Cherokee vacation rentals

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Popular amenities for Cherokee vacation rentals

Stay near Cherokee's top sights

Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort330 locals recommend
Oconaluftee Visitor Center67 locals recommend
Oconaluftee Island Park12 locals recommend
Oconaluftee Indian Village44 locals recommend
Mountain Farm Museum19 locals recommend
Museum of the Cherokee Indian86 locals recommend

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Cherokee

  • Total rentals

    40 properties

  • Nightly prices starting at

    $50 before taxes and fees

  • Total number of reviews

    2.3K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    20 properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    20 properties allow pets

  • Wifi availability

    30 properties include access to wifi

Your guide to Cherokee

All About Cherokee

Cherokee, North Carolina, got its name from the Cherokee people, who have been the custodians of this rugged, misty mountainscape for centuries. In the summer, you can experience living Cherokee history at evening bonfires with Cherokee elders or at Unto These Hills outdoor performances. A visit here is as much about immersing yourself in Cherokee culture and traditions as it is about hiking the peak of the Great Smoky Mountains or the Appalachian Mountains, seeing the rush of the Soco waterfalls, and spotting wildlife like elk and bears in their natural habitats. In Cherokee, you can also walk in the outsized footsteps of Jadahula the giant, who, according to local legend, used the Smokies as his playground.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Cherokee

The most popular time to visit Cherokee is in October, when the leaves change colors, painting the Smoky Mountain scenery in shades of rust, bronze, and gold. The crisp but sunny weather is perfect for hiking, rafting, and enjoying the outdoors. In winter, expect snow and chillier temperatures perfect for snuggling up in a cozy cabin in Cherokee. In March, foodies flock into town for the Rainbows and Ramps festival, which celebrates the local delicacies of rainbow trout and wild ramps (a type of wild baby leek). The forest fields come alive with blooming wildflowers in March and April, and though there will be rainy days, the weather is mild and the town will be quieter. June through August is when the sun shines in Cherokee, and the hot weather makes this a great time for watersports, swimming in the rivers, and enjoying the outdoors. Come in the summer for special events like Cherokee Bonfire storytelling, watch an Unto These Hills outdoor drama, attend a blueberry festival, and more.


Top things to do in Cherokee

Ziplining

Nantahala Gorge boasts 11 different zip line sections, spread over 20 acres of rugged mountains and forests. The three-hour zipline journey will take you across hanging bridges, over treetops, and up and down craggy cliff sides as you experience the park from a bird's eye view.

Oconaluftee River

There are no shortage of scenic hiking and rafting opportunities along the Oconaluftee River, but there’s a rope swing spot that is particularly beloved by local families. Tube down the river to Piney Grove Beach to find it, or ask a local for driving directions to this off-the-beaten-path swimming hole.

Qualla Arts and Crafts market

Visit the oldest Native American art cooperative in the United States, which showcases the handicrafts of more than 250 Cherokee artists. This is known as the place to go for intricate woven baskets, fine beaded jewelry, hand-thrown pottery, and beautiful wood and stone sculptures.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Cherokee?

    Cherokee has a temperate climate with mild to warm summers, typically reaching up to 85°F (29°C), and cool winters that can dip to 24°F (-4°C). Autumn is vibrant with changing leaf colors, while spring brings blooming wildflowers.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Cherokee?

    Visitors to Cherokee often enjoy exploring the natural beauty of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, learning about indigenous culture at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, and observing native wildlife at the Cherokee Bear Zoo.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Cherokee?

    The most frequented time to visit Cherokee is during the summer and fall. The Cherokee Voices Festival in June and the Cherokee Indian Fair in October are popular events that celebrate the rich history and culture of the Cherokee people.

  • What are the best places to stay in Cherokee?

    Popular areas to stay in Cherokee include the downtown area for its proximity to cultural sites, and the areas near the Oconaluftee River and Great Smoky Mountains National Park for their natural beauty and outdoor activities.

  • What are the best places to visit in Cherokee?

    Among the many places to visit in Cherokee, the Cherokee Heritage Museum, Oconaluftee Indian Village, and Mingus Mill are often recommended. Nature enthusiasts frequently suggest a visit to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

  • What are some hiking trails in Cherokee?

    Cherokee features a wealth of trails for hikers of all skill levels, including the Oconaluftee River Trail, Mingus Creek Trail, and the challenging yet rewarding Charlies Bunion Trail in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

  • What are some family activities to do in Cherokee?

    Families in Cherokee can enjoy activities like exploring the Oconaluftee Indian Village, attending traditional Cherokee storytelling sessions, and taking part in interactive exhibits at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Cherokee?

    You can explore the rich heritage of the Cherokee people at Oconaluftee Indian Village, or immerse yourself in nature at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. A drive along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, only 16 miles (26 km) away, is often recommended. For a unique experience, head for a gem mining adventure at Smoky Mountain Gold and Ruby Mine.

  • Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Cherokee?

    Four-legged friends are welcome in Cherokee. Choose from more than 20 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.

  • How much does it cost to stay in house rentals in Cherokee?

    Experience the best of Cherokee with our house rentals, starting at about $110 per day, before taxes and fees. Embrace comfort and style while staying within your budget in your home away from home.

Destinations to explore

  1. Airbnb
  2. United States
  3. North Carolina
  4. Swain County
  5. Cherokee