Situated in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains, Cherokee, North Carolina is a hidden gem brimming with family-friendly adventures and fun for all ages. Whether you’re exploring the rich heritage of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, tubing down the crystal-clear Oconaluftee River, or enjoying a scenic hike through lush forests, Cherokee offers something for every member of the family. No matter what kind of experience you’re searching for, Cherokee is a perfect destination for an unforgettable family getaway.
Unforgettable Fun for All Ages
Cherokee isn’t just a place you visit; it’s an experience that changes you. Make family memories against a backdrop of mountain landscapes, rushing rivers, and deep cultural roots with these top family attractions!
Kanunohi Mist Park
If you’re looking for the perfect spot for family fun in downtown Cherokee, look no further than the Kanunohi Mist Park!
Kanunohi Mist Park is a must-visit destination that blends nature, play, and innovation. Featuring a state-of-the-art splash pad and the engaging Water Journey™ Labyrinth, the park offers interactive water experiences designed to inspire exploration, laughter, and connection. As one of the area’s standout splash parks, it’s an ideal place to cool off, have fun, and create lasting memories—whether you’re stopping by for the first time or making it a regular part of your family adventures.
Santa’s Land
Christmas in July? Why not Christmas all year!
Santa’s Land is a one-of-a-kind theme park in Cherokee that brings the magic of Christmas to life all year round, offering fun for the entire family. From exciting rides like the “Rudicoaster” to magic shows, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Santa’s Land combines holiday spirit with adventure, creating a memorable day of laughter, wonder, and family fun.
Family-Friendly Hikes
If you aren’t hiking during your visit to Cherokee, NC, you’re missing out!
Nestled amid the mist capped ridges of the Great Smoky Mountains, Cherokee, NC serves as the gateway to some of the most family friendly hiking trails in the region. Discover accessible, engaging trails—from paved loops near Cherokee to waterfall framed paths deeper in the park—so your next family adventure in the Smokies starts off on the right foot.
Tubing the Rivers
Cherokee is a scenic hotspot for tubing enthusiasts—offering leisurely floats and thrilling rides along the Tuckasegee and Oconaluftee Rivers. Whether you’re drifting under sun-dappled trees or navigating gentle Class I–II rapids, the experience is equal parts peaceful and invigorating. Launch spots and local guidance are available at the Cherokee Visitor Center, making it easy for families to discover prime tubing runs—and even hidden gems like rope swings, swimming holes, and more.
The Cherokee Bears Project
The Cherokee Bears Project is a vibrant, family-friendly art initiative that brings the community’s rich cultural heritage to life through beautifully painted bear sculptures. Launched in 2005, this project highlights the talents of local artists across the Qualla Boundary with each bear reflecting stories, legends, and symbols deeply rooted in Cherokee clans like Bird, Deer, Wolf, and more. As families stroll through downtown Cherokee, these colorful, larger-than-life bears serve as playful landmarks—perfect for photo ops and sparking curiosity in young minds.
Oconaluftee Indian Village
Discover why the Oconaluftee Indian Village in Cherokee is a top-tier family-friendly experience. This living history museum lets kids and adults alike step back into an 18th-century Cherokee community, complete with authentic dwellings, interactive craft and blowgun demonstrations, and lively traditional dances. Expert Cherokee guides bring history to life, inviting questions and participation, while scheduled performances like “Time of War” and social dances offer engaging cultural context. With a leisurely 1–2 hour walking tour through forested trails, picnic spots, and a gift shop, it’s both educational and fun for visitors of all ages.
Your Next Family Adventure Awaits
Whether you’re splashing in the sun, meeting Santa in the summertime, or walking through centuries of Cherokee history, every moment in Cherokee, NC is an opportunity to reconnect—with nature, with culture, and with each other. From thrilling outdoor adventures to meaningful cultural experiences, Cherokee invites families to slow down, explore, and make memories that will last a lifetime. So pack your sense of wonder and come see why Cherokee is more than just a destination—it’s a place where family stories begin.
