The Tepee

Built at the height of the great American road trip in the 1950s, the Tepee is a roadside attraction that still sits on Route 20 in Cherry Valley, New York. This historical landmark still is in operation as a store that sells natural and locally made items, books, and various knick-knacks. 

A hot dog stand in the parking lot offers Tepee Pete’s famous Chili Dogs, which are so hot that you have to sign a waiver to eat them. While you are enjoying your food you can look out over the Mohawk Valley from the picnic tables and watch the crowds go by on their way to Cooperstown.

The tepee, a type of tent traditionally used by Plains Indians, is a popular—and sometimes co-opted—symbol of Native identity. While the owners of the Tepee are not themselves Native American, they do sell clothing, art, instruments, and other products made by Native Americans.