Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine Tours



You won't need to dig too far down to discover the mining history of this area. Check out Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine for some insight into the precious resources once excavated here.

You'll soon see why this Franklin inactive mine site is visited by many travelers. If you're looking for other things to keep you busy, Rose Creek Mine, Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine, and Sheffield Mine are in this area too. They won't take you long to get to from Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine.

Plan a trip to see Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Hotel Hartness
Elevation Lofts Hotel
Liberty Hall Bed and Breakfast

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine

Fireman's DreamCabin 5 BR 3 Baths Beautiful Log Home with Starlink WiFi! Hot Tub

Fireman's DreamCabin 5 BR 3 Baths Beautiful Log Home with Starlink WiFi! Hot Tub

Franklin
Fireman's DreamCabin 5 BR 3 Baths Beautiful Log Home with Starlink WiFi! Hot Tub
Rustic Log Cabin Sleeps 10, Awesome views, loft,  fireplace and STARLINK!

Rustic Log Cabin Sleeps 10, Awesome views, loft, fireplace and STARLINK!

Franklin
Rustic Log Cabin Sleeps 10, Awesome views, loft, fireplace and STARLINK!
Native Gem Mountain Chalet with Views Near Smoky Mountains, Trails & Waterfalls

Native Gem Mountain Chalet with Views Near Smoky Mountains, Trails & Waterfalls

Franklin
Native Gem Mountain Chalet with Views Near Smoky Mountains, Trails & Waterfalls
Stunning Views and Hot Tub, at Beary Cozy Cabin

Stunning Views and Hot Tub, at Beary Cozy Cabin

Franklin
Stunning Views and Hot Tub, at Beary Cozy Cabin
Full Log Cabin,11 wooded acres near Franklin NC. Sleeps 16 in Beds. Waterfalls.

Full Log Cabin,11 wooded acres near Franklin NC. Sleeps 16 in Beds. Waterfalls.

Franklin
Full Log Cabin,11 wooded acres near Franklin NC. Sleeps 16 in Beds. Waterfalls.
Mountain retreat with decks, firepit, pool table, and fireplace - dogs OK

Mountain retreat with decks, firepit, pool table, and fireplace - dogs OK

Franklin
Mountain retreat with decks, firepit, pool table, and fireplace - dogs OK
Bhakti Manor Creekside Home

Bhakti Manor Creekside Home

Franklin
Bhakti Manor Creekside Home
Charming Tiny Home with WiFi and AC in beautiful Cowee Valley Franklin Nc

Charming Tiny Home with WiFi and AC in beautiful Cowee Valley Franklin Nc

2 out of 5
Franklin
Charming Tiny Home with WiFi and AC in beautiful Cowee Valley Franklin Nc
Bella Vista -HOT TUB! -A View Forever!

Bella Vista -HOT TUB! -A View Forever!

Franklin
Bella Vista -HOT TUB! -A View Forever!
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine

At Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine in Franklin, North Carolina, immerse yourself in an exciting mining adventure where you can hunt for sapphires and other gems. Explore the beautiful rock formations and enjoy guided out trips for a memorable experience. In addition to gem hunting, the area offers various activities like art and kayaking, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and treasure seekers alike.

Shopping

The nearest shopping destination is Ruby City Gems & Minerals, located 6 miles away, offering a variety of gems and minerals. Whistle Stop Mall, 8 miles away, features entertainment and family-friendly vibes. If you're up for a drive, check out Osage Farm, 23 miles away, for local produce and goods.

Recreation

Experience the serene atmosphere at Ralph J. Andrews County Park, perfect for relaxation and wellness. Engage in outdoor activities at Smoky Mountain Country Club, where you can enjoy golf surrounded by nature. Alternatively, indulge in luxury vibes at Mill Creek Country Club for a private retreat.

Adventure

Highlands Aerial Park offers an exhilarating zipline and ropes course experience 18 miles from Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine, perfect for outdoor adventure enthusiasts. Scaly Mountain Outdoor Center, 17 miles away, provides thrilling skiing opportunities, while Appalachian Rivers Raft Company, located 19 miles away, invites you to enjoy exciting water sports.

Nightlife

In the Franklin area, Unto These Hills Outdoor Drama offers a captivating cultural experience just 15 miles from the mine, perfect for families and couples. For more action, The Factory, located 8 miles away, provides lively entertainment, while Country Side Bowling Lanes, 10 miles away, promises fun and adventure.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine

Whether you’re a gem enthusiast or a culture lover, Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine offers a range of attractions to explore. Visit historic sites like the mine and railroads, or check out local colleges for a modern touch. Enjoy outdoor activities while searching for gemstones and experience the romance of this beautiful area. Don't miss out on finding your own cherokee ruby or exploring the rich heritage of gem mining in Franklin, North Carolina.

  • Great Smoky Mountains Railroad: Experience the charm of a historic railroad that takes you through breathtaking landscapes. Located 12 miles from Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine, this scenic ride offers a glimpse into the region's rich culture while enjoying stunning mountain views.
  • Western Carolina University: Just 10 miles away, this modern university is a hub of innovation and learning. Stroll through its vibrant campus, take in city vibes, and explore local events that showcase the community's youthful spirit.
  • Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine: Located only 3 miles from your base, this historic mine offers a unique opportunity to dig for rubies and sapphires. Immerse yourself in the area's cultural heritage while enjoying a hands-on gem mining experience.

Best time to go to Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine

The best time to visit Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January34.7°F (1.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February39.4°F (4.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
March46.4°F (8.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
April54.7°F (12.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May62.8°F (17.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June69.4°F (20.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
July72.1°F (22.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August70.7°F (21.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
September65.7°F (18.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October55.8°F (13.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
November45.3°F (7.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December39.6°F (4.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine

To save money on your trip to Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine, consider visiting between January and March when accommodation prices are lower. Book your stay on a Tuesday for the best rates, and avoid Saturdays, which are the most expensive. Use Expedia to compare prices and consider package deals that include flights and activities for additional savings. Joining the One Key membership program can provide exclusive discounts and help you earn cash for future bookings. Exploring free local attractions will also enhance your experience without straining your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to August and October, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to tailor your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel stay near the Cherokee Ruby & Sapphire Mine with your flights and activities.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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