TOP 10 Water tours for families in Cherokee, North Carolina

Located at 41 Cherokee Mine Road in Franklin, North Carolina, the Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine is a popular tourist attraction where visitors can try their hand at gemstone mining. The mine offers a unique experience for rockhounds and families looking for outdoor recreation. With the opportunity to find rare gemstones such as rubies and sapphires, visitors can enjoy the fresh mountain air and scenic beauty of Cowee Valley. The mine is open weather permitting, and visitors can purchase gemstone ore that is 100% from on-site excavation. Unlike other mines, the Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine does not offer salted or enhanced gemstone ore, ensuring a genuine and authentic gemstone mining experience. The mine also accepts cash and credit cards for purchases.

Mingus Mill is a historic gristmill located at Mingus Creek Trail in Cherokee, North Carolina, United States. The mill, built in 1886, is a testament to the craftsmanship of the past, using a water-powered turbine to operate all machinery within the building. Mingus Mill is currently closed for preservation and rehabilitation work. In the Oconaluftee area, visitors can also explore the Mountain Farm Museum, a collection of historic log buildings that have been preserved on a single site. The museum includes a log farmhouse, barn, apple house, springhouse, smokehouse, and a working blacksmith shop. These structures offer a glimpse into the life of families living in the Smokies over a century ago.