I had looked forward to visiting this place to learn about the indigenous people in the smoky mountains and drove 30 minutes from where I was staying near Gatlinburg. First, Cherokee could be any small American town, there was nothing distinctive about it. Second, the "museum" was one mid sized room with a few exhibits (and I mean a few) and some boards on the walls to read. The gift shop was far larger than the "museum" and contained some bits and bobs at eye watering prices. I was eyeing up a cowboy hat until I saw that it cost $1200. So yeah, if you're interested in native americans and their culture, maybe watch a few youtube videos and save yourself the drive.

They should just close their museum til the renovation is completed. What they have now is extremely limited. In fact, the section on how Cherokee’s are misrepresented is the largest exhibit in the museum

Passing through the Cherokee reservation and all of the shops on the way to the museum was amazing. The museum visit was a great topper. However I wish they shared much more history about their culture.

We definitely had a higher expectation than what was there. They were under construction / remodeling so the exhibits were very limited. They had a discounted admission which was nice but it seems like they are starting with the gift shop and working backwards. I think I would have liked to see a multimedia exhibit that showcases some of the Cherokee history, as well as how the tribe lives today. Some ceremonial background music would have been nice in the exhibit hall.

We had anticipated more content and history. Very lacking on tribal history pre European arrival and really 200 years after. We looked for the next room and found out it was the exit retail store. Not our first Native American museum we visited but absolutely the smallest.

None Museum is under construction so one room and took 10 minutes to view everything . Gift shop was bigger than what the museum was

Was expecting more for my $12 entry. It was one room with about a dozen items to read. They were in the middle of a remodel that they said would be open next year. Should have offered us a 1/2 price discount or "rain check" for when we could see everything.

I would have left ZERO stars, but this is not an option. BE AWARE OF THIS RIPP-OFF!!! The original exhibition is removed because “ a white guy started it” and it does not represent the Cherokee Nation any longer and the entire museum is under renovation. There is only one room left with a handful of artifacts, e.g. a helmet of a Japanese Warrior which was given as a present. $12 per person for max 10 minutes of reading. Please, stay away from there until this has been rectified. This is not the representation of the great Cherokee Nation! 😕🙁☹️

This was nothing more than embarrassment of the history and culture Cherokee people . Lack of history and junior high school quality exhibits. Unfortunately save your time, Harrah’s casino needs to step up and provide a true quality museum that they represent

The museum was very interesting and informative. There were a few groups/ families there, but it wasn't crowded. There was lots to learn and there were several photo opportunities both in and outside. It's a small local museum. There were some exhibits that weren't working, but it was a nice activity outside of the casino. If you are a history buff it's definitely worth it.

Jury is out on satisfaction had online ticket trouble. as far as viator is concerned didn't get the tickets in time for the event

The museum was not well lit. Seemed that lights were not working in many places. Which made it difficult to read the plaques. The theater was not working so couldn’t watch whatever the movie was. There were several (7-8) areas where there was supposed to be an audio playing to tell a story but they weren’t working either. I think it could be a nice museum, but they need to fix the electronic elements

There is a lot of very good information and scenes and items to see. It is well worth the trip. Allow yourself some time because it can be a little busy and takes time to see and read the information.

We enjoyed the museum. It was very helpful to use the audio tour. Learned some new facts about the Cherokee tribe.

THERE IS AN EXCEPTION TO THE RULE! By Glenn Arnette, editor MUSEUM OF THE CHEROKEE INDIAN! WNC STAGE, ENTERTAINMENT AND TRAVEL MAGAZINE. wncstage.com When it comes to museums, there are many exceptions to the rules of the dusty and standard treasures of history and lifestyles First, let’s add the word used by the Native Americans in Cherokee, North Carolina, Our Museum is distinctly “unique.” Let’s start with 1200 years of real history and a story of love, destinations, family and hope. A true story depicted from video, magnificent colors in pottery, costumes, sculptures, murals, interactive displays and so much more. No question that this museum is “One of the top ten native sites east of the Mississippi!” and without question the most impressive and qualified museums in the United States. Even Van Romans, Walt Disney Imagineering states the Oconaluftee Indian Village is the exceptional way to tell a historical story and it should be the model for future museums. Living close to Cherokee in Waynesville, North Carolina, I have been many times to the Museum, the Oconaluftee Indian Village, and the “Unto These Hills” famous outdoor drama, but for some reason this time, I was breathtaken by the amount of living history and the displays. America, we should give praise to how this City has preserved the historical years of turmoil to the present day by keeping their history alive! It is so magnificently done in everything the Native Americans of the Cherokee Nation have provided. The City of Cherokee has proven to be one of, if not the most, exceptional tourist destinations because of the people and the exceptional way they have made their lives a living example. They are proud, friendly and willing to bring you into the hearts because of our interest in their heritage and the examples they have given us! You must take time out during the Summer to drive into the beauty of Cherokee. It will give you a native spirit you will always remember. From accommodations, food, attractions, this is the stop to play! They are opened at the Museum 7 days a week, 9AM-5 PM Monday through Sunday. Admission is the most reasonable in the Southeast, $12 Adult, $7 Children (6-12) and under 5 admission is free! 828-497-3481. Thank you for today’s memories!

This exceeded our expectations. Although not real large, it gave great history and information on displays. Everything very well done

This is a very well done museum. A lot of reading involved, but the exhibits are very informative. I would make this your first stop in Cherokee.

This was a confusing experience. The "history" was interspersed with modern art pieces that have nothing to do with history. It looks like there was a film that introduces the site, but it wasn't running when we were there. It's a very small place. There is only a tiny bit of information here, but it's worthwhile.

The museum was a wealth of information with a good flow to through the museum. The displays were of great quality with a thorough representation of the history and culture of the Cherokee during a specific time of turmoil.

This was a great museum experience of the Cherokee Indian people. There was an organized path with beautiful and informative paintings, Indian relics and structures. The gift shop had a lot to offer with true handmade crafts, T shirts, books, etc.