Museum of the Cherokee People

Experience Cherokee history, culture, and stories in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Established in 1948, the Museum of the Cherokee People shares Cherokee history, culture, and stories with over 85,000 visitors annually. One of the country’s oldest tribal museums, MotCP has been recognized for its innovative storytelling and exhibitions, collections and archives, and research and educational programs. A 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and the tribal museum of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, MotCP is located in the heart of Cherokee’s Cultural District on the Qualla Boundary, the sovereign land of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and ancestral homelands of all Cherokees.

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
The Museum of the Cherokee People is open from 9am-5pm, seven days a week. Ticket sales close at 4pm. A self-guided tour of the Museum takes approximately one hour.

The Museum is open daily except the day preceding the Thanksgiving holiday, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day.

Admission
Adults: $12
Children ages 6-12: $7
Children 5 & under: Free