Your 2025 Cherokee County Bucket List: Must-See Places and Experiences
Boating on Tenkiller below Cookson Bluff
As the new year begins, there’s no better time to plan your adventures and explore the best that Tahlequah has to offer. Located on the border of Oklahoma and NW Arkansas, our charming city is the perfect blend of rich history, natural beauty, and exciting community events. Here’s your ultimate 2025 Tahlequah Bucket List to inspire your year of exploration and fun:
1. Boating on Lake Tenkiller
Known as "Oklahoma’s Clear Water Paradise," Lake Tenkiller is the place to be for water enthusiasts. With 13,000 surface acres and 130 miles of stunning shoreline, the lake offers endless opportunities for adventure. Numerous marinas, boat ramps, campgrounds, and even a scuba diving park make it a top destination for outdoor fun. The surrounding communities add to the experience with lodging, dining, and activities to complete your visit.
2. Floating the Illinois River
A classic Tahlequah experience, floating the Illinois River is a must. Visit one of our many float outfitters to rent a tube or bring your own kayak, canoe, or raft and find one of the many public access points and enjoy a leisurely trip down this river. With its greenery and wildlife along the way, it’s the perfect way to connect with nature and unwind. Make sure to visit during the weekdays if you’d like to avoid the large weekend crowds!
Kayaker on the Illinois River
3. Visiting Sequoyah State Park
This scenic park offers something for everyone. Enjoy hiking trails, fishing, wildlife watching, or camping. You can also take advantage of the golf course and guided horseback trail rides. Sequoyah State Park is ideal for a family day out or a quiet getaway into nature. Make a weekend out of it and stay at The Lodge at Sequoyah State Park. It’s Oklahoma's largest set of state park lodges, with 104 rooms and 45 cottages available to make it a trip you won’t forget!
4. Shopping in Downtown Tahlequah
Stroll through Tahlequah’s charming downtown area, filled with unique boutiques, thrift shops, and a can’t miss bookstore that will inspire your 2025 reading plan. Don’t forget to grab a coffee at Lift Coffee Shop, a sweet treat from Morgan’s Bakery, or some ice cream from The Rollie Pollie. We also have several downtown restaurants that will keep you coming back to visit. A few standout options include Kroner and Baer, known for their pizzas and must-try pretzel appetizer, Vidalias with its unbeatable cheesecake, Emery’s Grill, and the famous Sam and Ella’s Pizza.
5. Attending the RedFern Festival
Have you ever read the book or watched the movie “Where the Red Fern Grows”? Well, Tahlequah is where the book and movie are based! The Red Fern Festival is held every spring in Tahlequah, OK. The festival includes over 150 arts and crafts vendors, food trucks, inflatables, petting zoos, kids’ games, live music, the annual Miss Red Fern Pageant, and the always-popular rubber duck race through Town Branch Creek. Coon Hunters come out to compete in the Hound Dog Field Trials to find out who’s top dog. This is a festival for all ages and you won’t want to miss it!
6. Attending the Crawfish Festival
If you’re a fan of good food and great vibes, mark your calendar for Tahlequah’s annual Crawfish Festival. Hosted by our own Linney Breauxs and Kroner and Baer you’ll indulge in Cajun-style crawfish and live music. It’s the perfect way to kick off the summer in Tahlequah.
7. Hiking the Sparrowhawk Trail
For outdoor enthusiasts, Sparrowhawk Trail offers breathtaking views and a rewarding hike. The trail winds through scenic landscapes, making it a favorite for both seasoned hikers and casual adventurers.
View from the Sparrowhawk Hiking Trail
8. Visiting Mr. Ed’s Grave
Pay homage to the famous talking horse at Mr. Ed’s Grave. This quirky landmark is a fun stop for animal lovers and anyone who appreciates a bit of nostalgia.
9. Exploring the Cherokee Nation Museums
Tahlequah, the Cherokee Nation's capital, is steeped in rich history, and its museums are a fantastic way to immerse yourself in it. From the Cherokee National History Museum to the John Ross Museum, the well-known Hunter's Home, and the John Hair Cultural Center and Museum, each offers unique insights into the heritage that defines our community. Keep in mind that museums are closed on Mondays, so plan your trip accordingly.
Cherokee County is full of adventures and hidden gems to explore. Make 2025 a year of discovery by checking off each of these bucket list items. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these experiences are sure to create lasting memories and deepen your love for our community.
What’s on your Cherokee County bucket list this year? Let us know in the comments below!
Top 3 Hikes in Cherokee County
Spring’s official start is only four days away which means it is time to dust off the hiking boots, throw some snacks in your bag, and head out on the trail! Cherokee County has some of the best views in Oklahoma that make for some awesome hikes. Check out our top three picks below!
Top 3 Hiking Trails in Cherokee County
Spring’s official start is only four days away which means it is time to dust off the hiking boots, throw some snacks in your bag, and head out on the trail! Cherokee County has some of the best views in Oklahoma that make for some awesome hikes. Check out our top three picks below!
3. Pine Ridge Trail- JT Nickel Preserve
1.5 miles
Easy
Take a stroll through the pine trees in the beautiful foothills of the Ozarks. There is always the chance to see birds, deer, turkeys, and elk! The silence of the area is what stands out most. Take 5 minutes while hiking to stop, and listen to the breeze blowing through the pines, birds chirping, and noticeable lack of city sounds.
2. Whispering Pines Trail- Sequoyah State Park
2-14 miles
Moderate
The Whispering Pines Trail features multiple loops allowing you to customize how far you want to hike and where you start from. The trail is also designated as a mountain bike trail so feel free to bring the bike. Make sure to cure that post hike hunger by eating at Foggy Bottom’s in the state park lodge!
1 Sparrow Hawk Primitive Trail
3.8 miles
Moderate
The steep start is well worth the amazing views you’re rewarded with of the Illinois River. Start up the left most trail and follow it for approximately ¾ of a mile to the large rock formation. You can then go downhill toward the river to access the cliffs! The hike requires a hunting or fishing license, but is well worth it! The trail continues past the cliffs, but our recommendation is to turn around at the cliffs as the trail is rather uneventful past the cliffs.
Top 5 Airbnb’s for Large Groups in Cherokee County
Cherokee County, OK is the perfect place to host your large groups. There is something for everyone in your group whether you’re looking to float underneath the bluffs along the Illinois River, take the boat out on Lake Tenkiller, learn about Cherokee culture, shop in Downtown Tahlequah or simply enjoy the beauty of the Ozark Foothills. Check out our top 5 picks for your next vacation!
Cherokee County, OK is the perfect place to host your large groups. There is something for everyone in your group whether you’re looking to float underneath the bluffs along the Illinois River, take the boat out on Lake Tenkiller, learn about Cherokee culture, shop in Downtown Tahlequah or simply enjoy the beaty of the Ozark Foothills. Check out our top 5 picks for your next vacation!
Illinois River Area
Tate Ranch House
The Tate Ranch House is a lodge style cabin that sleeps 16 people comfortably with all of the amenities you need. The house has gorgeous views, a full kitchen, an underground pool, firepit, and is pet friendly with a fenced dog yard. Additionally, the Airbnb is next to the J.T. Nickels Preserve which has hiking trails with lots of wildlife including elk.
Crystal Creek Ranch House
This unique stay is a 3,700 sq foot barn dominium that sleeps 16 people and has 500 acres to explore. Disconnect from everyday life by exploring a spring-fed creek, pasture land, and wooded timber on foot, or bring your ATV, side by side, or dirt bike. Don’t forget to explore the cave on the property! After you’re done exploring, go eat at Table 5 Restaurant in Peggs!
Lake Tenkiller Area
Anchor Away
This beautifully remodeled and scenic cabin sleeps 16 and is less than a mile away from Lake Tenkiller. Launch your boat the Carlisle Cove boat ramp just down the road and play all day on Oklahoma’s clear water paradise then come back and relax in style. The property is on two acres, has a fire pit, brand new appliances, and a ping pong table. Make sure to stop by The Deck at Cookson Village for a bite to eat and drinks while enjoying live music!
Lake Tenkiller Property
Feel good about getting away on vacation with this Airbnb. This 10,000 sq foot property sleeps 27 guests and is owned by the NewView nonprofit. NewView is an organization dedicated to helping kids with vision impairment and blindness and the property is used as a retreat for the kids when not in use as an Airbnb and helps fund the nonprofit. As if that wasn’t enough to convince you to stay, the property also has a boat dock, sauna, tennis and basketball, and outdoor gas grill.
The Bay House
The Bay House is located near Pettit Bay on Lake Tenkiller and sleeps 16 guests. The house has plenty of space to spread out and don’t forget to enjoy the great lake views on the back porch! Additionally, there is a fire pit and kayaks available for use on the lake. Make sure to stop by and eat at The Bird and Bison in Keys to enjoy a unique take on BBQ!
Valentine’s Weekend Getaway
Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching, and it is time to make plans for the big day! Cherokee County is a great place to get away and unwind. Enjoy breathtaking views, beautiful landscape, and so much more!
Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching, and it is time to start making plans for the big day! Cherokee County is a great place to get away and unwind. Enjoy breathtaking views, beautiful landscape, and so much more!
The best way to truly immerse yourself in the beauty of nature is by booking the Hillside Cabin. You’ll have ultimate comfort and relaxation with the privacy of your own space. Build a fire under the stars for a romantic quiet evening with your loved one. Sit out on your private deck to take in the gorgeous scenery. Make sure to book your stay!
Cherokee County has some of the best hiking trails out there. Hiking is a must while you’re here! Have a fun daytime date exploring the Sparrow Hawk Primitive Area. The main trail is 3.8 miles long featuring views of the Illinois River. It is rated as a moderate hike along rocky and dirt trails. The view from the top of a bluff along the trail is absolutely stunning.
Of course, it’s not Valentine’s Day without a delicious dinner. Table 5 Restaurant is the perfect spot for a nice dinner with your date. They have a special Valentine’s Day menu featuring beef short ribs, roasted chicken, grilled salmon, and grilled sirloin steak with demi-glace. All entrees include a salad, dessert, and drink.
Don’t wait until the last minute. Make this Valentine’s Day one to remember with a trip to Cherokee County! Get away from the stress and enjoy a truly relaxing stay with that special someone.