Travel Guide to Exploring North Carolina's Native American Heritage

North Carolina is steeped Native American heritage. There are eight federally recognized nations with at least some population in the state, as well as a number of non-federally recognized tribes and communities.

These tribes and communities have a long and fascinating history, and they continue to play an important role in the state’s culture and economy.

Here are some specific reasons why you should visit North Carolina to learn about Native American heritage:

Learn about the history and culture of the Cherokee, Lumbee, and other Native American tribes of North Carolina.
Visit museums and cultural centers that showcase the art, history, and traditions of Native Americans.
Attend powwows and festivals to experience Native American culture firsthand.
Take a guided tour of a reservation or community to learn about Native American life today.
Learn about the challenges facing Native Americans in North Carolina and how you can help.

By visiting North Carolina to learn about Native American heritage, you can gain a deeper understanding of indigenous history and culture. Your travel dollars also help to support the tribes of North Carolina sustain their efforts to preserve their traditions and unique identities.

Museums

Cherokee Heritage Center

You’re invited to experience the Cherokee culture and heritage at the Cherokee Heritage Center. Located in Cherokee, North Carolina, it’s home to a wide variety of exhibits.

It showcases the history, art, language, and traditions of the Cherokee people You can also participate in hands-on activities, making this a family favorite.

Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Museum

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Museum is another great place to learn about the Cherokee legacy. Also located in Cherokee, North Carolina, you’ll find fantastic exhibits that reflect the history and culture of the band people.

Lumbee Tribe Cultural Center

The Lumbee Tribe Cultural Center is located in Maxton, North Carolina. This center is dedicated to preserving and promoting the Lumbee culture.

You’ll be fascinated by the story of the Lumbee people. It’s a tale full of mystery, controversy, and the frustration of failing to achieve full federal recognition as a tribe.

Nonetheless, the Cultural Center takes great pride in presenting the scenarios that have confused many who work to piece together their origin story. You won’t be disappointed!

Museum of the Cherokee Indian

The Museum of the Cherokee Indian is a living testament to the Cherokee people’s rich culture and history. Located in Cherokee, North Carolina, the museum tells the Nation’s story from its earliest days to the present.

The museum is a must-see for anyone interested in learning more about the tribe’s origin, interactions with European settlers, and forced removal along the Trail of Tears. Come to experience the Cherokee culture firsthand and to learn about the tribe’s important contributions to American history.

North Carolina Museum of Art

The North Carolina Museum of Art is located in Raleigh, North Carolina. This museum is home to a variety of art from around the world, including Native American art.

While not dedicated to indigenous art, you can learn about the impact of Native American creatives through the museum’s exhibits and educational programs.

Southeastern Native American Museum

The Southeastern Native American Museum is located in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. This museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the cultures of Native Americans from the southeastern United States.

It’s an ambitious mission to present the stories of so many first nations, but the exhibits on the history, art, and traditions are well-done. There’s plenty to hold the interest of visitors in any age group, too!

Landmarks

Joara Mounds

Joara Mounds is a historic site located in Morganton, North Carolina. It is home to a series of earthen mounds that were built by the Joara Indians, a Native American tribe that lived in the area from the 14th to the 17th centuries.

The mounds are believed to have been used for ceremonial purposes, and they offer a glimpse into the culture and history of the Joara Indians.

Occaneechi Village State Historic Site

Occaneechi Village State Historic Site is located in Alamance, North Carolina. It is the site of a former Native American village that was inhabited by the Occaneechi Indians from the 16th to the 18th centuries.

The village was an important trading center, and it was home to a diverse population of Native Americans, Europeans, and Africans.

The site offers a glimpse into the history of the Occaneechi Indians and the early European settlement of North Carolina.

Pottery Mound

Pottery Mound is a historic site located in Roanoke Rapids, North Carolina. It is home to a large earthen mound that was built by the Native Americans who lived in the area in the 16th century.

The mound is believed to have been used for ceremonial purposes, and it is one of the largest mounds in North Carolina.

Town Creek Indian Mound State Historic Site

Town Creek Indian Mound State Historic Site is located in Fayetteville, North Carolina. It is home to a large earthen mound that was built by the Native Americans who lived in the area in the 14th century.

The mound is believed to have been used for ceremonial purposes, and it is one of the largest mounds in North Carolina.

The site also features a museum that houses exhibits on the history and culture of the Native Americans who lived in the area.

Yadkin River Indian Village State Historic Site

Yadkin River Indian Village State Historic Site is located in Elkin, North Carolina. It is the site of a former Native American village that was inhabited by the Yadkin Indians from the 16th to the 18th centuries.

The village was an important trading center, and it was home to a diverse population of Native Americans, Europeans, and Africans.

The site offers a glimpse into the history of the Yadkin Indians and the early European settlement of North Carolina.

Native American Reservations

Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (Cherokee, NC)

You’re invited to experience the Cherokee culture and heritage at the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Reservation. This reservation is located in western North Carolina, and it’s home to about 15,000 people.

The reservation is a popular tourist destination, and it offers a variety of activities and attractions, including:

The Cherokee Heritage Center, which tells the story of the Cherokee people
The Museum of the Cherokee Indian, which houses exhibits on Cherokee culture and history
The Oconaluftee Indian Village, which is a living history museum that recreates a traditional Cherokee village
The Great Smoky Mountains Railroad, which offers scenic train rides through the mountains
The Harrah’s Cherokee Casino, which is one of the largest casinos in the Southeast

Here are some specific reasons why you should visit the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Reservation:

Learn about the Cherokee culture and heritage. The Cherokee Heritage Center and the Museum of the Cherokee Indian are great places to learn about the history, art, and traditions of the Cherokee people.
Experience a traditional Cherokee village. The Oconaluftee Indian Village is a living history museum that recreates a traditional Cherokee village. You can learn about Cherokee life and culture, and you can even participate in some of the activities that the Cherokee people used to do.
Enjoy the beautiful scenery. The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Reservation is located in the Great Smoky Mountains, and it’s home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. You can go hiking, camping, fishing, and more.
Have some fun. The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians Reservation is home to a variety of activities and attractions that are sure to entertain people of all ages. You can visit the casino, go shopping, or just relax and enjoy the scenery.

Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina (Maxton, NC)

You’re invited to experience the Lumbee culture and heritage at the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina Reservation. This reservation is located in southeastern North Carolina, and it’s home to about 55,000 people.

The reservation is a popular tourist destination, and it offers a variety of activities and attractions, including:

The Lumbee Tribe Cultural Center, which tells the story of the Lumbee people
The Lumbee River Park, which offers a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and fishing
The Lumbee Homecoming, which is an annual festival that celebrates Lumbee culture and heritage
The Lumbee Powwow, which is an annual event that features traditional Native American dancing, singing, and drumming

Here are some specific reasons why you should visit the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina Reservation:

Learn about the Lumbee culture and heritage. The Lumbee Tribe Cultural Center is a great place to learn about the history, art, and traditions of the Lumbee people.
Enjoy the beautiful scenery. The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina Reservation is located in the Sandhills region of North Carolina, and it’s home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the state. You can go hiking, camping, fishing, and more.
Have some fun. The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina Reservation is home to a variety of activities and attractions that are sure to entertain people of all ages. You can visit the Lumbee River Park, go shopping, or just relax and enjoy the scenery.

Annual Events

Cherokee Indian Fair – October 3-8, 2023

The Cherokee Indian Fair is an annual event that takes place in Cherokee, North Carolina. The fair features a variety of activities and attractions, including:

Arts and crafts exhibits
Native American dancing and drumming
Stickball games
A carnival
A parade
A rodeo

The Cherokee Indian Fair is a wonderful opportunity to learn about Cherokee culture and heritage. It is also a super event for youngsters to enjoy rides, fun parades, and exhibits that engage them in cultural learning with plenty of fun.

Lumbee Homecoming – July 14-16, 2023

The Lumbee Homecoming is an annual event that takes place in Pembroke, North Carolina. The homecoming features a variety of activities and attractions, including:

A parade
A festival
A talent show
A beauty pageant
A sporting event

The Lumbee Homecoming is a great way to learn about Lumbee culture and heritage. It is also a great place to reconnect with family and friends.

Native American Festival – September 23-25, 2023

The Native American Festival is an annual event that takes place in Raleigh, North Carolina. The festival features a variety of activities and attractions, including:

Arts and crafts exhibits
Native American dancing and drumming
Food vendors
A children’s area
A lecture series

The Native American Festival is a great opportunity to learn about Native American culture and heritage. It is also a great place to enjoy some gorgeous indigenoust craftsmanship.

Southeastern Native American Festival – October 1-2, 2023

The Southeastern Native American Festival is an annual event that takes place in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. The festival features a variety of activities and attractions, including:

Arts and crafts exhibits
Native American dancing and drumming
Food vendors
A children’s area
A lecture series

The Southeastern Native American Festival is a great opportunity to learn about Native American culture and heritage from tribes all over the southeastern United States. It is also chock full of amazing ceremonies, native, color and excitement.

A Few More Travel Details

Getting there: North Carolina is located in the southeastern United States. The closest major airports are Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) and Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU).
Getting around: North Carolina has a good highway system. There are also Amtrak trains that serve the state.
Where to stay: There are a wide variety of hotels and motels in North Carolina. There are also some Native American-owned businesses that offer lodging.
What to do: There are many things to see and do in North Carolina. Some popular activities include hiking, camping, fishing, and visiting museums.
When to go: The best time to visit North Carolina is during the spring or fall. The weather is mild and there are fewer tourists.
Budget: The cost of travel to North Carolina will vary depending on your budget. However, you can expect to spend around $100 per day on transportation, accommodation, and activities.

There are many ways to learn about North Carolina’s Native American heritage. You can visit museums and cultural centers, attend powwows and festivals, or take a guided tour of a reservation or community. You can also learn about Native American history and culture through books, movies, and documentaries.

No matter how you choose to learn about North Carolina’s Native American heritage, you’re sure to be inspired. The tribes and communities of North Carolina have a rich and vibrant culture that is well worth exploring.