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The Best Things to See and Do in Oklahoma

Steve Jennifer
Updated: May 4, 2024

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Oklahoma, one of the youngest U.S. states, offers an exciting blend of historical sites and trendy destinations. Nature enthusiasts can explore wide-open prairies, rolling green hills, and wilderness areas. The state also features lakes, both natural and man-made, perfect for water sports and recreation. Whether you're seeking romance, adventure, or unique shopping experiences, Oklahoma has something for everyone.

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01. Tallgrass Prairie Reserve, Pawhuska

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The Tallgrass Prairie Reserve offers a unique opportunity to see a large buffalo herd in a natural setting. Covering nearly 40,000 acres of protected prairie, this ecosystem hosts over 2,500 bison. Visitors can drive through the reserve, but must remain in their cars. May is an ideal time to visit, when wildflowers bloom and newborn bison calves play. Other wildlife, including bobcats, hawks, and deer, also roam the area.

02. Gloss Mountain State Park, Fairview

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Gloss Mountain State Park, also known as Glass Mountains, is an unattended yet magnificent destination. The park’s name stems from the high selenite content, which gives the terrain a glossy appearance. Cathedral Mountain, the largest mesa, offers spectacular views of the red-dirt landscape. While there’s no camping, visitors can enjoy picnicking and family-friendly hiking trails.

03. Bricktown District, Oklahoma City

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Bricktown District, once Oklahoma City's first warehouse and distribution center, is now its entertainment hub. The canal is a highlight, where visitors can enjoy a 40-minute water taxi tour of this cultural district. During Downtown in December, holiday festivities include snow tubing, a Christmas tree lighting ceremony, live music, a Winter Market, and more.

04. Route 66, Quapaw to Texola

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A road trip along Route 66, stretching 2,400 miles, is a classic American adventure. The five-hour segment from Quapaw to Texola offers glimpses of small towns, diners, roadside motels, museums, neon signs, truck stops, and kitschy Americana. Each town along the route tells a unique story, such as Miami, where you can visit the historic Coleman Theatre, still in operation since the 1920s.

05. Chickasaw National Recreation Area, Sulphur

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Situated in southern Oklahoma, the Chickasaw National Recreation Area is an outdoor lover's paradise. With its natural springs, creeks, and lakes, this spot offers a variety of activities, such as fishing, swimming, and boating. The area's scenic beauty is matched by its historical significance, as it was originally set aside to protect the springs and streams considered sacred by the Chickasaw Nation. Hiking trails wind through forests and around bodies of water, making it easy to immerse yourself in nature's splendor.

06. Beavers Bend State Park, Broken Bow

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In southeastern Oklahoma, Beavers Bend State Park stands out as a gem for nature enthusiasts. Known for its clear waters and lush forests, this park is ideal for hiking, camping, and fly fishing. The Mountain Fork River offers exciting opportunities for kayaking and canoeing, while the surrounding Ouachita Mountains provide a stunning backdrop. The park also features Broken Bow Lake, which is great for boating and water sports, ensuring there's something for everyone.

07. Philbrook Museum of Art, Tulsa

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For art and culture aficionados, the Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa is a must-see. Housed in a beautiful Italian Renaissance-style villa, the museum's collection spans European, American, Native American, and African art. The villa's gardens are equally impressive, providing a serene setting for visitors to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature alongside exquisite artworks. The museum also hosts regular events and exhibitions, making it a vibrant cultural hub in Oklahoma.

08. Myriad Botanical Gardens, Oklahoma City

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Located in the heart of Oklahoma City, the Myriad Botanical Gardens offer a green oasis amidst urban surroundings. This 17-acre garden features a variety of themed areas, including a tropical conservatory, an urban park, and ornamental gardens. The Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory houses thousands of plants, creating a lush, vibrant environment. The gardens are perfect for family outings, with a splash pad, playground, and regular events like outdoor concerts and seasonal festivals.

09. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma City

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The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is a premier destination for anyone interested in the history of the American West. The museum showcases a diverse collection of Western art, artefacts, and memorabilia. Exhibits cover topics ranging from cowboy culture to Native American history, offering a comprehensive view of the region's heritage. Visitors can explore galleries featuring everything from classic Western paintings to interactive displays that bring history to life.

10. Marland Estate Mansion, Ponca City

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The Marland Estate Mansion, a stunning example of the opulence of the early 20th century, is located in Ponca City. Built by oil magnate E.W. Marland, this Italian Renaissance-style mansion features exquisite craftsmanship and luxurious interiors. The estate includes beautiful gardens, a boathouse, and an artist studio. Guided tours provide insight into the life of Marland and the history of the estate, making it a fascinating stop for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts alike.

11. Turner Falls Park, Davis

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Turner Falls Park, home to Oklahoma's largest waterfall, is a breathtaking destination nestled in the Arbuckle Mountains. The park features a 77-foot waterfall, natural swimming areas, and scenic hiking trails. Turner Falls Park offers a range of accommodations, from cabins to campsites, catering to visitors looking for a romantic getaway or a family adventure. The park's unique geological formations and lush surroundings make it a standout spot for exploring Oklahoma's natural beauty.

12. Visit the Center of the Universe

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In downtown Tulsa, you can find a fascinating acoustical anomaly known as the Center of the Universe. This small disc of cement, surrounded by a swirl of brick pavement, creates an echo effect when you stand on it and speak. The echo amplifies your voice, while those outside the circle hear a distorted version. Despite various theories, the reason for this sound phenomenon remains a mystery. You can find this intriguing spot northwest of the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame and north of the striking "Artificial Cloud" sculpture.

13. Washita Battlefield National Historic Site, Cheyenne

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Oklahoma boasts the second-largest Native American population in the country, with over 67 tribes having lived here. The Washita Battlefield is where the 7th U.S. Cavalry, led by Lt. Colonel George Armstrong Custer, attacked Peace Chief Black Kettle and his people in 1868. Today, this site offers a peaceful remembrance of lives lost. A 1.5-mile self-guided trail leads visitors through Black Kettle’s village and the Washita River. The Native Garden showcases plants, trees, and shrubs once used by local tribes for medicine, food, and ceremonies.

14. Tahlequah, the Capital of the Cherokee Nation

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Tahlequah is a unique destination where visitors can learn about Cherokee culture and history. Established in 1839 by Cherokee survivors of the Trail of Tears, this city features a living village replicating 18th-century Cherokee life. Nearby, Lake Tenkiller offers outdoor recreation across its 13,000 acres of water and 130 miles of shoreline. Just 10 miles from Tahlequah, you can enjoy camping, fishing, scuba diving, and biking in this picturesque area.

15. Talimena National Scenic Byway, southeast Oklahoma

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Southeastern Oklahoma's beauty is best viewed along the Talimena National Scenic Byway. This 54-mile route between Talihina, Oklahoma, and western Arkansas offers breathtaking vistas, particularly vibrant during fall. Scenic viewpoints and turnoffs provide stunning photo opportunities. Stop by outdoor areas like Cedar Lake Recreation Area or Ouachita National Forest for backpacking, horseback riding, and mountain biking adventures.

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