You can’t talk about the Smoky Mountains without including its most ancient residents. Tracing their ancestral homelands all the way back to 11,000 BC, the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians Nation has inhabited these mountains with pride, inventiveness, and resiliency for centuries. Home to around 9,000 members of the Cherokee Nation, the Qualla Boundary covers 57,000 acres along the border of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park In Western North Carolina.

At one point in history, with a population numbering approximately 25,000 members, the Cherokee were the largest of all the southern tribes. Their Nation covered around 135,000 square miles in North America that reached from the Ohio River all the way down to Alabama.

Tragedy and triumph have marked the centuries since then. European settlers brought both burgeoning trade and devastating disease and conflicts. The ensuing and heartbreaking Trail of Tears removed many of them from their native homelands. This resilient people not only survived but they continue to thrive as they integrate their complex history and rich traditions with today’s modern culture.

Read on to learn about five important sites in the Smoky Mountains where you can experience authentic Cherokee arts, crafts, music, dance, and ceremonies.

Museum of the Cherokee Indian

This state-of-the-art museum is the perfect place to begin your exploration of the sweeping history of the Cherokee heritage and traditions. As you enter, you’re greeted by a 20-foot hand-carved statue of Sequoyah, the inventor of the Cherokee alphabet. From there, you’ll journey through engaging – and sometimes heartbreaking – stories from the Cherokee people’s ice-age beginnings all the way up to modern-day life. Marvel at the extensive and engaging exhibits as you learn about legendary heroes, the Trail of Tears, the Cherokee language, genealogy, artwork, and fascinating culture.

Cherokee Homestead Exhibit

The Great Smoky Mountains have been home to the Cherokee people and their ancestors for over 10,000 years, and you can step back into time and experience what their life was like at the Cherokee Homestead Exhibit. Their ancient way of life is showcased in this fascinating interactive display. Explore a reconstructed 17th-18th century village homestead, complete with a summer house, winter house, food storage and so much more. This self-guided, open-air tour is accessible 24/7 and also includes interpretive signs to give you a deeper understanding of their heritage as well as public artwork that showcases Cherokee legends.

Qualla Arts and Crafts

One of the most beautiful – and practical – ways that Cherokee history has been passed down is in the skillful craftsmanship of handcrafted items. When you visit Qualla Arts and Crafts, the oldest Native American Cooperative founded in 1946, you’ll be amazed at the artistry and talent of over 350 generational artists who keep the Cherokee heritage alive through their gorgeous artwork and handmade items. As you make your way among the airy and awe-inspiring artist’s space, you can chat with the artists who are making things like hand thrown pottery made from local clay, baskets woven from hundreds of strands of river cane, and Bird Clan masks carved from buckeye. Not only can you admire the museum-like quality of their work, but you can purchase one of them for yourself and take home a piece of Cherokee heritage.

Oconaluftee Indian Village

Follow local cultural experts and historians back in time to 1750 as you wind your way down pathways that lead deep into the Oconaluftee Indian Village. Here you’ll immerse yourself in Cherokee history as you explore traditional homes, work spaces, and ritual sites. Admire the villagers’ handiwork as they hull out canoes, craft pottery, carve masks, and weave baskets. And while you’re watching a blow gun demonstration, you may even find yourself watching the community gear up for an oncoming war. This interactive and living exhibit shows visitors the daily life of the 18th century Cherokee and the importance they placed on being responsible stewards of their beloved ancestral land.

“Unto These Hills” Outdoor Drama

No visit to Cherokee, NC is complete without seeing the second longest running outdoor drama in the entire country, running for over 50 years! Set in the Mountainside Theater, an outdoor theater that seats 2,800 people, you’ll experience the story of the Cherokee in a thought-provoking and awe-inspiring display. Ancient Cherokee legends are told through mesmerizing stories, heart stirring music, and hypnotic dance traditions that showcase the rich heritage and culture. On your way into the theater, take note of the Eternal Flame that was carried to Oklahoma on the Trail of Tears and brought back to Cherokee in 1951. The Cherokee people believe that as long as the fire burns, they will survive.