What To Do In Tahlequah On Memorial Day

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Memorial Day weekend is upon us which means summer is officially here! Tahlequah offers a variety of activities from floating the beautiful Illinois River and Lake Tenkiller to downtown shopping and entertainment! We are kicking off this three-part blog series by highlighting what to do on the Illinois River.  ​

Where to stay 
There is a variety of options when it comes to lodging. Cabins are available through Airbnb, VRBO and float outfitters. RV and tent sites can be reserved through float outfitters or the Oklahoma Scenic Rivers Commission at one of the public access areas. Additional lodging can be found in Tahlequah at one of the hotels or vacation rentals.  

What to do 
Floating is the most popular activity on the river- for good reason. You have the opportunity to float the clear waters underneath rocky cliffs and lush green forests. Don’t have a kayak? No problem! Float outfitters offer kayaks, rafts, canoes and innertubes for your use and will shuttle you up river. Have your own kayak? You can put in at any of the public access points and float, but make sure to stop by the Scenic Rivers Commission Office If you are using your own boat to purchase a day pass. For a more family friendly float, we recommend floating with Riverside Floats. They are the furthest north on the river so their section of river does not see as much activity as others. Local favorites; Doc Fell & Co. And RC an The Ambers will be playing at Diamondhead Resort Friday and Saturday evenings.  
The woods and hills around the river offer some beautiful hikes at Sparrow Hawk Primitive Area and the J.T. Nickels Preserve. Sparrow Hawk offers a 3.8 mile out and back trail. Stop halfway through at the cliffs to eat a snack and take in one of the most scenic views of the river. A hunting, fishing or wildlife conservation passport is required to hike in the Sparrow Hawk Primitive Area. The Pine Ridge trail at the Nickels Preserve takes you up a ridge full of tall pine trees that is reminiscent of Colorado forests. Keep an eye out for elk, deer and turkeys as they are abundant in the preserve. 

Where to eat 
After a great day of hiking or floating, you are going to want a great meal! For close and convenient food options on the river, check out The Tree Top Grill at Eagle Bluff Resort, T&J’s at Hanging Rock Camp, Moe’s BBQ at War Eagle Resort or The Gravel Bar & Grill at Diamondhead Resort. For more options, make the short drive to Tahlequah. Some of the local favorites include Sam & Ella’s, Las Maracas and Southside Drive In.