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!