Cherokee
Located just west of the Great Salt Plains National Refuge which was never opened to settlement, Cherokee became the county seat of Alfalfa County after its sudden growth as one of the tent cities of the Cherokee Outlet Land Run of 1893.
Cherokee continues to grow as a stopover for visitors to the national landmark. Annually beginning April 1st, prospectors come from all over the world to dig for the rare selenite crystals found only in the Great Salt Plains. Birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts find the refuge to be an ideal place for finding rare species in a collective environment.
The Alfalfa County Museum in downtown Cherokee invites everyone to learn about the history of the area through exhibits displayed in the historic hotel.
The Crystal Festival and Bird Celebration held the last weekend of April is a perfect time to see the very best of Cherokee as merchants, artists, photographers, crafters, and bird experts come together to create one of the most fun in learning opportunities in the state.
Cherokee Cemetery Cowboy Memorial
Located in the Cherokee Cemetery is a distinguishable memorial marker to James Potts, an early day cowboy who was shot by his friend in a gun duel in 1884.
Learn more →Things to Do in Cherokee
Artesian Well
An ever-flowing "Artesian well" spring is located northeast of Cherokee, Oklahoma, and provides a cool…
Learn more →Byron Hatchery and Watchable Wildlife Area
In 1929, the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation established Byron State Fish Hatchery to produce…
Learn more →Salt Flats and Selenite Crystals
The salt plains are a unique geological area. Visitors may enjoy viewing the near perfectly…
Learn more →Centennial Wall
The Cherokee Strip Centennial Wall is inlaid with bricks etched with names commemorating the first…
Learn more →First United Methodist/Episcopal Church
The beautiful United Methodist Church of Cherokee was built in 1918.
Learn more →Alfalfa County Museum
The Alfalfa County Museum occupies the 1929 National Historic Cherokee Hotel, that to this day…
Learn more →Alfalfa County Courthouse and War Memorial
The Alfalfa County Courthouse was built in 1921 and featured on its north lawn is…
Learn more →Great Salt Plains
In 1811, Sans Orelle, an Osage Indian, with others of his tribe, guided Major George…
Learn more →Upcoming Events
Nearby Lakes & Parks
All Attractions in Cherokee
- Alfalfa County Courthouse and War Memorial
- Alfalfa County Museum
- Artesian Well
- Byron Hatchery and Watchable Wildlife Area
- Centennial Wall
- Cherokee Cemetery Cowboy Memorial
- First United Methodist/Episcopal Church
- Great Salt Plains
- Salt Flats and Selenite Crystals
- Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge
- Sibley Marker
- The Great Salt Plains Birding & Crystal Festival