Harrah's Cherokee Casino and Hotel is growing by leaps and bounds

By Robert J. Nebel
Editor, Mens Traveler


For those of us in the Southeastern United States, we believe that gaming isn’t just for Vegas anymore. With plenty of opportunities from Mississippi to the Carolinas, the action is just a short drive or plane trip away. Nothing could be further from that truth than a visit to Harrah’s Cherokee Casino and Hotel in Cherokee, North Carolina.

Harrah’s is located about 50 miles west of Asheville. This sprawling property boasts a high end casino facility, hotels and a premier golf club. The Sequoyah National Club Club was designed by legendary architect Robert Trent Jones II and Native American golf pro Notah Begay III. This 18-hole, par 72 championship course is set against the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and is known for challenging players on all levels. There are many benefits to golfing here. Guests have play opportunity utilizing Reward Credits and each guest has privileged access through Harrah’s Cherokee Service Connection Center and Casino Host Teams.

Already notorious for its state-of-the-art casino and luxurious lodging choice, Harrah’s is undergoing a major expansion. The Master Plan for the property is currently the largest hospitality expansion project underway in the Southeast. When it’s completed in 2012, the 37-acre property will have added a new 532-room luxury tower. Entertainment and VIP lounges, a spa, an Asian gaming room, a digital poker room and restaurants and retail outlets are also a part of the ambitious expansion package.

The new 3,000-seat Events Center brings in nationally renowned recording artists including Lady Antebellum, Crosby, Stills and Nash and Hank Williams, Jr. For information on tickets to upcoming shows, phone Harrah’s at 1-800- HARRAHS or visit Ticketmaster or phone 1-800-745-3000.

Celebrity Chef Paula Deen announces her new restaurant at Harrah's during a presentation in Atlanta.