Duration
2-3 days for full resort experience (6-8 hours if just gambling and dining)
Best For
Casino enthusiasts looking for variety • Couples wanting a mountain resort getaway • Groups mixing gambling with outdoor activities
Pro Tip
If you're staying in the Cherokee Tower, park in the convention center lot instead of the main garage - it'll save you a very long walk through the complex.
About Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort
Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort delivers Vegas-caliber gaming and entertainment in the heart of the Smoky Mountains. The sprawling property spans four towers with over 1,800 rooms, making it the largest resort hotel in Cherokee and a major destination for both casual gamblers and serious players.
The gaming floor buzzes with energy, featuring 3,000+ slot machines and 100+ table games including blackjack, craps, and roulette. High rollers appreciate the dedicated high-limit rooms, while newcomers can learn table games at lower-stakes tables with patient dealers.
Beyond gambling, the resort caters to families and non-gamers with multiple swimming pools, a bowling alley, and an arcade. The full-service spa offers mountain-inspired treatments, though advance reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
Dining options range from quick bites to upscale experiences. Standout restaurants include Gordon Ramsay Food Market, Guy Fieri's Cherokee Kitchen, and Ruth's Chris Steakhouse. While dining prices trend high, the quality matches the celebrity chef branding.
A few practical tips: The resort is massive, so expect significant walking between venues. Wear comfortable shoes and consider your room location when booking - higher floors in the newer towers offer stunning mountain views but longer walks to amenities. The casino floor operates 24/7, while restaurants and other amenities keep varying hours.
The location at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains makes Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort an ideal base for combining gaming with outdoor adventures. The property frequently hosts concerts and events in its 3,000-seat event center, adding live entertainment to the mix of attractions.
Amenities & Features
Don't Miss
Massive Gaming Floor
Over 3,000 slot machines and 100+ table games make this one of the largest casinos in the Southeast. You'll find everything from penny slots to high-limit rooms, plus North Carolina's first legal sportsbook. The variety is honestly incredible.
Celebrity Chef Restaurants
Gordon Ramsay Food Market brings his signature dishes to casual dining, while Guy Fieri's Cherokee Kitchen + Bar serves up bold flavors. Ruth's Chris rounds out the upscale options with premium steaks and mountain views.
Mandara Spa
This 18,000 square foot spa offers massages, facials, and body treatments in a serene mountain setting. After hours on the casino floor, it's the perfect way to unwind and recharge.
UltraStar Multi-tainment Center
Bowling, arcade games, and PC gaming provide a fun break from gambling. It's especially great for groups with mixed interests - some can bowl while others hit the slots.
Four Hotel Towers
With over 1,800 rooms across Soco, Mountain, Creek, and Cherokee towers, you'll find everything from standard rooms to luxury suites. The Cherokee Tower is the newest with the best amenities.
Event Center Entertainment
The 3,000-seat venue hosts major concerts, comedy shows, and special events throughout the year. We've seen some incredible acts here - the acoustics and sightlines are excellent.
Know Before You Go
- Bring comfortable walking shoes - the resort is massive with long distances between towers and amenities
- Download the Caesars Rewards app before arriving to earn points on gambling, dining, and hotel stays
- The casino allows smoking in most areas, so sensitive visitors should plan breaks in non-smoking zones
- Make restaurant reservations in advance, especially for weekend visits when popular spots fill up quickly
- Bring a light jacket - the casino and event spaces can get quite chilly with heavy air conditioning
Best Times to Visit Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort
Book well in advance for peak seasons (summer and fall foliage).
Tags
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the hours for Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort?
The casino floor is open 24/7, but restaurants, spa, bowling, and other amenities have varying hours. Most dining spots close between 10 PM and midnight, while the spa typically operates 9 AM to 8 PM daily.
How much does Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort cost?
Hotel rooms typically run $150-$350+ per night depending on the season and events. Casino entry is free for ages 21+, but expect to spend $20-$35 for casual dining and $50+ for upscale restaurants.
Do I need reservations for Harrah's Cherokee Casino Resort?
Hotel reservations are definitely recommended, especially on weekends. For restaurants like Ruth's Chris and Guy Fieri's, make dinner reservations ahead of time or you'll likely face long waits.
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