UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Harrah's Cherokee
About
UltraStar Multi-tainment Center offers the perfect combination of bowling, arcade games, and dining all under one roof in Cherokee. Located at Harrah's Cherokee, this entertainment hub provides families with hours of fun featuring modern bowling lanes with bumpers for younger kids, a vibrant arcade packed with games, and convenient on-site food service so you never have to leave the action.
Highlights
- ✓Modern bowling lanes with bumpers and lightweight balls perfect for young bowlers
- ✓Extensive video arcade with both classic and newest games for all skill levels
- ✓Full-service restaurant with kid-friendly menu items available right at your lane
- ✓Climate-controlled indoor entertainment - perfect for rainy mountain days
- ✓Birthday party packages available with dedicated staff support
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on weekday afternoons (Monday-Thursday 3-6 PM) for the smallest crowds and sometimes discounted rates before evening hours
- 2.Request bumpers and lightweight bowling balls when you check in - staff are experienced with families and can set up kid-friendly lanes quickly
- 3.Bring socks for everyone as they're required for bowling shoes; purchasing them on-site adds to your costs
- 4.Load up an arcade card with credits rather than paying per game - it's more economical and kids can budget their plays
- 5.Book a lane in advance on weekends and holidays as this is a popular spot for both tourists and locals
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons (Monday-Thursday) from 3-5 PM offer the best experience with minimal crowds and full access to all lanes and arcade games. Weekends get busy, especially Saturday evenings, but Sunday mid-afternoon (1-4 PM) is a sweet spot for families.
What to Know
Bowling shoes are provided with lane rental, and the venue offers a full menu of kid-friendly food including pizza, burgers, and snacks. Parking is available in the Harrah's Cherokee parking area, and the facility is stroller-accessible throughout.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with consistent hours. This makes it an ideal rainy-day activity during Cherokee's wet spring months or a fun evening option after exploring the Smokies in summer. Holiday periods may see extended hours and special promotions.
Nearby Eats
Since UltraStar has full food service on-site, you can dine while you play. However, Harrah's Cherokee complex has multiple other dining options including buffets and casual restaurants just steps away if you want variety.
More Activities Near Cherokee
Bradley's Pharmacy Soda Fountain
Step back in time at Bradley's Pharmacy Soda Fountain, a delightful historic gem in Cherokee where kids can experience the magic of an old-fashioned soda fountain. This charming retro spot serves up classic ice cream treats, thick milkshakes, and nostalgic candy that will thrill children while giving parents a sweet taste of yesteryear. The authentic vintage atmosphere makes it feel like you've walked onto a movie set from the 1950s.
New Kituwah Academy
New Kituwah Academy offers families a meaningful opportunity to explore authentic Cherokee heritage at a sacred ancient mound site. Kids can walk interpretive trails while learning about the indigenous people who lived here for thousands of years, making history come alive through outdoor exploration and educational signage that tells the story of Cherokee settlement and culture.
Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts
Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts offers families a wonderful opportunity to explore beautiful contemporary craft exhibitions in an inspiring gallery setting. Located in the heart of the Smoky Mountains, this highly-rated cultural destination sparks creativity and conversation while exposing children to diverse art forms from pottery and fiber arts to woodworking and metalwork.
Oconaluftee Visitor Center
The gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Oconaluftee Visitor Center offers families an excellent introduction to the park through hands-on exhibits, fascinating wildlife displays, and knowledgeable rangers who make learning about the Smokies fun. Kids can earn Junior Ranger badges, explore interactive exhibits about native plants and animals, and watch an engaging orientation film before heading out on family hikes.