A Resort Nestled in Nature
Surrounded by the stunning peaks of the Great Smoky Mountains, the Harrah’s Cherokee casino in Cherokee, North Carolina, offers a distinctive blend of natural beauty, Native American heritage, and top-tier entertainment. Operated by Caesars Entertainment in partnership with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, this destination resort delivers not only exciting gaming but also cultural richness, luxury accommodations, and mountain serenity.
History and Tribal Partnership
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort opened in 1997 and has grown significantly since then, becoming one of the largest employers in Western North Carolina and a major source of revenue for the Cherokee tribe. As a tribally-owned property, the resort honors indigenous culture throughout its design, with Cherokee art, symbolism, and traditions seamlessly integrated into the guest experience.
The resort stands as a shining example of tribal economic development, blending commerce with cultural preservation.
Casino Floor: Action Amid the Mountains
Slot Machines and Gaming Variety
Harrah’s Cherokee casino spans over 150,000 square feet of gaming space and includes:
-
3,000+ slot machines, from penny slots to high-limit play
-
Video poker and digital keno
-
Progressive jackpots and themed machines
Table Games
A full range of table games is available, such as:
-
Blackjack
-
Craps
-
Roulette
-
Three Card Poker
-
Mississippi Stud
-
Let It Ride
The resort was one of the first in North Carolina to offer live table gaming, following a change in tribal-state law in 2012.
Sportsbook
With the addition of The Book, Harrah’s Cherokee now offers legal sports betting, featuring:
-
Comfortable seating and massive viewing screens
-
Betting kiosks and staffed counters
-
Food and beverage service within the space
Accommodations: Mountain-Inspired Comfort
The resort features over 1,100 rooms and suites across multiple towers, with mountain-inspired décor and modern amenities.
Soco Tower and Creek Tower
-
Panoramic mountain views
-
Spacious rooms with warm, earthy tones
-
Walk-in showers, flat-screen TVs, and high-speed Wi-Fi
Ultra-Luxury Suites
Guests can opt for VIP suites offering:
-
Separate living and dining areas
-
Wet bars and spa-style bathrooms
-
Private check-in and concierge service
Wellness and Relaxation
Mandara Spa Cherokee
The Mandara Spa provides a tranquil mountain escape with:
-
Signature massages and body therapies
-
Facials, exfoliations, and wellness treatments
-
Couples rooms and hydrotherapy
The resort also features a fitness center, indoor pool, and outdoor lounging area with mountain views.
Dining: From Quick Bites to Gourmet Delights
Harrah’s Cherokee casino boasts a rich and varied culinary scene.
Fine Dining
-
Ruth’s Chris Steak House – A classic upscale choice for steaks, wine, and seafood
-
Brio Italian Grille – Tuscan-inspired dishes in a refined setting
Casual and Fast Options
-
Guy Fieri’s Cherokee Kitchen + Bar – Celebrity-backed American comfort food
-
Selu Garden Café – Breakfast and lunch with regional ingredients
-
Food Court – Quick service options like Dunkin’, Panda Express, and Earl of Sandwich
Entertainment and Culture
The Cherokee Event Center
This 3,000-seat multi-purpose venue hosts:
-
Concerts by major national acts
-
Comedy shows and live entertainment
-
Special events and festivals
Cultural Immersion
Throughout the resort and nearby areas, guests can connect with Cherokee culture via:
-
Murals, sculptures, and storytelling displays
-
Proximity to the Museum of the Cherokee People and Oconaluftee Indian Village
-
Seasonal powwows and traditional performances
Golf and Outdoor Activities
Sequoyah National Golf Club
Owned by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and designed by Robert Trent Jones II, this par-72 championship course offers:
-
Rolling hills, mountain views, and native flora
-
18 challenging holes across dramatic elevation changes
-
Practice facilities, pro shop, and on-site instruction
Nearby Outdoor Attractions
-
Great Smoky Mountains National Park – Hiking, waterfalls, and wildlife
-
Blue Ridge Parkway – Scenic drives and photo opportunities
-
Trout fishing and river tubing in the Oconaluftee River
Conferences and Events
Harrah’s Cherokee also features convention facilities for both corporate and private events:
-
32,000 square feet of meeting space
-
State-of-the-art AV support
-
Banquet and catering services
-
Ideal for weddings, conferences, and tribal ceremonies
Accessibility and Location
The resort is located in Cherokee, NC, just:
-
1 hour west of Asheville
-
3 hours from Atlanta
-
Close to major interstate highways and scenic routes
Ample free parking, shuttle services, and valet options are available for guests.
Why Choose Harrah’s Cherokee Casino?
This resort is perfect for guests who want:
-
A luxurious casino experience in a natural setting
-
Access to Cherokee culture and history
-
A relaxing getaway with wellness, golf, and entertainment
-
A connection to both nature and excitement
It’s truly a one-of-a-kind destination in the southeastern United States.
Conclusion: Cultural Richness Meets Resort Entertainment
At Harrah’s Cherokee casino, visitors can embrace the serene beauty of the Smoky Mountains while enjoying high-energy gaming, luxury accommodations, fine dining, and cultural enrichment. It’s more than a casino—it’s an experience woven into the land and spirit of the Cherokee people. For those seeking both adventure and authenticity, this North Carolina gem delivers an unforgettable resort experience.
