field trips to cherokee nc

ULTIMATE Guide to Things to Do in Cherokee NC

Considering a Smoky Mountains getaway? You’ll find plenty of things to do in Cherokee NC !

Cherokee, North Carolina, sits at the south entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park . However, it’s more than that — it’s a portal to the cultural footprint of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

This town has served as a homeland and a battleground. Footprints from the Trail of Tears wind through Cherokee, while the natural beauty of the Smokies and the Blue Ridge Mountains carve geologic history in all directions.

Cherokee is a side of the Smokies everyone should experience. A legendary giant roams the mountains, while waterfalls are tucked away at nearly every turn. Scenic drives beckon with the southern end of the Blue Ridge Parkway starting here.

Getting to Know Cherokee North Carolina

Cherokee might be the anchor town for the Smokies’ entrance, but it’s nothing like Gatlinburg in all the right ways. Here, the crowds quiet down and nature reigns. The Oconaluftee River carves through the community, and its banks are home to both a vibrant present and a resilient past.

Cherokee Through the Ages

The Cherokee lived on this land going back to at least 2000 B.C. The tribe was skilled at hunting, fishing, and farming. In the 1500s, Spanish explorers arrived, starting 200 years of uncomfortable interactions between the natives and anyone eyeing their prized land.

The Trail of Tears

Any progress toward peaceful cohabitation ended when gold was discovered in Georgia. The Indian Removal Act of 1830 and subsequent legislation forced 16,000 Cherokee from their homeland. History calls it the “Trail of Tears.”

But, not everyone left. Those who stayed behind fought back or hid in the secret sections of the woods unknown to settlers and continued Cherokee traditions.

The Qualla Boundary

By the late 1800s, the determined Cherokee people had earned an unlikely ally. William Holland Thomas, a white man, grew up around the culture and had been adopted into the tribe. As his beloved people suffered, he maneuvered behind the scenes to buy up land — something a Cherokee native legally could not do.

That land became the Qualla Boundary where Cherokee is located today. The Eastern Band of Cherokee only includes descendants of those who hid in the woods or survivors of the Trail of Tears to walk another 1,200 miles to return home.

As a sovereign nation, the Cherokee live in their homeland but welcome millions of tourists yearly to enjoy the beauty and their history.

Cherokee’s Location

Cherokee is the main south entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina , just over 50 miles west of Asheville North Carolina .

While Cherokee is about 45 miles as the crow flies from Knoxville Tennessee, the mass of mountains makes it a nearly 80-mile trip if you take the interstate through Gatlinburg — that’s a one-way trip and can take more than two hours with traffic on mountain roads.

Between Gatlinburg and Cherokee, Newfound Gap Road is a 36-mile stretch of a beautiful scenic drive that cuts through the highest point of the journey through the heart of the Smokies.

Also, Cherokee is one of the easiest ways to reach the Smokies from Atlanta, which is 160 miles to 175 miles southwest depending on the route you choose.

Seasons & Weather

By and large, Cherokee gets four robust seasons. Cherokee and many of the nearby cities have long been tourist destinations, especially during the stifling summer heat because this region is 1,100 to 1,400 feet higher in elevation than Gatlinburg , Pigeon Forge , and Sevierville .

The hottest part of summer won’t get you much relief during the daytime, though, as temperatures are just a few degrees cooler. However, on average, you will get a nice 5 to 10-degree drop in nighttime temperatures.

On the flip side, winter might have it raining in Gatlinburg but snowing in Cherokee. North Carolina’s roadways are also more likely to close during winter weather — snow along Newfound Gap Road can shut down access in both directions.

Additionally, fall colors will sparkle sooner in Cherokee than in the Gatlinburg side of the park. Foliage turns at the highest elevations first before working down to the valleys. So, the colors can start to unfurl in late September, but it’s October when the best bounty comes through.

Outdoor Things to Do in Cherokee NC

The pole position that Cherokee holds at the entrance to the most visited national park in the country offers a multitude of outdoor opportunities spanning four seasons.

Oconaluftee Indian Village

Who better to tell the stories of Cherokee ancestors than the descendants themselves? The Oconaluftee (“O-cun-uh-loof-tee”) Indian Village takes guests back to the 1760s when vendors, crafts, sweat lodges, performances, and so much more about the Cherokee way of life are on display from April to November.

Don’t mistake this for a theme park — it’s an immersive experience where you learn about living in the Smokies before GPS, mobile phones, plumbing, or power existed. You’ll also understand why this land is so important to the Cherokee.

Unto These Hills

This family-friendly amphitheater performance has been mesmerizing crowds since the 1950s. From May through August, the drama walks you through the experience from when the Cherokee people lived here thousands of years ago to when the settlers arrived to the Trail of Tears to the resurrection of the homeland and community.

NOTE: Only 2,100 seats are available each night. Bring a blanket and enjoy the show under the stars.

Oconaluftee Islands Park

Surrounded by all the attractions and history of Cherokee, Oconaluftee Islands Park offers a place to relax, cast a line for trout, or splash in the water under shaded trees. Stop by the Cherokee Welcome Center to reserve one of the pavilions for large group gatherings. And during the holiday season, you have the Island of Lights to enjoy.

Santa’s Land Fun Park & Zoo

Even Santa and his reindeer can’t get enough of the Great Smoky Mountains! Santa’s Land is coming up on 60 years of entertaining new crowds with each summer season. Amusement rides, a petting zoo, magic shows, and fun houses await. Plus, you’ll get to be among the first to tell Santa what you want for Christmas.

NOTE: Due to Santa’s busy schedule closer to the holidays, this attraction is only open in the summer.

Trout Fishing

Cherokee is widely known as one of the best trout locations in the nation with 30 miles of waterways waiting for excited anglers. The waters are privately stocked, and a license is required.

Since the Cherokee are a sovereign nation, they have their own fishing license, rules, and guidelines separate from the state of North Carolina. The community holds fishing tournaments throughout the season, some of which are designed just for kids.

NOTE: Please take note of the seasons and the catch-and-release locations and timelines.

Fire Mountain Trails

It’s hard to beat the best trails in the Great Smoky Mountains, but Fire Mountain Trails is blazing its own path with adrenaline-filled mountain biking, trailing running, and hiking adventures. Berms, blinds, and ramps await, twisting through the scenic landscape. The trail system seems to never stop growing — Fire Mountain Ignitor Park opens in late 2024.

Waterfalls Everywhere

It’s hard to throw a rock without hitting a waterfall in Western North Carolina. Mingo Falls is one of the closest and most impressive — a short hike leads to the showstopping 120-foot drop.

Soco Falls is a short but steep staircase and trail right off the main road in nearby Maggie Valley. And, the Deep Creek Trail can take you to Indian Creek Falls, Tom Branch Falls, and Juney Whank Falls.

TRAVEL TIP: There are more than 300 waterfalls throughout the Smokies and nearby national forests. It’s impossible to see them all on one trip.

Indoor Things to Do in Cherokee NC

Most of Applachia is geared toward the outdoors, but you can find some shopping along downtown Cherokee in addition to a few other indoor options.

Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc.

This isn’t your everyday arts and crafts store, even by Appalachian standards — the handmade items at Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc. tell their own stories. The techniques used to make these products were learned over millennia and passed down through Cherokee heritage.

Pottery, jewelry, baskets, and hand-carved novelties fill the sanctuary. You can explore dreamcatchers, ceremonial masks, and award-winning artist paintings as well.

Museum of the Cherokee People

By the time you get to visit this historic staple of Cherokee, the Museum of Cherokee People will have undergone a complete renovation for a more immersive experience.

The self-guided tour offers fascinating, shocking, and emotion-inducing artifacts and contemporary art. The museum has been preserving the Cherokee heritage since 1948, attracting about 83,000 visitors each year.

TIP: If you or someone you are traveling with believes they have Cherokee blood, you can schedule a genealogy consult.

Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort

All the amenities of a Las Vegas casino resort are tucked into the Smokies at this gem of a destination for those who want to try their luck. Shows, restaurants, and 14-story views of the surrounding landscape await.

Cuisine ranges from pub food to famous chef footprints like Gordon Ramsey and Guy Fieri. You can even sample the best brews from Asheville at the Wicked Weed Brewpub without having to drive.

Blue Ridge Parkway

You’re indoors on this adventure only as long as you can stand being in the car with these amazing scenic viewpoints. The Blue Ridge Parkway was designed to connect Great Smoky Mountains National Park with Shenandoah National Park in Virginia.

The entire scenic drive runs 469 miles, but a great loop to take goes from Cherokee to the Devil’s Courthouse into Nantahala National Forest , looping around to the west side of Asheville before taking I-40 back to Cherokee.

Smoky Mountain Gold & Ruby Mine

Kids particularly love this attraction where you can pan for gold and minerals and then have an expert check out your collection. A gift shop with various gems and minerals on display, and other knick-knacks, make a great place to explore the rocky side of the Smokies.

More Attractions Near Cherokee NC

While there’s a lot more to do in the neighboring cities of North Carolina’s Smokies boundary, there are two that stand out.

First, the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad departs from Bryson City just 10 miles west of Cherokee. You can take rides through the scenic foliage and to the Nantahala River Gorge where you can parlay into a trip rafting on the river or riding zip lines.

Second, skiers will love the Cataloochee Ski Area in Maggie Valley. It’s just a 45-minute drive.

Cherokee North Carolina Restaurants

As noted above, the Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Hotel has many dining options, but let’s explore some of the more local businesses.

Granny’s Kitchen

Granny’s Kitchen has brought home cooking to Cherokee daily since 1984. You don’t even need to worry about the menu because breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served buffet-style. The items change each day, but you’ll get a full meal and then some at Granny’s Kitchen.

Peter’s Pancakes & Waffles

Another great breakfast stop with big portions is Peter’s Pancakes & Waffles . It’s also on the way to the national park entrance.

All Fried Up

You’ll smell the fried fabulousness before you see it at All F r ied Up . This comfort food stop serves chicken, fish, shrimp, nachos, waffles, tacos, and so much more, and it’s sure to bring you back again and again. Southern classics like fried green tomatoes, fried okra, and po’ boy sandwiches fill out the menu.

Native American Brewing Co.

Native American Brewing Co. brings Cherokee heritage to the trending world of craft beer. Bar foods like big pretzels and stacked sandwiches provide plenty of nosh with your next drink.

Hotels & Lodging in Cherokee NC

Aside from the casino’s fancy hotel tower, you aren’t going to find luxury accommodations in Cherokee. You will get comfortable settings with rustic and authentic charm, though.

Great Smokies Inn

The location next to the river, park entrance, and the center of Cherokee makes Great Smokies Inn an ideal destination. The rooms are simple, but the reviews repeatedly proclaim how welcoming and helpful the staff is here.

Cherokee Grand Hotel

The Cherokee Grand Hotel sits a bit away from the center of town, offering a little more peace and quiet. At the same time, a weekend shuttle can take you to and from the casino. Guests also enjoy a free continental breakfast.

Black Bear Lodge Cabin

Large families will love the log cabin of Black Bear Lodge with its hot tub, fire pit, and large porches to enjoy the scenic views. Inside, the cabin sleeps six comfortably. Wait until you see the stone shower and high ceiling on this rustic treasure. Plus, the location can have you deep water rafting or walking in the national park in just minutes.

Shooting Star Ridge

When the view matters, Shooting Star Ridge provides one of the best spots to see stars and meteor shows after dark. Inside, two bedrooms and bathrooms can accommodate up to four people. Enjoy the fireplace inside or the fire pit outside. And, you won’t want to miss soaking in the outdoor hot tub after a long day exploring.

FAQs About Cherokee North Carolina

Is visiting cherokee north carolina worth it.

Cherokee and the North Carolina side of the Smokies offer a different experience than the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge Tennessee side.

Cherokee is ideal for those who want to experience indigenous culture and the “wild” of the wilderness. This region offers a series of small towns along the way rather than several massive cities with shows and shops.

How old do you have to be to gamble in Cherokee NC?

Only those 21 and older can be on a casino floor, even if they aren’t trying to gamble. Those under 21 can visit the amenities detached from the casino building, like the arcade and hotel. Even the restaurants attached to the casino building are 21 and older, so always bring your ID.

Is there a ghost town in Cherokee NC?

Cherokee isn’t a ghost town, but the Smokies are filled with remnants of homes that would pique the interest of any ghost town hunter. Of all the ghost towns in the Smokies , one of the most intriguing is 17 miles east of Cherokee at the former Ghost Town in the Sky theme park.

How much does it cost to get into Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Nantahala National Forest?

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is one of the national parks without an admission fee. However, there is a cost for parking if you plan to park for more than 15 minutes. You can drive Newfound Gap Road or hike into the park for free.

Always, ALWAYS check park conditions before you go, and keep in mind that your parking permit does not guarantee that a spot will be available.

For Nantahala National Forest, the fee depends on what you plan to do while you’re there and what section of the massive forest you plan to visit.

The Indigenous Culture & Nature of Cherokee NC Await

The National Park Service is committed to telling a more realistic story of the Indigenous people and the lands surrounding national parks. Cherokee already does that, so supporting the experience at the park by visiting Cherokee leaves a memorable impression of how America evolved — for better and worse.

The beauty of Cherokee is beyond the natural wonders that surround it. Here, the stories that were told in ancient times still resound. As much as the world around us evolves, the Cherokee stay true to their ancestors’ way of life in many ways, and that makes it an experience to cherish and share with your family for years to come.

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What to Do in Cherokee North Carolina

Looking for fun things to do in Cherokee, NC? Come explore trails of legends and adventure in Cherokee, a place of great beauty nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains. In Cherokee you can enjoy the breathtaking scenic views, family attractions, outdoor activities , elk watching , waterfalls , shopping , live dealer gaming, relaxing spa treatments, Cherokee Indian art , a rich local history and so much more. The most well known activities in Cherokee include the Great Smoky Mountains National Park , the Blue Ridge Parkway , Qualla Boundary (the home of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians), 11,000 years of Cherokee history, outdoor sports of all kinds, and Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort.

Everyone, from honeymooning couples to families with young children and retirees, can make long lasting memories in Cherokee. Really the question is not what to do in Cherokee, but what do you have time to do?

Activities in the Great Outdoors

Our beautiful mountains, streams and valleys are your new outdoor playground. There is no end to the list of fun things to do in Cherokee for people who love outdoor sports or just being in nature. We have more than just spectacular mountain views. Hike trails for people of all skill levels, visit swimming holes and waterfalls , fish , mountain bike , kayak, tube , snow ski, rock climb, whitewater raft and play golf . There are even large populations of elk moving throughout the community. Enjoy elk watching , even strolling in town. Many elk sightings have been reported in the town center at the Oconaluftee Islands Park .

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park : in Cherokee, we simply call it our back yard. Explore the rich biodiversity and cultural history of these age-old mountains.
• Enjoy some of the best trout fishing in America on the thirty miles of pristine, freestone streams that run through the Qualla Boundary in Cherokee.
• Sequoyah National Golf Club : play a challenging 18-hole round of golf on this magnificent course, complete with breathtaking mountain views.
• Blue Ridge Parkway: bike , hike , fish , or simply enjoy the breathtaking view just off the Parkway at Cherokee.
• Mingo Falls : take the short, steep hike to see this gorgeous 200 ft. waterfall, on the Qualla Boundary. A visit to Mingo Falls is always one of the most popular suggestions for what to do in Cherokee NC.

Cultural Things to Do in Cherokee

Learn about the history and culture of the Cherokee people and their amazing story. There are interesting things to do in the region that are fun and educational.

• Oconaluftee Indian Village : take a trip in a time machine and transport yourself back to a recreated village from 1760.
• Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc. : see authentic Cherokee arts and crafts as they’re created: bead working, pottery, stone carving, wood carving, basketry, finger weaving and more.
• Museum of the Cherokee Indian : learn about the fascinating heritage, history and culture of the Cherokees.
• "Unto These Hills" : one of the most popular things to do in Cherokee is still one of the most amazing. The Mountainside Theatre production is now one of the longest running outdoor dramas in the U.S. You’ll be moved and transported back in time as you watch the story of the Cherokees unfold before your eyes.

If you are the type of person who wants to kick back and relax on vacation, then you are guaranteed to fall in love with Cherokee. The Mandara Spa at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is a 15,000-square-foot oasis promising unadulterated relaxation and pampering. Enjoy a full menu of face and body treatments that will rejuvenate your body and soul. For an even slower pace, relax on the porch of one of Cherokee’s great cabin or cottage rentals. Gaze at the mountains as you sip your morning coffee, bird watch during the afternoon, and count shooting stars at night. All of these suggestions for what to do in Cherokee NC are family friendly, and there are many more great attractions that are enjoyable for all ages. Contact the Cherokee Chamber of Commerce for great suggestions of other fun things to do in Cherokee.

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A lot of fun here is priceless. Here are a few adventures you'll need to purchase.

The Fire Mountain Trails are Cherokee’s newest source for big adventure—a multiuse trail system that’s made to mountain bike, hike, or run. The network of trails is more than 10.5 miles total, so there’s plenty of room for everyone to recreate safely, responsibly…and flowy?

That’s right—if you like your trails with a nice flow of features, with fun berms and quick hits of elevation that are manageable and fun, Fire Mountain is made for you. You’ll find tables, rock gardens, and blinds for those who know, along with single-track and wider sections, spots that are smooth and fast, and trails that invite the more technically accomplished with options for those less so. The trailhead is located about 100 yards from the Oconaluftee Indian Village in Cherokee and shares a parking lot. The trails interlace through the nearby Great Smoky Mountains, so you already know the views and terrain will take your breath away, even if your recreation of choice doesn’t!

Is it the flowiest trail in the east? Better than Ridgeline? Check the video or better yet, judge it for yourself during an overnight stay in Cherokee. Trails are free of charge, and open every day, all day.

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The Museum of the Cherokee People, named “One of the top ten native sites east of the Mississippi” by Cowboys & Indians Magazine, is open year round and gives families a unique, fun way to experience the history of the Cherokee people and their beautiful stories. Immerse yourself further by making special reservations for the museum’s “Cherokee Experience.”

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Fish Cherokee

Welcome to the most pristine, well-stocked waters east of the Mississippi. Here, you can fill your livewell or basket with more than just fish. This is where historic cultural stories and experiences enrich every vacation. Learn about the ancient fishing weir, which once served as a significant tool for the Cherokee to provide subsistence for their villages. Grab a multi-day permit at any of our 28 fishing license locations in Cherokee or online at FishCherokee.com .

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Travel back to the 18th century in the Oconaluftee Indian Village and witness the struggle between the Cherokee and early European settlers in “A Time of War” live demonstrations. Participate in crafting, explore replicas of Cherokee homes, and meet the native people. This immersive village experience will surround you with native culture and shed light on all aspects of Cherokee history.

Take a seat beneath the stars and prepare yourself for a Cherokee story. Filled with action, betrayal, love, and suspense, “Unto These Hills” portrays the most authentic reproduction of the Cherokee story ever told, set each evening within the 2,100-seat Cherokee Mountainside Theatre. Feast on the pageantry. Revel in the thrills. Rejoice in the triumph.

It’s difficult to find authentic, handcrafted art in today’s world. Luckily, it has been a Cherokee tradition for centuries. Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc. is the oldest Native American cooperative in the country, with over 350 juried artisans creating traditional Cherokee masks, pottery, baskets, jewelry, and much more. Qualla gives you the chance to hold history in your hands, and even take it home.

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Experience the breathtaking surroundings and long-range views of Sequoyah National Golf Club. Here, our exquisitely beautiful mountain course mixes with ancient Cherokee culture and the most modern golfing experience you can have. For instance, our new Visage GPS tracks your score, provides precise yardage, and lets you order from the golf shop or grill.

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Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort

While in Cherokee, don’t miss your chance to experience one of the finest casinos in the Southeast. Harrah’s features over 21 stories of four-star luxury hotel rooms along with fine dining, the relaxing Mandara Spa, and all of the gaming you can possibly enjoy in the Smokies. Guests also enjoy a full schedule of world-class entertainment in the 3,000-seat event center.

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Event Calendar

Qualla Country Fishing Tournament

Saturday, august 24 to sunday, august 25.

7 Clans Rodeo

Saturday, august 31 to sunday, september 1.

Cherokee Indian Fair

Tuesday, october 1 to saturday, october 5.

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Cities & Regions

Smoky mountains & cherokee.

Tucked in North Carolina’s westernmost corner, you’ll find the storied Great Smoky Mountains. Discover their richness and beauty in the ancestral home of the Cherokee, or let Bryson City or Waynesville serve as home base as you explore trout streams and lush, protected forests.

Look & Feel

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park
• Tail of the Dragon
• Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
• Fontana Dam
• Rafting, Cycling & Fly Fishing

Getting Around

Municipalities, bryson city.

• Cashiers, Dillsboro & Sylva

Maggie Valley

• Waynesville

Getting There

Things to do.

furniture, museums, gaming, film sites, etc.

restaurants, food tours, breweries, wineries, etc.

historic sites, cherokee history, ghosts, etc.

theme & water parks, gems, zoos, aquariums, etc.

parks, beaches and fun for 4-legged visitors

beaches, waterfalls, state & national parks, etc.

camping, hiking, fishing, water sports, etc.

romantic attractions, spas, health & wellness, etc.

golf, motorsports, horseback riding, etc.

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Spent a beautiful Saturday hiking in the mountains in the greatsmokynps. On the way out of the park we passed our first eastern elk for the year. #drivehikerepeat #freshairclub #visitmysmokies #theblueridgers #visitnc #goneoutdoors #blueridgemoments #beanoutsider #nationalparkgeek #wandermore #stayandwonder #staywild #instanature #instawildlife #usinterior #wildernessculture #nikonz7 #nikonglobal #smokymountains #scenicnc #friendsofthesmokies #national_park_photography #np10k #getoutsideandplay #naturenc #gsmnp #splendid_animals #wildplanet

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Epic Things To Do in Cherokee, North Carolina

Cherokee, North Carolina is an amazing destination with unique history and beautiful scenery. In this post, I’ll tell you all about the very best things to do in Cherokee (and what you should skip).

Last summer my sisters and I spent a few days in Cherokee, the headquarters of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. I absolutely loved it, so now I am busy convincing everyone I know to visit.

If you want to learn about the Cherokee – past, present, and future – then this is the perfect weekend getaway for you. Plus, in addition to its cultural and historical charms, the city is tucked into the mountains of North Carolina. It is an excellent access point to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

In this post, I’ll focus on cultural activities – with a healthy dose of nature. But first, let’s talk about Cherokee’s location on the Qualla Boundary.

This post may contain affiliate links and I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see my disclosures .

Cherokee, North Carolina: A Bit of History

What is the qualla boundary.

The Qualla Boundary is the home of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (E.B.C.I.), one of three federally recognized Cherokee tribes. People often call it the Cherokee Indian Reservation, but technically it is not a reservation.

Why not? Well, because the Cherokee purchased the land themselves in the 19th century (more details below). For this reason, the Cherokee own the land outright and the Qualla Boundary is a land trust.

History of the Qualla Boundary

In the first half of the 19th century, the US government began to pressure the Cherokee to leave their ancestral home in the southeastern United States. Despite the Cherokee’s best attempts to assimilate and keep the peace, federal and state governments wanted them gone.

The tension culminated in 1838 in the tragic Trail of Tears. US troops rounded up the Cherokee and marched them to Oklahoma. Over 4,000 people died on the way. The descendants of those who survived make up the Cherokee Nation.

But some Cherokee in North Carolina managed to evade removal thanks to their chief Yonaguska and his adopted son, William Thomas. Since Thomas was white, he was allowed to buy land in North Carolina. Thomas used his own money, and money from his adopted tribe, to purchase land, and then he allowed the Cherokee to stay on it. And so the Qualla Boundary was born.

The US government wasn’t happy, but there was also nothing they could do. The Qualla Cherokee forfeited their membership in the Cherokee Nation, but eventually they reconstituted themselves as the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians.

Today, the E.B.C.I. are proud that they managed to resist removal. And they are eager to share their history and culture with the world.

Best Cultural Things To Do in Cherokee, North Carolina

Cherokee is an amazing place to learn about Cherokee history and culture. Here are my top picks for things to do in Cherokee!

PRO TIP : Note that Cherokee Historical Association offers bundle deals on tickets to three attractions: the Oconaluftee Indian Village, the Museum of the Cherokee Indian, and Unto These Hills . So if you are going to two or three of these, you can save $7-10 dollars by purchasing a bundle ticket !

Oconaluftee Indian Village

When you’re in Cherokee, the Oconaluftee Indian Village is an absolute must. Travel back in time to an 18th-century Cherokee village and learn about Cherokee history in a vivid way! Your visit starts with a tour, and then you can wander around freely.

On the tour you encounter villagers occupied in various traditional tasks, from basket-weaving to woodcarving. Next you have the opportunity to explore reconstructed Cherokee buildings from various time periods.

After your tour, head to the Council House for an informational session about Cherokee government. Or you can go to the Square Grounds to learn about Cherokee culture. My sisters and I loved learning about the seven Cherokee tribes! (These ”lectures” alternate every thirty minutes.)

At noon and 3 pm there is a special show. Depending on the time of year, it will be either a dance show or a reenactment called Time of War . Unfortunately we missed this due to COVID-19 regulations, but the rest of the Indian Village was so amazing that I am sure this is, too!

QUICK FACTS : The Oconaluftee Indian Village is open everyday except Sundays from mid-April to the end of October. Tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for children. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the Cherokee Historical website .

Unto These Hills

The highlight of our visit to Cherokee was Unto These Hills , an outdoor theater production that tells the story of the Cherokee from the earliest times up through the Trail of Tears. The play is presented in the Mountainside Theater, which, as you might expect, is built into the slopes of the mountains.

As you watch Unto These Hills , you have an amazing view of the Smokies on the horizon. Night falls during the evening performance and adds to the charm. Historical figures come to life and you understand the crisis of the Cherokee as they struggled to deal with American incursions into their ancestral land.

You meet Tsali, a young Cherokee man determined to protect his family from white aggression. You meet Cherokee leader Yonaguska (Drowning Bear) and his adopted son, Will Thomas, who used his privileges as a white man to help create the Qualla Boundary. And you leave feeling sad and hopeful at the same time.

QUICK FACTS : Unto These Hills runs from the end of May to the end of August. Shows are typically in the evening, although some matinee options are available. You can book tickets at this link.

PRO TIP : There are a lot of different ticket options. My sisters and I reserved seats, because we wanted to be near the front, but you can also choose general admission. We ended up purchasing the Tsisdu (Rabbit) Package, which gave us admission to the Oconaluftee Indian Village and reserved seating at Unto These Hills .

Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual

Right across the street from the Museum of the Cherokee Indian is Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual . This is your go-to place for authentic Cherokee handicrafts. From baskets to jewelry to wood carvings, you can find it here.

Some of the items at Qualla Arts & Crafts can be expensive, but this is because they are made by real Cherokee craftspeople. When you purchase at Qualla, you can be certain that your money will support actual Cherokee artisans, members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. No rip-offs or cultural appropriation here.

My sisters and I purchased a mini wooden bear sculpture and some earrings. We enjoyed walking around the building and admiring the displays. Even if you can’t afford some of the larger, more detailed work, you can look at it to your heart’s content. There is no cost to enter and look around!

QUICK FACTS : Qualla Arts & Crafts is usually open from 8 to 4:30 every day, except during January and February, when it is closed on Sundays. Note also that they are closed from January 1 to January 14.

PRO TIP : Another great place to go for authentic Cherokee craftsmanship is Traditional Hands . There you can purchase wampum and silver jewelry made by Cherokee master silversmiths.

Museum of the Cherokee Indian

Even if you aren’t a museum person, you should stop by the Museum of the Cherokee Indian . This isn’t an enormous, overwhelming place; you can walk through in an hour or a little more. But it is packed with valuable information and artifacts that will help you understand who the Cherokee are.

The museum offers an interactive account of 12,000 years of Cherokee history. There are videos, life-sized figures, paintings depicting major moments, and, of course, the artifacts themselves. Especially moving are the exhibits about the Trail of Tears and its aftermath.

The Museum is on Tsali Boulevard in the heart of downtown Cherokee. You can’t miss the huge redwood sculpture of Sequoyah out front! (Sequoyah invented the Cherokee writing system – see more about that below.)

QUICK FACTS: The museum is open every day from 9 to 5. Entry is $12 for adults and $7 for children.

Explore Downtown Cherokee

It’s also worth taking some time to wander around downtown Cherokee. Here are some things to do!

Pop into the gift shops. On Tsali Boulevard (across from Qualla Arts & Crafts) you will find a lot of tourist-trap shops full of cheap trinkets. We didn’t buy anything there, since we wanted to purchase authentic Cherokee crafts. But we enjoyed strolling in and out and feeling the summer vibe.

Eat delicious ice cream. There are lots of small ice cream shops in Cherokee – a perfect snack for a summer afternoon!

Take photos with the Cherokee painted bears. All around Cherokee you will spot large bear sculptures. They are part of the Bears Project, which showcases the work of Cherokee artists. There are around 20 in all, so you could spend a fun afternoon just tracking them all down.

Look for street signs in Cherokee. Did you know that the Cherokee language has its own writing system? The Cherokee syllabary was invented by Sequoyah in the early 1800s, and it soon became popular. Today you can see Cherokee written on street signs (along with English) all over the Qualla Boundary.

PRO TIP: If you want to take a cool photo, then go to the “Cherokee Indian Reservation” welcome monument (located on US-441 heading out of Cherokee toward Great Smoky Mountain National Park).

“Welcome, Cherokee Indian Reservation” is written in Cherokee and English on neatly stacked stones, and a fountain and flower beds surround both. The easiest way to find this is to put “Oconaluftee River Trail Trailhead” into Google Maps.

SKIP: Cherokee Bonfire

The Cherokee Bonfire was the one disappointment during our visit. We went expecting the advertised Cherokee legends, but instead we got a man telling us pseudo-science about the origin of the human race.

If he had been telling us Cherokee stories about the origins of the human race, that would have been great. But instead he discussed debunked scientific theories. My sisters and I stayed for about an hour and then gave up.

It was weird because I had read some very good reviews of the bonfire. In the past it seems that the focus actually was on Cherokee legends (as advertised). So maybe we were just unlucky, but if you are pressed for time, I would skip the Cherokee Bonfire.

QUICK FACTS : The bonfire takes place from 7 to 9 on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays during the summer months.

PRO TIP : If you do decide to go, the bonfire is at the southern end of Oconaluftee Island Park, near the intersection of US-441 S (Tsali Boulevard) and Highway 19 (Tsalagi Road). The easiest thing to put into Google Maps is the Cherokee Open Air Market, which is right next to the bonfire location.

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Exploring Nature In & Near Cherokee, North Carolina

Oconaluftee islands park.

Oconaluftee Islands Park is – as you might expect – on an island in the middle of the Oconaluftee River. You park your vehicle on the riverbank and then cross a bridge to get into the park.

There are plenty of trees to offer shade, including a bamboo forest that you can stroll through. But the main attraction is the river. Children (and adults) have fun wading in the water and cooling off on hot days.

In short, Oconaluftee Islands Park is a great place to eat and hang out. Remember that ice cream I mentioned? Grab some to go and eat it at the picnic tables in the park!

Mingo Falls

Do you want to go on a fun but short hike? Mingo Falls is an excellent option! This 120-foot waterfall is one of the tallest and most beautiful in the Appalachians, according to the National Park Service .

I don’t know how Mingo Falls compares to other Appalachian waterfalls, since it’s the only one I have seen. But I can confirm that it is a very scenic place!

The hike itself will only take you about 10 minutes (although it is “moderate” in difficulty, mainly due to being uphill). You will then arrive at a wooden bridge which allows you to admire the waterfall to your heart’s content. My sisters and I spent a while there taking photos and just marveling at nature.

QUICK FACTS : Mingo Falls is about a 15-minute drive from central Cherokee. There’s a parking lot at the beginning of the trail; type “Mingo Falls Access Area” into Google Maps.

Great Smoky Mountain National Park

Cherokee, North Carolina is right on the edge of Great Smoky Mountain National Park. There is so much to do here, but I’ll just mention two of our favorite things. And the coolest part? Everything is free!

The Mountain Farm Museum is an open-air museum just inside Great Smoky Mountain National Park. You can peek into a historic 19th-century log farmhouse and explore a variety of outbuildings. The museum is less than a 10-minute drive from central Cherokee, so it is very convenient!

It’s right behind the Oconaluftee Visitor Center, which has clean bathrooms and maps of the park. Elk are known to appear in the fields beside the center, so be on the lookout.

If you want to get a gorgeous view of the Smokies, then Clingmans Dome is the place to go next (45 minutes from Cherokee). This is the highest mountain in Great Smoky Mountain National Park, and it offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

There is a visitor center there and you can hike up a .5-mile trail to an observation tower, accessed by a circular ramp. The trail is paved, although it is quite steep . But don’t worry: if you don’t feel up to hiking, you can still get excellent views from the parking lot.

IMPORTANT : The access road to Clingmans Dome is closed between December and March due to weather.

Where To Stay in Cherokee, North Carolina

There is no shortage of hotels and motels of all kinds in the vicinity of Cherokee. You can take a look on Booking.com and choose something that suits you.

If you prefer a bit more privacy, then I recommend renting a cabin in the mountains. We booked a small cabin on Vrbo and it was lovely. We were about a 15-minute drive from downtown Cherokee, and we loved the peace and quiet. We even had a hot tub on our front porch!

Note that many properties around Cherokee won’t have wi-fi. This is due to the location in the mountains. But I see this as a good thing: a chance to unplug and truly embrace your travel adventure.

Cherokee, North Carolina: Know Before You Go

I absolutely recommend that you visit Cherokee during the summer . Unto These Hills only runs in the summer, and the Oconaluftee Indian Village is only open through the end of October. Plus, the Clingman’s Dome route closes for the winter for safety reasons.

If you’re heading to Cherokee, definitely follow the Visit Cherokee page on Facebook. They post frequently and let you know about what is open and when.

And finally . . . want to visit another important Cherokee site? Then check out my post on New Echota Historic Site in Calhoun, GA. New Echota is the former capital of the Cherokee Nation and it was at New Echota that a small band of Cherokee signed the treaty that led to the Trail of Tears.

YOU MAY ALSO LOVE:

• Etowah Indian Mounds: Go 1000 Years In The Past
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18 Best & Fun Things To Do In Cherokee (North Carolina)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: February 10, 2021  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Cherokee is a town that is named after the Cherokee people, early settlers who have over 11,000 years of history in this beautiful location.

It is famous for holding many remnants of tribal history and being the primary settlement for many of that ethnic descent.

The town is full to the brim with numerous places to visit that are steeped in memories of the past centuries, natural environments full of endless beauty and diverse flora and fauna, and even great locations for outdoor experiences and sports.

Lots of different kinds of people visit the town, primarily those seeking a more laid-back, rural sort of experience that still doesn’t skimp on amenities and facilities.

Whether you’re coming with family, on a romantic trip, with friends, or by yourself, you’re sure to enjoy your time in this lovely locale.

The question is, what exactly should you do while you’re here?

Here are our choices for the 18 best and fun things to do in Cherokee, North Carolina.

Table of Contents

1. Great Smoky Mountains National Park

anthony heflin / Shutterstock

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Cherokee, NC.

It takes up a whopping 800 square miles of unfiltered natural landscape and has the much-deserved title of being the national park with the most visitors in all of America.

It sits on the Tennessee and North Carolina border and can be easily visited through Cherokee.

There are over 300 miles worth of roads that wind through and around the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, making it a great destination for wide-reaching exploration this weekend.

Driving on these roads is probably the fastest way to learn about all the different historic sites, lookout points with great views, and unique forest features, but entering the park itself is the most ideal way to immerse yourself in its glory.

Biking trails, hiking trails, riding trails, campsites, campgrounds, picnic spots, exhibition areas, and creeks for fishing are all fantastic ways to spend your time at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

The flora and fauna in the park are also incredibly diverse for wildlife watchers.

Most visitors will need more than a day to feel satisfied exploring this large and gorgeous park, so plan accordingly!

2. Mountain Farm Museum

Andrew Tuttle / Shutterstock

If you’re looking for top vacation spots , you can’t’ go wrong with Mountain Farm Museum .

The Mountain Farm Museum is a unique feature of Cherokee, a thriving collection of farm structures and buildings dating back to the 1800s, all frozen in time as they transport you back to the 19th century in a fun experience.

A dirt path leads you into the Mountain Farm Museum, and you’ll soon find yourself surrounded by many different buildings that each offer many things to see.

All built throughout the 1800s, most of them were individually relocated to the current site in the 1950s.

Every single structure here has a unique story to tell, but they all hold relevance to history today.

To begin with, there’s the gorgeous home built by John Davis, originally constructed in 1900 next to Indian Creek.

The house is rustic, made with chestnut logs decorated with notches of dovetail style.

There are also “commercial” types of structures.

A meat house, chicken house, springhouse for refrigeration, and apple house are all brought in from many different mountain farms.

A pair of corncribs are relocated from Thomas Divide, a blacksmith shop has been taken from Cades Cove and still works now, and agricultural practices are showcased for visitors.

The only building not relocated here is the barn, which was technically moved by 180 meters but originated on this site in 1880.

It boasts 16,000 shingles, all hand-split, in its make.

It’s a truly magnificent wonder next to other buildings like a woodshed, a sorghum press for molasses, a hog pen, and an ash hopper used in soapmaking for lye-extraction.

Address: Cherokee, NC 28719, United States

3. Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort

Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort

Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is situated within a beautiful mountain setting, and it might be the town’s best resort and visitor location.

It’s filled with stuff to do and isn’t just a casino alone, boasting a wide range of facilities and friendly, helpful staff.

There are more than a thousand rooms at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort arranged across 21 floors in total.

Shops and restaurants liven up the resort, as well as a gym, spa, two swimming pools, live music, karaoke, and even occasional concerts.

Of course, there’s the titular casino that you can play in, or you can head to one of the golf courses close to the property.

Address: 777 Casino Dr, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States

4. Smoky Mountain Gold & Ruby Mine

Smoky Mountain Gold & Ruby Mine

The Smoky Mountain Gold & Ruby Mine is a fantastic way to follow in the footsteps of the old great prospectors and gold miners from the pioneer days.

It’s one of the places to visit for those with kids, who can spend hours mining for mini-treasures, seeking out gemstones, gold, and more while getting their hands dirty and muddy.

After you’ve found your stones, you can bring them to a location onsite where they can be polished and identified, and then you can bring them home.

You can also opt to have them set into jewelry or turned into something more tangible, or simply purchase a souvenir from the gift shop, which sells gems, jewelry, and panning equipment.

People of all ages can enjoy digging in this North Carolina “mine”!

Address: 971 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States

5. Museum of the Cherokee Indian

ehrlif / Shutterstock

The Museum of the Cherokee Indian is home to artifacts that preserve and showcase more than 13,000 years of native history.

This is home to an exhibit that USA Today rated on its list of the ten greatest Native American Experiences.

But even without that ranking, this is still an amazing place to learn about this rich topic in history, and the museum is one of the fun things to do in Cherokee, NC.

The exhibits at this museum consist of photographs, artifacts, art, video, films, music, animations, holographs, and figures of life-size scale.

For kids, graphic panels and pop-up books allow for easier learning, and computer-generated effects and animations create an entertaining and engaging learning experience.

Apart from its showcases, the museum also offers a wide range of programs, including arts and crafts lessons and a Heritage Trail hike led by native members of the Eastern Band.

There are also workshops that teach you all sorts of native skills, lectures that teach you about the people’s history, and a large store of crafts, books, and clothing.

Address: 589 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States

6. Unto These Hills Cherokee Theatre

Unto These Hills

The Unto These Hills Cherokee Theatre has been providing entertainment to visitors at Mountainside Theatre since 1950.

The local tribe and the drama department of the University of North Carolina come together to tell the tale of the Trail of Tears.

The Trail of Tears involves a historical event that stretched from 1780 to the 21st century.

16,000 Native Americans from the eastern regions were relocated against their will to the Mississippi River’s west.

Traditional music, dance performances, and more are also held at the theatre, and they accompany the production.

The Mountainside Theatre, which seats 2,800, puts on a production of Unto These Hills every night from June to August.

The theatre is an outdoor amphitheater that is located on a lovely hillside, allowing you to watch the show with a forest backdrop.

It’s easy to see why this is one of the town’s tourist attractions!

Address: 564 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States

Looking for more thrill? Why not check out Asheville and Boone? If you do plan the trip, here are some of the best things to do in Asheville, NC , and some top things to do in Boone, NC !

7. Oconaluftee Indian Village

Oconaluftee Indian Village

The Oconaluftee Indian Village is a living museum that allows you to learn a huge amount about the 16th-century lifestyle of the Cherokee people.

A cultural expert brings you through the interactive life museum, teaching you about the community that lived in this part of North Carolina.

The Oconaluftee Indian Village has many options for what to see, all teaching you through lifelike structures that resemble the homes, working areas, and even sacred sites.

You’ll learn about traditional crafts like basket weaving, canoe building, and dancing, and you’ll even get to see a fun blowgun demonstration during war reenactment.

Address: 218 Drama Road, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States

8. Cherokee Rapids Tube and Kayak Rentals

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Not sure what to do in Cherokee?

One of the activities that you shouldn’t miss out on is the Cherokee Rapids Tube and Kayak Rentals .

No visit to this nature-filled historical town in North Carolina is complete without spending time on the delightful Oconaluftee River.

While it’s fair to simply swim in it, you should also try using a kayak or tube!

The grade I and II rapids of the Oconaluftee River are well worth kayaking and boating on.

A two-mile river section gives you plenty of space to float and row.

The team at the Rapids Tube and Kayak Rentals will transport you to the correct destination with a bus and provide you with the necessary kit.

Now all you have to do is float happily along your way!

It’s a lazy and serene way to spend the day, and you can take as long as you like to chill out in the tranquil water, even stopping to swim whenever you like.

Rapids and obstacles pose some challenges, but they’re not dangerous within the correct stretch, so it’s just a bit of excitement.

When you’re done with your hours on the rapids, head out and stop by the candy store and ice-cream shop at the exit.

It’s an awesome family-friendly way to spend your time, though children have to be older than 5.

If you’re not sure what tube sizes to use, staff will be happy to help you!

Address: 1681 Acquoni Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States

9. Mingo Falls

Jill Lang / Shutterstock

Mingo Falls is one of the free things to do in North Carolina.

It’s not technically among Cherokee attractions, but it’s such a staple tourist hotspot and is near enough to the town that most people make it a part of their itinerary when they’re in the area – and you should, too!

It’s just between ten and fifteen minutes away from town and makes for a great photo location.

Close to the famous great Great Smoky Mountain National Park, the Mingo Falls tower more than 120 feet into the air, essentially making them the tallest of those in the southern Appalachian Mountains – and the most impressive.

The Mingo Falls Campground is easily accessible via Big Cove Road if you want to stay overnight or for longer.

To get to Mingo Falls itself, you need to travel from Mingo Falls Campground using Pigeon Creek Trail.

Eventually, you’ll arrive at the waterfall’s viewing platform.

Do note that the trail, despite only being half a mile in length, boasts a rather challenging 160 climbable steps, so plan accordingly.

Still, getting to the peak is wonderful and rewarding!

Address: Big Cove Road Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Cherokee, NC, United States

10. Santa’s Land Fun Park and Zoo

Santa’s Land Fun Park and Zoo

Santa’s Land Fun Park and Zoo is only three miles away from the Great Smoky Mountain National Park’s southern entrance, and despite its name, it’s open from May to October and appeals to people of all ages.

Since 1966, it’s been a bright and exciting location for excited lovers of Christmas and the season of festivities and giving.

There are many activities you can enjoy here, including miniature train rides, sleigh rides, a petting zoo packed with exotic animals like monkeys, kangaroos, and bears, a lake that allows for paddle boating, magic shows, an arcade and game room, and even a Rudolph-led roller coaster.

There’s also a gift shop with delicious funnel cakes, fudge, and snowcones.

To tie up this awesome experience, you can head to a little hideaway that Santa uses, where you can meet Father Christmas himself and get a diploma for “good conduct”!

Who would have guessed that Santa lives in North Carolina?

Address: 571 Wolfetown Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States

11. Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc

Qualla Arts And Crafts Mutual, Inc.

A trip to Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc is one of the top things to do in Cherokee, NC.

East of the Mississippi, it’s the biggest location for authentic crafts and arts of native make.

It’s also the leading – and oldest – Native American Arts Cooperative in the country!

Basically, it’s the most iconic place to head to if you’re seeking genuine traditional native crafts.

The salespeople at Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc are all Cherokee.

They are friendly and very knowledgeable, able to provide you with detailed information about each and every single craft sold.

Baskets, masks, pottery, jars, jewelry, and more are all available, all hand-made, one-of-a-kind, and as authentic as it gets.

The Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc has been open since 1946 and promotes more than 350 artisans and their work.

Each item is tagged with the name of its native artist, and their story is one you can hear and feel.

It’s really magical to be among all these amazing items, etched, carved, woven and made with techniques that date back thousands of years.

Address: 645 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States

If thrill and excitement is what you seek, you’d want to check out Charlotte and Fayetteville! If you do plan the trip, here are some of the best things to do in Charlotte, NC , and some fun things to do in Fayetteville, NC !

12. Sequoyah National Golf Club

Sequoyah National Golf Club

The Sequoyah National Golf Club can be found in Whitter, just about 3 miles outside of the town.

It’s a go-to in North Carolina and its course is aesthetically pleasing, with a decent amount of things to see along the way as you play.

The Sequoyah National Golf Club is designed by the great Robert Trent Jones II, and you may recognize his magnificent talent and style.

Every single hole boasts a little historic twist thanks to the wonders of the land surrounding you. 6,057 yards of land, with bluegrass fairways and bentgrass, offer an enriching experience.

The course at the Sequoyah National Golf Club can be a little complex, with a mix of 5 par 3 and 5 par 5 areas.

The terrain makes things more difficult occasionally, so you’ll want to bring lots of golf balls.

Of course, you can always opt to hit some on the range instead!

Regardless, this golf club is considered one of the nation’s very greatest!

Address: 79 Cahons Rd, Whittier, NC 28789, United States

13. Smokemont Riding Stables

Smokemont Riding Stables

The Smokemont Riding Stables are among the horse-related Cherokee attractions, located inside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park but great enough to deserve their own place!

Situated only five minutes to the north of Cherokee, they offer a wide range of different trails within the national park, with gorgeous scenery on all sides.

Many different horses call the Smokemont Riding Stables, and they’re all well-trained to be easy to ride, with friendly personalities.

They’re great for many different levels of experience with riding, and beginners can learn the ropes here.

Guides are helpful, knowledgeable, and eager to teach!

Most trails range from 2 to 4 hours in duration, many taking you to places along the rushing Oconaluftee River.

There are also shorter and longer rides to suit all preferences.

Kids over five years of age can ride, but if you have younger children with you, you can instead opt for a calming wagon ride!

Address: 135 Smokemont Riding Stables Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States

14. Cherokee Bear Zoo

Cherokee Bear Zoo

The Cherokee Bear Zoo may be quite a niche, but that just makes it one of the most delightful places to visit for its target audience in North Carolina!

The lovely location is packed with many different species of majestic bears, ranging from grizzlies to black bears.

You’ll get to watch them eat, play, and live their daily lives.

Aside from just bears, there are other animals that call this zoo their home.

Tigers and lemurs are among the other options that you can observe.

It’s a lovely, relaxing place where you can get close to animals in a safe and easy way!

Address: 1204 Tsalagi Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States

15. Fire Mountain Trails

Fire Mountain Trails

The Fire Mountain Trails are a newer source for excitement and adventure in the city, and it’s one of the most fun things to do in Cherokee, NC, this weekend.

These trails are multi-use, comprising a network of over 10.5 miles in total where you can run, bike, or hike.

Located pretty near to Oconaluftee Indian Village, the Fire Mountain Trails are popular because of the flow of their different roads, packed with all sorts of features like quick, easy elevation, berms, rock gardens, blinds, tables, and more.

Different sections boast different difficulty levels.

There are single-track roads, areas that are quick and smooth, and more challenging and bumpy trails.

The Fire Mountain Trails incur no fee to use, making them one of the better free things to do in town.

Better yet, the trails may lace through the Great Smoky Mountains in some places, providing beautiful views.

Address: State Rd 1361, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States

16. Sassy Sunflowers Bakery and Cafe

Sassy Sunflowers Bakery and Cafe

Sassy Sunflowers Bakery and Cafe is one of the most popular eateries of its kind in Cherokee, North Carolina.

It boasts a delicious menu packed with all sorts of interesting offerings, ranging from fuller meals to smaller snacks.

Its uniqueness is one that makes it one of the town’s tourist attractions, in a way!

The menu at Sassy Sunflowers Bakery and Cafe is packed with many traditional, common favorites, served with little twists that add healthy value to each bite.

There are also options for vegetarians, vegans, and those eating gluten-free.

Salads and soups serve as great starters while cookies and other desserts add a succulent end to each meal.

Coffees, teas, juices, and smoothies are among the offered drinks.

You can opt to sit on the outdoor seating on a nice day, too!

Address: 1655 Acquoni Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States

Looking for more fun outside Cherokee? Why not check out Raleigh and Wilmington? If you do plan the trip, here are some cool things to do in Raleigh, NC , and some fun things to do in Wilmington, NC !

17. Mingus Mill

Nicholas Lamontanaro / Shutterstock

Mingus Mill is situated close to the Mountain Farm Museum.

It’s one of North Carolina’s most historic locations, surrounded by many other landmarks and beautiful hiking trails.

It dates back to 1886 and offers all sorts of cornmeal for sale in its shop.

Mingus Mill is all about native history, and it’s something natural and lovely that has to be seen for its appeal to be understood.

It’s a water-powered mill that is still in operation, used for grinding corn.

The turbine, sluice, and many other components are still fully workable, so you can see them in action!

Address: Mingus Creek Trail, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States

18. Soco Falls

Looking for some of the most beautiful places in America ?

Soco Falls is one of this town’s most beautiful spots, and a visit is an excellent option for what to do in town.

It’s one of many native waterways, with lush greenery all around and a secluded, intimate location that adds to the cascading water’s magic.

A double waterfall, Soco Falls’ higher waterfall measures 120 feet, and an observation deck can be easily climbed up to if you want to get a nice look at the rush from above.

In the 1700s, the Soco Gap was used by natives as an access point and entrance to their settlements, so there’s plenty of historical value here, too!

Address: US-19, Maggie Valley, NC 28751, United States

Keen to explore North Carolina? Why not check out some of the things to do in Greensboro, NC  & some of the best things to do in Durham, NC ?

Start Planning Your Trip To Cherokee

With a huge range of Cherokee attractions in this North Carolina town, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in deep history, engage in natural attractions and parkland, and enjoy the wonders of this relaxing location.

You’ll love your trip here, and hopefully, this list helps you add the right vacation spots to your itinerary.

Happy travels.

Exploring Oconaluftee Indian Village & Visitor Center in Cherokee NC

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial & privacy policies .

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians  strongly resisted the Indian Removal Act of 1830 , even as many other Native American tribes were forced westward and out of their own established lands.

After the signing of the Treaty of New Echota , thousands of the Cherokee people who walked the Trail of Tears to Oklahoma died. The rest resettled in the “Indian Territory” west of the Mississippi River.

Around 1000 Cherokee stayed in an area of Western North Carolina , their original homeland, under the condition of having to give the Cherokee citizenship and assimilate as US citizens.

This Eastern Band remained in a remote area along the Oconaluftee River, near what is now the Blue Ridge   mountain town of Cherokee NC. 

They purchased 57,000 acres of land, which is now known as the Qualla Boundary. It’s right next to what eventually became Great Smoky Mountains  National Park.  

Today the Qualla Boundary is recognized as a sovereign nation, with its own branches of democratic government. Cherokee schools teach the Cherokee language. (The meaning of oconaluftee is “by the river”.)

Much of the town of Cherokee is centered around telling the story of the Cherokee people, celebrating the culture of the Cherokee , and maintaining a place within their historic homeland for Cherokee people to live.

Read on for our guide to exploring the heart of the area, including the Oconaluftee Indian Village, Oconaluftee Visitor Center, and the best  hiking trails  in Cherokee NC.

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The Oconaluftee Indian Village

288 Drama Rd, Cherokee NC

Phone: 828-497-2111

Hours: April-Oct, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm

Website: Cherokee Historical Association

Operated by the Cherokee Historical Association, the Oconaluftee Indian Village is a living history museum in a replica of a late 18th century Cherokee community.

This was before the Indian Removal Act, the Revolutionary War, and Westward Expansion.

So the attraction paints an engaging portrait of Cherokee life before the people and culture had been forever altered by pioneering colonists and government coercion.

The Oconaluftee Indian Village has traditional Cherokee architecture, including homes, workplaces, and religious sites.

Living history interpreters in the village build canoes, make pottery, carve masks, weave baskets, and do beadwork. In addition to visual arts and crafts , they also perform cultural dances as well as a blowgun demonstration.

Oconaluftee Indian Village entry fees are $25 for adults and $15 for children, but it can also be bundled with other attractions in Cherokee NC.

Those bundled attractions include the outdoor drama “Unto These Hills” and the exceptional Museum of the Cherokee People . The mountain town of Cherokee is also home to the Qualla Arts & Crafts Mutual, an excellent co-op of native artisans. 

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The Oconaluftee Visitor Center

1194 Newfound Gap Road, Cherokee, NC •  Phone: 828-497-1904

Hours: Dec-Feb 9 am–4:30 pm; March & Nov 9 am-5 pm; April-May & Sep-Oct 9 am-6 pm; June-Aug 9 am-7 pm

Website: Official Website

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is located less than five miles from the small town of Cherokee and the Qualla Boundary.

The Oconaluftee Visitor Center is the newest of the park’s four visitor centers (the others are Cades Cove, Clingmans Dome, and Sugarlands), and the first to be constructed since the 1960s.

The Oconaluftee Visitor Center encompasses 6,300 square feet, with a 1,700-square-foot comfort station next to it. It was built to be a model of energy-efficient design, following the LEED Green Building Rating System framework.

The site was carefully chosen to protect the nearby floodplain and wetlands, and drought-resistant native plants were used in the gardens . Innovative building techniques and materials were used throughout its construction.

The museum at the Oconaluftee Visitors Center provides a great history of the area , from the Native Americans and the European settlers to the Civilian Conservation Corps and the creation of the national park.

The center also features the Mountain Farm Museum, which is right on the Oconaluftee River and has several log structures to illustrate the farm life of the early European settlers.

The  Elk at the Oconaluftee Visitor Center can often be seen along the road coming in from the town of Cherokee. Other nearby attractions include the Blue Ridge Parkway , Mingus Mill, and the Smokemont Campground . 

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5 Great Hiking Trails In & Around the Oconaluftee Area

Website: Official Site

The Oconaluftee Visitor Center lies just inside Great Smoky Mountains National Park boundaries, while the Oconaluftee Indian Village is just outside it and the river runs through both the park and Qualla Boundary.

There are several great hiking trails nearby, both in and out of GSMNP, including some first-rate waterfalls , great historic sites, and some deep delves into beautiful forests and mountains.

READ MORE: The 30 Best Waterfalls Near Asheville NC

1. Oconaluftee River Trail

Trailhead: Oconaluftee Visitor Center

Distance: 3 miles

The Oconaluftee River Trail is one of only two trails in Great Smoky Mountains National Park upon which visitors can walk, ride bikes, and take dogs.

The easy trail is 1.5 miles long (3 miles roundtrip), traveling along the river from the visitor center to the outskirts of the mountain town of Cherokee.

The Oconaluftee River Trail has lots of placards along the way to teach hikers about the Cherokee history and culture along the river.

It also passes right by the Mountain Farm Museum, so you can learn about the European settlers’ history, too.

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2. Mingus Creek Trail

Trailhead: Mingus Mill Parking Lot

Distance: 5.8 miles

This is a fairly difficult in-and-out hike, with an elevation gain of 1500+ feet and a total distance of over five miles.

However, it includes a beautiful stream, a historic grist mill, and lots of colorful  North Carolina wildflowers  along the way.

The Mingus Creek Trail reaches about 2.9 miles at Deeplow Gap, where hikers can turn back for a nice day hike.

It’s also possible to continue on the trail for another 2.8 miles and 1500 feet in elevation, all the way to Newton Bald!

READ MORE: The Top 15 Waterfalls Near Brevard NC (Transylvania County)

3. Chasteen Creek Trail

Trailhead: Smokemont Campground via Bradley Fork Trail

Distance: 3.6 miles

The Chasten Creek Trail is great because it’s got some leg-stretching distance to it, but it doesn’t kill those who aren’t super fit because the elevation change is very mild.

The hike is filled with beautiful creeks, a few cascades, and lovely  wildflowers .

The Chasten Creek Trail actually extends another 3.5 miles beyond this hike, terminating at Hughes Ridge. But this is a lot of uphill travel, making it a fairly strenuous 7.1 miles.

For the milder hike, trekkers can just turn back after taking the spur to visit the Chasten Creek Cascades.

READ MORE: The 10 Best Campgrounds in the North Carolina Mountains

4. Smokemont Loop Trail

Distance: 6.5 miles

For those looking for longer, moderately challenging day hikes , the Smokemont Loop Trail is a good option.

Taking the Bradley Fork Trail (on an old roadbed) leads to the Smokemont Loop Trail, about a half-mile after the Chasten Creek Trail intersection. This loop provides fantastic views of the Oconaluftee River Valley .

After leaving the Bradley Fork Trail, the hike gets considerably more challenging, with quite a lot of uphill hiking.

For those who want to add to the adventure, it’s worth taking a detour for an additional mile or so to see the Chasteen Creek Cascades on the Chasteen Creek Trail.

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5. Mingo Falls Trail & Soco Falls Trail

Trailhead: Big Cove Road and US-19, respectively

Distance: Les than 0.5 miles

Less about the hiking and more about the waterfalls , the Mingo Falls Trail and Soco Falls Trail are a short drive away from the Oconaluftee area.

But they’re both within the Qualla Boundary and can easily be combined into one morning or afternoon. 

Mingo Falls is located about 7 miles from Cherokee, and it is accessed via Big Cove Road. The hike to Mingo Falls is less than half a mile, but it is considered moderately difficult.

Still, the 120-foot-tall falls are totally worth the effort.

Soco Falls is about 10 miles from Cherokee, and it is accessed via US-19 N. Visitors park in a small lot right off the road and hike down about a quarter of a mile to a viewing platform. 

Though short, the path is fairly challenging, but there are guide ropes to help maintain balance on slippery mud. Soco Falls is actually one of the fairly rare twin waterfalls , with beautiful adjacent drops. – by Jonathon Engels; lead image of Elk in Cherokee NC by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett

We encourage anyone who loves the Blue Ridge region to learn about the  Leave No Trace   principles of responsible environmental stewardship. 

Stay on marked trails, take only pictures, pack out your trash, and be considerate of others who share the trails and parks you explore. 

Remember that waterfalls and rocky summits can be dangerous. Never try to climb waterfalls or get close to a ledge to get a selfie.

When you're exploring the wilderness, it's better to be safe than to be a statistic!

Jonathon Engels

After visiting North Carolina for the first time, Senior Writer Jonathon Engels and wife Emma spent 2 years exploring Western NC in search of a homestead property. They first lived in Brevard, where Jonathon taught writing at Blue Ridge Community College and extensively explored the Blue Ridge Parkway and Pisgah National Forest. For the last several years they have lived just off the BRP near Elkin, Southwest Virginia, and the NC High Country. The couple also volunteers with the Surry Old Time Fiddlers Convention, the Elkin Valley Trail Association, and Reeves Downtown School of Music.

25 Top Fun Things to Do in Cherokee (NC)

Located in the Oconaluftee River Valley, Cherokee is a small town in North Carolina, near the southern entrance of Great Smoky Mountain National Park. It is named after the early settlers -Cherokee people- who have more than 10,000 years of history in this great location.

It is popular for accommodating the remnants of tribal history and is the base of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. You can learn of the Cherokee tribe, historical sites and interesting cultural spots.

There are outdoor activities to add to your bucket list of things to do in Cherokee, NC, as well as various restaurants, museums and parks.

For a fun vacation, Let’s explore the top things to do in Cherokee, North Carolina.

Top Fun Things to Do in Cherokee

1. appreciate nature at mingo falls.

Mingo Falls is situated on the Cherokee Indian Reservation, very near to Great Smoky Mountain National Park. These Falls are more than 120 feet in height, making them not just the tallest but one of the most interesting waterfalls in the southern Appalachian Mountains.

If you are mobile, you can get to half a mile of the falls while driving along Big Cove Road, which in turn leads to the Mingo Falls Campground. From this point, you would take the Pigeon Creek Trail on foot, which leads you to the base of the waterfalls, where you can get the best views.

Although this trail is not more than a mile in distance, it is steep and has 160 steps for you to climb. Nevertheless, the general conclusion is that seeing the falls are worth the effort

Address: Mingo Falls, Eastern Cherokee Reservation, Cherokee, NC 28719

2. Relish the Moment at Unto These Hills Cherokee Theatre

Since 1950, the Unto These Hills Cherokee Theatre has been in the business of entertaining visitors at Mountainside Theatre. Here, the drama department of the University of North Carolina and the local tribe coalesce to tell of the Trail of Tears tale.

The Trail of Tears started in 1780 and stretched to the 21st century. This historical event involves 16,000 Native Americans who relocated to the Mississippi River’s west from the regions against their will.

From June to August, the Mountainside Theatre, which a 2,800-seat capacity, presents a production of Unto These Hills every night. This theatre features dance performances, traditional music and more, which adds to the production.

Being an outdoor amphitheatre, this theatre is situated on a beautiful hillside, allowing you and other guests to watch the show with a forest stage. It is simple to decipher why this is one of the best Cherokee NC attractions.

3. Enjoy yourself at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park covers more than 800 square miles of exceptionally beautiful natural beauty and variety, and it is the most frequented national park in the US

This park straddles the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, and the best way of seeing a great extent of this park is by setting off on a picturesque drive. There are more than 300 miles of roads leading to various historic sites and viewpoints and passing through miles of lofty forests.

There are several biking and hiking trails, horseback riding trails, numerous campsites and campgrounds and great opportunities or excellent wildlife watching and year-round fishing.

4. Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc

One of the top things you can do in Cherokee is taking a trip to Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc. , Located east of Mississippi; it is the largest spot for authentic native arts and crafts. It is also the chief and oldest Native American Arts Cooperative in America!

Every salesperson at Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc is Cherokee, and they are all knowledgeable and very friendly, giving you information of each sold craft to the very detail. There are masks, jewellery, baskets, jars, pottery and more, all hand-made authentic and unique as it gets.

Opened in 1946, the Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, Inc has been promoting over 350 artisans and their beautiful work. Every item has the name of its native artist tagged to it, such that you can feel and hear their story.

Address: 645 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States

5. See Soco Falls

Are you in search of some of America’s most beautiful places? Then, you have one in Soco Falls. It is one of the most beautiful spots in this town, and a trip here is an awesome option of top things to do.

Surrounded by lush greenery, this native waterway is in a secluded, private location which adds to the gushing water’s magic. Soco Falls is a double waterfall, and it’s higher Fall measures 120 feet; and you can easily climb to its observation deck if you want to capture nice views of the rush from above.

In the 1700s, natives used the Sock Gap as an entrance point to their settlements, so you learn of more historical relevance by visiting here.

Address: US-19, Maggie Valley, NC 28751, United States

6. Cherokee Must-See: Mountain Farm Museum

The Mountain Farm Museum is situated in Great Smoky Mountain National Park, just next to the Oconaluftee Visitor’s Center. This museum contains historic log buildings, which includes a barn, a house, a smokehouse and more.

This collection had must of the structures originally set up in the 19th century, and we are moved to this current site from all parts of the National Park. You can take a walk down the outdoor museum, so as to gain knowledge of the people’s lifestyle 100 years ago – you’ll even see a working blacksmith shop.

When you are done touring the museum, you can as well exercise by hiking on the Mingus Trail and the Oconaluftee Trail – great hiking trails of this area.

This makes what to do in Cherokee, consider an addition to your checklist of things to do in Cherokee, NC.

7. Mingus Mill

Situated near the Mountain Farm Museum is Mingus Mill, one of the most historic locations in North Carolina. It is surrounded by many stunning hiking trails and other landmarks. This site dates back to 1886 and has all kinds of cornmeal placed for sale in its shop.

Being all about native history, Mingus Mill is something intrinsic and ravishing that you need to see to understand it’s appeal. This mill is still in operation and is powered by water to grind corn.

You will see the sluice, turbine and other components which are still in full working conditions.

Address: Mingus Creek Trail, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States

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8. Learn of History at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian

If you are interested in learning of the culture and history of Cherokee, you have that opportunity at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian . This museum displays more than 12,000 years of the people of Cherokee and their history using current computer-generated animation and special effects in bringing about an interesting and entertaining journey into the strides of the Cherokee tribe.

In other to make the mind of young visitor come alive in history, there are special graphic panels and pop-up books as well. The museum also offers a series of annual workshops and seminars where you can learn orthodox basket making and pottery skills. And informative lecture is normally presented as well.

The museum store boasts a vast range of crafts, clothing and books, including academic colouring books for the kids.

Address: 589 Tsali Boulevard, Cherokee NC 28719

9. Hike/Bike Fire Mountain Trails

Fire Mountain Trails are a recent source of adventure and excitement in Cherokee and makes the list of top fun things to do in Cherokee. These trails are a multi-use network of more than 10.5 miles, available for hiking, biking and running.

The Fire Mountain Trails are situated close to Oconaluftee Indian Village and are popular because of the diverse road, boasting of features like easy deviation, rock grades, quick tables, berms, blinds and more.

It is interesting because they all have different difficulty levels. You’ll see single-track roads, with bumpy and challenging trails, and more quick, smooth and easier trails. The Fire Mountain Trails is free to use, and passing through the Great Smoky Mountains makes it fun too!

Address: State Rd 1361, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States

10. Oconaluftee Indian Village

The moment you step into the Oconaluftee Indian Village , you just put away any biased propositions about stuffy museums to acquire more knowledge about the lifestyle of the Cherokee with specifics to the 16th century.

There is an expert in Cherokee culture who take you through this realistic village where you can see Cherokee working areas, homes, and some of their sacred sites. You will have the opportunity to watch traditional basket weaving, cultural dancing, canoe building, and other crafts numerous to mention.

One of the high spots of this visit is watching a repeat of the tribe getting ready for war. This act includes a blowgun demonstration.

This makes what to do in Cherokee, NC, a perfect addition to your list of Cherokee NC attractions to visit.

Address: Oconaluftee Indian Village, 218 Drama Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719

11. Visit the Cherokee Bear Zoo

Though the Cherokee Bear Zoo may be regarded as just a niche, this characteristic makes it one of the most interesting places to visit in all of North Carolina!

This delightful location is full of many different bear species, ranging from black bears to grizzlies. You’ll be able to watch the play, eat and go about their normal daily lives.

There are other animals living in this zoo also; the lemurs, tigers, are amongst the animals you’ll observe here. It is such a calm, relaxing and beautiful place where you can meet animals in a close but easy and safe way!

Address: 1204 Tsalagi Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719, United States

12. See Animals and Have Fun at Santa’s Land Fun Park and Zoo

Santa’s Land Fun Park and Zoo is situated only three miles coming from the southern entrance into Great Smoky Mountain National Park, and has been an awesome delight to generations and families since the year 1966.

It is a seasonal park, active between mid-May and October ending, so you would need to plan your visit around this time. The kids and even adults can get to meet Santa in his mountain hideout through a miniature train or enjoy a Santa’s sleigh ride on the Rudicoaster,

There is also a petting zoo for you to see diverse exotic animal breeds from all parts of the world, and the children would love to play a part in the magic show.

Address: Cherokee, NC 28719, Phone: 828-497-9191

13. Things to Do in Cherokee for Golf Lovers: Sequoyah National Golf Club

The Sequoyah National Golf Club can be located in Whitter, only about 3 miles away from the town. Though not in Cherokee, it is one good thing to do when in town. It is a must-see in North California painting, especially for green lovers.

Designed by Robert Trent Jones II, the Sequoyah National Golf Club is an aesthetically pleasing course that proves the magnificent style and talent of this great designer. For every single hole, there is a historical twist. The surrounding land is a wonder – 6,057 yards, with bentgrass and bluegrass fairways, offering an enhanced experience.

The Sequoyah National Golf Club has a little complex course, with a combination of 5 par 5 and 5 par 3 areas. The terrain makes it a bit more difficult sometimes, so you may want to come with lots of golf balls. You may opt for some range instead!

Nevertheless, this golf club is one of the greatest in America.

Address: 79 Cahons Rd, Whittier, NC 28789, United States

14. Take a Treat at Sassy Sunflowers Bakery and Cafe

One of the most popular bakery/cafes in Cherokee is Sassy Sunflowers. It is an interesting pick for every lover of baking delights and meals and is one of the too things to do in this area.

Sassy Sunflowers Bakery and Cafe offers a lovely menu of delicious snack and meals to visitors. The cafe boasts of an enticing menu that features several traditional favourites with a characteristics “Sassy” twist.

They have many healthy options like gluten-free vegan, salad, soup, and vegetarian options. You may still add their well-rated cookies and desserts. Drinks include juices, coffee, smoothies, and flavoured teas (sodas are absent).

Have a good day enjoying lunch while sitting outside; it’s just cool.

Address: Sassy Sunflowers Bakery and Café, 655 Acquoni Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719

Take to Exploring cities in Alabama, check out our list of things to do in Decatur and things to do in Montgomery   for a fun time.

15. Cruise the Blue Ridge Parkway

The Blue Ridge Parkway provides amazing vistas with lots of scenic views. It is one of the most visited attractions in the National Park Service alongside the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

So, while in Cherokee, ride in this unique route and experience a rollercoaster ride of impressive views. They change with the season, though, so you can admire the wildflowers in the spring.

Just ready yourself, pack a picnic, unwind the windows and take in fresh air from the mountains!

16. One of the Best Things to do in Cherokee: Smokemont Riding Stables

If you are an Equestrian, there is something interesting for you in Cherokee. Smokemont Riding Stables provides horse-riders with happiness by offering various horseback trail rides around the beautiful Great Smoky Mountain National Park. This park is only five minutes north of Cherokee.

They have a handful of well-trained friendly horses in the stables to match all skill levels of riding, even learners get saddled up, and in no time, they are riding already. The majority of these trails take you through fantastic landscapes along the Oconaluftee River banks, and the time duration varies from two to four hours.

The rides are available for children too, but they have to be from 5 years and above to enjoy that. However, families with younger kids can go for a moderate wagon rode as an option.

This makes what to do in Cherokee for some exploration time, consider an addition to your list of Cherokee NC attractions to visit.

Address: Smokemont Riding Stables, 135 Smokemont Riding Stable Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719

17. Purchase Local Crafts at Bearmeats Indian Den

Bearmeat’s Indian Den was established with the aim of offering only the best local arts and crafts made by the local people of Cherokee in their homes. They also organize several weekends of “practicable” demonstrations during both summer and winter. These activities feature some local artists.

Bearmeats Indian Den has their lovely shop open at any time of the year, so you are sure to get some stuff. Summer hours are 9 am – 6 pm, while winter hours are 9 am – 5 pm.

Address: 4210 Wolfetown Rd, Cherokee, NC 28719-8741

18. Dig out Precious Stones at Smokey Mountain Gold and Ruby Mine

Smokey Mountain Gold and Ruby Mine present you with an opportunity to hit it hard by following the footsteps of gold miners who early settlers of this area. Your children will have hours of excitement and fun as they dig out for gemstones or gold – and freely get dirty and wet.

It’s very easy and fun because whatever is required to find your own precious stones is available, and you can get your gemstones to be polished on site after identification. You know what it means having an enduring reminder of your Cherokee trip – you can take home your very own gemstones fixed into a lovely jewellery item.

There has also an on-site where you can purchase a variety of jewellery, panning equipment and jewellery.

Address: Smokey Mountain Gold and Ruby Mine, Highway 441 North, Cherokee, NC 28719

19. Take a Trip to Cherokee Veterans Park

The Cherokee Veterans Park occupies 149 acres in northeast Cherokee County. It is one of the biggest parks in the park system of the county and a visit here makes one of the top fun things to do in Cherokee, NC.

This park has a monument devoted to the sacrifice and service of all those who served America in the military. The design keystone is a big United States Flag with plaques and granite walls honouring the names and mottos for each uniformed branch.

Amenities here include one Artificial Turf Athletic Field, two Natural Grass Athletic Fields, two Tennis Courts, two Pickleball Courts, a Pavilion, Playground, Skate Park, a large open meadow, concessions and restrooms.

Ther are possible future park additions which would include a large community pavilion, baseball/softball complex, a recreation centre, additional tennis and pickleball courts,

Address: Us-441, Cherokee, NC 28719

20. Take a Ride in Cherokee Transit

At first, Cherokee Transit started transportation services in 1997, mainly for medical appointments. Then in 2000, the regular, public routes on the Qualla Boundary – Cherokee Indian Reservation commenced with crosstown Cherokee loop routes added in 2004.

You would need to enjoy this public transportation as it promotes Cherokelmmunal sharing and adequately fits the region’s need. Drivers of Cherokee Transit are well trained to provide safe, reliable transportation to passengers.

Address: Hwy. 441 North, Cherokee, NC

21. Take Some Chills at Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort

Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is snuggled in an adorable mountain setting and is the perfect base for exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. It makes the list of top things to do in Cherokee.

This resort contains more than a thousand guest rooms occupying over 21 floors, with a proud selection of impressive facilities to ensure you have a relaxing stay. Aside from enjoying the gaming machines and popular table in the casino, there are two golf courses in this vicinity.

You can also have a treatment session at the spa, relax beside the outdoor or indoor swimming pools or exercise in the on-site gym. There are even regular concerts hosted by this resort hotel involving big-name musicians

Address: Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, 777 Casino Drive, Cherokee, NC 28719

22. Shop at Saunooke Village

Located on the Cherokee Indian Reservation, Saunooke Village is a special shopping village in Cherokee. It makes the list of top things to do here in the city.

There is interesting stuff to purchase from the shopping village, including Cherokee Indian arts and crafts, homemade candy and even other structures housing restaurants, and more.

You can also buy fresh ground cornmeal at the water mill in Saunooke Village.

Address: Big Cove Road, Cherokee, NC

23. Take Cherokee Rapids Tube Rental

Your vacation in Cherokee will not be complete if you don’t spend a few hours of your time staying afloat in the gorgeous Oconaluftee River and also swimming in its natural pools as you advance. If you are wondering about some fun things to do with your family in Cherokee, renting rapids tubes to spend some river time is definitely one.

This family-fun activity accommodates everyone, including children (from five years and above). It is great means of spending some take admiring the breathtaking scenery on the river borders. Join others in floating over the gentle grade I/II rapids by a 2-mile section of the river.

It is simple, park your car close to the Little u Restaurant, and the Cherokee Rapids team will transport you by bus upstream, where they’ll get you kitted with a lifejacket and tube. Floating back downstream is yours to enjoy; you can even stop to relax and swim along the way. Just take your time!

Address: 1681 Acquoni Rd, Cherokee, NC

24. End of the Trial Riding Stables

Spend some fun time with your pals riding horses in End of the Trail Riding Stables while in Cherokee, NC. 

It is only about 5 miles outside of Cherokee, and getting there from Downtown Cherokee takes only 15 to 20 minutes.

Whether you are an absolute beginner or an expert, this attraction is a place for you. You do not need any form of experience before riding the horses here.

Particularly if you’re a rookie, they have kind, well-trained personnel on standby to hold your hands and guide you on what to do. 

End of the Trail Riding Stables offers one-hour guided trail rides with breathtaking views of the mountains. In addition, the horses at the facility are skilled and knowledgeable about the trail.

This area offers an exceptional hiking opportunity to take in the stunning natural environment. You will certainly experience the best time at the end of the Trail Riding Stables, so don’t miss out!

Address :  Goodlow Bark, 103 Guy Bark Rd. Cherokee, N C 28719 , USA

25. Cherokee Rose

Before visiting other parts of Cherokee, step into Cherokee rose, an in-store shopping center, to pick up some intriguing tourist souvenirs.

It’s a great little gift shop where you can buy handmade things like jewelry, leather goods, moccasins, and other souvenirs.

They offer a good variety of reasonably priced tourist souvenirs manufactured locally and with authenticity for sale.

Despite its small size, the facility is spotless and well-organized. Additionally, the owner and employees of this facility are incredibly welcoming and helpful. 

Address : 440 Winding Way Bryson City, NC, 28713-5306 , USA

Map of The Top Fun Things to Do in Cherokee

To get around easily during your visit, here is a map of the top fun things to do in Cherokee, with markers of  Cherokee NC attractions.

Plan to explore other cites of Nort Carolina, here are the top things to do in Charlotte and things to do in Raleigh for fun exploration.

Plan Your Trip To Cherokee

Cherokee is a town that offers plenty of attractions in North Carolina. Youll have the chance to soak up yourself in history, see natural attractions, museums, parkland, and more.

Why not start preparations towards enjoying the marvels of the comfortable location? This piece can be of great help in adding the right vacation spots to your program.

Create your bucket list of things to do in Cherokee, You’d definitely love your trip here.

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106 North Topsail Drive Surf City, NC 28445 (910) 515-9751 ecologicalmarineadventures.com

NC Baseball Museum — Wilson

Baseball fans of all ages can visit the 1938 Fleming Stadium to get a lesson in North Carolina baseball’s past and present. With around 75 minor league teams, our state has a long relationship with America’s pastime. Packed into the 3,000-square-foot museum is a growing collection of some 6,000 baseball artifacts ranging from the familiar, like cards, jerseys, and bats, to quirky items — like a bag of peanuts grown on pitcher Gaylord Perry’s Martin County farm. That’s the beauty of a museum dedicated to an ever-changing sport, says Curator Marshall Lamm: “There’s always going to be more baseball.”

300 Stadium Street Southwest Wilson, NC 27893 (252) 296-3048 ncbaseballmuseum.com

Weymouth Center for the Arts and Humanities — Southern Pines

The Moore County home of American novelist James Boyd still functions as a creative hub and community resource through the Weymouth Center for the Arts and Humanities — just as his family intended 100 years ago. Today, the center nurtures writers through its writers-in-residence program, poetry readings, and youth workshops. And visitors simply looking for inspiration can find it in Weymouth’s gardens, which are open from dawn to dusk, or the North Carolina Literary Hall of Fame — Boyd’s old study — while browsing pictures, biographies, and books from literary giants such as O. Henry, Pauli Murray, and Maya Angelou. So, do as the Boyds did: Spread out your picnic blanket, find a comfy spot, and get to writing.

555 East Connecticut Avenue Southern Pines, NC 28388 (910) 692-6261 weymouthcenter.org

The Museum of the Cherokee Indian teaches visitors about the Trail of Tears, the forced removal of members of the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Creek, and Seminole tribes from their homelands. photograph by Jack Sorokin

Museum of the Cherokee Indian — Cherokee

After being greeted by a 20-foottall wooden sculpture of Sequoyah, the creator of the Cherokee syllabary, visitors at the Museum of the Cherokee Indian embark on a journey through the history of a proud nation. “There are many of us that may have gone to natural history museums and seen dioramas of Native people along with dinosaurs and rocks,” says Executive Director Shana Bushyhead Condill. “When our permanent exhibit was created, it was definitely innovative in that it was a story that wasn’t just stuck in time.” The main exhibit details 13,000 years of Cherokee history in the southern Appalachian Mountains, beginning with a creation story — how the Water Spider brought fire to earth — and carrying through the early 20th century. The museum uses holograms, life-size figures, archaeological artifacts, self-guided audio tours, and live artisans to demonstrate Cherokee traditions, arts, and storytelling. Condill wants visitors to walk away knowing that Native people are more than just the past: “We are still here, still thriving, still creating, and innovating.”

589 Tsali Boulevard Cherokee, NC 28719 (828) 497-3481 cherokeemuseum.com

Kristin Jorgensen teaches cooks-in-training how to create delicious meals at The Barn in Cullowhee. photograph by CHELSEA LANE PHOTOGRAPHY

HOME ECONOMICS

The barn — cullowhee.

A class at The Barn often involves owner and instructor Kristin Jorgensen taking her cooks-in-training to the backyard to forage for edible mushrooms and wild greens to add to bowls of chicken and dumplings and hearty Tuscan dishes. Surrounded by blackberry bushes, apple trees, and trout-filled creeks, the historic barn, renovated by Jorgensen and her grandparents, is located down the road from Lake Glenville and hosts the four-hour cooking classes. Students can learn how to prepare homemade pasta, piecrusts, and roasted chicken at the kitchen island, then gather ’round The Barn’s dining room table or underneath a big oak tree to enjoy their creations. With help from nearby farms and local bakers like Sunburst Trout Farms in Waynesville, Winding Stair Farm in Franklin, and OWL Bakery in Asheville, Jorgensen’s public and private classes reinforce the mantra that cooking great food is simple when you start with good ingredients.

438 Windover Drive Cullowhee, NC 28723 (707) 933-6207 thebarnnc.com

The Forge — Greensboro

Whether you’re a skilled craftsperson or a dedicated hobbyist, anyone who enjoys creating can become a member at The Forge and use the space all year long. photograph by Joey Seawell

Surrounded by the sounds of sizzling sparks and whirring saws, folks taking classes at The Forge will learn hands-on skills using new machinery and tools. Founded in 2013, the makerspace occupies an old livery stable and offers project-oriented classes in wood turning, welding, pottery, and 3D printing. Memberships, class fees, and donations help support The Forge’s nonprofit work, which includes workshops for Greensboro youth and skill development for homeless and low-income community members. “As a tenet of our makerspace, we think that diversity is a prerequisite to creativity,” says former Executive Director Joe Rotondi. Collaborating with people of different skill sets, age groups, and socioeconomic backgrounds encourages students to embrace new perspectives and feed their creative curiosity.

Editor’s Note: Dr. Lonnie Cockerham is the current Executive Director.

219 West Lewis Street Greensboro, NC 27406 (336) 252-5331 forgegreensboro.org

Edgewood Cottage — Blowing Rock

Each summer at Edgewood Cottage in Blowing Rock, High Country artists create and display artwork at the home of the late 19th- and early 20th-century painter Elliott Daingerfield. In 2009, the quaint wooden cabin was transformed into a gallery space, with Daingerfield’s original four fireplaces at the center and the porch serving as a studio for painters, fiber artists, and woodworkers. The history of Edgewood Cottage as a space for cultivating new and emerging artists goes back to 1895, when Daingerfield began teaching the “Paintin’ Ladies,” students from the Philadelphia School of Design for Women, during the summer. “The whole concept of sharing knowledge, mentoring, teaching, and learning was really alive before we started this program,” says Kadie Dean, chair of the artists-in-residence program. During the remaining months of the year, Edgewood Cottage is used as a museum and exhibition space.

115 Ginny Stevens Lane Blowing Rock, NC 28605 artistsatedgewood.org

North Carolina Music Hall of Fame — Kannapolis

Walking through the North Carolina Music Hall of Fame is like entering a doorway to performances by music pioneers and current stars. The hall features one of Elizabeth Cotten’s banjos, 9th Wonder’s DJ equipment, Jim Lauderdale’s 2002 Grammy Award, and more artifacts. From bluegrass and folk to gospel and pop, our state has made a name for itself in American music history: Each year, the museum inducts roughly 10 North Carolina-related artists and collaborates with some of them to create an exhibit, which is revealed at the annual induction ceremony in October. Executive Director Veronica Cordle says that the museum is an important reminder that you can come from anywhere — including a small town in North Carolina — and follow your dreams.

600 Dale Earnhardt Boulevard Kannapolis, NC 28081 (704) 934-2320 northcarolinamusichalloffame.org

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Editors’ Picks

The North Carolina State Toast

In 1957, the General Assembly adopted a piece by Leonora Martin and Mary Burke Kerr as our official state toast. Today, 120 years after it was written, those stirring words continue to conjure images of life in North Carolina.

4 Recipes for Your Farmers Market Haul

Whether you stop for foraged finds in the mountains, produce in the Piedmont, or fresh catch on the coast, farmers markets across our state proudly display the fruits of late-summer labor in North Carolina.

5 Ways to Explore Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge

Less than 20 miles from the bustle of the Outer Banks, you can take a walk on the wild side in Dare County’s mainland.

Lassie’s Showstopping Slide

In 1966, America’s favorite collie proved herself to be one cool customer as she went down Sliding Rock for an episode of one of the country’s most beloved TV shows.

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North Carolina Homeschool-ology

Field Trips Around NC

Homeschool field trips around north carolina.

Field trips with a group or just your family are a memorable way to learn in North Carolina. Homeschoolers often can get group discounts or special rates. Be sure to ask about a teacher’s discount and take your Homeschool verification with you!

Feel free to share your favorite NC Field Trips with us here in the comments, or message me with field trips that you want me to include here and I will add a link!

Places to Visit…People to See…Things to Do

Field Trip Ideas

Places to see around nc.

• Alamance - Alamance Battleground

Field Trips are open to K-12 students and teachers. Each Field Trip can accommodate up to 25 students. Click the link to request a date and time, and an Apple Specialist will call back to confirm with you. Field Trips last 60 to 90 minutes. Please arrive 15 minutes early to allow for setup. To schedule more time, contact a Specialist at your local Apple Store. To cancel, please contact your Apple Store at least three days in advance.

Art, classes and field trips. Call 828-433-7000 or EMAIL  for information. Visit their website for class schedules

Pine Knoll Shores

Visits - changing exhibitions, folk art, art classes

Homeschool classes for K-12, visits, tech club, butterfly habitat, etc.

Special Group Rates Available - Contact Us for Reservations by phone at (828) 488-2587. Located immediately outside the entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park Q Deep Creek camping area. Look for the gazebo on the left before entering the park.

Located on beautiful Lake Hiwassee just 11 miles from Murphy NC. The lake is a world class fishing destination and home to the second largest WORLD RECORD striped bass ever caught in fresh water.  Located in the Nantahala National Forest this homeschool field trip can include fishing, boating, hiking in nature or other fun activities with pontoon boat rentals & pedal boat rentals. Reservations for pontoon boat rentals are suggested but not required. For more information call (828) 837-2863 or EMAIL HERE

Teen Science Cafe is at 415 South Madison Street, Whiteville, NC 28472, for more information about programs, call 910-914-4185 or EMAIL .

Fire fighting equipment from the 1800 to 1900's - other exhibits

North Carolina's First Capitol

• Dare - NC Aquarium

Visit the website to see all this facility offers.  Level up Fitness is located at 117 - F Liberty Drive in Thomasville, NC 27360 EMAIL or call 336 - 781 - 6512 for more information about homeschool group rates & scheduling a field trip visit.

Site of confederate surrender of the southern armies of Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas.

Historic Moravian settlement - restored exhibits and rein-actors.

• Forsyth - Children's Museum

Art Gallery - revolving exhibits

An architectural wonder and fun trip!

Excellent homeschool activities for multiple ages

History, Art - monthly salons and other events.

Great Historical site - special events in the fall, at Christmas, and spring days - homeschool days and summer activities.

American Art - lot of educational programs - super homeschool friendly

Lots of hands-on exhibits

• Forsyth - SE Center for Contemporary Art

Children's shows.

Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine - visit the website for group information & prices Admission is free. Closed Jan. & Feb. Open, March - November from 9am - 5 PM ,7 days a week. Closed Thanksgiving. Located at 6771 Sylva Road in Franklin, North Carolina 28734. Call 828-369-5271 or  EMAIL

Founded in 1902 by Dr. Charlotte Hawkins Brown, Palmer Memorial Institute transformed the lives of more than 2,000 African American students. Today, the campus provides the setting where visitors can explore this unique environment where boys and girls lived and learned during the greater part of the 20th century. The museum links Dr. Brown and Palmer Memorial Institute to the larger themes of African American history, women's history, social history, and education, emphasizing the contributions African Americans made in North Carolina.

Groups of 10 or more $11.50 +tax per person. Schedule 2 weeks in advance.

Public skating schedule and pricing for groups of 10 or more.

Student field trips and tours - homeschool friendly visit!

Open November - March, & using one of the most advanced snow-making systems in the Southeast on 16 lighted slopes, 5 lifts including 3 moving carpet lifts, and 4,000 sets of snow sports equipment. Cataloochee offers a PSIA AASI member Snowsports School for all ages and abilities and Children’s Learning Center for kids ages 4-12. Groups of 15 or more receive free beginner lessons when renting equipment. A cozy fireplace, restaurant and lounge. A day at Tube World brings memories of childhood sled rides rushing back. Tube World opens mid Dec. & Kids of all ages enjoy tubing, perfect for a family or group outing. No walking up; step on our carpet lift & let it do the work. Must be 42 inches tall. Only Tube World equipment may be used. No two-person tubing allowed. Please remember tubing is on a first come basis. Sessions are one hour and 45 minutes long & run every two hours. Homeschoolers get special discounted rates for day skiing. See "Homeschool Days" on the website for details.  Located at 1080 Ski Lodge Road,  Maggie Valley,  North Carolina   28751 you can call  (828) 926-0285 or Toll Free 1- 800 - 768 - 0285  or EMAIL HERE. 

A wonderful Homeschool field trip - tak e a hike on the 3.37-mile trail to The Pinnacle. The trail follows an old logging road and reaching the actual Pinnacle requires locating and following the narrow trail through the rhododendron bushes at what appears to be the end of the line - but keep going & the short, rocky trail leads to the actual Pinnacle, which offers panoramic views of Sylva and the Scotts Creek valley. Open year round on Fisher Creek Road in Sylva, North Carolina 28779. Call for more details at 800-962-1911 or EMAIL

According to the Governor's Office, North Carolina has more residents of Scottish heritage than any other state in the union (Alabama is second, with Georgia being third). North Carolina even has more Scots than Scotland. The mountains of western North Carolina are home to many descendants of Scots Irish migrants. Franklin is centrally located between two of the largest and most prestigious gatherings of Scottish families in North America -- the Grandfather Mountain Highland Games in Linville, NC and the Stone Mountain Highland Games and Gathering of the Clans in Stone Mountain, GA.

Call for group information: (828) 524-7472 Located at 86 E Main St. Franklin, NC, 28734. Museum Hours are Tuesday - Saturday 10 AM - 4 PM, Closed Sunday & Monday. Admission Fees: Adult $4.00 plus tax & 12 and under $2.00 plus tax Children 6 & under are free.

Secular Homeschool group for teens - events and activities group.

Latta Nature Center always has great programs (some free & some have a small fee)  available for home educated kids to benefit from - hiking, learning about reptiles and other animals. Check out their page on "Meetups" to see what is on the homeschool schedule that is FREE.

Join our group to stay updated on all the current homeschool programs happening at Latta Plantation Nature Center in Huntersville, NC. We'll share free and low-cost programs for children and families ages 2 and up. We offer science classes, hiking clubs, outdoor adventure, nature exploration, summer day camp and more! Be sure to call the nature center at 704-875-1391 to sign up for any programs you want to attend.

The NASCAR Hall of Fame located in Charlotte North Carolina is revving up its education programming by offering Home School Days on select Tuesdays throughout the year. On Sept. 18, join us for a day filled with NASCAR-themed workshops. Our education team will be on hand to make sure activities—and state and national learning standards—stay on track. Also special teacher days & field trips for groups.

Homeschool groups of 10 or more get group rates of $10-14 per person (1 free chaperone per 15 students)  depending on programs you pick - field trips, programs STEM Days, train rides - it doesn't get any better than this!

Free group tours or self guided tours - Raleigh

Info here for three different locations and events - Raleigh, Prairie Ridge and Whiteville, NC

Homeschool Day in the Spring and Teacher Appreciation Day in the Summer...other special events throughout the year.

1st Sunday is Free day for New Hanover residents

NC Aquarium at Fort Fisher in Kure Beach NC - North Carolina home-school groups, are admitted free if registered in advance. For more information regarding Home School visits, please contact the Registrar at [email protected] or call 910 - 772-0542.

$8 per jumper through the New Hanover County School Year for homeschoolers (June 7th for 2018). For Groups of 10+ they will work with homeschool groups on using their party area and bringing in your own refreshments etc. You need to call Justin Hosler at 940-232-5266 for details or to work out specials.

FREE admission for NC Home Schools if your NC Home School is registered with the State. Admission is free for students K-12 and one educator. Additional adults and children pay the regular admission rate as posted at the gate. To register (15 days notice) call 336-879-7700 or 1-800-488-0444 x7700. Home Schools must make individual reservations, not as a group, may call beginning August 22, 2016 to complete a reservation and must comply to the same policies as any other NC School.

Many different science programs - several permanent exhibits and planetarium shows.

Special rates for homeschool day in the spring - train and turntable ride included in admission

Homeschool Fall & Spring dates, field trips and educational programs.

Free (except for special events) 308 Horne Creek Farm Road, Pinnacle, N.C. 27043. Call 336-325-2298 or email [email protected]

A favorite activity in the area for adults and children. Professional gem stone consultation available onsite. Rain or shine, as we have a covered sluice. No entrance fee. Professional gem stone evaluation and cutting is available onsite through our gemologist, Gene Elliott. Gene has received local and national recognition for his honesty, fairness and expert craftsmanship.

Nantahala Gorge Ruby Mine Hours & Seasons: Mid May - mid October Located at 11900 US Hwy. 19/74 West in Bryson City, NC 28713. Call for group information at (828) 488-3854

TACKS is a casual group for Triad Area, Catholic families who want to connect with like-minded friends and do great family activities. You can post things here that are family friendly that are coming up. AND you should indicate if you're planning on going, so people can jump on the bandwagon if they'd like to join you. So, it's a place to find local opportunities and a place to create "planned" or last minute outings. Note: A lot of us are home schoolers, so some of the posts may take an educational/field trip bent, but anyone is invited. New members should PM me with a request to tell me how they are connected to this area/community so we don't get any "creepers".

Special homeschool days and rates for homeschool groups!

Educational Programs for groups available - other special events available

FREE Admission except for special exhibits - Located at 2110 Blue Ridge Road in Raleigh NC 27067, the museum has a cafe' a park/outdoor art area and wonderful exhibits. For information visit the website or call  (919) 839-6262

FREE - Located at 5 East Edenton Street in Raleigh, North Carolina 27601, open Monday–Saturday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sunday: Noon to 5:00 p.m. , Call 919-807-7900 with Questions.

FREE entry (except for special exhibits) Located at 11 West Jones Street in Raleigh, NC 27601  Call (919) 707 - 9800 , Open Monday—Saturday: 9am—5pm and Sunday, noon—5pm

September - November - miles of corn maze, lots of activities -  groups must include at least 20 paying participants, teacher & assistant are free. Call 919- 779-4765 with questions, or schedule your trip online at the website.

Group discounts for homeschool trips: Located at 201 East Hargett Street, Raleigh, NC 27601, Call: 919-834-4040

Schools in Holly Springs and Cary - 30 day free trial. Also (Greensboro Classes) Instruction in medieval combat, Fencing, Sword/Stage Combat. Lectures, or combat demonstration from their knights for special events, schools, or festivals in combat and duels from the crusades, hundred years war, Renaissance, or any combination thereof, suitable for all ages. Combat Seminars in North Carolina - one-day seminar around sword, rapier, pike, sword & shield, or any other weapon we teach. Group rates are available for organizations. Equipment sales - they sell authentic armor, weapons, clothing and equipment.

Skiing & Snowboarding - Reserve 1 week ahead of time. Call or  EMAIL to ask pricing for Homeschool Days t or call 828-295-9311 to make reservations & let them know amount of people in your group, level of lessons etc.

Admission Costs Adults & Children: $5 plus tax, museum members and children three & under are FREE. Open Tuesday-Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sunday, 1 to 4 p.m. 224 Nash Street E, Wilson NC. for questions call 252- 291-5113.

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North Carolina Field Trips

Field trips are a great way to reboot a bad homeschooling week, get out of the house when everyone has cabin fever, and learn about your local area. Before heading out, check out Jeanne's tips for improving homeschool field trips .

Our listing of North Carolina field trips for homeschoolers is ordered alphabetically by city. If you would like to submit a North Carolina field trip destination, you may do so using the red button above.

Fogleman Farms is a third-generation farm located in Alamance County. Fogleman Farms is a North Carolina tobacco and produce farm turned small grain farm in the early 1980’s. Since then they have expanded back into produce and the fall ornamental business. In 2023 they opened the farm to the public for a true "you pick" pumpkin experience offering hayrides, a corn maze, a flower maze, a farm-themed playground and a nature walk.

Fogleman Farms website

( Update this listing )

Enjoy the gifts of nature surrounded by the remnants of a once mighty range of peaks. Recreation is plentiful in and around the waters of Lake Tillery and the Yadkin / Pee Dee River. Fishing and boating are popular pastimes. Nature lovers can pick from miles of trails to travel on foot or horseback. And for those who want to stay and take it all in, cabins and camping are available. There's really only one word to describe Morrow Mountain State Park: variety.

Morrow Mountain State Park website

Imagine relaxing in a cove, listening to the sounds of water rippling. Then, you feel a firm tug on your fishing line. It's going to be a big one! Picture the surface of the lake glistening, water spraying your face, the boat motor ahead roaring. Suddenly, your skis give way -- a splash landing! Hear the laughter of children, smell burgers roasting over a charcoal fire, feel a breeze blowing through the campground.

Jordan Lake State Recreation Area website

Put on your hiking boots, pack a picnic lunch, and spend a great day at the beautiful source of Asheville's water, the North Fork or the Mills River Water Treatment Plants. We give a tour of the treatment plant, describe the water treatment process, water distribution, and the causes and treatment of water pollution. There is so much to learn that your students may want to participate in the tour multiple times.

City of Asheville Water Treatment Plants website

The Asheville Art Museum annually presents an exciting, inviting and active schedule of exhibitions and public programs based on its permanent collection of 20th and 21st century American art. Any visit will also include experiences with works of significance to Western North Carolina's cultural heritage including Studio Craft, Black Mountain College and Cherokee artists. Special exhibitions feature renowned regional and national artists and explore issues of enduring interest. The Museum also offers a wide array of innovative, inspiring and entertaining educational programs for people of all ages.

Asheville Art Museum website

The Blue Ridge Parkway was designed as a recreational motor road, connecting Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah National park. It is also a cross-section of Appalachian mountain history. It encompasses some of the oldest settlements of both pre-historic and early European settlement.

Blue Ridge Parkway website

Fort Macon offers public access to the surf, sun and sand of the Crystal Coast--as well as a historic landmark. Located at the eastern end of Bogue Banks, one of a series of barrier islands along the North Carolina coast, the park is surrounded on three sides by water--the Atlantic Ocean, Beaufort Inlet and Bogue Sound. This area of undisturbed natural beauty is the perfect place to explore salt marches and estuaries vital to the coastal ecosystem

Fort Macon State Park website

Island Express Ferry Service is the ONLY ferry service out of Beaufort and Harkers Island, NC that is authorized by the National Park Service to drop passengers off at Shackleford Banks and Cape Lookout. Shackleford Banks, famous for the wild banker horses that roam its shores, is a pristine island with one of the best shelling beaches in North Carolina. Enjoy the beauty and tranquility of Cape Lookout, famous for the Cape Lookout Lighthouse Station. While you are there, take time to bird watch, swim in the ocean, climb the lighthouse, or ride our famous Beach Shuttle.

Island Express Ferry Service website

The M/V Crystal Coast Lady is a 100' All Aluminum Motor Yacht that is USCG Certified and inspected for up to 265 Passengers! The Lady has full ABC permits, a galley on each deck, and 4 restrooms on board. Tours run 7 days a week and include: 1/2 Day Family Fishing, Shackleford Banks Wild Pony and Dolphin Scenic Tours, Historic Beaufort Waterfront Cruises, Brunch, Lunch and Sunset Dinner Buffets, Wednesday Wine Tasting Cruises, and Dolphin Watches! The Lady also specializes in unique wedding packages, special events and private charters.

Crystal Coast Lady Cruises website

BRAHM provides cultural enrichment to the High Country communities by promoting the Arts and Southern Appalachian heritage & history through educational programs, exhibitions, activities, and permanent collections. Our rotating exhibitions change three times a year, so there's always something new to discover. You can come to visit your favorite artworks and artifacts from the permanent collection. Free admission, open Tuesdays - Saturdays 11:00 am - 4:00 pm.

Blowing Rock Art & History Museum website

High Gravity Adventures is an exhilarating field trip combining outdoor adventure and hands-on learning in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. Ages 7+ can experience the High Altitude Zip Line Tour, our 4-story Blue Ridge Adventure Park, and the screaming three-person Giant Swing. Young adventurers ages 4+ can explore our kid-friendly Foothills Zip Line Park for age-appropriate adventure. Build confidence and promote problem-solving, healthy risk-taking, and personal achievement with an unforgettable and enriching day of active learning at High Gravity Adventures. Group discounts for 10 or more.

High Gravity Adventures website

Come join us on the banks of the Broad River. Cavalry, Artillery and Infantry units welcome. Hosted by the Broad River Greenway and the 2nd North Carolina Mounted Infantry, we welcome all reenactors and their families to come. Check website for details of event held in April.

Battle of the Broad River website

The Transylvania Heritage Museum shall explore, promote, preserve, and nurture the historical heritage of Transylvania County and its families through exhibits, educational programs, collections of artifacts, and heritage/cultural activities.

Transylvania Heritage Museum website

Trained tour guides will take your students on a one-hour guided tour, introducing them to over 20 species and connecting their characteristics and adaptations to your grade level-specific science concepts. Suitable for any grade level, tours are designed to meet North Carolina Standard Course of Study science goals and objectives. They will work with you to design an experience to complement your classroom content! Wild Field Trips are for pre-k through 12 grade and require advanced noticed scheduling.

Animal Park at the Conservators Center website

Tiger Safari Zoological Park is located 30 minutes South of OKC. It is the only interactive zoo centrally located in Oklahoma. On a tour of our park, you'll walk the three-quarter-mile path with an experienced tour guide and gain an understanding of each species' ecological importance. You'll also get to know each animal's individual personality and story. We're all about reconnecting you to wildlife, so every tour is a conversation. Offering School and group field trips daily as well as overnight luxury African Safari Huts and Tree houses, Birthday parties, Zoo to you, Overlook deck for Parties, Tiger jeep encounter, and wedding venue and much much more.

Tiger Safari Zoological Park website

In the crest of the timeworn Black Mountains lies the summit of Mount Mitchell, the highest point east of the Mississippi. For those who ascend this mighty peak, what looms in the horizon is a feast for the eyes--breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling ridges and fertile valleys. Forested and forever misty, 1,946-acre Mount Mitchell State Park will provide you with some of the most tranquil moments you'll ever experience.

Mount Mitchell State Park website

Carolina Ocean Studies is located on the Cape Fear and Beaufort region and have been taking k-12 and homeschool students on field trips for over 28 years. Students are able go crabbing, fishing, explore the marshes, comb the beach for shells, and experience the wonder of the Carolina coast!

Carolina Ocean Studies website

With a marina providing access to some of North Carolina's best fishing spots, a secluded camping area beneath towering trees, and miles of hiking trails that traverse a variety of distinct habitats--not to mention the presence of the Venus flytrap, one of the world's most unique carnivorous plants--it's no wonder Carolina Beach State Park is a popular coastal attraction. Located in an area steeped in both history and natural diversity, the park includes a visitor's center with exhibits depicting the wonders of its environment. Visit Carolina Beach State Park to relax, enjoy nature or embark on an eye-opening adventure.

Carolina Beach State Park website

The Museum's collection consists of more than 15,000 works of art, featuring North Carolina's premier collections of Asian art and works of art on paper (drawings, prints, and photographs), plus significant collections of European masterworks, twentieth-century and contemporary art, African art, and North Carolina pottery. The Ackland organizes more than a dozen special exhibitions a year.

Acklund Art Museum website

Darby Acres Farm & Safari offers the opportunity for children and adults of all ages to experience an educational tour of farm animals and life on a farm! Participants have the opportunity to feed and pet the animals as well as engage in some up close animal encounters. Basic biology and life cycles of certain species can be observed depending on what time of year your field trip is planned. Animals are a great way to practice/develop sensory skills, provide opportunity for discussion, learn fun facts, practice respect for all creatures, and much more!

Darby Acres Farm & Safari website

Bounce U Matthews offers 100% Private Birthday Parties, Play Dates, Field Trips, Camps, and Open Bounce sessions for kids 12 years and under. Run, bounce, and play in two HUGE arenas filled with 18-foot-tall inflatable slides, obstacle courses, bounce houses, games, and dedicated toddler areas.

Bounce U Matthews website

Experience history and see your future in a new light at the Billy Graham Library in Charlotte, North Carolina. During a visit to the Library, you'll relive the remarkable ways God used an ordinary farm boy to change the world. Through state-of-the-art exhibits, audio and film displays, and personal memorabilia you will discover how God used Billy Graham to shape history through relationships with world leaders, his outreach efforts during times of war and peace, and his unfailing commitment to God's love.

Billy Graham Library website

The Mint Museum Randolph initially served the region as the first branch of the United States Mint, coining $5 million in gold from 1836 to the outbreak of the Civil War. A grassroots community effort during the Depression saved the original Federal-style building designed by William Strickland from demolition and moved it to its present Randolph Road site. The museum formally opened to the public on October 22, 1936 as North Carolina's first art museum.

Mint Museum of Art website

An interactive museum housing the nation's most comprehensive interpretation of post-Civil War Southern history.

Levine Museum of the New South website

Whether it’s for a reward, end-of-year celebration or educational experience, Carowinds provides the perfect adventure for your students. The Carolinas come together with our park residing in both North & South Carolina! Take your lesson plan on the road and show how your lessons apply to the world around us. Come enjoy a variety of Educational opportunities during our Spring programming days, splash and play in our Carolina Harbor waterpark and ride our new coaster, Copperhead Strike all summer, have a frightening good time during our Scarowinds event in October or visit us during Winterfest where we transform the park into a Winter Wonderland! Teachers are also welcome to download our online curriculum to create a corresponding lesson plan for their students. Tickets may be purchased by mail, email or fax. Confirmation of homeschooling is required for eligibility.

Carowinds Student and Youth Program website

Hubb's Farm is a working family owned and operated farm. Hubb's Farm tours and programs help grow an appreciation of where our food comes from and a knowledge of safe farming practices to all participants. Hubb's Educational Field Trips provide hands-on interactive agriculture exploration. On-site classes available concerning growing crops, how the maze is cut and designed and greenhouse hydroponic strawberries. Also, a hay ride to Animal Acres. Hubb's is open for field trips year round and includes a large picnic pavilion for picnics and large parking area for buses.

Hubb's Farm website

The STEAM program at Charlotte Motor Speedway offers student groups a fun and educational experience like no other. Students will relate motorsports to core principles of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics. Force, motion, energy and engineering are some of the topics that come alive as kids navigate through hands-on stations. A ride on the NASCAR track is included in your visit! Grades 3-12 welcomed. Program runs M-F throughout the year.

Charlotte Motor Speedway STEAM Program website

Bost Grist Mill grinds corn into meal and grits with the same stones and techniques used during the 1800's as well as providing an opportunity for visitors to be a part of the mill's historic past.

Battle of Bost Grist Mill website

Our vertical wind tunnel is a marvel of engineering and provides a one-of-a-kind laboratory for your students to get immersed in real world applications of STEM. Each iFLY STEM field trip provides an interactive presentation, live lab experiment, lab activity and flights for your participants! We offer programs with focus and objectives for Pre-K-College level physics and align with all state education standards. Minimum of 15 participants required. Please reach out for more details! Email: [email protected] or Direct: 512.674.9208

iFLY Charlotte website

Great Wolf Lodge is North America's Largest Family of Indoor Waterpark resorts, and the ultimate destination for your next family getaway. Designed to capture the atmosphere of the Northwoods, our waterpark offer an amazing guest experience in a one-of-a-kind, rustically elegant setting. The perfect place for families to re-connect, and create lifelong memories. With one of our fully-themed resort suites as your family's base camp, you can set out on your Great Wolf adventure. You'll likely first discover our gigantic indoor waterpark, where it's always 84 degrees. And that's just the beginning. Besides our waterpark, don't miss our themed restaurants, interactive arcades, full service spas (and even a version for kids!), fitness centers, and so much more. And with more than 10 locations coast to coast, Great Wolf Lodge is the perfect, weatherproof, year-round destination for your busy family. So whether your family splashes the day away in the waterpark, enjoys a delicious family meal in our restaurant, or enjoys our nightly Storytime together before calling it a night, we think you'll agree, there's no time, like a Great Wolf time. 10175 Weddington Road Exn, Concord, NC 28027

Great Wolf Lodge - Concord/Charlotte website

Nestled deep in the woods, South Mountains State Park is the perfect place to enjoy nature. Here you can see a majestic mountain range peeking out from the gently rolling landscape of the Piedmont. The park includes elevations up to 3,000 feet, a waterfall dropping 80 feet and more than 40 miles of trails. From equestrian camping to trout fishing, mountain biking to picnicking, a number of activities are available at South Mountains State Park.

South Mountains State Park website

Pettigrew State Park is an ideal blend of nature, history and recreation. Explore Lake Phelps and examine dugout canoes as ancient as the pyramids. Or cast your line into crystal-clear waters where largemouth bass reign. Take a trip back in time at the grave of a great Confederate general. Or hug a tree as wide as an elephant. Paddle down one of North Carolina's last undeveloped rivers.

Pettigrew State Park website

The Battle: "King George and Broadswords! shouted loyalists as they charged across partially dismantled Moores Creek Bridge on February 27, 1776. Just beyond the bridge nearly a 1,000 North Carolina patriots waited quietly with cannons and muskets poised to fire. This dramatic victory ended British rule in the colony forever.

Moores Creek National Battlefield website

There's another North Carolina to be discovered - sheer cliffs and peaks of bare rock, quiet forests and cascading waterfalls, views of the Piedmont plateau that stretch for miles. Hike the trails of Hanging Rock State Park and let nature put life's hectic pace in perspective. Rent a vacation cabin and fall asleep to the lullabies of spring peepers and chorus frogs. Join an interpretive program and discover something new about nature's bounty. Nestled in the hills is a cool mountain lake that beckons to swimmers and fishermen. Picnic areas and campgrounds lend themselves to time spent with family and friends. Hanging Rock State Park awaits you.

Hanging Rock State Park website

This low-cost field trip is a fun, safe, interactive learning experience with horses, at Equine Epiphany Farm in Denton NC, where Maggie works as a Certified Equine Assisted Learning professional. Maggie recently moved to NC recently from California, and has a strong desire to meet and serve the community here. Curricula are customized per group, and can include such topics as: How Horses Do What They Do, Why Horses Do What They Do, What is That Horse Saying, and What Do We Need? Ages 6 and up.

Equine Epiphany Farm website

The Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University fosters the understanding and appreciation of the visual arts by providing direct experiences with original works of art supported by a range of exhibitions, programs and publications for the university and the broader community.

Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University website

In this engaging, hands-on experience, students will meet a variety of live animals such as turtles, snakes, a dove, an opossum and more. Explore animal adaptations and learn key conservation messages. Children will have a look at fur, teeth, skulls, and other animal treasures. Touching of the animals will be based on the group size and behavior of the students, and will be at the discretion of the instructor.

Piedmont Wildlife Center website

Duke Homestead provides school programming where students can experience the daily lives of 19th century farmers. Through hands-on activities, a film, and interactive exhibits, school children will discover and learn about the social and economic history of our state. Duke Homestead offers a variety of programs for Pre-K to 5th grade students, including a tour of the Duke family home, making butter, and an annual Christmas Traditions program. (Duke Homestead requests a $1 donation per participating child.)

Duke Homestead State Historic Site website

Minutes from Durham, Hillsborough, and Chapel Hill the Eno River State Park offers secluded wilderness trails with the serenity of a clear river drifting and cascading over a rocky stream bed. The Eno River is a swift, shallow stream flowing from northwest Orange County into Durham County for 33 miles where it joins the Flat River to become the Neuse and flows into Falls Lake. Its waters roll through wilderness, passing historic mill sites, river bluffs covered with flowering shrubs, and fords used by early settlers.

Eno River State Park website

Museum of the Albemarle interprets the cultural history of Thirteen northeastern North Carolina counties: Bertie, Camden, Chowan, Currituck, Dare, Gates, Hertford, Hyde, Northampton, Perquimans, Pasquotank, Tyrrell, and Washington. This area, known as the Albemarle Region, surrounds one of the world's largest freshwater sounds.

Museum of the Albemarle website

Venture to Jones Lake State Park and view one of the greatest geological mysteries of the eastern United States--the phenomenon of the Carolina bays. Adjacent to the Bladen Lakes State Forest and home of two natural lakes, Jones and Salters lakes, the 2,208-acre park is a nature lover's delight. Peaceful surroundings and a variety of facilities, including a trail with several outlooks that circles Jones Lake, make this state park a favorite for hiking, picnicking, swimming, fishing and camping.

Jones Lake State Park website

Carl Sandburg's Legacy Touches Our Lives - Carl Sandburg spent a lifetime exploring what it meant to be an American and asked the eternal questions, "Who am I, where am I going and where have I been?" He did this through poetry, song, lectures, writing and lasting friendships with kindred spirits. Explore Sandburg's legacy and Experience Your America.

Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site website

Rock Solid Warrior is a ninja/rock climbing/obstacle gym where kids can play on obstacles that are from American Ninja Warrior the TV show. It provides coaches as well to give tips and ensure the safety of kids. Regular open gyms are $15, but daytime specials at certain times are only $10. There is also the option to do half days which are from 8am-12pm or 12pm-4pm which are $33-38 depending on how many kids/days you are participating.

Rock Solid Warrior Gym website

An "enchanted forest," primitive species of fish relatively unchanged over millions of years, towering bald cypress trees with massive trunks, luxuriant growths of Spanish moss--this is Merchants Millpond State Park. Here, coastal pond and southern swamp forest mingle, creating one of North Carolina's rarest ecological communities. Together with upland forests, these environments create a haven for wildlife and humanity alike.

Merchants Millpond State Park website

This is America's most visited national park. Famous for its diversity of plant and animal life, the beauty of its ancient mountains, and Southern Appalachian mountain culture.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park website

Founded in 1902 by Dr. Charlotte Hawkins Brown, Palmer Memorial Institute transformed the lives of more than 2,000 African American students. Today, the campus provides the setting where visitors can explore this unique environment where boys and girls lived and learned during the greater part of the 20th century. The museum links Dr. Brown and Palmer Memorial Institute to the larger themes of African American history, women's history, social history, and education, emphasizing the contributions African Americans made in North Carolina. The museum provides Field Trips and Group Tours for all ages! Tours can be custom designed based on your needs. All tours include an orientation video, a campus tour, tour of Canary Cottage and tour of an exhibit. An add on can include a special program based on your theme. Examples are etiquette, women's history, African-American history, student life, music, and a STEAM related program. All programs are FREE.

Charlotte Hawkins Brown Museum website

Showcases the nonviolent protest that occurred in Greensboro, NC, the sit in that sparked the civil rights movement. There are both audio and video elements.

International Civil Rights Musem website

The Battle of Guilford Courthouse. Thursday, March 15, 1781. - The largest, most hotly-contested battle of the Revolutionary War's Southern Campaign was fought at the small North Carolina backcounty hamlet of Guilford Courthouse. The battle proved to be the highwater mark of British military operations in the Revolutionary War.

Guilford Courthouse National Military Park website

Free admission. This museum teaches about the history, community, and lifestyle of those who were born and raised in the Outerbanks. Duck decoys handmade by local artisans and paintings/drawings by local artists are on display as well.

Core Sound Waterfowl Museum & Heritage Center website

Ready for adventure? - Take a boat trip three miles off-shore to the islands of Cape Lookout National Seashore. Here you can enjoy remote beaches, watch wild horses and other wildlife, or visit one of the historic districts. Be sure to bring a picnic lunch for the day. Going camping takes a little more planning.

Cape Lookout National Seashore website

Set a course for Kerr Lake State Recreation Area to enjoy sailing, fishing, water skiing and camping.

Kerr Lake State Recreation Area website

Historic Johnson Farm is an early 20th century farm and tourist retreat. Visitors learn about life over 100 years ago while touring the farm and visiting the animals. Group rate $5 for groups of 10 or more.

Historic Johnson Farm website

Welcome to the Happiest Place in High Point! Named North Carolina's Visitor Attraction of the Year by the NC Tourism Industry Association! Explore two floors of exciting hands-on exhibits, our Outdoor Adventure Zone, the Hall of Mysteries, the Double-Decker Carousel and more! This is a children's museum.

Nido & Mariana Qubein Children's Museum website

The Millis Regional Health Education Center specializes in teaching kids all aspects of health in a fun, hands-on, interactive manner. Programs include dental health, nutrition and exercise, general human body systems, and many more. The Centers target audience is preschool through 5th grade. A visit would include an approximately 45 minute program and 45 minutes of exploring in wellness discover place, a hands on interactive play room. Cost is $5 per student. Groups of 10 or more are welcome.

Millis Regional Health Education Center website

At Medoc Mountain, the urban refugee finds a welcome tranquility, a chance to embrace the outdoors. Trails beckon as light filters through branches overhead and falls on paths that hold the promise of new frontiers. The peacefulness gives the opportunity to refresh. The silence of the forest is broken only by bird songs and the occasional drumming of the pileated woodpecker. Grab your hiking boots. Load your camera. Spend some time at Medoc Mountain State Park and let nature renew your spirit.

Medoc Mountain State Park website

Rugged hillsides, pastoral meadows and farmlands surround what is believed to be one of the oldest rivers in North America -- the New River. Its waters are slow and placid. Its banks are fertile and covered with wildflowers. Dedicated as a National Scenic River in 1976, this gentle river is the centerpiece of New River State Park.

New River State Park website

Mount Jefferson is best appreciated up close. On a clear day, you can see for miles from its peak. A great part of Ashe County spreads out below; fields, farms, forests and mountains mingle in kaleidoscopic patterns. On the horizon, the Blue Ridge Mountains form a striking backdrop. Yet what looms in the distance is no more spectacular than what is right before your eyes, for the forests of Mount Jefferson are a botanical paradise. The interesting and unusual plant life of the park rendered it worthy of designation as a national natural landmark.

Mount Jefferson State Natural Area website

Bring your group to Singletary Lake State Park and enjoy group camping in a land of mysterious origins. A portion of the unique Carolina bay ecosystem found nowhere else in the world, The park offers ample opportunities for nature study and recreation.

Singletary Lake State Park website

This resource is a Victorian-era historic house museum dating to 1880. Originally designed as a catalog home for artist and designer Jule Korner, the resource offers both self-guided and guided tours for small groups. Scavenger hunts are available digitally or in hard copies, and can be paired with downloadable activities for field trip extension.

Korner's Folly website

Raptors soar gracefully in the wind; vegetation reaches to the sky; sheer vertical cliffs drop 150 feet. Enjoy the spectacle from a front-row seat. High atop Crowders Mountain, the highest point in Gaston County, views stretch for more than 20 miles.

Crowders Mountain State Park website

The CSS Neuse Museum, located in downtown Kinston, houses the remains of the CSS Neuse, an ironclad gunboat from the Civil War, and exhibits that tell the story of life in Kinston and eastern North Carolina during the war. Children of all ages are welcome to the Museum, and we have a children's center as well as a cognitive corner with books and activities. September through April, homeschool field trips are offered on the second Thursday of the month for $1.00 per person. All programs have a STEM component. The Museum is Certified Sensory Inclusive through KultureCity.

CSS Neuse Museum website

Enjoy a leisurely day at the ocean shore. Comb the beach for sea stars, keyhole urchins and whelk shells. Or, simply lie back on the sand and enjoy the aerial acrobatics of seagulls, terns and brown pelicans as they soar above the waves. You may want to venture into the mud flats and marshes to watch sandpipers and other shorebirds as they search for food. Learn about endangered species. Loggerhead sea turtles, piping plovers and other rare species nest along this sandy shore. Explore the North Carolina coast; visit Fort Fisher State Recreation Area. This stretch of pristine shoreline offers many enjoyable activities.

Fort Fisher State Recreation Area website

At Lake Waccamaw, you can view one of the greatest geological mysteries of the eastern United States--the phenomenon of Carolina bays. Limestone bluffs along the north shore neutralize Lake Waccamaw's water, making the lake different from any other Carolina Bay. Nearby, you can catch a glimpse of a botanical wonder--the Green Swamp. From its sandy shorelines to its tree-lined natural areas, Lake Waccamaw offers peaceful surroundings, an intriguing natural history and fun in the sun.

Lake Waccamaw State Park website

Should the humdrum of the work week leave you with the urge to travel and explore, head to Raven Rock State Park. Here, the forest reigns as each year the timeless cycle of growth further heals age-old wounds inflicted by man. Nature triumphs as plants compete in the stages of forest succession and the woodlands are restored. High above the Cape Fear River stands Raven Rock, its austere beauty a testament to the forces that have shaped the land. As the river below rushes to join the sea, nature's elements continue to shape the surface of this natural monument.

Raven Rock State Park website

Experience a new adventure in an old-world at Roanoke Island Festival Park. This 25-acre historic site allows guests of all ages to experience first hand what life was like for the first English settlers in 1585. Historic costumed interpreters are featured through Indian Town, the Settlement Site and the Elizabeth II ship to show and tell how the first settlers lived, worked and played on Roanoke Island. For a hands-on history lesson, visit the Adventure Museum that features interactive exhibits that all ages will enjoy.

Roanoke Island Festival Park website

England's First Home in the New World - Fort Raleigh National Historic Site protects and preserves known portions of England's first New World settlements from 1584 to 1590. This site also preserves the cultural heritage of the Native Americans, European Americans and African Americans who have lived on Roanoke Island.

Fort Raleigh National Historic Site website

The barrier islands of the North Carolina coast are a gateway to the rest of the state. The Civil War battles on the Outer Banks were pivotal for control of North Carolina. A Freedmen's Colony on Roanoke Island became a symbol of hope for slaves seeking a new life.

The Civil War on the Outer Banks website

They Taught the World to Fly! - Wind, sand, and a dream of flight brought Wilbur and Orville Wright to Kitty Hawk, North Carolina where, after four years of experimentation, they achieved the first successful airplane flights in 1903. With courage and perseverance, these self-taught engineers relied on teamwork and application of the scientific process. What they achieved changed our world forever.

Wright Brothers National Memorial website

On these narrow barrier islands, things never stay the same. - A haven for recreation and reflection, the islands of Cape Hatteras are constantly changed by tide, storm, current and wind. The plants, wildlife and people who live here adapt continually. You see in their daily lives and hear it in the telling of their stories. And there are many story places - sandy beaches, salt marshes, maritime woods - explore them all!

Cape Hatteras National Seashore website

Kidz at Play Family Cafe is an indoor playground with a custom nautical themed two level soft-play area that provides play for kidz up to 10 years old. There are plenty of creative areas for the kidz to exercise both body and mind from climbing obstacles, monkey rings to a spinning pole and several slides - there's fun for all! A separate corral with a step slide, rocker and soft-play turtle among other features provides safe play time for those learning to crawl and walk. Call or reach out online for group rates!

Kidz at Play Family Cafe website

Morehead City Ferry Service offers the largest ferry to Sand Dollar Island. Our Sand Dollar Island trip schedule varies with low tide times. The Miss Morehead City is a 49-passenger Catamaran. We also offer Sea Life Encounter Cruises and Sunset Evening Cruises. Reservations are required (book online). Free parking is available.

Morehead City Ferry Service website

Patterson Farm Market and Tours, Inc. is committed to educating children and adults about their food source, the importance of agriculture, and specifically about the crops we grow at Patterson Farm, Inc. We accomplish this by providing educational opportunities which are designed to be educational, hands-on, fun, and informative. We are also passionate about creating pick-your-own experiences, seasonal activities, and events where families can create memories.

Patterson Farm Market and Tours website

The People's Path and America's First National Scenic Trail. The Appalachian Trail (A.T.) is more than 2,175-mile long footpath stretching through 14 eastern states from Maine to Georgia. Conceived in 1921 and first completed in 1937, it traverses the wild, scenic, wooded, pastoral, and culturally significant lands of the Appalachian Mountains.

Appalachian National Scenic Trail website

The park commemorates the survival of the Cherokee people and their forced removal from their homelands in the Southeastern United States in the 1840s. More than 16,000 Cherokee traveled by foot, horse, wagon, or steamboat along this path with devestating consequences between 1838-1839.

Trail of Tears National Historic Trail website

Stretching 330-miles through four states (Virginia, Tennessee, North and South Carolina) the Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail traces the route used by Patriot militia during the pivotal Kings Mountain campaign of 1780. Follow the campaign by utilizing a Commemorative Motor Route which uses existing state highways marked with the distinctive trail logo, or 87 miles of walkable trails. The website offers historical information about the park for those who cannot visit in person.

The Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail website

There are many reasons why millions of people visit Jockey's Ridge State Park. Some come to see the tallest sand dune on the Atlantic coast; others come for the spectacular sunsets.

Jockey's Ridge State Park website

Nature offers scenic vistas of the Appalachian Mountains and beckons to those with an appetite for recreation. Bring family and friends to one of North Carolina's newest state park for a variety of activities. Try swimming and sunbathing or enjoy a picnic along the lakeshore. Boat, water ski or fish in cool mountain waters, or take a walk and enjoy an abundance of wildflowers and wildlife along park trails. Lake James offers a variety of ways to enjoy the outdoors.

Lake James State Park website

Our Mission is to stimulate interest and understanding of the natural science, environment, and cultural history of the Coastal Carolinas.

Museum of Coastal Carolina website

Lumber River State Park contains natural and scenic waters, 81 miles of which are also designated national wild and scenic waters. The park's recreation activities are currently centered at two access areas, Princess Ann and Chalk Banks. Princess Ann overlooks a unique reverse flow area named Griffin's Whirl. At the access, a bend in the river opens to a long, straight vista that beckons paddlers to take a ride. Chalk Banks, near the town of Wagram on the upper end of the river, has an interesting mixture of plants, fish, and animals from the sandhills and coastal plains regions.

Lumber River State Park website

The Polk Site offers an extensive tour program for student groups. The most popular tour package includes a guided tour of the site's historic structures (Main Cabin & Kitchen House), as well as a scavenger hunt of the museum. Any group may elect to have optional activities in lieu of their standard tour packages. These activities include: a Polk Family Cemetery tour, a musket firing demonstration, and a 19th century education program.

President James K. Polk State Historic Site website

Approach from any direction and see Pilot Mountain rising more than 1,400 feet above the rolling countryside of the upper Piedmont plateau. Dedicated as a National Natural Landmark in 1976, this solitary peak is the centerpiece of Pilot Mountain State Park.

Pilot Mountain State Park website

Walnut Creek Wetland Park offers field trips on topics such as Discovering Wetlands, Birding, and a new field trip geared towards 3rd graders that touches or meets completely 19 standards in math, science and social studies. Individuals are welcome to borrow boots, aquatic nets and binoculars at no charge for self-exploration. Small-group drop-ins are welcome to come and explore our nature center, meet our ambassador animals, borrow an explorer backpack or do a scavenger hunt. Phone 919-996-2760.

Walnut Creek Wetland Park website

An educational field trip program at United Skates, that immerses students in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education. The program relates STEM concepts to roller skating, where students will learn that STEM is in everything they do, even in fun experiences like skating! The students participate in one hour of hands on STEM activities taught by our dynamic STEM educator. After the lesson, the students will participate in one to two hours of roller skating, which promotes great health benefits!

United Skates STEM Field Trip website

Highways fade in the distance as trees, flowers, birds and streams form a more natural community. William B. Umstead is a place to escape the pressures of everyday life, a place to picnic in the pines, to wait for a fish to bite, to take a hike or horseback ride on trails through the woods.

William B. Umstead State Park website

A collecting museum which focus reflects the mission of North Carolina State University and supports its academic programs by providing research opportunities for NCSU students and the citizens of North Carolina and beyond. The collection includes, but is not limited to, textiles, ceramics, outsider/folk art, photography, architectural drawings & modern furniture. The Gregg Museum of Art & Design also puts on 6-8 exhibitions per year in its two galleries.

Gregg Museum of Art & Design website

Designated as a National Natural Landmark in 1975, Stone Mountain is bounded on the north by the Blue Ridge Parkway and on the west by the Thurmond Chatham Game Lands. More than 14,100 acres of mountain beauty offer opportunities for outdoor activities of all kinds.

Stone Mountain State Park website

Let's combine STEM concepts and physical fitness at the roller skating rink. An introductory skating lesson is included-experience STEM with us. Our three hour field trip includes a one hour STEM lesson engaging students through hands-on activities. We offer 10 STEM-focused lesson plans to choose from. Our time concludes with two hours of roller skating, including skating games and activities.

Sky-Vue Skateland website

The Bechtler house was home to Christopher Bechtler who is credited with minting the first U.S. $1.00 gold coin. The home showcases period artifacts and exhibits that transport visitors back to the 1830's and tell the Bechtler story. Tours can be scheduled for any day, Monday thru Saturday. The tours consist of a Bechtler tour guide narrating the story at the museum and a trip to the Bechtler Mint site where students bring their lunch to enjoy in view of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

The Bechtler House Museum, Bechtler Mint Site and Historic Park website

Plunging waterfalls, rugged river gorges, sheer rock walls and one of the greatest concentrations of rare and unique species in the eastern United States are found within Gorges State Park. An elevation that rises 2,000 feet in only four miles, combined with rainfall in excess of 80 inches per year, creates a temperate rain forest and supports a collection of waterfalls.

Gorges State Park website

Sylvan Heights Bird Park is designed to give visitors an unforgettable up-close experience with over 2,000 waterfowl, parrots, toucans, flamingos, and other exotic birds from around the world. Open to the public since October 2006, the 18-acre facility features spacious, walk- through aviaries displaying birds from South America, North America, Europe, Africa, Asia and Australia. The aviaries are surrounded by tranquil gardens and lush natural areas, which enhance the beauty of the birds on exhibit and immerse visitors in native North Carolina wildlife habitat.

Sylvan Heights Bird Park website

At the turn of the century visitors flocked to the area. They drank mineral water from local springs to cure their ills and they took riverboat excursions to the cliffs. Things have changed since then, however, the cliffs remain virtually unaltered, standing as a journal of the geological and biological history of the land. See this spectacular formation, now protected within the boundaries of Cliffs of the Neuse State Park.

Cliffs of the Neuse State Park website

Shackleford Banks, off the coast of Atlantic Beach, NC, has a population of wild horses dating back to the 16th-17th century. Ferry service is available from Harker's Island and downtown Beaufort.

Wild Horses of Shackleford website

Feel your daily stresses melt away as you cross the historic Dismal Swamp Canal and walk along the 300-foot boardwalk into this geological wonder. Experience first hand the lush swamp forest and get up-close and personal with the wide variety of wildlife. Discover the uniqueness of a million year old habitat at the Dismal Swamp State Park. Learn why George Washington called the Dismal Swamp "a glorious paradise", how the swamp was important in the Underground Railroad and the ecological importance of wetlands in the visitor's center and exhibit hall. All of this and more can be found just 3 miles south of the NC/VA border on US Hwy 17.

Dismal Swamp State Park website

A nature preserve, Weymouth Woods is different from traditional park. This limited-use area serves to preserve and portray the natural features unique to its region. Weymouth Woods is a place where you can look at the longleaf pine forest and see how human actions have affected the environment, where you can learn about rare and endangered species--the red-cockaded woodpecker, the pine barrens tree frog and the bog spicebush.

Weymouth Woods-Sandhills Nature Preserve website

Ride a train, step inside a steam locomotive, learn how the Wright Brothers controlled their Flyer, and see 150 years of North Carolina's transportation history. Visit the 1905 Back Shop where steam locomotives were overhauled, to see horse-drawn vehicles, trucks, planes, and boats. Walk through the largest remaining roundhouse in North America for railroad exhibits and the Wright Flyer replica. Take a spin on the 100-foot roundhouse turntable. See automotive exhibits that detail the evolution of vehicles in North Carolina. Then take a 25-minute train ride around our historic 60-acre site!

N.C. Transportation Museum website

STARworks provides wonderful learning opportunities for children and adults. Glass and clay studios are public access. Stop in and watch artists at work.

STARworks website

Allison Woods Outdoor Learning Center focuses on igniting curiosity, understanding, and respect for nature through education at our Classroom in the Forest!

Allison Woods Outdoor Learning Center website

We are a wild horse preserve and educational non-profit. Hosting groups for a learning experience is our foremost goal. We offer plenty of "hands on" experiences and customize individual programs based upon a group's ages, interests, and needs. Our activities promote learning in Science, Social Studies, Language arts, Reading, Health and Physical Education. We currently have 27 'ambassador' horses & ponies from the coastal herds of NC for your group to meet. Sue Immen, owner/founder, is a former certified teacher and counselor (BS in PhysEd, MAEd in Counseling). 910-515-3743 for appointment.

The Wild Horse Preserve at Grayce Wynds Farm Farm website

Venture to Bear Island and reward yourself with vivid memories of one of the most unspoiled beaches on the Atlantic coast. Accessible only by passenger ferry or private boat, there's just one thing at Hammocks Beach that's crowded--the list of things to do. Secluded and tranquil, free from intruding commercialism, Hammocks Beach may not be for everyone, but the island is a retreat for people who welcome the challenges of relentless sun, sand, sea and sky.

Hammocks Beach State Park website

At Lake Norman State Park, fun is just a matter of scale. On one hand, there's the largest manmade lake in the state, Lake Norman. On another hand, the park boasts its own 33-acre lake where fishing and boating are enjoyed. And with hiking trails, picnic areas, interpretive programs and campgrounds, there's more to Lake Norman State Park than merely water.

Lake Norman State Park website

Hours of relaxation await you at Falls Lake State Recreation Area. Just moments away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Falls Lake is a great way to escape urban life. Fishing, boating and swimming are only a few of the activities awaiting you on the water. On land, you can enjoy walking, mountain biking or camping along a portion of the state's Mountains-to-Sea Trail. From recreation to environmental education, no matter what you are looking for, you are sure to discover it at Falls Lake.

Falls Lake State Recreation Area website

Giant, old oaks draped in Spanish moss welcome you to this special world where broad, lazy Goose Creek joins the Pamlico River. A primitive camping area, picnic sites, swim beach and hiking and paddling trails offer a variety of ways to savor the tranquil surroundings at Goose Creek State Park. Goose Creek is conveniently located between historic Bath and the original Washington. Visit Goose Creek State Park. Unwind and soak up the peacefulness; a hectic pace is not permitted.

Goose Creek State Park website

Come join the annual Battle of Wilson's Store Reenactment to be held on the grounds of the Museum of the Waxhaws in Waxhaw, NC. The original battle was held March 1, 1865 as Sherman marched from Columbia, SC through NC. Hosted by the Museum of the Waxhaws and the 35th Regiment, NCT. All reenactors and their families are welcome. Check website for details of event held in May.

Battle of Wilson's Store website

The Cameron Art Museum provides a cultural gathering place which enriches the lives of museum visitors and our community through high quality exhibitions, dynamic public programs, unique events and educational opportunities in the visual and performing arts.

Cameron Art Museum website

Cape Fear Museum of History and Science is the oldest history museum in North Carolina. Since its founding in 1898, the Museum has grown and changed. It began collecting confederate relics, and now collects images and artifacts that help us understand the history, science and cultures of the region. Today, Cape Fear Museum collects, preserves, and interprets objects relating to the history, science and cultures of the Lower Cape Fear, and makes those objects and their interpretation available to the public through educational exhibits and programs.

Cape Fear Museum of History and Science website

Historic house museum filled with masterpieces of American art and surrounded by formal gardens, shops and restaurants.

Reynolda House Museum of American Art website

Old Salem Museum & Gardens in Winston-Salem, NC, encompasses 100 acres of restored and reclaimed landscapes that include eighty buildings, nationally acclaimed gardens, and five retail stores, including Winkler Bakery. The Historic Town of Salem and The Museum of Early Southern Decorative Arts (MESDA) - along with award-winning heirloom gardens, invite today's visitors to experience the complete story of those who lived and worked in the early South.

Old Salem Museum & Gardens website

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NORTH CAROLINA Field Trips

To help plan SEPTEMBER curriculum focused classroom activities, field trips and school assembly programs, these September themed celebrations might be a helpful focus. MONTHLY : Classical Music Month. Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15-Oct. 15). Library Card Sign-Up Month. National Courtesy Month. DAILY : Sept. 6: National Read a Book. Sept. 7: International Day of Clean Air. Sept. 12: National Day of Encouragement. Sept. 15: Greenpeace Day. Sept. 16: National Collect Rocks Day. Sept. 17: Constitution Day and Citizenship Day. Sept. 18: National Respect Day. Sept. 22: Autumnal Equinox Day. Sept. 24 :  National Punctuation Day. CLICK on the ACTIVITY FILTER below for activity type of field trips to learn about. For those unable to travel to these locations, have the fun come to you. Check out the Outreach Field Trips & School Assembly Programs  section.    

• Financial Support
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• Transportation: Boats, Planes, Trains, & Trollies
• Team Building
• Mobile Recreation, Games & Fitness
• Mobile Science, Astronomy & Planetarium, Nature & STEM Programs
• Adventure Parks, Climbing, Ninja & Ropes Course, Ziplines
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• Birds, Butterflies, Bees
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• Caves, Canyons, Mines & Gorges
• Environmental Studies, Outdoor Education, Conservation, Sustainability
• Farms, Mazes, Pick-Your-Own
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Carolina Ocean Studies

Discover the wonders of the Carolina coast through a field trip to uninhabited barrier islands! For 30 years, Carolina Ocean Studies has been taking K-12 students out on field trips to North Carolina barrier islands.

High Gravity Adventures

High Gravity Adventures is an award-winning and accredited zipline adventure park between Boone and Blowing Rock. Discover more when you zip, climb, swing, and explore.

Ninja Nation

Ninja Nation is an American Ninja Warrior style obstacle course gym, that teaches kids/adults many valuable athletic necessities.

North Carolina State Capitol

Tours of the North Carolina State Capitol where groups will see plaques, portraits and busts that honor important people and events in North Carolina’s history, visit the House of Representatives chamber and the Senate chamber.

Oak Island Lighthouse

Located in Caswell Beach near the Cape Fear River, Oak Island Lighthouse is an operating lighthouse offering guided tours to the top.

 The Bald Head Lighthouse is the oldest lighthouse still standing in North Carolina. Groups can tour the lighthouse and the Smith Island Museum, which is housed in Keeper’s Cottage.

ORBIT EARTH EXPO

Orbit Earth Expo is a SparkPoint Innovations in-school astronomy experience that students will never forget! Taught in the dark with a light to represent the sun, students manipulate huge teaching models to discover secrets of the solar system!

Piedmont Environmental Center

The Piedmont Environmental Center, on 376-acres, groups will experience nature through environmental education programs, field experiences, and recreational activities.

President James K. Polk State Historic Site

While visiting President James K. Polk State Historic Site, the birthplace of America’s 11th president, groups can explore a museum full of artifacts from Polk’s childhood and his administration.

The Elizabethan Gardens

Take learning outside at The Elizabethan Gardens. Groups can discover flowers, gardening, pollinator plants, and more as they walk through the 10.5-acre botanical garden.

TreeRunner Adventure Park – North Carolina

Welcome to TreeRunner, your premier outdoor adventure destination in North Carolina! We offer thrilling experiences amidst nature’s beauty. Traverse through our aerial courses, zip lines, and obstacles.

Tryon Palace

Serving as the first capitol of North Carolina, Tryon Palace today offers a vivid living history experience. The Georgian-style palace is named after 18th-century North Carolina governor William Tryon.

FieldTripdirectory.com offers enriching experiences for North Carolina school groups, scout groups, homeschool groups, camp groups and families at North Carolina Museums.

North Carolina Museums offer field trips that offer hands-on exhibits, guided tours and guided activities for early childhood through high school grades. North Carolina Art Museums , Science Museums , History Museums , Multicultural Museums and Children’s Museums offers educational experiences that support classroom curriculum and scout badge achievement. Beside museums, you can search for other learning experiences at Botanical Gardens, Planetariums, Living History Programs, STEM & STEAM, Planetariums, Farms, Zoos and Aquariums, Theaters and Concerts, Service Learning and more.

Can’t go on a field trip to a museum, your students, scouts, and families can still experience these fun enriching experience by scheduling a  Museum Virtual Field Trip  anywhere and at anytime.

Want the fun to come to you- book a  School Assembly Programs, Outreach Field Trips or Residency  at your school, homeschool association or scout council. They support and enhance a school’s curriculum, offers opportunities for scout badge achievement and enriches a camp program. There are mobile museum exhibits, traveling planetariums and classroom and grade level workshops and residencies.

To help fund field trips, virtual programs and school assembly programs visit our section on  Grants  and  Fundraising Programs .

FieldTripDirectory.com (formerly ClassTrips.com and CampDirectorsResources.com) offers field trip ideas for class trips, scout group trips, camp group field trips, and homeschool group field trips in North Carolina—early childhood through college. Search for class trips in North Carolina by by group type, cost, activity/curriculum type, grade level, distance, and venue name or keyword. Day class trips are divided by curriculum and subject area:

• ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Find North Carolina art museums, theater, dance, and music concert field trips.
• EARLY CHILDHOOD Find North Carolina class trips to children’s museums, petting zoos, and kids’ shows.
• HISTORY/SOCIAL STUDIES View North Carolina history museums, government & civics, historic sites, living history museums, and multicultural field trip ideas.
• LIFE SKILLS Find North Carolina team building field trips, health & safety exhibits, and character education experiences.
• SCIENCE & NATURE Find North Carolina aquariums, botanical gardens, environmental studies & nature centers, farms & mazes, planetariums, science museums, STEAM & STEM field trips, dinosaur exhibits, and zoos.
• RECREATION Find North Carolina field trip ideas for adventure parks, ropes courses, ziplines, boat excursions, amusement parks, waterparks, kayaking, rafting, tubing, laser tag paintball, roller skating rinks, ice-skating rinks, mini-golf attractions, indoor amusement & recreation centers, and outdoor amusement & recreation centers.

Overnight field trips include trips to NYC, trips to Boston, trips to Philadelphia, trips to Washington, DC, trips to Chicago, trips to Atlanta, trips to Austin, and other historic cities throughout the US. Retreats are available for environmental education, team building, and recreation. We created field trip lesson plans to help teachers, scout leaders, camp counselors, and homeschool parents provide an enriching experience for their groups. We know funds for class trips are limited, so we’ve included grants for field trips that cover admission, transportation, and more. It’s important that students and youth explore new environments, learn about other cultures, and develop an understanding of inclusivity as part of the educational process. People learn in different ways—through hearing, seeing, touching, talking, or doing. Class trips can provide a multi-dimensional learning experience. FieldTripDirectory.com can help you find the right trip for your group. A world of experiences is just a click away at FieldTripDirectory.com.

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Homeschool Field Trips & Family Outings

NCHE works with museums and event venues across the state to create homeschool field trips, special activities and discounted admissions to North Carolina homeschoolers. Join us and connect with other homeschooling families this year!

2024 Swan Lake

Mar 24, 2024

Swan Lake Thursday, May 9, 2024 Knight Theater, Charlotte, NC Sold Out: contact [email protected] for waitlist For the first time ever, Charlotte Ballet presents one of the world’s most famous classical ballets that has transcended generations, Swan Lake.   It...

2024 Morehead Planetarium

Jan 31, 2024

Morehead PlanetariumChapel Hill, NCFriday, March 15, 2024 SOLD OUT: To be waitlisted, contact [email protected] Come with NCHE to visit the Morehead Planetarium & Science Center in Chapel Hill.  The facility, originally opened in 1947, was updated just two...

2024 Transportation Museum

Jan 13, 2024

North Carolina Transportation Museum Spencer, NC Friday, March 8, 2024 Special Event: Wind & Wings Day SOLD OUT:  Contact [email protected] to be waitlisted Join NCHE at the North Carolina Transportation Museum!   Our visit will permit full access to the Bob...

2023-24 Hornets

Oct 11, 2023

NCHE Day at the Hornets Monday, January 8, 2024 Tip-off: 7 pm Spectrum Center, 333 E. Trade Street, Charlotte Join the excitement with other homeschoolers as the Charlotte Hornets take on the Chicago Bulls! Not only are our ticket prices greatly reduced over box...

Camden County Center

Camden Extension Connections: August 2024

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Al hacer clic en el enlace de traducción se activa un servicio de traducción gratuito para convertir la página al español. Al igual que con cualquier traducción por Internet, la conversión no es sensible al contexto y puede que no traduzca el texto en su significado original. NC State Extension no garantiza la exactitud del texto traducido. Por favor, tenga en cuenta que algunas aplicaciones y/o servicios pueden no funcionar como se espera cuando se traducen.

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Tell Me Something Good

Northeast ag expo summer field day.

The Northeast Ag Expo Summer Field Day was held July 25th in Perquimans County. Despite the rainy weather the event drew approximately 300 attendees. Field tours showcased corn and soybean research, along with grain storage and new pest management technology.

Upcoming Extension Events

Back to school 4-h youth explore.

Youth Explore is Camden County’s 4-H STEM program that is offered several times throughout the year. Come enjoy a fun filled night for the whole family while we compete in an egg drop challenge!

Register online:  https://go.ncsu.edu/backtoschoolyouthexplore

Outdoor Adventure Club

Our Outdoor Adventure Club is being launched to give Camden youth an engaging, outdoor experiences while learning new skills, such as tree identification, kayaking, compass reading, fishing, etc.

Register online:   https://go.ncsu.edu/outdoorclub

Art Club Coming Soon

We are excited to announce that we will soon have an art club in Camden County. Keep an eye out for more information!

NC State Fair

Do you have a hobby or talent with art, photography, canning, etc.? The NC State Fair accepts a number of entries for different competitions. 

4-H Chicken & Rabbit Show

Participate in our first 4-H Chicken and Rabbit Show. Read more at:   go.ncsu.edu/readext?1008556

Camden Canning Classes

Gardening can be a fun and relaxing hobby, but when harvest time arrives and you find yourself with an abundance of produce, what should you do? Join the N.C. Cooperative Extension, Camden County Center’s Home Food Preservation Series, and learn the art of canning your harvest. Learn more and how to register at:   go.ncsu.edu/readext?1018609

Camden Canning Contest

Did you preserve something amazing this year? Share your creations at our Canning Contest during the Camden Heritage Festival! The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on September 21st, 2024. For more information and to register visit:   go.ncsu.edu/readext?1013615

Library and Family & Consumer Sciences Program Together

More in my basket.

More In My Basket (MIMB)  was developed in 2010 at NC State University to increase food security through education and application assistance. MIMB is a research-based program that educates families on food resource management behaviors and facilitates access to the  Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)  by addressing identified barriers to application. MIMB serves all of North Carolina.

Through this program we offer an educational program and food demonstration for the participants at the Center for Active Adults in Camden County. This will take place on Thursday, September 5th at 10:00 a.m.

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Price of college football realignment: Losing seasons, stiffer competition

The grass and cash may look greener elsewhere, but the tradeoff for college conference realignment is often more losing. few teams have sustained success in new leagues in the past 20 years..

Harvey Perlman had a big choice to make as the chancellor of Nebraska in 2010.

Should his university’s sports teams join the Big Ten Conference in 2011 for more money and stability?

Or should they stay in the Big 12, where they played all of their old rivals and won two championships in football since 1997?

He chose the money. But that decision has come with an apparent cost. The Cornhuskers haven’t been nearly as good in football as they used to be, in part because they are playing in a league where entrenched powerhouse teams have continued to dominate.  Next year, that league is expanding from 14 to 18 teams , making it even tougher to rise to the top in the Big Ten.

“The reason you’re moving up or moving to a different conference is a lot of reasons, but one of the primary drivers is money,” Perlman told USA TODAY Sports. “And if you’re going to move from a conference that’s making $20 million to a conference that’s making $38 million per team a year, there’s got to be a reason for that difference. And the reason of course is the quality of the competition. Any team that moves ought to understand they’re moving to a higher level of competition.”

Nebraska, he said, does not regret its move and wasn’t concerned about tougher competition when making its decision.

Yet this has proven to be a big risk with conference realignment, which only will grow for several teams after the latest round of it this month. The grass – and the cash − always look greener in another league that offers better viewership and money from television companies . On the other hand, the tradeoff for moving to such a league often has been a more difficult path that few teams have navigated with sustained success in the past 20 years, according to data compiled by USA TODAY Sports.

And that’s not always good for the school’s brand or fan base.

What the numbers show

Since 2004, 15 football programs in the current Power 5 conferences have realigned to join new leagues, often doing so by adding travel costs and sacrificing a history of success and cherished rivalries in their old leagues.

Those teams then went on to play a combined 183 individual seasons since they changed conferences, including Nebraska, which has played 12 seasons in the Big Ten.

After all that trouble, those teams finished with a winning record in league play only 37% of the time out of those 183 chances, slightly lower than the Power 5 average of 41% in recent seasons excluding the 2020 pandemic year. Only eight of those of 183 chances have resulted in league championships, including four by Virginia Tech in the Atlantic Coast Conference after leaving the Big East in 2004 and two by Utah in the Pac-12 after moving from the Mountain West in 2011.

OPINION: Leaders' arrogance and envy doomed the Pac-12

Take those two teams out of the equation and the realigned path has looked far worse, littered with football teams that have struggled for the most part, such as Colorado (Pac-12), Maryland (Big Ten), Syracuse (ACC) and Missouri (Southeastern).

“There absolutely is a cost,” former Fox Sports Networks president Bob Thompson told USA TODAY Sports. “There are few moves in realignment that have been successful in terms of won/loss percentages. Your TV dollars may have gone up, but did your donations to the school fall off because you stink on TV?”

Nebraska's comedown is among the worst. It has had no winning seasons since 2016, and only five since joining the Big Ten – all after winning at least a share of the national title three times from 1994 to 1997 in the Big 12 and its predecessor, the Big Eight.

Will it be worth it?

In the meantime, traditional powers in those leagues generally have kept a stranglehold over the top spots in the standings, such as in the SEC, where Alabama, Georgia and LSU have finished with winning records in league play 29 times out of 33 chances since Missouri and Texas A&M joined the league in 2012.

A similar dynamic has played out in the Big Ten, where Nebraska has a 4-21 record against league powers Ohio State, Michigan and Wisconsin since joining in 2011.

Yet Texas and Oklahoma have elected to jump into this fray next year, when they both join the SEC from the Big 12 to expand it to 16 teams. Likewise, Southern California, UCLA, Oregon and Washington are leaving the western-based Pac-12 to try to fare better than Nebraska in the Midwestern-based Big Ten.

The reason for this is an increase in revenue for all, fueled by a more lucrative TV deal with their new leagues. For example, USC and UCLA stand to earn around $70 million each per year, about double what they were getting before.

In return, these newly aligned schools give the TV companies more attractive football games to televise, largely based on the big brand recognition they’ve built in their previous conferences.

But what if they struggle to keep up in their tougher new neighborhoods? What happens to those brands then?

“ That will be the question to be answered in this round of moves,” said Thompson, now the principal at Thompson Sports Group LLC. “Will Oregon, USC, Washington and UCLA compete in the Big Ten, or are they going to end up in the middle of the pack with no shot at the College Football Playoff? What if they had stayed in the Pac-12, taken less money but at least had a pretty good shot at winning an automatic bid to the CFP playoffs? I could make the case that they risk hurting their brands if they fall into the 7-5 yearly record marsh.”

The Colorado and Syracuse examples

Nobody saw its brand rot after realignment quite like Colorado. After winning a Big 12 title in 2001 and a share of the national title in 1990, the Buffaloes left for the Pac-12 in 2011 and swiftly sank to the bottom with a Pac-12 record of 27-76 in 12 seasons. Now they are returning to the Big 12 next year in a quest for stability and success – a move that was cheered by fans and alumni eager to regain the lost glory .

Should they have ever left the Big 12?

At the time of their decision to join the Pac-12, the Big 12 didn’t look stable or as good of a fit culturally for Colorado, which has a big alumni population on the West Coast. “Many people back then thought that was it − that was the demise of a conference,” Colorado chancellor Phil DiStefano recently said of the Big 12 back then.  

Colorado’s move wasn’t totally about the money, in other words, even though stability generally means money in these cases.

Similarly, staying behind in their old league looked like a potential death spiral for others, including the three Pac-12 teams joining Colorado in the Big 12 next year : Utah, Arizona and Arizona State.

Ten years earlier, Syracuse also jumped ship to the ACC after being caught in an unstable situation in the crumbling Big East. Since then, Syracuse has mostly fallen short in the ACC, with only one winning season in league play in 10 seasons.

But the alternative was to risk being left behind in this musical-chairs race for resources, as former Big East rival Connecticut was in football . UConn didn’t get an invite from the ACC and is now playing as a football independent. It hasn’t had a winning season since 2010.

“There are so many other variables that you have to take into account, but the biggest decision-maker of them all is the survivability of your program,” said Daryl Gross, the athletic director of Syracuse at the time, now at Cal State Los Angeles. “Trust me, if Connecticut could have traded with us at the time (to join the ACC), they would have gladly. Do the math, and you’re $30 million a year less-resourced (if your program is not invited to a richer league). You’ve got to think in that $30 million maybe there’s a plan to be competitive at this new level you are at, whether it’s the ACC or any other conferences.”

It’s sort of like moving into a better neighborhood after getting a raise.

Everything will be better there, right?

The problem is all teams think that, including those that have been patrolling those neighborhoods for decades. Half the teams lose every Saturday. And then a team's recruiting strategy can change when that team is no longer playing league rivals in Texas or other areas of the country as it did in its former league.

Missouri, for example, had 33 players from Texas on its roster in its second season in the SEC in 2013, when it finished 12-2, including 7-1 in league play. Back then, the Tigers had recruited Texas players more heavily as a member of the Big 12, which was based in Texas and had four teams in the state.

The Tigers since have strayed from that in a South-based league and have not had a winning record in league play since 2014. Last year, they had only 11 players from Texas and finished 6-7 overall, including 3-5 in league play.

Though that’s not necessarily a correlation, it can be a factor as strategies evolve and don’t always work against new competition.

“They were kind of riding high (early in their SEC tenure), but that went away as they lost those Texas connections and Texas recruits,” said Dan Beebe, commissioner of the Big 12 from 2007-2011.

To stabilize the Big 12 after the departure of Missouri and others, the league added Texas Christian from the Mountain West in 2012, a program that went all the way to the national championship game last season before finishing 13-2. But before that, TCU hit such a rough patch that it parted ways with its longtime coach, Gary Patterson, and paid him a $11.5 million separation agreement in 2021.

The Maryland example

Falling fortunes in new leagues also can be costly at the box office. Last season, Maryland had the second-worst average announced attendance in the Big Ten (31,934) despite finishing 8-5, including 4-5 in the league. Of the top 33 biggest home crowds in Maryland history, only four have come since 2014 , when the Terrapins moved to the Big Ten from the ACC.

It has never finished with a winning record in league play since then, marking a downfall from its heyday in the ACC, where it was a founding member and won the league title in 2001 under coach Ralph Friedgen. Of the top 33 home crowds at Maryland, 22 came during his tenure from 2001-2010, when his teams went 75-50.

“Sentimentally, I would have wanted to stay in the ACC, but financially I understand why they didn’t,” Friedgen told USA TODAY Sports.

Was it a mistake to move?

“I wouldn’t say it’s a mistake, because I really think Maryland can compete in the Big Ten,” Friedgen said. “I don’t see why they shouldn’t, everything being equal with everything else.”

He also noted that those decisions are not made by football coaches but administrators, “and you’ve got to pay the bills.” The Big Ten next year starts a media-rights deal worth about $7 billion over seven years with Fox Sports, CBS and NBC.

“In the end, money affects how competitive you’re going to be,” Perlman of Nebraska said.

Media money doesn’t necessarily buy happiness

If the biggest brands cram themselves into two super-leagues with the SEC and Big Ten, those teams will beat each other up, and half will finish in the bottom half of those leagues every year. Meanwhile, the rest of college football very well could start to lose interest because those on the outside of the two leagues might not be as engaged as they were when the power and money were spread more widely across the landscape.

“It seemed to me, and I think most people around our program − and I think most fans – that the benefits far exceeded the risk,” Perlman said of Nebraska’s move to the Big Ten.

“You inevitably compete in football with any teams across the country, whether it’s in a traditional bowl game or now with the College Football Playoff. You’ve got to be able to play at the highest level or fans are never going to be fully satisfied. So you might as well get in and learn how to do it (in a tough league).”

Perlman said his athletic department and coaches supported the move to the Big Ten at the time but didn’t raise the issue of how Nebraska might have a more difficult time on the field.

“There were concerns, but it wasn’t that,” he said. “It was extended travel, the giving up of traditional rivalries. The expectations of our fans would have to change, things like that, but never (concerns about) the level of competition.”

The test of time

The old Big 12 still might seem like a place to long for in certain respects. It had big regional brand names in college football at the time: Texas, Oklahoma, Nebraska. It had old rivalries, such as Missouri-Kansas and Texas-Texas A&M. As it was, it might have even commanded a nice price from TV companies in 2023.

“Of course, I’m going to feel like the old Big 12 configuration even today would have stood the test of time and been a formidable, competitive league, as well as one that was most considerate of student-athlete welfare with geographic proximity,” said Beebe, the former commissioner.

It wasn’t good enough for some, though. They left for where the grass appeared as green as the cash.

“It was a good league in football, but it’s also in Midwestern states, many of which don’t have large population bases and you can’t compete monetarily,” Perlman said of the old Big 12. “And money does affect how good you are.”

Follow reporter Brent Schrotenboer @Schrotenboer . Email: [email protected]