Attendee Resources

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WIFI INFO

Network: Harrahs_Conference

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GETTING HERE

Event Location:
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort
Cherokee Tower Convention Center
777 Casino Drive
Cherokee, NC 28719

Important note: The Cherokee Tower Convention Center is located on the opposite side of the resort campus from the main casino floor.
The event takes place on Interior Level 3 inside the Convention Center.

Parking & Arrival Directions

⚠️ Important Parking Access Note

You cannot access the convention hall directly from the parking garage.
Even if you park on Level 3, you must enter the building and use the escalators or elevator to reach the interior event level.

Recommended Parking (Convention Center Garage):

Park on Level 3 of the Convention Center Parking Garage (this is the recommended parking level).

From the garage, enter the building and walk down the main hallway until you reach the escalators.

Take one set of escalators up (or use the elevator) to reach Interior Level 3 of the Convention Center.

Follow posted Visit Smokies Regional Conference signage.

The event begins in Convention Room 111.

If entering from the Ground Level / Hotel Lobby:

Enter through the ground-level hotel lobby and proceed toward the Cherokee Tower Convention Center.

Take two sets of escalators or use the elevator to reach Interior Level 3 (Event Level).

Follow posted event signage to Convention Room 111.

Directional signage will be posted throughout the venue to assist you.

What to Expect

We want you to arrive feeling prepared, comfortable, and ready to connect. This page outlines what to expect, how to prepare, and how to make the most of your time at the Conference.

Dress & Comfort

The recommended dress code for the conference is business casual. We encourage attendees to dress in layers, as meeting rooms may be cooler at times throughout the day. Comfortable shoes are also recommended, especially during networking and exhibitor breaks. The goal is to feel polished and professional while remaining comfortable and relaxed.

What to Bring

To make the most of your conference experience, we recommend bringing business cards for networking, a notebook or device for taking notes, and an open, collaborative mindset. This conference is designed to foster meaningful conversations, so come ready to engage, ask questions, and connect with others across the region.

Arrival & Check-In

Conference registration will open in the morning, with exact timing shared closer to the event. We recommend arriving early to allow time for check-in, badge pickup, and initial networking. Badges should be worn throughout the event to help facilitate introductions and connections.

Lodging & Travel

If you are traveling from outside the immediate area or would simply like a more relaxed start to the day, we encourage attendees to consider staying the night before at Harrah’s Cherokee. Staying overnight allows for easier morning arrival and creates additional opportunities to connect with fellow attendees. If you plan to arrive early or stay overnight, please let us know—we would love the opportunity to welcome you and connect.

Networking & Engagement

This conference is intentionally designed around connection and collaboration. Attendees are encouraged to visit exhibitor tables, engage with sponsors and partners, and introduce themselves to others throughout the day. Scheduled networking breaks provide natural opportunities to build relationships that often extend beyond the conference itself.

Food & Beverage

Refreshments and scheduled breaks will be provided during the conference. If you have dietary restrictions or special accommodations, please notify the Visit Smokies team in advance so we can plan accordingly.

Who You’ll Be With

You’ll be joining a diverse group of tourism and hospitality professionals, business and community leaders, regional partners, and government and economic development representatives. This gathering offers a unique opportunity to be in the room with collaborators and decision-makers from across the region.

Questions Before You Arrive?

If you have questions prior to the conference or would like to share your arrival plans, please reach out to the Visit Smokies team. We look forward to welcoming you to the Naturally Smokies Conference and to a day focused on connection, collaboration, and the future of our region.