Oklahoma is a state located in the southern region of the United States. It is known for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural history, and friendly people. Whether you are a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a foodie, Oklahoma has something to offer for everyone. In this travel guide, we will take you on a journey through the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports of Oklahoma. Let’s explore!
Top Attractions
Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum
The Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum is a tribute to the victims, survivors, and rescue workers of the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. The museum features interactive exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the bombing and its aftermath. The outdoor memorial includes a reflecting pool, a field of empty chairs, and a survivor tree.
Tulsa Zoo
The Tulsa Zoo is home to over 2,000 animals from around the world, including elephants, giraffes, lions, and tigers. Visitors can also enjoy interactive exhibits, a petting zoo, and a train ride through the zoo.
Philbrook Museum of Art
The Philbrook Museum of Art is a world-class art museum located in Tulsa. The museum features a collection of American, European, and contemporary art, as well as gardens and outdoor sculptures.
Hidden Gems
Tallgrass Prairie Preserve
The Tallgrass Prairie Preserve is a 40,000-acre nature preserve located in Osage County. The preserve is home to over 2,500 bison, as well as prairie dogs, coyotes, and other wildlife. Visitors can hike, bike, or drive through the preserve.
Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is a 59,000-acre wildlife preserve located in southwestern Oklahoma. The refuge is home to bison, elk, longhorn cattle, and prairie dogs. Visitors can hike, fish, and camp in the refuge.
Beavers Bend State Park
Beavers Bend State Park is a 1,300-acre state park located in southeastern Oklahoma. The park is known for its scenic beauty, hiking trails, and fishing opportunities. Visitors can also enjoy kayaking, horseback riding, and camping in the park.
Food Scene
Barbecue
Oklahoma is known for its barbecue, and there are many great barbecue restaurants throughout the state. Some of the best include Leo’s BBQ in Oklahoma City, Burn Co. BBQ in Tulsa, and Smokin’ Joe’s Rib Ranch in Davis.
Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken fried steak is a classic Oklahoma dish, and many restaurants throughout the state serve it. Some of the best include Eischen’s Bar in Okarche, Lucille’s Roadhouse in Weatherford, and Ann’s Chicken Fry House in Oklahoma City.
Native American Cuisine
Oklahoma is home to many Native American tribes, and their cuisine is a big part of the state’s food scene. Some of the best Native American restaurants in the state include the Choctaw Casino’s Blue Moon Cafe in Durant, the Chickasaw Nation’s Bedré Café in Davis, and the Osage Nation’s Wah-Zha-Zhi Cultural Center in Pawhuska.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Free Museums
Oklahoma has many great museums, and some of them are free to visit. The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City offers free admission on the first Saturday of every month, and the Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa offers free admission on the second Saturday of every month.
State Parks
Oklahoma has many beautiful state parks, and they are a great way to enjoy the state’s natural beauty without spending a lot of money. Many state parks offer camping, hiking, and fishing opportunities at affordable prices.
Happy Hour Specials
Many restaurants and bars in Oklahoma offer happy hour specials, which can be a great way to enjoy food and drinks at discounted prices. Some of the best happy hour specials in the state can be found at The Pump Bar in Oklahoma City, McNellie’s in Tulsa, and Eskimo Joe’s in Stillwater.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking
Oklahoma has many great hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. Some of the best hiking trails in the state include the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, the Ozark National Forest, and the Ouachita National Forest.
Fishing
Oklahoma is home to many great fishing spots, including lakes, rivers, and streams. Some of the best fishing spots in the state include Lake Tenkiller, the Lower Illinois River, and the Mountain Fork River.
Biking
Oklahoma has many great biking trails, ranging from easy rides to challenging routes. Some of the best biking trails in the state include the Katy Trail, the River Parks Trail, and the Ouachita National Recreation Trail.
Family-Friendly Activities
Oklahoma Aquarium
The Oklahoma Aquarium is located in Jenks and is home to over 300 species of fish, sharks, and other marine life. The aquarium also features interactive exhibits and a sea turtle rehabilitation center.
Science Museum Oklahoma
The Science Museum Oklahoma is located in Oklahoma City and features hands-on exhibits and interactive displays that explore science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts.
Turner Falls Park
Turner Falls Park is a 1,500-acre park located in Davis and is home to Oklahoma’s largest waterfall. The park also features swimming holes, hiking trails, and camping sites.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Blue Whale of Catoosa
The Blue Whale of Catoosa is a roadside attraction located on Route 66 near Tulsa. The 80-foot-long blue whale was built in the 1970s and has become a popular spot for photos and picnics.
Round Barn of Arcadia
The Round Barn of Arcadia is a historic barn located on Route 66. The barn was built in 1898 and is one of the few remaining round barns in the United States. Visitors can take a tour of the barn and learn about its history.
Pops
Pops is a gas station and restaurant located in Arcadia. The restaurant is known for its selection of over 700 varieties of soda, as well as its neon-lit soda bottle sculpture outside.
Natural Wonders
Talimena Scenic Drive
The Talimena Scenic Drive is a 54-mile drive that winds through the Ouachita Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The drive begins in Talihina, Oklahoma, and ends in Mena, Arkansas.
Great Salt Plains State Park
Great Salt Plains State Park is a 9,000-acre park located in Jet and is home to one of the few saltwater lakes in the United States. Visitors can dig for selenite crystals in the lake’s salt flats or enjoy boating and fishing on the lake.
Black Mesa
Black Mesa is the highest point in Oklahoma, reaching an elevation of 4,975 feet. The mesa is located in the Panhandle and offers hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Vibrant Nightlife
Bricktown
Bricktown is a historic district in downtown Oklahoma City that is known for its restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. Visitors can enjoy live music, comedy shows, and sporting events in the district.
Blue Dome District
The Blue Dome District is a neighborhood in downtown Tulsa that is known for its nightlife. The district features bars, restaurants, and live music venues, as well as a weekly farmers market.
Stillwater
Stillwater is a college town located in central Oklahoma and is home to Oklahoma State University. The town is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars and restaurants catering to the college crowd.
Local Markets
Cherry Street Farmers Market
The Cherry Street Farmers Market is located in Tulsa and features local produce, meat, and dairy products, as well as handmade crafts and baked goods.
Myriad Botanical Gardens Farmers Market
The Myriad Botanical Gardens Farmers Market is located in Oklahoma City and features local produce, artisanal foods, and handmade crafts.
Oklahoma State vector road map. from your-vector-maps.com
