Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort: A Complete, Honest Guide from a North Carolina Travel Expert
If you’ve followed NorthCarolinaTraveler.com for any length of time, you know my travel style tends to lean toward smaller, more intimate stays — cabins tucked into the woods, quiet inns, and unique places that feel personal rather than overwhelming.
I’ve explored North Carolina for years, especially the mountain towns and destinations around Cherokee, Asheville and Bryson City, and I’m often asked for honest advice on where to stay and what’s actually worth the experience.
Hotel Review Overview
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is the largest hotel in North Carolina, and its presence in the area is significant — not just because of its size, but because of where it is located and who it represents.
The resort sits on the Cherokee Indian Reservation, home to the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Nation.
This is sovereign tribal land, and Harrah’s Cherokee operates in partnership with the tribe, playing an important role in the local economy and community. For visitors, that context matters.
You’re not just staying at a large resort in the mountains — you’re visiting a place that is deeply connected to Cherokee history, culture, and self-determination.
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort had been on my radar for a long time.
I’d been there several times over the years just to dine, walk around, and get a feel for the property, but it wasn’t until Spring of 2025 that I finally decided it was time to stay overnight and experience it fully — and I’m genuinely glad I did.
What surprised me most was how much I enjoyed the change of pace.
I’m not usually drawn to large resorts, but there was something refreshing about having everything right there in one place.
Once I arrived, I didn’t have to get back in the car at all. I could eat, explore, play, and relax without worrying about driving mountain roads or planning the next stop.
On my most recent visit, I brought my youngest daughter, who’s 19, and by the end of the trip she was already talking about coming back to celebrate her 21st birthday at Harrah’s Cherokee — which says a lot.
It ended up being one of those trips that worked across generations, offered plenty to do, and still felt easy and enjoyable.
This guide is based on that full stay experience — not just a quick visit — and is meant to help you decide whether Harrah’s Cherokee is the right fit for your kind of North Carolina getaway.
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is one of the places I get asked about over and over again.
Is it worth it?
Is it only for gamblers?
Do you have to stay there to enjoy it?
What’s it really like once you arrive?
This guide answers those questions honestly — from the perspective of someone who knows North Carolina travel well and understands how people actually plan trips here.
Hotel: Pros
One of the things I appreciate most about Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is its flexibility. It works equally well as a destination resort and as a place to visit while staying nearby — something I’ve personally done both ways.
Before I ever stayed overnight, I had visited Harrah’s Cherokee several times just to eat, walk around, and enjoy the atmosphere.
Even if you’re not a gambler or a hotel guest, it’s an easy place to spend an evening.
Staying on-site, though, gave me a fuller appreciation for the overall resort experience.
What I Love About Harrah’s Cherokee
- Indoor & outdoor pool
- It can be enjoyed with or without an overnight stay
- It works well for non-gamblers, not just casino regulars
- You can eat, explore, and be entertained all in one place
- It’s easy to turn into a full evening or weekend without over planning
- While it can be expensive in peak season or weekends, you can find amazing deals mid-week and in the off-season. I’ve seen some off season rates as low as $47 a night!
- Outdoor seating with fire pits with creek views between towers
- Onsite spa
- Pet friendly, including a pet walking trail
Although I’m not much of a gambler, I did sign up for a Caesars Rewards card, and that ended up being a fun surprise. They loaded casino play money onto my card, which made it enjoyable to try out the casino without pressure. Being part of the Caesars network also means rewards can add up for dining, gaming, and future visits.
Personal Highlights from My Visits
- I’ve enjoyed Harrah’s both as a resort guest and as a place to visit while staying nearby
- On a cold December trip, it gave us a warm, lively place to spend the evening
- My daughter and I had dinner, walked around, and spent time in the arcade
- We enjoyed live music from the restaurant rotunda, watching a band play in the casino below
When I’ve stayed overnight at Harrah’s Cherokee, the biggest pro has been convenience. I loved being able to check in, park once, and not have to leave the property unless I wanted to. Everything felt easy and accessible.
Convenience That Makes a Difference
- Free self-parking
- Option for valet parking (highly recommended if you have a lot of luggage at check in)
- Dining, entertainment, shopping, and activities all connected
- No need to drive mountain roads at night
- Especially comfortable during colder months
- Walkways that connect all of the Harrah’s towers for easy access to other parts of the resort
Why This Matters in Winter
Winter trips in the mountains can be unpredictable. Cold temperatures and weather can limit outdoor activities, especially in Cherokee and nearby Bryson City. Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort offers a warm, indoor alternative where you can still enjoy dinner, entertainment, and activities without worrying about the elements or logistics.
Rooms
With over 1,800 rooms spread across four hotel towers, Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is the largest hotel in North Carolina — which means your room experience can vary depending on which tower you choose.
All towers are connected, allowing guests to move between their rooms, the casino, restaurants, pools, and entertainment without ever having to go outside (though the newest tower does feel a bit more separate in layout).
The Four Hotel Towers at Harrah’s Cherokee
Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide which tower may be the best fit for your stay:
- Cherokee Tower (Newest & Most Modern)
This is the newest tower and the best choice if you’re looking for a more modern, upscale feel. Rooms here have a boutique-style vibe with features like walk-in showers, larger TVs, and coffee makers. The Cherokee Tower also has its own lobby with Starbucks, a terrace pool, a fitness center, and a separate valet and entrance. It’s located closer to the casino but feels slightly more self-contained than the other towers. - Mountain Tower (Oldest, Non-Smoking)
The Mountain Tower is the original tower at Harrah’s Cherokee and is completely non-smoking. It’s closest to the casino and pools and offers more traditional rooms and amenities. - Creekside Tower
The Creekside Tower has a newer feel than the Mountain Tower and offers spacious rooms with features like micro-fridges and large TVs. It’s fully connected to the rest of the resort and often feels like a good middle-ground option. - Soco Tower
The Soco Tower is also connected to the main complex and offers a similar overall experience to the Mountain and Creekside Towers, depending on room type and availability.
A Note on Older vs. Newer Rooms
Because Harrah’s Cherokee is such a large property, some rooms in the older towers are due for updates. That said, it’s clear the hotel is continually working on improvements — it just takes time when you’re managing nearly two thousand rooms under one roof.
Rates & Value
Room rates can feel pricey during peak weekends, holidays, or special events, but timing makes a huge difference.
Visiting during the off season can unlock surprisingly affordable rates.
When I stayed in early March, base room rates were starting around $47 per night. Instead of going for the cheapest option, I decided to splurge a little and booked a one-bedroom suite, and I’m so glad I did.
My One-Bedroom Suite Experience
The suite felt like a true upgrade without a luxury price tag. It included:
- A full living area with recliners
- A table and seating area
- A wet bar
- A Jacuzzi whirlpool tub
- Floor-to-ceiling windows with a city view
I honestly felt like a queen — for a very non-royal price — and it was a great reminder that with the right timing, you can enjoy a higher-end room at Harrah’s Cherokee without blowing your budget.
Amenities
Harrah’s Cherokee offers far more than just a casino, and this is where a lot of first-time visitors are pleasantly surprised.
Amenities include:
- A large casino floor with slots, table games, and sports betting
- Multiple restaurants and bars
- Retail shops and common gathering areas
- Live entertainment venues for concerts and comedy
- A bowling alley and arcade
- A spa and fitness center
- Indoor pool
- Motorized scooters for rent
- Valet parking available
- Caesars rewards card to earn points on stays and purchases
You do not have to be a hotel guest to use most of these amenities. Many people visit Harrah’s Cherokee just to eat, play, shop, or attend shows, then head home the same night or return to nearby lodging.
The main difference between staying on-site and visiting as a non-guest is convenience — when you stay at Harrah’s, your room is just an elevator ride away.
Best Feature
The best feature of Harrah’s Cherokee is its ability to offer an entire night out — or weekend away — without requiring constant driving or planning.
This is especially valuable in winter, during bad weather, or when you simply want to relax and enjoy yourself without worrying about logistics. You can have dinner, play games, walk through the shops, catch a show, and call it a night — all in one place.
Location / Surrounding Area
Harrah’s Cherokee is located in Cherokee, North Carolina, right at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains region.
While the resort itself offers plenty to do, it also works well as a base for exploring nearby attractions, scenic drives, outdoor activities, and mountain towns like Bryson City. You can choose to stay entirely on property or combine your visit with exploring the surrounding area.
Hotel: Cons
While Harrah’s Cherokee offers a lot, it’s important to go in with realistic expectations.
Casino Crowds & Noise
During busy weekends, holidays, or special events, the casino and common areas can feel crowded and lively. If you’re looking for a quiet, peaceful retreat, this may not be the right fit.
Price Fluctuations
Room rates can vary widely depending on demand. Deals do exist, but popular weekends and events can drive prices higher than nearby lodging options.
High-Traffic Wear
Because this is a large, busy resort, some areas may show signs of wear over time. While overall cleanliness is generally solid, it won’t feel like a secluded luxury lodge or boutique hotel.
Who Is This Hotel Good For? Who Is It Not?
This Hotel Is a Good Fit For:
- Adults looking for entertainment without a lot of driving
- Couples wanting a lively, all-in-one getaway
- Winter travelers who want indoor activities
- Groups celebrating birthdays or special occasions
This Hotel May Not Be Ideal For:
- Travelers seeking a quiet, nature-only experience
- Families looking for kid-focused programming
- Budget travelers expecting consistently low nightly rates
Rating
Location: ★★★★☆
Character: ★★★★☆
Price: ★★★☆☆
Cleanliness: ★★★★☆
Attention to Detail: ★★★☆☆
Amenities: ★★★★★
Would I Stay Again?
Yes — with the right expectations.
Harrah’s Cherokee is not trying to be a secluded cabin or a boutique mountain inn. It’s designed to be energetic, convenient, and entertaining. When I want an easy getaway with lots of options — especially in colder months — it’s a place I’d consider again.
Hotel Review Recap
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort offers a full-scale resort experience in the mountains of Western North Carolina. Whether you’re staying overnight or just visiting for the evening, you can eat, shop, play, and attend shows without being a hotel guest.
It’s not for everyone — but for travelers who value convenience, entertainment, and flexibility, it delivers exactly what it promises.
FAQs
Do you have to stay at Harrah’s Cherokee to eat, gamble, shop, or attend shows?
No. You can enjoy the restaurants, casino, shops, and entertainment without staying overnight at the hotel.
Do you have to gamble to stay at Harrah’s Cherokee?
No. You can book a room and enjoy the resort without gambling at all.
Is the casino open all the time?
Yes, the casino operates 24 hours a day.
Is parking included?
Yes. Self-parking is free, which is a major plus for a resort of this size.
Is Harrah’s Cherokee family-friendly?
Families do stay here, but the resort is more adult-oriented. Families with younger children may find limited kid-specific activities.
The Wrap-Up
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is a versatile North Carolina destination that works for both overnight stays and day or evening visits. It’s lively, convenient, and designed for travelers who want plenty to do without leaving the property.
As with any destination, enjoying it comes down to knowing what it is — and what it isn’t — before you go.