Cherokee, NC
 

Thinking of going to GSMNP in August. Is it worth it to go to Cherokee? Any Indian shows? Not interested in their casino. What about Ghost Town? Any new info on that? Thanks all.

It has been at least 19 years since we went to Ghost Town. It was a nice, small, clean amusement park that my 5 year old enjoyed. We also went to an outdoor drama "Trail of Tears" in Cherokee that we enjoyed. Not sure if they still do that or not. There was an Indian show (dancing and music) at Ghost Town. From what I can remember it was a scenic drive from Cherokee to Ghost Town. I think Ghost Town is in Maggie Valley.

Vickymc

We stayed at Harrahs Cherokee about 3 years ago. Beautiful hotel. There's really nothing to do in Cherokee, other than sleep there.

The Museum of the Cherokee Indian is very nice. Not too big, interesting exhibits and a nice gift shop.

Cherokee,the town is very, very touristy, however the secnery is lovely

I'm leaving tomorrow for Great Smoky NP and looking for a place to stay, likely on the NC side. I'm leaning towards Asheville, but I also looked at Cherokee and, to me at least, it looks similar to the very touristy spots on the TN side.

Cherokee is tacky, tacky, except for the Indian Museum. I was sorry that I wasted a day there, and I won't go back unless it's to see a show at the Casino sometime.

Asheville is a long way from the Park.
Cherokee is tacky--left over from the time that the Indians could not earn enough money to support themselves in a dignified and respected way. The Oconuluftee Village exhibit is very nice. There are hotels and motels in the area that are close to the Park. You can also trout fish on the reservation creeks.

We just stayed at www.cherokee-cabin.com and noticed something really exciting. With all the money that the Cherokee Tribe is making from the casino, they have started development of what appears to be a really nice mountain golf course. I think that will add some appeal for the golfers out there.

If you are interested in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park, Cherokee is great because it is right at the Southern entrance.

My husband and I like Maggie Valley, which is where the unique Ghost Town in the Sky amusement park is located. http://www.ghosttowninthesky.com/

Ghost Town is nearing the end of its second season since it reopened. I haven't been yet, but hear that it's going well.

If you've got kids, an interest in Native American life or just want to gamble, then Cherokee is well worth the visit. Ashville and the Biltmore House is a short drive East and Fontana Village is great, and just a short drive West.

Take a look at www.cherokee-nc.com for a lot of info.

Yes it's touristy, but I thought it had a special charm and was beautiful.

Cherokee is like Gatlinburg, only worse, & even more tacky.

I like the "touristy tacky" places in Cherokee, but I like them for their kitschy value and nothing else, and honestly I've never stopped to shop. My parents go to Harrah's Cherokee a lot and say the hotel is wonderful (especially when it's comp'd by the casino, ha).

It's been quite a few years since I was there, but I've visited the Oconaluftee Cherokee Village twice, and I thought it was very well done, interesting, and educational. If you're in Cherokee, it's worthwhile going there. Here's a web site with info about it:
http://www.cherokee-nc.com/index.php?page=17