Is Cherokee worth visiting?
Yes, Cherokee offers many reasons for a visit. It's a town everyone should explore, and our experience here was wonderful. We didn't want to leave.
Whether you're a traveling as a family, a couple, or a backpacker, this town has a lot to offer. Any local will tell you what makes it special is the spectacular hiking and terrific museums and attractions.
Cherokee is a town that is part of the Cherokee Nation in western North Carolina. There are many experiences and opportunities to learn about the Native American culture and visitors can also enjoy the many hiking opportunities nearby. The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is filled with trails and campgrounds. Another highlight is seeing the dramatic show, "Unto These Hills."
5 Reasons to Visit Cherokee
1. Hiking
There are many trails in the area that pass through forests, wander by waterfalls, and take you to spectacular viewpoints. The fall foliage is particularly nice during the autumn months.
2. Museums and Attractions
Many of the museums educate visitors on the Native American culture. Oconaluftee Indian Village, the Museum of the Cherokee People, and the Mountain Farm Museum each offer a unique and interesting perspective.
3. Food
There are casual sandwich shops as well as several places that offer traditional Cherokee foods such as fry bread.
4. Shopping
There are craft shops and artisan vendors in the downtown area. It's fun to wander around for a few hours.
5. Authenticity
Cherokee has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.
Is Cherokee worth visiting in the Summer?
The high season for travel in Cherokee is the summer, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is somewhat touristy, so in the high season it's usually busier.
The weather in Cherokee is fairly warm during summer, and stays around 27°C (81°F). But it can get as warm as 33°C (91°F) at times, too. It's also quite rainy during this season, so be prepared.
The nearby hiking this time of year is a must-do, so take some time to get out on the trails, take in some fresh air, and enjoy the scenery. During this season it's fun to experience the hiking and the famous sights and museums.
Summer Weather in Cherokee
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| July | 27°C (81°F) | 119 mm (4.7 in) |
| August | 27°C (80°F) | 82 mm (3.2 in) |
| September | 24°C (74°F) | 71 mm (2.8 in) |
Is Cherokee worth visiting in the Autumn?
You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 17°C (63°F).
Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Cherokee, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.
This is a great time of year to browse the museums and discover the nearby hiking trails.
Autumn Weather in Cherokee
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| October | 17°C (63°F) | 68 mm (2.7 in) |
| November | 12°C (53°F) | 90 mm (3.5 in) |
| December | 7°C (44°F) | 114 mm (4.5 in) |
Is Cherokee worth visiting in the Winter?
Winter is the low season for travel in Cherokee. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals.
The weather in Cherokee can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 5°C (40°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.
You'll find plenty to do during winter, as you'll be able to spend time at the museums and sample the delicious cuisine.
Winter Weather in Cherokee
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| January | 5°C (40°F) | 119 mm (4.7 in) |
| February | 7°C (44°F) | 120 mm (4.7 in) |
| March | 12°C (54°F) | 123 mm (4.8 in) |
Is Cherokee worth visiting in the Spring?
This is the shoulder season for travel in Cherokee. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.
You'll find the weather to be very nice here during spring with average temperatures around 17°C (62°F).
During this season it's fun to experience the quaint shops and the museums and landmarks.
Spring Weather in Cherokee
| Avg Temp (°C/°F) |
Avg Rain (mm/inches) |
|
| April | 17°C (62°F) | 92 mm (3.6 in) |
| May | 21°C (70°F) | 83 mm (3.3 in) |
| June | 25°C (78°F) | 92 mm (3.6 in) |
Things to Consider Before Visiting Cherokee
Nightlife: Most people don't associate Cherokee with a lively nightlife scene. The town is generally quiet but you can head to Harrah's Cherokee Casino for drinks and entertainment.
Getting Around
The area is not very walkable, and public transit is not great here, so it might be difficult to get around without arranging your own transportation.
The Cost
Depending on your budget, schedule, and travel style, Cherokee might be an expensive destination for you. You can find out the travel costs for Cherokee here or see if Cherokee is expensive here.
Related
What is Cherokee most famous for?
Cherokee is most famous for its cultural experiences and nearby hiking trails. The town is very popular for its hiking. It is also known for its great museums and attractions, food, and shopping. It is often described as cultural, genuine, and fascinating.
What is the most famous sight in Cherokee?
The most popular sight in Cherokee is Oconaluftee Indian Village. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Cherokee on our travel costs page.
Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for Oconaluftee Indian Village and other attractions here.
How touristy is Cherokee? Is it a popular town to visit?
Cherokee is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)
How long should I spend in Cherokee?
The ideal length of time for a trip to Cherokee is two to four days. Since Cherokee has activities such as hiking, many visit for up to four days.
If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Cherokee? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Cherokee?.
For guided and organized tour options, check out The Best Family-Friendly Tours to USA and The Best Wildlife Tours to USA.
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