Tahlequah

Known for its location along the scenic Illinois River, Tahlequah offers a laidback atmosphere where visitors can enjoy delicious meals on breezy patios, hear live performances at the NSU Jazz Lab and take in sweeping views of the river from a number of cabins and campsites in the area. Numerous outfitters offer everything you need to float the river, from kayaks and canoes to rafts and tubes. After a leisurely day floating through the cool clear water, stop by one of the state’s most popular pizza restaurants — Sam & Ella’s Chicken Palace — where you can enjoy delicious twists on classic pizza toppings.

As the home of the Cherokee Nation, Tahlequah offers you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the tribe's rich history which lives on in a number of attractions.  You'll need more than a day here just to take in all of the tribal museum offerings including the Cherokee National History Museum, Cherokee National Prison Museum and Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum.  Tour an antebellum mansion that was once home to a Cherokee chief's niece and see living history demonstrations of everyday activities at that time.  Take home handmade gifts and artwork from the Cherokee Nation Gift Shop and the Cherokee Arts Center and Spider Gallery.