Cherokee, NC

Located approximately 1.5 hours from Hendersonville is Cherokee, NC, the capital of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, one of only 3 Cherokee tribes recognized in the United States. Often mistaken as a "Cherokee Indian Reservation," the area, also known as Qualla Boundary, was purchased by the tribe in the 1870s. The land itself is where Cherokee Indians have lived for centuries and is located on the border of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The area is still rich in its ancient customs, culture, history and traditions.

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Major attractions include:

• "Unto These Hills," an outdoor drama that has been performed since the 1950s to tell the Cherokee story -- updated to reflect modern day Cherokee life
• The Museum of the Cherokee Indian, which expertly combines traditional museum displays with modern, interactive video displays and full-sensory experiences to share the history and culture of the Cherokee people
• The Oconaluftee Indian Village, where you will and be transported to the 1700s, on an interactive journey through Cherokee lifestyle and history, which includes traditional Cherokee dwellings, work areas, and sacred ritual sites, as well as cultural dance performances, arts and crafts, demonstrations and more
• Harrah's Cherokee Casino, which offers non-stop entertainment, including gaming tables and slots, dining, live entertainment and more