The 56,000 acre Qualla Boundary Cherokee Indian Reservation is occupied by 8,500 members of the Eastern Band of Cherokees, who have made this area and the Smokies, their home for centuries.
Museum of the Cherokee Indian, jct US 441 N and Drama Rd., has displays on Cherokee history. Included are crafts, clothing and weapons. Allow 1 hour. Open Mon-Sat 9-8, Sun 9-5:30. Admission ph: 704-497-3481
Oconaluftee Indian Village, 2-1/2 miles north off US 441 N, is a Cherokee community where Indians demonstrate the making of baskets, pottery, canoes, arrows, and blowguns. Also of interest is a seven sided council house and huts and cabins containing articles used two centuries ago. Guided tours are available. Daily 9-5:30. Admission ph: 704-497-2315 or 497-2111.