Tahlequah Area Tourism Council

The history of the Cherokees is a defining part of Tahlequah, with the first Cherokee explorers arriving in 1809. There are many stories about the naming of Tahlequah, but many believe the name refers to a meeting arranged to select a site for the union of western Cherokees and the newly arrived eastern Cherokees. Due to heavy rain, only two delegates arrived. According to the legend, the decision to settle on the present site came from the phrase Tah-le-ya-quah, meaning two is enough to decide. The Cherokee syllabary on the street signs and storefronts serves as a tangible ...

The history of the Cherokees is a defining part of Tahlequah, with the first Cherokee explorers arriving in 1809. There are many stories about the naming of Tahlequah, but many believe the name refers to a meeting arranged to select a site for the union of western Cherokees and the newly arrived eastern Cherokees. Due to heavy rain, only two delegates arrived. According to the legend, the decision to settle on the present site came from the phrase Tah-le-ya-quah, meaning two is enough to decide. The Cherokee syllabary on the street signs and storefronts serves as a tangible link to the city's roots. Today, Tahlequah is the capital of the Cherokee Nation and the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians.

No trip to Tahlequah would be complete without a trip down the scenic Illinois River.  Kayaks, rafts and canoes are available at the river's many commercial float outfitters. Anglers also enjoy the river's waters, where more than 70 different species of fish can be found. The Illinois River cuts through the Cookson Hills to form beautiful Lake Tenkiller.  Scuba diving at Tenkiller's scuba park, camping, boating, fishing and swimming are all part of the fun. In addition to the aquatic activities, Tahlequah's rich cultural background can be experienced at the Cherokee Heritage Center, the Murrell Home, the Thompson House, the Tahlequah History Trail and Northeastern State University.