Cherokee / Great Smokies KOA

Ghost Town in the Sky

Yes it's back and better than ever. The 2010 season opens May 1. Try out the new thrill ride, "the Silver Bullet". Check out their website for more information: www.ghosttowninthesky.com

Great Smoky Mountains Railway

The Great Smoky Mountains Railway provides a full season of over 500 tourist railway round trip excursions. The history of this rail line dates back to the 1840s when the railroad created passage through this scenic rural mountain land. Passengers ride in comfortable, reconditioned coaches, crown coaches, club cars, dining cars, cabooses, and open cars which are ideal for viewing and picture taking. All excursions take you through the beautiful Smoky Mountains foothills of North Carolina with views of forests, countrysides, rivers, and small towns. http://www.gsmr.com/

Whitewater Rafting

If you have ever thought you might want to try whitewater rafting, do it here. You won’t regret it. Whitewater rafting is great fun with the group from Cherokee KOA. The bus leaves Cherokee KOA each day at 12:30. Sign up at the EXPLORER HEADQUARTERS in advance to be assured of a seat on the bus and the raft. The rapids are class 1 and 2 with class 3 at the end. Anyone who has ever gone with us has loved it. There’s no age limit so even people in their 60’s enjoy it. The Forest Service has a minimum weight limit for children of 60 pounds. Life vests are provided, but only 5 percent of the rafters ever go overboard. Wear shorts or bathing suit, t-shirt and tennis shoes. A change of clothes and towel are recommended for after your trip. Changing facilities and KOA Lockers for keys and watches are available. If small children are along, please take a windbreaker or parka as they get cold if they get wet. http://www.wildwaterrafting.com/mainpage.html

“Unto These Hills” Outdoor Drama

America’s most popular outdoor drama, “Unto These Hills,” is the tragic and triumphant story of the Cherokee. Set against the backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, the drama is presented under the stars on three stages in the beautiful Mountainside Theatre. Since opening on July 1, 1950, “Unto These Hills” has been seen by over five million people. Cherokee descendants play important roles in the drama and in the many dances, highlighted by the colorful and world-famous Eagle Dance. The emotional impact of this tragic and yet triumphant story is supported by a strong musical score, recently recomposed to offer a richer, fuller orchestral sound. For more information, visit "Unto These Hills" online.

Dollywood Amusement Park

For a variety of amusement park rides and attractions Dollywood is only an hour away. Thrilling roller coasters, daring water excursions, family rides and kiddie rides all available at Dollywood. See a live show while you're there too. Check out these websites for more information: www.dollywood.com and www.dollysplashcountry.com

Oconaluftee Indian Village

Learn how the Native Americans actually lived over 225 years ago as Indian guides in native costumes lead you to primitive cabins and rustic arbors. See Indians making a dugout canoe with fire and ax. Watch Cherokee women stringing beads, molding ropes of clay into pots, weaving baskets; and observe the ancient art of finger weaving. Inside the seven-sided council house, learn of the Cherokee history, culture, social background and rituals handed down from generation to generation. Observe the timeworn methods of chipping flint into arrowheads, carving wooden spoons, combs and bowls and pounding Indian corn into meal. For more information, visit the Oconaluftee Indian Village online.

Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge Shopping

Love shopping, then hit the outlet malls just an hour ride over the mountain. Pigeon Forge has the Red Roof Mall with 70 shops owned by manufacturers like Nike, Pfalzgraf, Bass Shoes, Black and Decker, American Tourister and more.

Horseback Riding

All horseback rides are escorted. Weight limit for horseback rides is 200 pounds for men and women. The morning trip includes a trail ride in the National Park that takes you up to a small waterfall. The afternoon trip is a one hour ride into the National Park. It’s a different trail than the morning ride.

Museum of the Cherokee Indian

At the Museum of the Cherokee Indian explore the exciting history of the Cherokee people. The story of the Cherokee unfolds before your eyes through the magic of electronics, audiovisual displays and priceless artifacts, some more than 10,000 years old. The museum is exciting, entertaining and educational for the young and old. http://www.cherokeemuseum.org/

Santa’s Land Fun Park and Zoo

Santa’s Land Fun Park and Zoo offers family fun with a Christmas theme. Visit with Santa and his elves, browse through gift shops and exhibits and be sure to visit the domestic and exotic animals in the zoo. Ride the rides or just relax on the one-mile train ride, take a cruise on a paddle boat, have a picnic or enjoy a meal in one of the eating establishments. During October on weekends, enjoy the Harvest Festival, featuring mountain craft exhibits, sorghum mill, fresh apple cider, moonshine still, fresh apple butter, mountain music and much more.

Harrahs Cherokee Casino - FREE CASINO SHUTTLE

Well known entertainment, 2,800 machines, and more.

The Biltmore Estate

The Biltmore Estate is still owned by the Vanderbilt family. This chateau is the largest privately owned home in the country.

Downtown Cherokee

Visit Cherokee's newly renovated downtown district to enjoy Native American art and craftwork. Shuttle service is available; check at our front desk.

Cherokee Bingo