In keeping with its rich history, visitors will find three separate exhibit areas dedicated to the court, newspaper and Cherokee language. This 1844 two-story brick building has been the home of both the Cherokee Supreme Court and the first newspaper published in Oklahoma Territory, the Cherokee Advocate. Located just off of Tahlequah’s town square lies the Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum. Read on to discover some can’t-miss attractions as you trek through Tahlequah. In town, you’ll see Cherokee syllabary along street signs and store fronts, which serve as a tangible link to the city’s roots.

Its desirable location in the scenic Illinois River Valley with nearby Lake Tenkiller and Fort Gibson Lake give the area ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. Nestled within northeast Oklahoma, Tahlequah was founded as the capital of the original Cherokee Nation in 1838, though the city has the distinction of also being the capital of the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians. Tahlequah is a city rich with history and Cherokee heritage.