There are three different areas at the center –the museum which has an excellent exhibit about the forced relocation of the Cherokee from their native lands in North Carolina, a reconstructed 1710 traditional village, and a 1890s rural village representing life in Oklahoma after relocation. The museum and rural village are self guided but the traditional village can only be toured with a guide. Various native crafts are demonstrated as visitors walk around the village. Our guide was extremely knowledgeable about all aspects of early Cherokee culture.
The museum is accessible. A small elevator is operated by museum personnel to access the museum level from the building lobby. The traditional village has a paved path with just a few rough spots. A couple of the buildings may be entered but most wheelchair users will need to have some help due to uneven ground.The rural village has a paved path and ramps into the buildings but the ramps are poorly constructed – too steep, uneven boards, and they don’t fit flush to the grounds. Most of the buildings have high thresholds. It’s similar to other reconstructions of small villages so you won’t miss much by skipping it.
The parking lot is fan shaped with lanes radiating out. If it’s not busy RVs can park down any lane. Signs are posted directing RVs and buses to a separate lot which is farther away from the main entrance but the regular lots were barely used when we visited. Heritage Center
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