Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians
Honor this people & place by learning more about their culture and history…
Cherokee is a sovereign nation, meaning it has its own laws, elections, government, institutions, and the like.
Though it certainly has relationships with the United States federal government and the North Carolina state government that are vitally important, it’s important to know that the Cherokees are self-governed and autonomous.
Located in Cherokee, North Carolina, the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians were once part of a much larger Cherokee Nation population. However, when the Trail of Tears was mandated, and forced removal and relocation were directed by the US government and then President Andrew Jackson, the Cherokee Tribe became divided into what is known today as the Cherokee Nation and United Kituwah Band, located in Oklahoma, and the Eastern Band, made up of those who remained and rebuilt within North Carolina’s Qualla Boundary (sometimes called the Cherokee Indian Reservation).
Take an immersive journey back in time to the 18th century where you can experience the vibrant culture of the Cherokee people. Explore historical buildings, witness captivating shows such as “Time of War,” and be enchanted by traditional Cherokee dancing.
Plan your trip to the Oconaluftee Indian Village during the Excursion on Saturday! Find more details on the Excursions page of our website.
At the Museum of the Cherokee People, visitors experience the living culture, art and heritage of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. From exhibitions interpreting the ancestral connection to these mountains to engaging events showcasing the latest art, film and music from trailblazing Cherokee creatives, there is always something new to learn.
About Museum of the Cherokee People
Since 1948, the Museum of the Cherokee People has served its community and visitors as the tribal museum of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI). A 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization located in Cherokee, North Carolina on the Qualla Boundary, the sovereign land of the EBCI and ancestral homelands of all Cherokees, the Museum shares the history, culture, and stories of the Cherokee people through its exhibitions, collections, and programs. The Museum is open from 9am-5pm daily. Ticket sales close at 4pm. Learn more at MotCP.org.
Standard Adult Admission: $15
Children ages 6-12: $8
Children under 6: Free
Members of federally recognized Tribes: Free with Tribal ID
Tickets can be purchased via motcp.org (click “Buy Tickets” on the top right of the homepage) or in person at the Museum box office.
AAA, AARP, and active-duty military discounts available with card ($1 off).
All exhibits are included in Museum admission.
No audio tours are available at this time.
What’s on View?
Main Exhibit: Museum of the Cherokee People is a museum in transition! With ambitious plans for a multiyear renovation project and new offsite collections facility, Museum of the Cherokee People invites visitors to take a step behind the scenes as we consider how to update our 27-year-old exhibit to authentically share Cherokee history, culture, and stories from a Cherokee perspective. Try on your curator and historian hats while you learn about Museum of the Cherokee People’s storied history and its exciting future. On view indefinitely.
sov·er·eign·ty: Expressions in Sovereignty of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians illuminates the complexities of tribal sovereignty and the EBCI’s continuing legacy of resilience. On view through December 29, 2025.
ᏗᏓᏂᏏᏍᎩ ᎦᏓᏆᏟ Didanisisgi Gadagwatli: A Showcase of Pottery from the Mud Dauber Community Workshop at the Museum of the Cherokee People is an exhibition of work by students in the Museum of the Cherokee People’s annual community learning pottery workshop led by renowned ceramic artist Tara McCoy (Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians). 2024 workshop on view through May 28; 2025 workshop opens May 29.
In the Charles George Beloved Veterans Hall, meet heroes of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians who have served in the United States Armed Forces. On view indefinitely.