The theme park boom in Western North Carolina during the 1960s helped usher a new generation of vacationers to the area. Overnight, the scenic landscape of the Blue Ridge Mountains transformed many towns like Cherokee into tourist destinations.
Frontier Land opened in 1964 on a 140-acre plot of land along U.S. 19. An adult ticket cost just $2, while children enjoyed the park for $1. The attraction was the brainchild of R.B. Coburn, who developed another famous theme park just down the road, Ghost Town in the Sky.
The project was estimated to cost more than one million dollars and was situated on land leased by the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. It was laid out in three sections: the frontier town of Deadwood Gulch, the Army post known as Fort Cherokee, and Indian Territory.
Visitors could choose between the steam engine train and a gondola to enter the park, where they could watch daily shows, enjoy the rides, and witness the Indian attacks on the fort. Many have said they preferred the park over its sister attraction in Maggie Valley.
Much like other stories of failed theme parks, all great things must come to an end. Frontier Land’s demise was likely caused by the glitz and glamour of larger parks that attracted families, such as Six Flags and Disney World. In 1983, after nineteen years, Frontierland was transformed into a western-themed water park, which ultimately closed in 1986.
Today, the old site has a new lease on life, having become home to Harrah’s Cherokee Casino.
Written By: John G. Clark Jr.
Image: WNC Magazine
(Disclaimer) Frontier Land has been referenced as Frontierland in other online articles.