Local Info

City of Tahlequah

Tahlequah, Oklahoma, is the capital of the Cherokee Nation. The city of Tahlequah was named one of the Top 100 Best Small Towns in America.

The city of Tahlequah is in eastern Oklahoma, about 30 miles northeast of Muskogee.

The capital of the Cherokee Nation, Tahlequah makes an ideal destination for travelers interested in Cherokee culture and history.

Tahlequah downtown area offers historical sights as well as a range of entertainment options, from shopping to dining.

Outdoor Attractions

For visitors partial to outdoor activity, Tahlequah has no shortage of venues for adventure. The Illinois River runs just to the east of town, offering fishermen plenty of opportunity to catch more than 70 species of fish.

For fishing, swimming, boating and even water skiing, Lake Tenkiller is only about 10 miles southeast of Tahlequah. Managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the lake has 10 marinas and 24 boat ramps.

For hiking and camping, Elephant Rock Nature Park (elephant-rock.com) is just four miles northeast of town.

Golfers can select between the Tahlequah City Golf Course, which is right in town but only has nine holes, and Cherry Springs Golf Club, an 18-hole course about two and a half miles south of downtown.

Historic Sights

Tahlequah’s downtown area has several places of historical interest. The Thompson House and The Murrell Home are among the most celebrated historical buildings, both listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Murrell Home is the only pre-Civil War home in Oklahoma, built in 1845. The Thompson house was built in 1882. Both are restored and furnished with period pieces for guided tours and periodic open houses. The Cherokee Heritage Center serves as a historical and cultural museum, with a permanent Trail of Tears exhibit as well as rotating exhibitions.

Illinois River

The Illinois River near Tahlequah is a scenic and popular body of water for floating and fishing. Several fishing guides and float operators are available in the area.

Lake Tenkiller

Lake Tenkiller near Tahlequah is home to clear waters, sheer underwater cliffs, rocky bluffs and lush forests.

The lake has approximately 10 marinas and parks that are operated by the state of Oklahoma and also includes a scuba park, making the body of water popular with divers.