Cherokee OklahomaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Cherokee, Oklahoma.
1. Cherokee National Peace Pavilion
CULTURAL HERITAGE SITE
The Cherokee National Peace Pavilion offers visitors a unique glimpse into Cherokee culture and history. This cultural landmark serves as a gathering place for community events and educational programs about Cherokee traditions. Visitors can experience authentic Cherokee storytelling and learn about the nation's rich heritage through interactive exhibits.
2. Cherokee National Prison Museum
HISTORIC PENAL INSTITUTION
The Cherokee National Prison Museum is housed in the first tribal prison in Indian Territory, built in 1875. This historic building showcases the history of law enforcement in the Cherokee Nation through exhibits on crime and punishment. Visitors can explore original cells and learn about famous prisoners who were once incarcerated there.
3. Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum
LEGAL HISTORY LANDMARK
The Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum is located in Oklahoma's oldest government building constructed in 1844. The museum features exhibits on the Cherokee judicial system, the Cherokee Advocate newspaper, and the development of Cherokee governance. Visitors can explore the historic courtroom where important tribal legal decisions were made.
4. Cherokee Heritage Center
CULTURAL LEARNING EXPERIENCE
The Cherokee Heritage Center offers a comprehensive educational experience about Cherokee history and traditions. Visitors can explore the Ancient Village which recreates a Cherokee settlement from the early 1700s with hands-on exhibits for all ages. The center also houses powerful exhibits about the Trail of Tears and showcases the evolution of Cherokee life through the centuries.
5. Ancient Village
TRADITIONAL LIVING HISTORY
The Ancient Village at the Cherokee Heritage Center recreates authentic Cherokee life in the early 1700s. Visitors can participate in hands-on activities including shooting blowguns, learning stickball, and watching demonstrations of traditional crafts like flint knapping and basketry. The village features authentic winter and summer dwelling houses that showcase traditional Cherokee architecture.
6. Adams Corner Rural Village
POST-SETTLEMENT CHEROKEE LIFE
Adams Corner Rural Village illustrates the changes in Cherokee life following European settlement. The village showcases how the Cherokee adopted European ways including cloth, tools, farming techniques, and governance systems. Visitors can see firsthand the cultural adaptations made during the first two centuries of European contact.
7. Cherokee National Capitol
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The Cherokee National Capitol stands as a testament to Cherokee self-governance and sovereignty. This historic building served as the seat of government for the Cherokee Nation following their forced relocation to Indian Territory. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the development of the Cherokee government and its historical significance.
8. John Ross Museum
PRINCIPAL CHIEF'S LEGACY
The John Ross Museum honors the legacy of the longest-serving Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation who led his people through the Trail of Tears. Located in a historic rural schoolhouse, the museum features exhibits on Ross's life and his crucial role in Cherokee history. Visitors can learn about his leadership during one of the most challenging periods for the Cherokee people.
9. George M. Murrell Home
ANTEBELLUM PLANTATION HOUSE
The George M. Murrell Home is the only remaining antebellum plantation home in Oklahoma. Built in 1845, this historic house belonged to George Murrell, a wealthy merchant who married into a prominent Cherokee family. The beautifully preserved home offers visitors a glimpse into 19th century Cherokee life and the blending of cultures during this period.
10. Cherokee Nation Gift Shop
AUTHENTIC NATIVE CRAFTS
The Cherokee Nation Gift Shop offers a wide selection of authentic Native American jewelry, art, and apparel. Shoppers can find unique Cherokee items created by tribal artisans using traditional techniques and materials. The shop provides an opportunity to purchase meaningful souvenirs while supporting the continuation of Cherokee artistic traditions.
11. The Speckled Hen Antique & Flea Market
ECLECTIC SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
The Speckled Hen Antique & Flea Market offers a treasure trove of unique finds for antique enthusiasts and casual shoppers alike. This charming market features a diverse collection of vintage items, collectibles, and locally crafted goods. Visitors can spend hours browsing through the eclectic merchandise while experiencing the local culture.
12. Paddle Tenkiller
LAKE ADVENTURE EXPERIENCE
Paddle Tenkiller offers exciting water adventures on the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tenkiller. Visitors can rent kayaks, paddleboards, and canoes to explore the scenic shoreline and hidden coves of this beautiful lake. The experience provides both peaceful nature encounters and active recreation opportunities in the heart of Cherokee country.
13. Cherokee Landing State Park
LAKESIDE OUTDOOR RECREATION
Cherokee Landing State Park offers visitors access to the pristine shores of Lake Tenkiller with opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating. The park features well-maintained campgrounds, picnic areas, and hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. Nature lovers can enjoy the diverse wildlife and beautiful scenery while experiencing recreation in traditional Cherokee territory.
14. Trail of Tears Exhibit
MOVING HISTORICAL MEMORIAL
The Trail of Tears Exhibit at the Cherokee Heritage Center presents the powerful story of the forced relocation of the Cherokee from their southeastern homelands to Oklahoma in 1838. This moving exhibit tells the tragic history through the voices of Cherokee people, missionaries who accompanied them, and even soldiers who carried out the relocation. Visitors gain insight into this pivotal moment in American history that forever changed the Cherokee Nation.
15. Council House
TRADITIONAL GOVERNANCE CENTER
The Council House at the Ancient Village recreates the traditional meeting place where tribal decisions were made in Cherokee society. This authentic structure demonstrates how Cherokee governance influenced American democracy, as their systems were among those that inspired the U.S. Constitution. Visitors can learn about the sophisticated political organization of the Cherokee and their diplomatic relationships with other tribes and European settlers.