Location: Tahlequah
Top Things to do in Tahlequah
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5 Museums in Tahlequah That You Shouldn't Miss
An excellent display of the Native American culture of central Oklahoma.
Restaurants in Tahlequah
1. Cherokee National History Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 11 reviews
Housed in the renovated Cherokee National Capitol, the Cherokee National History Museum tells the Cherokee story through immersive exhibits and augmented reality. Visitors will start their journey with the Cherokee origin story, continue with Cherokee life before and after European contact, experience Removal through the words of those who lived it, and learn about the growth of Cherokee Nation.
Reviewed By Atkinstravelers - Tellico Plains, United States
My wife and I made this a part of our trip for. Little Rock to OK City because we live in Tellico Plains, TN., “Telliquah”, once capital of the Cherokee Nation prior to the Trail of Tears. “Telliquah” or “Tahlequah” is Cherokee meaning “the open place where the grass grows.” We stopped by on Sunday morning and experienced a quiet ambiance, just like our home. We felt a closeness to the place, though 800 miles from home, thinking about our ancestors forced to relocate so many years ago. We loved just walking around, reading the historical markers, and spending time in quiet thought. We love your town and your history and hope to come back when we can stay longer.
2. Cherokee National Prison Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 30 reviews
The Cherokee National Prison was the only penitentiary building in the entire Indian Territory from 1875 to 1901. It housed sentenced or accused prisoners from throughout the territory. It was built in 1875 and was created for the purpose of reformation as well as for punishment for offenders. The principal chief had the power to pardon condemned men, with the advice and consent of his executive council, but this was rarely exercised. Built of sandstone rock, it was, "made to hold the most hardened and dangerous prisoners."
Reviewed By Nell-South - Terrytown, United States
Very nice piece of history about the prison museum. Couldn’t go in due to covid, but I did physically see it and read the summary signs.
3. Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 15 reviews
This structure was built on the southeastern corner of Tahlequah town square in 1844 by James S. Pierce to house the Cherokee National Supreme Court. Justice John Martin was the first chief justice of the Supreme Court when it was established. The Supreme and District courts both held sessions here for some time. The building also housed the printing press of the Cherokee Advocate, the official publication of Cherokee Nation and the first newspaper in Oklahoma. It is the oldest government building in the state of Oklahoma. The Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum features pieces in three historic areas including the Cherokee National Judicial System, the Cherokee Advocate and Phoenix newspapers and the Cherokee language with a variety of historical items including photos, stories, objects and furniture.
Reviewed By travelboy2008 - Abilene, United States
The history behind law and order in Indian Country is amazing and interesting. The Supreme Court was an important element in the formation of early Cherokee law. This is a must see for criminology students, law school, history buffs, or police science students.
4. The Spider Gallery
Visit the Capital of the Cherokee Nation where we will be happy to welcome you to the rich culture of our people and introduce you to all that Tahlequah has to offer. Your ultimate shopping destination for Native American Art is right here as we host over 125 Cherokee artists with everything from fine art to inexpensive handmade souvenirs. Classes also available at Cherokee Arts Center.
