Museum of the Cherokee Indian

Experience the 11,000-year-old Cherokee story vividly.

If your idea of a museum includes dusty displays tended by a boring curator, get ready to rediscover what a museum can be. Inspired by the beauty and ingenuity of the Cherokee people, this is a cultural and historical tour without equal, one fused with interactive video, intriguing displays, and a full sensory experience. Step through our doors and discover up close the Cherokee people’s spirit of inventiveness, resilience, and will to survive. Let yourself be guided through a moving journey that illustrates who the people of Cherokee really are, where they came from, and why they’re still here. Keep a hankie close; Cherokee history is serious stuff.

Contact Information

Visit Website https://cherokeemuseum.com/

Email Location dawn.arneach@cherokeemuseum.org

Call Location 828-497-3481

Handicapped access: All exhibits, restrooms, Museum Store, and Education Wing are ADA accessible. Service animals are permitted. Handicapped parking available.

Additional information: Parking is available at the Museum for cars and buses. Many hotels, motels, and campgrounds are located nearby. Local restaurants, fast food, picnic areas, and fine dining are available in the town of Cherokee. Pets are not allowed in the Museum except for service animals.

The Museum is located in the Cultural District near the Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual Co-op, the Oconaluftee Indian Village Living History Museum, and the Mountainside Theater, home of the outdoor drama “Unto These Hills.”

Hours of Operation

OPEN: 7 days/week year-round. Closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
Summer Hours: (Jun–Aug): 9 a.m.–7 p.m. Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Sundays.

Winter Hours: (Sep–May): 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday-Sunday.

ADMISSION: Adults $11; Children (ages 6–12) $7; Children 5 and under admitted free.

GROUPS: Group rates and custom itineraries available. The “Cherokee Group Experience” is available for groups of 20 or more.

DISCOUNTS: Enjoy our AAA “Show Your Card & Save” discount. Show your AAA card and receive 10% off admission at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian. AARP discounts also available.