Tahlequah Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Tahlequah, located in the northeastern part of Oklahoma, is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural diversity. Nestled in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains and surrounded by lush greenery, Tahlequah serves as the capital of the Cherokee Nation and is deeply rooted in Native American heritage.

One of the main attractions in Tahlequah is the Cherokee Heritage Center, which provides visitors with an immersive experience into the culture and history of the Cherokee people. Explore the interactive exhibits, watch traditional dance performances, and visit the Diligwa Village, a reconstructed 1710 Cherokee village that offers a glimpse into the past.

For nature enthusiasts, Tahlequah is a gateway to the breathtaking landscapes of the Illinois River. Grab a kayak or canoe and embark on a scenic float trip down the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by towering bluffs and serene forests. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck at catching smallmouth bass, paddlefish, and catfish.

To further appreciate the natural beauty of the region, head to the nearby Tenkiller State Park. This sprawling park encompasses Lake Tenkiller, one of the clearest lakes in Oklahoma, offering opportunities for swimming, boating, and camping. Hike along the park's trails to discover stunning viewpoints, cascading waterfalls, and diverse wildlife.

Immerse yourself in Tahlequah's vibrant arts scene by visiting the NSU Playhouse, where you can catch a captivating theatrical performance or a lively musical. The city also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Red Fern Festival and the Cherokee Art Market, showcasing the talents of local artists and craftsmen.

When it comes to dining, Tahlequah offers a range of culinary delights. Sample traditional Cherokee dishes, such as fry bread or Indian tacos, or indulge in classic American fare at one of the city's charming restaurants. Be sure to try the local delicacy, catfish, prepared in a variety of mouthwatering ways.

Alternative names: Population: 16.6 thous.Area: 12.52 mi²Elevation: 784 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 35°54'45"N, 94°58'14"W

Location

OklahomaUnited States

Contact

Website

Social media

Add

Tahlequah Top Attractions

Tahlequah Attractions - What to See and Explore

Tahlequah offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Cherokee Heritage Center, Northeastern State University, Cherokee National Capitol, Cherokee National Jail. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

History museum • Specialty museum • Museum
Cherokee Heritage Center
The Cherokee Heritage Center is a non-profit historical society and museum campus that seeks to preserve the historical and cultural artifacts, language, and traditional crafts of the Cherokee.
Historical place • Architecture • Historic walking areas
Northeastern State University
Northeastern State University is a public university with its main campus in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. The university also has two other campuses in Muskogee and Broken Arrow as well as online.
Neo-renaissance architecture
Cherokee National Capitol
The Cherokee National Capitol, now the Cherokee Nation Courthouse, is a historic tribal government building in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. Completed in 1869, it served as the capitol building of the Cherokee Nation from 1869 to 1907, when Oklahoma became a state. It now serves as the site of the tribal supreme court and judicial branch.

Museum
Cherokee National Jail
The Cherokee National Jail or Cherokee National Penitentiary was built in 1874 as part of a governmental complex for the Cherokee Nation in Tahlequah, Oklahoma. It served the Cherokee Nation until it was sold to Cherokee County, Oklahoma, which used it as a jail into the 1970s.
35°54'47"N • 94°58'3"W
American Legion Hut
The American Legion Hut in Tehlequah City Park, jct. of E Shawnee St. and N. Brookside Ave. in Tahlequah, Oklahoma was built in 1937 and was listed on the National Register in 2006.
Universities and schools
Seminary Hall
The Cherokee Female Seminary, was built by the Cherokee Nation in 1889 near Tahlequah, Indian Territory. It replaced their original girls' seminary that had burned down on Easter Sunday two years before. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.

Day trips

Tahlequah – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Tahlequah, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium (Fayetteville), Will Rogers Memorial Museum (Claremore), Arkansas Air & Military Museum (Fayetteville).

46 milesE
Sport venue, Sport, Arenas and stadiums
Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium, Fayetteville
Nestled in the heart of Fayetteville, Arkansas, the Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium stands as a proud monument to collegiate athletics and community spirit. This impressive stadium is not only a key feature of the University of Arkansas campus but also a central...
46 milesNW
Specialty museum, Museum, History museum
Will Rogers Memorial Museum, Claremore
Nestled in the verdant hills of Claremore, Oklahoma, the Will Rogers Memorial Museum stands as a tribute to the legacy of one of America's most beloved humorists, actors, and social commentators. This museum, dedicated to preserving the memory and spirit of Will...
45 milesE
Museum, Specialty museum
Arkansas Air & Military Museum, Fayetteville
The Arkansas Air & Military Museum is an aviation and military museum located at Drake Field in Fayetteville, Arkansas. It is the largest aviation museum in Arkansas.
45 milesE
Sport venue, Sport, Arenas and stadiums
Baum Stadium, Fayetteville
Baum–Walker Stadium at George Cole Field is the home venue of the Arkansas Razorbacks baseball team of the NCAA Division I Southeastern Conference, located in Fayetteville, Arkansas, United States. The playing field itself is named George Cole Field, in honor of the former Arkansas athletic director.
18 milesSW
Military museum, Museum
Fort Gibson, Fort Gibson
Fort Gibson is a historic military site next to the modern city of Fort Gibson, in Muskogee County Oklahoma. It guarded the American frontier in Indian Territory from 1824 to 1888. When it was constructed, the fort was farther west than any other military post in the United States.