Newcomers Guide 2022 | Page 56

Annual Events

As Tahlequah continues to grow , more and more opportunities for both fun and education present themselves for residents of the town . Whether they are coming into town for the first time as students at Northeastern State University , looking for a great place to go fishing on the lake , or if they are desiring a peaceful , mildly secluded town to enjoy their days in , Tahlequah has something for everyone .

Year-Round Activities
Cherokee National History Museum
After its restoration and opening in 2019 , the Cherokee National History Museum , 101 S . Muskogee Ave ., has been a staple of Cherokee history . The museum resides in the original Cherokee National Capitol building and offers 7,000 square feet of art and heritage to explore . There are lessons in authentic arts and crafts and the opportunity for guests to study the Cherokee Syllabary . The museum prides itself on interactivity and hands-on exhibits . Call 877- 779-6977 for information .
Cherokee Art Center
While it began as a Works Progress Administration project during the Great Depression , the Cherokee Art Center has since become the place for artists to meet and share techniques and knowledge . The space is used in a number of different ways , such as metal smithing , pottery , loom weaving , painting and more . It also is a gallery
for Cherokee artists to show and sell their work . The CAC , 212 S . Water Ave ., is open 9 a . m . to 5 p . m ., Monday through Friday . For information , call 918-453-5728 .
Cherokee Heritage Center
Established in 1963 , the Cherokee Heritage Center is the premiere cultural center for tribal history . Created to promote and preserve the Cherokee culture , CHC has consisted of engaging exhibits , scholarly research and dynamic education programs . The Cherokee Nation took ownership of the property in 2020 , and the tribe is currently working on a strategic plan for the museum .
Hunter ’ s Home
Hunter ’ s Home , 19479 E . Murrell Home Road in Park Hill , is the only remaining pre- Civil War plantation home in Oklahoma . The kitchen garden , crops , orchards , animals and store give guests a window into how life was during the 19th century . The site ’ s historical interpreters host in-person and online programs throughout the year , and the staff has worked diligently to transition the site into a living history farm and museum . The team at Hunter ’ s Home has created a Facebook group , “ Life at Hunter ’ s Home ,” where they post demonstrations , recipes and crafts projects that resemble how life would have been then . For information , call 918-456-2751 .
John Hair Cultural Center and Museum
Once being granted land
in trust by the U . S . Court of Appeals in 2019 , the United Keetoowah Band of the Cherokees now has 76-acres of trust land in Tahlequah , which is home to its community service buildings , a childcare center , a museum , a wellness center and elder center . The John Hair Cultural Center and Museum , 18627 W . Keetoowah Circle , features many exhibits , art , classes , archives , and meeting areas . Call 918-871-2800 for information .
Cherokee Casino Tahlequah
At 3307 Seven Clans Ave ., Cherokee Casino Tahlequah is the place for people feeling lucky . It ’ s open 24 / 7 and includes 400 electronic games . It also includes the White Wolf Steakhouse , where diners can find gourmet cuisine . The casino is located next to the Cherokee Springs Golf Course . Live music performs frequently and the building holds events throughout the year . Call 918-207-3600 for information .
Apex Cinema
Formerly Green Country Cinema , the Apex Cinema recently underwent rebranding and remodeling . For showtimes , call 918- 431-1342 , or check online at www . apexcinemas . movie under the Tahlequah location .
NSU Jazz Lab
Constructed in 1993 , the NSU Jazz lab holds performances from professors , students and other professional musicians throughout the year . It ’ s located in the middle of downtown ; call 918-444-4500 for information .
Cort Mall
Cherokee Nation Court Mall is designed to work with retail businesses to provide retail space , free internet access , shared equipment , and many other features . Among the businesses and offices are the Kawi Cafe , a spot for coffee , soups , salads and sandwiches , and The Spider Gallery , a place for Cherokee artists to display work for
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