Your online resource for the Smoky Mountains
Established in 1948 and located on the sovereign land of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) in Cherokee, NC, the Museum of the Cherokee People (formerly known as the Museum of the Cherokee Indian) is one of the oldest operating tribal museums in the United States. Through extensive artifact collections, immersive exhibits, and living history demonstrations, the museum preserves and presents the 12,000-year story, culture, and enduring spirit of the Cherokee people.
589 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee, NC 28719
Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Ticket sales close at 4:00 PM; closed major winter holidays)
1 to 2 hours (Self-guided experience)
$15 Adults | $8 Children (Ages 6–12) | Free for children under 5 and citizens of federally recognized tribes
Fully wheelchair-accessible with parking on-site
Exhibits were developed in close consultation with Cherokee elders, scholars, and tribal artists. Life-sized display figures were created using body casts of local EBCI community members, and audio elements throughout the museum feature authentic Cherokee voices and language.
Houses one of the largest collections of Cherokee material culture in existence, ranging from ancient stone tools, pottery, and shell ornaments to historical weaponry and 19th-century garments.
Features Atsila Anotasgi Cultural Specialists who demonstrate traditional Cherokee practices on-site, including woodcarving, pottery, storytelling, blowgun techniques, and intricate fingerweaving.
Offers authentic handmade Cherokee crafts, artwork, jewelry, and educational books. The museum also maintains research archives and genealogy resources for historical inquiries.
Located next door to the historic Qualla Arts and Crafts Mutual, making it easy to pair your museum visit with shopping for authentic, artisan-made native crafts.