, one of the most beautiful, biodiverse parks in the Southeast. World-class hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and horseback riding are available in this wooded paradise at Cherokee’s doorstep.

A perfect stop for families, Oconaluftee Islands Park is an island oasis among the waters of the rushing Oconaluftee River. Wade in the refreshing waters along the riverbank. Enjoy a quiet picnic. Or walk around the nature trails before exploring the rest of our Cherokee attractions.

Dressed in their finest 17th-century regalia, Cherokee storytellers lure you into the vivid recounting of myths, legends, and history inherent to Cherokee culture, all while you are being dazzled by the glow of a roaring bonfire. Let the crackle of the flames and the pop of the wood provide a natural soundtrack for a night of dancing, legend, and, of course, roasting marshmallows.

The Bonfire stories crackles from 5:00–7:00 p.m. on the following dates at Oconaluftee Islands Park, on Tsali Blvd.:

Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, May 22–October 12, 2019.

Expanded schedule for the 4th of July celebrations from July 1–7, 2019.

There will be no Cherokee Bonfire events in September.​

For more information call the Cherokee Welcome Center at 800.438.1601.