Celebrating 75 Years of Unto These Hills in 2025

TL;DR: What You Need to Know

• Unto These Hills is celebrating its 75th season in 2025.
• The show runs from May 31 to August 23 at Mountainside Theatre in Cherokee, NC.
• Experience the powerful story of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians and the Trail of Tears.
• New VIP package includes premium seating, a guided tour of the Oconaluftee Indian Village, and a commemorative goodie bag.
• Showtimes: Gates open at 7:00 PM, pre-show at 7:30 PM, and the main event starts at 8:00 PM.
• Plan your visit—tickets, accessibility details, and directions are included below!
• SEE INSTAGRAM PHOTOS of #untothesehills

A Legacy of Storytelling in the Smokies

For 75 years, Unto These Hills has been an iconic outdoor drama, bringing the story of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians to life under the stars in Cherokee, NC. Since its first performance on July 1, 1950, this powerful production has captivated over six million visitors, tracing Cherokee history from early European contact to the heartbreaking yet resilient tale of the Trail of Tears.

Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Great Smoky Mountains, the show blends dramatic storytelling, vivid imagery, and emotional depth to honor the past while celebrating the enduring spirit of the Cherokee people.

2025 Show Details & Schedule

• Season Dates: May 31 – August 23, 2025
• Location: Mountainside Theatre, 688 Drama Rd, Cherokee, NC
• Doors Open: 7:00 PM
• Pre-show Entertainment: 7:30 PM
• Main Show Begins: 8:00 PM
• Show Ends: Approximately 10:00 PM
• Tickets: Available online or at the box office
• Concessions: Gifts, snacks, beer & wine available

New for this anniversary season is a VIP package that offers premium seating, a guided tour of the Oconaluftee Indian Village, and an exclusive commemorative goodie bag—a perfect way to make the experience even more memorable!

Experience the Power of Unto These Hills

This isn’t just a show—it’s an immersive journey into the triumphs and tribulations of the Cherokee. The drama unfolds across generations, following the struggles, resilience, and cultural rebirth of a people whose courage could not be broken.

The atmosphere of the Mountainside Theatre enhances the experience, as the sounds of nature blend with live-action drama, stunning special effects, and powerful performances that transport the audience through history.

Expect moments of heartbreak, action-packed sequences, and uplifting triumphs, all wrapped in an unforgettable theatrical experience.

Getting to Unto These Hills

Google Maps Directions 

From Knoxville, TN (~2 hours)

• Take I-40 East into North Carolina to Exit 27 (US 74, Great Smoky Mountains Expressway).
• Continue west on US 74 past Waynesville, Sylva, and Dillsboro to Exit 74 (Cherokee exit, Hwy 441).
• Turn right at the third red light, then left at the next light.
• The box office is on the right just before the next light.
• To reach the theatre, turn left onto Drama Road at the red light between the box office and the Museum of the Cherokee Indian.

From Atlanta, GA (~3 hours)

• Take I-85 North to I-985, which transitions into US 23/441.
• Continue through Clayton, GA, and Franklin, NC, into Dillsboro.
• Stay on US 441 North towards Cherokee and the Great Smoky Mountains Expressway.
• Follow the same directions as above from Exit 74.

From Asheville, NC (~1 hour)

• Take I-40 West to Exit 27 (Great Smoky Mountains Expressway).
• Continue past Waynesville, Sylva, and Dillsboro to Exit 74 (Hwy 441 to Cherokee).
• Follow the same directions as above from the third red light.

Important Notes for Visitors

• Loud Noises & Flashing Lights: The performance includes gunshots and flashing lights, which may affect some guests.
• Accessibility: Mountainside Theatre is an outdoor amphitheater with stairs. Free golf cart assistance is available to transport guests from the top of the theatre to Row S and back.
• Group Discounts: Special rates available for groups of 15 or more. Contact GroupsAndTouring@CherokeeAdventure.com or call 828-497-2111.

Join the 75th Anniversary Celebration

There’s never been a better time to experience Unto These Hills! Whether it’s your first visit or a cherished tradition, this milestone season is one you won’t want to miss. Witness the triumph of the Cherokee spirit and take part in a Smoky Mountain tradition that has stood the test of time.

🎟 Book your tickets now and be part of history in 2025! https://cherokeehistorical.org/unto-these-hills/