Admission to the Museum of the Cherokee People

Reviews

What travellers say4.1 · 123 total

• jackdS4300MI

  Excellent, but!

  The place was clean and the staff were very friendly, offering excellent food and entertainment. The only downside was the television in the room, which had poor signal quality and seemed to be intentionally set up that way.

• briansD5935CA

  A museum at war with itself

  Paying $15 to enter the Museum of the Cherokee People reveals a venue grappling with its own identity rather than presenting a clear narrative. The introductory video features the new curator discussing the ongoing transformation of the museum, claiming that previous historians were not Cherokee, while the current staff represents genuine Cherokee perspectives. However, it remains unclear how these curators were chosen and what gives them authority over the historical interpretation presented. Throughout the exhibits, light-blue signs are displayed, apologizing for or challenging outdated information, prompting visitors to question the previous presentations deemed offensive. Some display cases are empty due to artifacts being improperly sourced, and historical statements about the Cherokee's long history are intermixed with spiritual claims. Terminology is policed, and portrayals of traditional life are censored for sensitivity, yet no criticism is directed at local economy aspects tied to "Kitsch Culture." Overall, it seems the current curators are influenced by postmodern ideology, focusing on deconstructing rather than presenting an objective history, leaving one to ponder the museum's purpose and the admission fee paid. I left with two main thoughts: first, that the experiences of "assimilated" Cherokee voices have little value in this setting, as only those aligned with the tribal government are highlighted. Second, to be considered an "authentic" Cherokee today appears to involve a paradox of opposing Western views while benefiting from tourist-oriented commodification.

• Cathy O

  Must -see

  The narrative presented here is incredibly impactful. Visiting in 2026 for the 250th birthday of the USA is highly recommended. The museum's current transition highlights the importance of Cherokee wisdom and voices, making it relevant for new generations.

• Amy_E

  It was a great learning...

  This was a wonderful educational experience for our whole family. The exhibits were stunning, and the new expansion seems like it will be incredible. The staff was very friendly.

• Josie_S

  Really fascinating and...

  The museum is both fascinating and thoughtfully designed. I appreciate its updates that incorporate contemporary perspectives from Indigenous People. The exhibits are truly impressive. My only suggestion is for the audio in one area to be louder. Additionally, displaying text on a screen would make that exhibit accessible to those who are Deaf or hard of hearing.

• Janet_B

  The items on display were...

  The displayed items were outstanding, each accompanied by a label detailing its significance and date of creation. The murals and miniature representations of Indian life and culture were fascinating. I'm eager to see the finished project.

• Donald_H

  Cherokee Peoples Museum tour.

  The tour lasts approximately two hours and offers a chance to absorb extensive information about the Cherokee people's history and culture.

• David_T

  Informative

  The exhibits provide valuable information about the Cherokee People, although incorporating multimedia elements could enhance the overall experience and engage visitors more effectively.

• Maiagabriella

  Well worth time and admission

  I gained valuable insights into Cherokee culture and history within the broader framework of colonial and U.S. history. The “First Voice” perspective was particularly appreciated.

• Tim_L

  The Museum of the Cherokee will challenge your assumptions about indigenous people in America.

  My last visit was three years ago. There are now displays shaped by Cherokee people that deepened my understanding of their ongoing story and culture, rather than viewing it as a “then” versus “now.” I gave a four-star rating since some older exhibits were difficult to see or read. The Revolutionary War exhibit was outstanding and clarified the interactions among the Cherokee, British, and colonists, which I hadn't fully grasped before. I am eager to see the museum's renovations completed and plan to return.

Reviews are paraphrased traveller feedback sourced from Viator. Original ratings and sentiment preserved.