Summer In Cherokee
Fun Indoor Activities for the Summer
Summertime in Cherokee is one of the most beautiful times to explore and you’ll find no limit of both education and entertainment on the days that are maybe a bit too warm to be outside.
Experience the true culture of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians through the endless indoor attractions available right here in Cherokee.
Museum of the Cherokee People
Start your summertime adventure at the Museum of the Cherokee People, an immersive experience that brings history and culture to life. Meet our museum ambassadors, the Atsila Anotasgi Cultural Specialists, who share traditional Cherokee cultural practices such as fun storytelling, finger-weaving, and delicate wood carving.
And don’t leave empty handed! Take the histories and culture of Cherokee with you by stopping at our Museum Store. Find books, home goods, accessories, and clothing items of Native brands created by our very own Cherokee artists.
Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual Inc.
Immerse yourself in the intricate weaves of a basket and see how each strand was uniquely cut, scraped, and shaped to tell each artist’s story. At Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual Inc., history and culture are brought to life through the many timeless and handmade crafts that are available to purchase from our local artists.
Find pieces designed and created by over 350 Cherokee artisan members in our hybrid gallery and shopping experience.
Explore the Great Outdoors in summer
Experience nature like never before. Summertime in Cherokee is the ultimate season for immersing yourself in the natural beauty and wonder of the surrounding areas, including the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Find your outdoor adventure today.
Fishing
Spend a beautiful summer morning exploring the 30 gorgeous miles of streams along the Cherokee. Fish for trout of all varieties, including rainbow, brook, golden, and brown! Explore the over 40 shops and stores for fishing permits and tackle to find the gear that’s right for you.
Sequoyah National Golf Club
View Cherokee in a newer, more modern light at the Sequoyah National Golf Club, designed by the talented Robert Trent Jones II. Relax and unwind with a fun game of golf, while also experiencing the beautiful mountain views.
Cherokee Bears
As bears are a influential part of the Cherokee culture, appearing in countless stories and legends, the Cherokee committee decided that bear sculptures would be the perfect reflection of the Cherokee people’s commitment to the sacred history and culture that lives on to this day.
Fire Mountain Trails
Set out and explore our beloved Fire Mountain Trails, a multiuse trail system designed for all kinds of adventure lovers. Bike, hike, or run through the 11-mile network and experience the many beautiful attractions along the way.
“Unto These Hills” Outdoor Drama
See the history and adventures of Cherokee come alive in an experiential viewing of our outdoor dramas. Don’t miss Unto These Hills this Summer, our beloved and triumphant story of the formation of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.
Oconaluftee Indian Village
Go back in time and experience he beauty of Cherokee in the late 18th century at the Oconaluftee Indian Village. The immersive smells, sights, and experiences will leave you feeling a part of something more, something historic.
Bird Watching
Listen to the local performers of Cherokee singsong tales of love, adventure, and history as they sit upon the beautiful trees and branches that shade the scenic trails of the forests and the mountains. See the Wood Thrush, Louisiana Water Thrush, Rose-Breasted Grosbeak, Red Crossbill, and more!
Elk Viewing
Experience the day in the life of an elk with as a patient viewer. In Cherokee, elks first appeared in the early 2000s after a 200-year absence. Watching these beautiful creatures in their habitat will bring you much closer to nature, giving you an up-front look at the amazing routine of such a beautiful animal.
Tubing
Nothing says a fun, summertime adventure quite like a day out tubing! Grab the friends and family and explore the scenic Tuckasegee and Oconaluftee rivers on a giant river tube. All you need is some sunscreen and a little courage and we’ll help you create memories that last a lifetime.
Cherokee Bonfire
Spend the night gathered around the Cherokee Bonfire, listening to untold stories of the past. Filled with drama, adventure, and tragedy, stories told around the Cherokee Campfire have to be experienced in person to be truly understood.
Hiking
Spend the day hiking the over 800 miles of hiking trails of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park! Explore the scenic views, the amazing wildlife, and the rich history of the trails that make up the foundation of Cherokee, North Carolina.
Camping
Who says you have to be on the ground to experience the beauty of nature? Be a part of nature in the comfort of one of our cozy campgrounds. Get easy access to our amazing Cherokee outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, fishing, mountain bike trails, and more! Camping in Cherokee is perfect for everyone, at any time!
Horseback Riding
Go back in time and travel the scenic routes of Cherokee by foot – or should we say, by hoof! Explore the beauty of Cherokee on a wonderful horseback riding adventure. View the lush greenery, the amazing animals, the culture, and the trails that make Cherokee one of the most amazing places to see. Your walk through history starts today.
Visit Cherokee, North Carolina All Year Round
Ready to start your adventure? Plan your next trip to Cherokee, North Carolina today and experience springtime like never before!
