Cherokee County

What's available in Cherokee County?

An overview of the different property types you can find in Cherokee County include waterfront real estate (located along Weiss Lake and similar bodies of water in the area), single-family homes, farmhouse properties, historic homes, cottages, townhouses, and condominiums. 

Buyers and investors can also expect a variety of architectural styles and designs in Cherokee County. Some of the most common include:

• RanchThese homes feature classic layouts with a focus on functionality. They are characterized by single-story designs and open floor plans. These styles blend well with the county’s rural and suburban landscapes.

• Craftsman BungalowThese homes are known for attention to detail and for the use of natural materials. They typically have low-pitched roofs, wide eaves with exposed rafters, and front porches with columns.

• Colonial Revival and VictorianThese types of designs are often seen in historic homes. Depending on the architectural style, you’ll often find columns, steeply pitched roofs, bay windows, and ornate details. One thing both these styles have in common is that homes often look elegant and timeless.

• ModernWhile traditional styles dominate the market in Cherokee County, there are also homes with modern and contemporary architecture appealing to homebuyers who love clean lines, open spaces, and minimalist aesthetics. These homes incorporate the latest building technologies and materials.

• Cabin/Log homeThese types of homes reflect the county’s natural beauty and outdoor lifestyle and are often found around Weiss Lake and rural areas. They offer a cozy atmosphere and blend with the surrounding landscape.

• Centre, the seat of Cherokee County and ideally located along a section of Weiss Lake's southern banks. The city is home to over 3,800 year-round residents and is a regional gateway to the Appalachian foothills.

• Cedar Bluff, located on the opposite site of Weiss Lake, is well-known in Cherokee County for being one of the best spots for crappie fishing. Additionally, it's the only wet town in the area.

• Leesburg, about 10 minutes away from Centre via Highway 411. While Leesburg doesn't have direct lake access, it fronts Coosa River and offers its fair share of outdoor recreation.

• Gaylesville along Chattooga River is a small town of only about 140 year-round residents. Despite its small size and population, the community is conveniently located near Weiss Lake and Centre's bustling activities.

• Sand Rock, which also occupies a section of Dekalb County. The town is especially famous among outdoor enthusiasts, with Cherokee Rock Village being one of its main attractions. 

Public Schools — The Cherokee County School District is composed of several elementary, middle, and high schools throughout the county. Some of the top-ranked schools in the district include:

• Cedar Bluff School

• Centre Elementary School

• Centre Middle School

• Cherokee County Career and Technology Center

• Cherokee County High School

• Gaylesville School

• Sand Rock School

• Spring Garden High School

• Downtown CentreThe heart of Cherokee County’s shopping can be found in Downtown Centre, where you can find a variety of shops that offer everything from fashion, accessories, gifts, and home decor. Local boutiques stand out for unique goods and services. The Willow Tree is a popular boutique in the Centre that is a go-to spot for residents in the area.

• Antique stores and flea marketsFor those who love antiques, Cherokee County has several antique shops that specialize in vintage finds, collectibles, and memorabilia. Some of the most top rated antique stores in Cherokee County include the Cherokee Crossroads Antique and Flea Market, Antiques of Centre, 411 Antiques, and Hidden Treasures Antiques and Flea Market, all of which are located in Centre.

• Centre Farmer's MarketThis seasonal farmers market is one of the best places to source and try regional produce, homemade goods, and artisanal products. The market is usually held every summer, but some versions are also held during the annual fall harvest and around Christmastime. 

Dining

The city of Centre is not only Cherokee County's shopping capital– it's also where people can find most of the best restaurants in the area. Some of the highly rated dining establishments in Cherokee County include:

• The Fishin' Hole Locally renowned for their plates of fresh seafood as well as outstanding customer service. They also offer several vegetarian options as well as a curated selection for younger patrons.

• Tony's Steak Barn A must-try eatery serving prime steak cuts whether you like it rare or perfectly medium well. Tony's Steak Barn only hosts dinner services thrice a week, so be sure to reserve a table ahead of your visit.

• Canyon Drive Burger Shack An unassuming building located in Gaylesville that serves some of the best burgers and biscuits in Cherokee County. You can call ahead to place your order and swing by to pick it up before your day out on Weiss Lake.

• Hometown Restaurant A cozy local eatery where you can enjoy a menu filled with American Southern favorites, from hot wings – you can order up to 50 pieces – and pecan pie for dessert.

• Weiss Lake Known as the “Crappie Capital of the World,” Weiss Lake is a popular tourist destination and outdoor spot in Cherokee County. Boating, fishing, kayaking, and more are available, as well as picnics on the shore and other fun activities. The lake also hosts events and fishing tournaments throughout the year.

• Little River Canyon National Preserve Located approximately 30 minutes north of Centre, Little River Canyon National Preserve is a beautiful slice of Southern Appalachia. The preserve currently covers over 15,000 acres of land, which include designated spots for hiking, bird watching, hunting and fishing (certain permissions required), and rock climbing. You can also hop on a kayak for a leisurely paddle down the Little River. Those who are pressed for time can enjoy a scenic drive through the preserve and make stops along the many overlooks located along Country Road 176.

• Cherokee Rock Village Locally dubbed “Sand Rock,” the Cherokee Rock Village features massive sandstone boulders perfect for rock climbing and hiking. So far, the park has about 200 established routes that are open for bouldering, top rope, and traditional climbing. If you have a fear of heights, Cherokee Rock Village also offers hiking and bird watching opportunities, as well as avenues for quirkier hobbies like RC rock crawling.

• Lookout Mountain A short 30-minute drive west from Centre will take you to Lookout Mountain, one of the geographical landmarks in the area and namesake to a census-designated place in neighboring DeKalb County. Twice a site of historical battles, Lookout Mountain today is a popular outdoor recreation destination and a gateway to DeSoto State Park.

• Cherokee Pines Golf Club Home to a challenging 18-hole, 6,800-yard golf course that is sure to wow beginners and make even advanced golfers break a sweat. Day guests are welcome to tee, but family membership packages are also offered to those who want to enjoy exclusive perks and privileges.

• Indian Mountain ATV Park For fans of thrilling off-road adventures, you can head to the town of Piedmont in southern Cherokee County. Covering over 4,700 acres in the Appalachia, Indian Mountain ATV Park is one of the largest off-road parks in the region. But if you want a change of pace, the park also has hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities. 

Culture and community

Meet locals, learn some of the local history, and participate in community events throughout Cherokee County.

• Collinsville Trade DayA Cherokee and DeKalb County attraction since 1955, Collinsville Trade Day transforms the entire town of Collinsville into a sprawling marketplace for a day. The marketplace typically features over 1,000 concessionaires selling everything from fresh local produce to antiques, making it one of the largest flea markets in the region.

• Cherokee County Historical Museum Learn more about Cherokee County's history and lore at the local county museum, which houses exhibits that cover Cherokee County's development throughout the centuries, from when it was a part of the Muscogee Nation, to the Civil War era, and all the way to the modern age.

• Cornwall Furnace Park This historic site invites visitors to step back in time, showcasing an iron furnace dating back to the Civil War era. The park also offers walking trails, exhibits, and a look back at the industrial heritage of Cherokee County.