Museum of the Cherokee People Admission Ticket

Great Smoky Mountains National Park , United States

Museum of the Cherokee People Admission Ticket

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(113 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

General admission includes:

Main Exhibit: We are a museum in transition! Take a step behind the scenes as we consider how to update our 27-year-old main exhibit to authentically share Cherokee history, culture, and stories from a Cherokee perspective.

sov·er·eign·ty: Expressions in Sovereignty of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians illuminates the complexities of tribal sovereignty and the EBCI’s continuing legacy of resilience.

ᏗᏓᏂᏏᏍᎩ ᎦᏓᏆᏟ Didanisisgi Gadagwatli: A Showcase of Pottery from the Mud Dauber Community Workshop: Enjoy an exhibition of work by students in the Museum’s annual community learning pottery workshop.

Charles George Beloved Veterans Hall: Meet heroes of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians who have served in the United States Armed Forces.

Established in 1948, the Museum of the Cherokee People shares the history, culture, and stories of the Cherokee people through its exhibitions, collections, and programs.

Available options

General Admission

What's included

Admission ticket to the Museum of the Cherokee People

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Learn about the Cherokee people at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian. Your general admission ticket includes access to the museum and the following exhibits.

Story of the Cherokees: 13,000 Years

Voted Top Ten best Native American Experiences by USA TODAY, you'll experience 13,000 years of Cherokee history, from the time when mastodons roamed the southern Appalachians to present day. This story is told through computer generated animation and special effects, life-sized figures, artwork and priceless artifacts.

Emissaries of Peace: 1762 Cherokee & British Delegations

Travel with Henry Timberlake to the Cherokee world in 1762 and see London through the eyes of Cherokee leaders who met with King George III. Timberlake’s Memoirs come to life through artifacts, archaeological treasures, period artwork, music, video and life-sized figures. Two contrasting cultures emerge from war and make peace. Special pop-up books and graphic panels help tell the story for children.

The museum also hosts many traveling exhibits such as

We the People. This exhibit has been featured not only at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian but also the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and the McClung Museum at the University of Tennessee. It shows the perspectives of Cherokee culture and colonial British culture through the narrative of Henry Timberlake¹s Memoirs, illustrated with artifacts, artwork, reproductions, video, and life size figures.

All exhibits, restrooms, Museum Store and Education Wing are ADA accessible. Service animals are permitted. Handicapped parking available in front of entrance.

What's not included

Transportation to/from attractions

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.1

7 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.1

106 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Important notes

This ticket provides direct entry into the attraction

About Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the United States, known for its diverse plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, and the quality of its remnants of Southern Appalachian mountain culture. It offers stunning landscapes, rich biodiversity, and a variety of outdoor activities.

Top Attractions

Cades Cove

Cades Cove is a scenic valley with a rich history of early settlers. It offers beautiful views, historic cabins, and abundant wildlife.

Nature Half day to full day Free

Clingmans Dome

The highest point in the park, offering panoramic views from an observation tower.

Nature 1-2 hours for the hike and view Free

Laurel Falls

A beautiful waterfall with a short, paved trail leading to its base.

Nature 1 hour round trip Free

Gatlinburg SkyBridge

The longest pedestrian suspension bridge in North America, offering stunning views of the Smoky Mountains.

Adventure 1-2 hours Moderate

Oconaluftee Visitor Center

A visitor center with exhibits on the park's history and cultural heritage, as well as a mountain farm museum.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fried Chicken

Crispy, golden-fried chicken, often served with mashed potatoes and gravy, coleslaw, and biscuits.

Lunch/Dinner Not vegetarian or vegan

Biscuits and Gravy

Fluffy biscuits smothered in creamy sausage gravy, a classic Southern breakfast dish.

Breakfast Contains meat and dairy

Apple Stack Cake

A traditional Appalachian dessert made with layers of spiced apples and cake, often served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Dessert Contains gluten and dairy

Pimento Cheese Sandwich

A Southern classic made with a creamy mixture of cheese, pimentos, and spices, served on crusty bread.

Lunch Contains dairy and gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking Whitewater rafting Zip-lining Horseback riding Scenic drives Picnicking Wildlife viewing Fishing

Best Time to Visit

September to October (fall foliage season)

This is the most popular time to visit due to the stunning fall colors and pleasant weather. The park is bustling with visitors, and all facilities are open.

10-25°C 50-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Time Zone (GMT-5:00)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas and situations

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is generally safe, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should be aware of potential hazards, such as wildlife encounters, weather changes, and the risks of outdoor activities like hiking and swimming.

Important Precautions:

• Stay on marked trails and follow park guidelines for safety
• Be aware of wildlife and keep a safe distance
• Carry plenty of water and snacks, and dress in layers for changing weather conditions

Getting there

By air

McGhee Tyson Airport • 20 miles from Gatlinburg, TN
Asheville Regional Airport • 60 miles from Cherokee, NC

By bus

Gatlinburg, Cherokee

Getting around

Public transport

Shuttle services are available during peak seasons and provide a convenient way to explore without driving.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Gatlinburg Cherokee Townsend

Day trips

Dollywood

30 miles from Gatlinburg • Full day

A popular theme park owned by country music legend Dolly Parton, featuring a variety of rides, shows, and attractions.

Pigeon Forge

20 miles from Gatlinburg • Half day to full day

A popular tourist destination offering a variety of attractions, including museums, dinner theaters, and shopping.

Blue Ridge Parkway

100 miles from Gatlinburg • Full day or overnight

A beautiful scenic drive offering stunning views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, as well as numerous hiking trails, picnic areas, and waterfalls.

Festivals

Smoky Mountain Christmas • November to January Spring Wildflower Pilgrimage • April Smoky Mountain Songwriters Festival • September

Pro tips

Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure parking, especially during peak seasons.
Download offline maps and trail guides, as cell service can be limited or nonexistent in some areas of the park.
Pack layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions, as temperatures and conditions can vary significantly throughout the day and year.
Bring plenty of water and snacks, as food and drink options can be limited or expensive within the park.
Consider hiring a local guide or joining a ranger-led program for a more in-depth and educational experience.