Oconaluftee Indian Village
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Closed until Apr 21, 2025
Oconaluftee Indian Village
Oconaluftee Indian Village
4.3
Speciality MuseumsCultural ToursHistorical & Heritage ToursOther Outdoor ActivitiesEducational sites
Temporarily closedClosed until Apr 21, 2025
Full view
About
2025 Season April 22nd - November 1st 9:30am to 5:30pm Last ticket sold at 4:30pm Take a guided tour of Oconaluftee Indian Village, an open air living history museum. See Cherokee artisans making traditional crafts using centuries old techniques. Step inside replicas of village buildings. At the square grounds, you'll learn about our traditional dances and clan system. Inside the council house, you'll learn about our government and family structure. Our knowledgeable guides and artisans are happy to answer all of your questions. Don't forget to stop by the concession stand for a snack and browse our gift shop for a unique souvenir.
Cherokee, North Carolina
Indigenous-owned
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Awards
Travelers' Choice
2024
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.3
1,082 reviews
Excellent
680
Very good
219
Average
92
Poor
48
Terrible
43
Vicki C
Lumberton, NC69 contributions
Jul 2024 • Family
This traditional Indian village is a must see. If you’re in the area. We purchased the combo ticket for the village and the outdoor drama “Unto these Hills”. The village tickets can be used anytime during the season
Our tour guide was Maddox and he did an excellent job. The path between the dwellings was mulch and may be difficult for anyone with limited mobility requiring a smooth surface. I do recommend taking a flashlight to view inside the dwellings as our cell phone light was not adequate. Although lights were visible inside they were not operational.
The traditional dance was canceled due to performers illness, and the staff was very apologetic. The gift shop is small but nice. Snacks are reasonable. The tour lasts around an hour and is very informative. Highly recommend.
Our tour guide was Maddox and he did an excellent job. The path between the dwellings was mulch and may be difficult for anyone with limited mobility requiring a smooth surface. I do recommend taking a flashlight to view inside the dwellings as our cell phone light was not adequate. Although lights were visible inside they were not operational.
The traditional dance was canceled due to performers illness, and the staff was very apologetic. The gift shop is small but nice. Snacks are reasonable. The tour lasts around an hour and is very informative. Highly recommend.
Written July 29, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for coming! We're glad you enjoyed it!
Written August 21, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Barbara C
1 contribution
Aug 2024 • Family
Husband and I went here as a layover activity on our way to Savannah GA. It was very nice and our Guide who was only 14 was very knowledgeable (and funny). We also went tot he show “Unto the Hills” it was very good although We bought the ViP pkg with the meal. We went down the flight of stairs ate the went even further down to the front row only to find out the bag with the popcorn, poncho and program were back at the very top I went up and got the bags came down and looked at our goodies….no programs….I was exhausted (62 yrs old) I just wrote it off as I wasn’t going back up till we had to leave. Otherwise a great experience.
Written August 13, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for coming! We're sorry you had a negative experience with the VIP ticket. I will share your concerns with our Operations Director.
Written September 20, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
TonyB
London, UK15 contributions
Aug 2024 • Couples
We hadn't read reviews before we arrived. - We sat in the Car park, reading - and were disappointed by the negative reviews; DON'T BE! - THIS IS AN EXCELLENT VISIT !!
Some of the reviews stated that the younger 'actors' (Their words, not mine) weren't taking thing seriously during the dance show - but clearly they had missed the opening talk - as the guide told how these dances weren't a 'serious' affair, and that they would be a fun event etc.
Straight away we were sold on the tour, and that clearly other reviewers had missed the point.
The dance show was around 20mins, very informative and fun - the guide was clear and explained all the differing types of dances, and then chanted the rhythms for each dance.
Due to our timings we missed the community talk in the centre building - which no doubt would have been excellent.
We had a superb guide - his knowledge on all subjects was deep, and answered all questions well. Interesting to learn about the history of this tribe, non travelling, agricultural and location based rather than the 'filmic' stereo type of tee-pee's etc.
We were taken on a journey around the village, showing differing crafts and house types.
Really pleased we didn't listen to those bad reviews - they need answering to add balance.
Some of the reviews stated that the younger 'actors' (Their words, not mine) weren't taking thing seriously during the dance show - but clearly they had missed the opening talk - as the guide told how these dances weren't a 'serious' affair, and that they would be a fun event etc.
Straight away we were sold on the tour, and that clearly other reviewers had missed the point.
The dance show was around 20mins, very informative and fun - the guide was clear and explained all the differing types of dances, and then chanted the rhythms for each dance.
Due to our timings we missed the community talk in the centre building - which no doubt would have been excellent.
We had a superb guide - his knowledge on all subjects was deep, and answered all questions well. Interesting to learn about the history of this tribe, non travelling, agricultural and location based rather than the 'filmic' stereo type of tee-pee's etc.
We were taken on a journey around the village, showing differing crafts and house types.
Really pleased we didn't listen to those bad reviews - they need answering to add balance.
Written September 1, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you so much for your lovely review! We're glad you absorbed so much information during your visit. Thank you for visiting!
Written September 20, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jim S
Lakeland, FL169 contributions
Aug 2024 • Couples
Can't say enough about this wonderful place. The tour we took was both informative and entertaining. The young lady who was our guide was very new at being a guide, but she did a great job. The dance exhibition was entertaining, also. The young dancers were in a playful mood and delighted the crowd with their enthusiasm and playful interaction that had us in stitches.
The whole experience will leave you with a much deeper appreciation of the Cherokee people and what we lost when they were crushed by the Trail of Tears.
The whole experience will leave you with a much deeper appreciation of the Cherokee people and what we lost when they were crushed by the Trail of Tears.
Written August 5, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for coming! We're glad you enjoyed it!
Written September 20, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Perry D
Mason, OH44 contributions
Aug 2024 • Solo
Actors and Actresses performed well. Many complicated dance moves and set changes. My biggest concern is for the safety of guests, especially seniors. Golf carts were available to transport guests to lower bowl. The infrastructure needs some attention specifically lighting on steps and the incline walkway up to parking area - cracked concrete and uneven gravel. Tree limbs need to be cut back along walkway. Again the performers did well ! Perhaps the Casino could fund / naming rights Good luck!
Written August 6, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I believe this review was intended for Unto These Hills, not Oconaluftee Indian Village. However, thank you for your feedback. We will take it into consideration.
Written September 20, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Don L
36 contributions
Aug 2024 • Solo
The Into the Woods show was so good and told the story of the history of their tribe which was sad but also inspiring. The actors in the show did a spectacular job, the lighting added to the shows mood, the moving sets were more than could be expected and added to the telling of the story. I was so glad I made the more than hour drive to catch their next to last show of their season. It had rained pretty hard just before the show but still after a little time to make the stage safe for their story tellers, the show must go on. Be sure to put into your plans to attend the show next season. You'll be glad you were able to be a part of the storied history.
Written August 18, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I believe this review is intended for Unto These Hills outdoor drama, not Oconaluftee Indian Village, but thank you for your kind words either way! We're glad you enjoyed it!
Written September 20, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
JR T
Richmond, VA60 contributions
May 2024 • Couples
We enjoyed this experience more than anticipated, as some of the previous reviews were critical & explaining the Indigenous American early experience is challenging. Here the presenters offered a knowledgeable balanced viewpoint and responded to questions informatively and effectively, incorporating the displys or the artisans at work when possible. We especially appreciated that they acknowledged when they did not know an answer.
Written May 26, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for coming! We're glad you enjoyed it!
Written May 29, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Steven L
Lancaster, PA87 contributions
Aug 2024 • Couples
Informative stations that gave a great glimpse of what life was like for the Cherokee. The path took us through the forest and was serene. There are some hills so if you have lower mobility it could be a struggle. I was hoping to have more dates and timeframes. But overall a good day!
Written August 16, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for coming! We're glad you enjoyed it!
Written September 20, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Gaye Henley
Knoxville, TN134 contributions
Aug 2024 • Solo
History we all need to visit. It is well done by the employees. Priced adequately, great little snack bar if you need it. Very educational for everyone. Any questions you have can be answered very thoroughly. Souvenir shop is awesome.
Written August 11, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for coming! We're glad you enjoyed it!
Written September 20, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
jim b
9 contributions
Jul 2024 • Family
We took our grandkids to this and it was a great experience for all of us. Well worth your time and $. Seeing all the crafts from those earlier times was educational. The kids especially loved the shows and talks. Everyone there was so friendly and helpful. Highly recommended for all ages.
Written July 24, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for coming! Glad you enjoyed it!
Written August 21, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Do you need to book the ticket online as there is a $5 fee to do so. Can I just purchase when I get there without a line?
Written November 23, 2023
A close friend visited two weeks ago. She said that the traditional Indian dances only happen certain times of the year. It is one of my dreams to see an Indian dance in person. I have planned a trip October 21-23. Will the traditional dances be scheduled or happening then?
Written August 30, 2022
A close friend visited two weeks ago. She said that the traditional Indian dances only happen certain times of the year. It is one of my dreams to see an Indian dance in person. I have planned a trip October 21-23. Will the traditional dances be scheduled or happening then?
Written August 30, 2022
Hi!
Too a certain degree it is accessible. Entrance has stairs if I remember correctly, slightly hilly terrain and paths are unpaved.
Maybe if the soil is relatively dry it is accessible?
Written October 15, 2019
Do you know the name of the poor guide so we can avoid him if we go? Staff - is that guide still working there?
Written October 2, 2019
I’m sorry, I don’t remember his name.
Written January 2, 2020
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