Cherokee Welcome Center: Your Gateway to the Smokies
Discover the heart of Cherokee, NC at the Welcome Center, your essential guide to exploring the Smoky Mountains and local culture.
The Cherokee Welcome Center serves as a vital hub for tourists exploring the rich culture and natural beauty of Cherokee, North Carolina. Nestled in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, this center provides essential information, maps, and resources to enhance your visit, ensuring you don’t miss out on local attractions and events.
A brief summary to Cherokee Welcome Center
- 498 Tsali Blvd, Cherokee, North Carolina, 28719, US
- +1800-438-1601
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
- Thursday 8 am-5 pm
- Friday 8 am-5 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to take advantage of the center's resources and avoid crowds.
- Don’t miss the exhibits showcasing Cherokee culture; they provide valuable insights into the local heritage.
- Ask the staff for recommendations on seasonal events happening during your visit.
- Grab a map of the area to plan your excursions into the Great Smoky Mountains effectively.
- Check the center’s schedule for workshops or demonstrations that may be taking place during your visit.
Getting There
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Car
From Dollywood, head southeast on Dollywood Parks Blvd toward Upper Middle Creek Rd. Continue on Dollywood Parks Blvd until you reach the traffic light at the intersection with US-441 S. Turn left onto US-441 S. Follow US-441 S for about 8 miles. You'll pass through Pigeon Forge and Sevierville. After approximately 8 miles, take the exit for US-19 N toward Cherokee. Continue on US-19 N for about 10 miles until you reach Cherokee. Once in Cherokee, turn right onto Tsali Blvd. The Cherokee Welcome Center will be on your left at 498 Tsali Blvd.
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Public Transportation
From Dollywood, you can take the public trolley service known as the Pigeon Forge Trolley. Head to the nearest trolley stop and catch the trolley heading towards the Pigeon Forge Welcome Center. Once you arrive at the Welcome Center, transfer to the trolley that goes to Cherokee. The trip may take about 1 to 1.5 hours. After arriving in Cherokee, disembark at the Tsali Blvd stop. The Cherokee Welcome Center will be a short walk from there, located at 498 Tsali Blvd.
Discover more about Cherokee Welcome Center
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Ballhoot Scar Overlook
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Great Smoky Mountains
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Bunches Bald Overlook
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Lickstone Overlook
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Cranberry Ridge Overlook
15.7 km
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Woolyback Overlook
15.9 km
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Fontana Lake Overlook
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Ben Morton Overlook
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Clingmans Dome Trailhead
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Clingmans Dome
18.7 km
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Inspiration Point
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Arch Rock
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The Orchards Overlook
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Chimney Tops
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Mountain Heritage Center
22.6 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Museum of the Cherokee People
0.2 km
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Oconaluftee Island Park
0.5 km
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Cherokee North Carolina
0.8 km
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Cherokee Bear Zoo
1.1 km
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Blue ridge mountains
1.9 km
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Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort
2.0 km
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Mountain Farm Museum
3.4 km
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Oconaluftee Visitor Center
3.4 km
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Oconaluftee River Overlook
3.9 km
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Mingus Mill
4.1 km
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Santa'sLand Fun Park & Zoo
4.9 km
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Mingo Falls
6.6 km
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Thomas Divide Overlook
7.5 km
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Smokemont Riding Stables
7.6 km
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Smokemont Baptist Church
7.8 km
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Essential places to dine
All Fried Up
0.8 km
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Ruth's Chris Steak House
2.1 km
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Granny's Kitchen
2.8 km
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Bar-B-Que Wagon
13.0 km
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CJ's Grille
13.1 km
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The Rice Wagon
13.2 km
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The Bistro at the Everett Hotel
13.2 km
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High Test Deli
13.3 km
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SNAK SHAK
13.3 km
Savor authentic American cuisine at Snak Shak in Bryson City – where comfort food meets warm hospitality.
The Rivers and Rails Tavern
14.0 km
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Tommy's Paradise
25.7 km
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Nantahala Village Resort
25.8 km
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Kallisto Restaurant and Lounge at Nantahala Village
25.8 km
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Crystelle Creek Restaurant
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Big Wesser
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Twisted Sister
0.5 km
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The What's Hot Shop
0.9 km
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Traditional Hands Native American Jewelry
0.9 km
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SPIRIT BEAR Gift shop & souvenirs
1.0 km
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Great Smokies Gifts
2.0 km
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Saunooke's Mill & Shop
2.0 km
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Loose Moose
13.2 km
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Appalachian Mercantile
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Humanité Boutique
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La Dolce Vita Bakery
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Bryson City Outdoors
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Charleston Station
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Buttermilk Farms Antiques & Auction
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Handmade Pottery
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Jelly Belly's Mountain Gift
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Native Brews Tap & Grill
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Unplugged Pub
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The Fireside Bar at the Fryemont Inn
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Balsam Falls Brewing Co.
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The Cut Cocktail Lounge
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Creekside Oyster House and Grill
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Legends Sports Bar And Grill
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The Bar At The Top Of The World
31.1 km
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Sugarland s
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Tower Bar at Anakeesta
31.1 km
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Daiquiri Shack & Grill Margaritaville
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Boudicca's Celtic Pub
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Gatlinburg Brewing Company
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Old smokey barrelhouse
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License to Chill Bar
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