Things to do in Oklahoma
Traveling is a privilege that many individuals and families get to enjoy. It opens you up to new experiences, new cultures, and new memories that you can take back home with you. While many may think of travel as shipping across the ocean to exotic locations, there is no reason why you cannot travel domestically in the United States. 50 states make for plenty of opportunities to experience something completely out of your comfort zone, no matter where you are from.
Oklahoma is known as the Sooner State. This nickname comes from the historic land races of the 19th century, where settlers participated in official racing events to claim unassigned land in the territory. Those who jumped the gun at the start of a race were known as Sooners. Now, this term refers to the citizens of the state of Oklahoma and their can-do attitude.
A visit to the state of Oklahoma may not jump off the page at first glance. Perhaps you are more drawn to large urban centers like New York City or well-known national parks like Yellowstone. The point of this article is to convince you why a trip to Oklahoma is well worth your time and can leave you with lifelong memories. Maybe you already live in this state but have never taken the time to get out there and explore the region that you live in. Well, this is your opportunity to learn more about your home state and see why it is worth exploring further.
Whether you are a world traveler looking for another state to explore, a family in need of a simple but exciting vacation, or a road-tripper looking for a destination to include on their journey, there are plenty of things to do in Oklahoma that will make the trip worth your while. Let’s take a journey across the state and make a note of the most interesting Oklahoma attractions. By the end of this article, hopefully, you will have a better understanding of all that this state has to offer. Maybe it will even convince you to start planning a trip to the Sooner State today!
The Natural World
The natural world is full of beauty between wildlife, plant life, and the landscape. Oklahoma is no exception to this rule. If you are a nature fanatic that wants to see beautiful views and fascinating species, then you will find plenty of things to do in Oklahoma that you can get excited about.
Chickasaw National Recreational Area
If you are looking for a peaceful experience of nature, then the Chickasaw National Recreational Area is a great place to stop. You can enjoy a day of hiking, jogging, biking, swimming, or boating in this landscape of streams, rivers, and springs in the south-central Oklahoma hills. You can even camp overnight if you wish in this peaceful backdrop.
Beavers Bend State Park and Nature Center
In the mountainous region of southeastern Oklahoma is the Beavers Bend State Park and Nature Center. This beautiful preserve sits on the banks of Broken Bow Lake with plenty of hiking trails to explore through the pine forests. You can stay the night in either rustic or modern cabins, or rent a site for your tent or RV. You can also take in the views of the Mountain Fork River during your stay. The Forest Heritage Center is located in this park as well and is known as the “wood art capital of the world” thanks to many displays from Smoky Bear artist Harry Rossoll.
Oklahoma City Zoo
Want to see over 1900 animal species in one location? The Oklahoma City Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in the state. Dedicated to inspiring conservation and connecting people to the natural world, the Oklahoma City Zoo is a great place to include on your itinerary whether you are a solo traveler or on vacation with the whole family. Check out the interactive exhibits, learn the history of various species, and admire the beauty of these animals. Included on the 130-acre property is a gorgeous botanical garden in addition to the live animal exhibits.
Woolaroc Museum/Wildlife Preserve
The Woolaroc Museum/Wildlife Preserve is a very popular location in Osage County. It was established in 1925 as the ranch retreat of the famous oilman, Frank Phillips. Now, it serves as a 3700-acre wildlife preserve and museum with a unique art collection. Many bison, elk, and longhorn cattle call Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve home. Western art and Native American artifacts can be discovered in the galleries of the museum dedicated to American Western art.
Lake Murray State Park
Over 12,000 acres of relative wilderness make up Lake Murray State Park. This man-made lake was created when the Anadarche and Fourche Maline Creeks were dammed. The forested rolling hills that surround the lake provide a beautiful backdrop for walking trails, camping, boating, and other outdoor adventures. You can even book a cabin built in the 1930s for a more authentic and secluded experience of the wilderness.
Sea Turtle Island
This massive aquarium in Jenks, OK is home to multiple marine species, most notably the loggerhead sea turtles. A 58,000-gallon exhibit makes it possible to admire these creatures from all angles. You can even have a face-to-face interaction with some of the species in an underwater exhibit if you wish. Sea Turtle Island is the perfect stop to admire an incredible species during your visit to Oklahoma.
Myriad Botanical Gardens
One of the most vibrant green spaces in the entire state can be found in the Myriad Botanical Gardens of Oklahoma City. This incredible spot sits in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City, offering a natural escape from the bustle of city life. Seasonal activities include bulb displays, concerts, movies, classes, and the Children’s Garden Festival. Other features of the Myriad Botanical Gardens include a reflection pool, terraces with gorgeous views, group tours, and an ice rink in the winter. Plant life is a crucial element of the natural world, and the Myriad Botanical Gardens allow you to escape into nature. It is truly one of the most exciting things to do in Oklahoma City.
Oklahoma Aquarium
Jenks, OK might be the place to go if you are a big fan of marine life. The Oklahoma Aquarium is a 72,000-square-foot facility in this suburb of Tulsa that demands your attention. There are tons of exhibits to admire, including Aquatic Oklahoma, Ecozone, Marvels & Mysteries, Ozark Stream, and of course, Shark Adventure. You can even take the opportunity to touch a real-life shark or stingray. The Oklahoma Aquarium is a must-see for fans of marine biology, especially if your travels take you near the city of Tulsa.
Tiger Safari Zoological Park
Want to see some exotic animals in a natural habitat during your trip through Oklahoma? Then you should head to the Tiger Safari Zoological Park in Tuttle, OK. You can stay overnight in a tree house, African huts, or a yurt while listening to the roars of lions and tigers right from your bed. This truly unique experience is one of the most exciting things to do in Oklahoma. You can feed and pet these exotic animals in a VIP experience or book a private safari walk or nighttime safari. With so many options to experience these incredible animals, this park is a must-visit for anyone passing through central Oklahoma.
The History
Oklahoma holds a unique place in the history of the United States. A combination of Native American and Western culture makes for a fascinating story and one that is told through the many museums and memorials throughout the state.
National Cowboy/Western Heritage Museum
One of the most interesting things to do in Oklahoma, especially for fans of history, is to visit the National Cowboy/Western Heritage Museum. A museum dedicated to telling the story of the American West, this facility features Native American artifacts, western art galleries, rodeo exhibits, and more. Learn all about the fascinating history of the cowboys and Native American culture that made the wild west what it was. Options for joint tickets to the National Cowboy/Western Heritage Museum ensure that you can immerse yourself in Western history during your visit to Oklahoma City. If you are traveling through this state, then make sure that the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum is on your itinerary to get the full Oklahoma experience.
Chickasaw Cultural Center
The Chickasaw tribe holds a special place in the history of this state. Head to the Chickasaw Cultural Center in Sulphur, OK to get a glimpse into the culture of this tribe. The Center features multiple historical museum buildings that tell the story of the traditions of the tribe through interactive exhibits. Learn about the language, observe traditional dances, and understand the Native American culture of this specific tribe at the Chickasaw Cultural Center.
Washita Battlefield National Historic Site
The clash of cultures in the West often resulted in tragic outcomes, particularly at the Washita Battlefield National Historic Site. This location commemorates the surprise dawn attack by General Custer on a southern Cheyenne village led by Peace Chief Black Kettle. The site of the massacre is preserved to share the lessons of history with modern audiences and to serve as a memorial for those who died in the attack.
Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum
The second largest terrorist attack in United States history occurred in April of 1995 in Oklahoma City. Two men detonated a truck full of explosives outside the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, killing 168 and injuring hundreds more. This tragedy is commemorated and retold at the Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum, honoring the victims and describing the details of the aftermath and subsequent arrests of the perpetrators. This bombing still stands as the deadliest domestic terror attack in the history of the United States. While this facility marks a tragedy in Oklahoma’s history, it is nevertheless an important reminder of this terrible event. A visit to Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum can be an emotional but educational experience.
Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park
Partly a cultural art exhibit and partly a tribute to history, Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park is a well-known location in Chelsea, OK. Though not a Native American himself, Galloway believed that it was important for the people of this state to know that other people were there before them. This massive concrete pole is a tribute to Native Americans in the region and is considered one of the oldest and largest examples of a folk art environment in the state.
Cave House
If you are a fan of the quirky, then you must schedule a tour of the Cave House in Tulsa. This unique building was originally a restaurant by day, a speakeasy by night with a secret fireplace door and tunnel to a large back room. Many people refer to the Cave House as the “Flintstone House.” The truly unique architecture of the Cave House, which is evident to anyone driving by, must be admired up close to be completely appreciated.
Will Rogers Memorial Museum
Will Rogers was a well-known entertainer, and the Will Rogers Memorial Museum preserves his legacy in Claremore, OK. You can watch one of the many documentaries, speeches, and movies that he featured in at the theater in the museum. Explore the artifacts, memorabilia, and photographs of this great entertainer throughout the museum house that was originally donated by his widow in 1937. Take home a souvenir from the gift shop to remember your trip.
Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History
On the University of Oklahoma campus in Norman, OK resides the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. It is considered one of the largest university-based natural history museums in the world. With various collections and exhibits focused on archaeology, ethnology, Native American languages, invertebrate paleontology, and other natural history subjects, the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is an important attraction to include on your trip through Oklahoma.
The Arts and Sciences
Many of the locations that have already been touched on in this article feature incredible artistic expressions, but there are far more places to get in touch with your appreciation for creativity and your curiosity about how the world works.
Oklahoma City Museum of Art
If you are in downtown Oklahoma City, OK, and you love art, then there is no excuse to miss out on the Oklahoma City Museum of Art. This incredible facility features everything from delicate glasswork to painted portraits to hand-carved statues. The Oklahoma City Museum of Art is located within the greater Donald W. Reynolds Visual Arts Center. Artwork from around the world that spans multiple centuries can be found in the museum exhibits at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art. Plan your trip today and include this world-class attraction on your itinerary.
Science Museum Oklahoma
Are you curious about the world around you and how it works? Science Museum Oklahoma is one of the largest facilities of its kind in the nation, sitting at over 390,000 square feet. Some of the notable elements of Science Museum Oklahoma include the Kirkpatrick Planetarium, the International Gymnastics Hall of Fame, and the smART Space galleries that explore the relationship between art and the sciences. The museum is located in the heart of Oklahoma City, OK, and has plenty of year-round events that you could attend to engage your mind. This facility is a great way to introduce young minds to the field of science to engage their curiosity and teach them about the world around them, so traveling families can greatly benefit from this attraction. Stop by for a visit to Science Museum Oklahoma to be fascinated by the exhibits and interactive activities that you can engage with.
Gilcrease Museum
The Gilcrease Museum in Tulsa, OK boasts of being the world’s largest collection of art and artifacts of the American West. It is also known as the Thomas Gilcrease Institute of American History and Art. The West is not its only point of focus, as the Gilcrease Museum has also added to its Southern and Latin America collections in recent years as well. The Gilcrease Gardens are another popular element of this facility, making the museum one of the top things to do in Oklahoma. If you spend any time in Tulsa during your vacation, road trip, or business trip, then consider making plans to see the Gilcrease Museum when you have time in your schedule.
Philbrook Museum of Art
The Philbrook Museum of Art is also located in Tulsa, OK, though it offers a very unique experience for visitors. The Philbrook Museum of Art is located in a former 1920s villa that belonged to a well-known oil pioneer, Waite Phillips, and his wife Genevieve. Now, the museum’s collection features expansive formal gardens and beautiful art pieces inside. This nationally recognized museum is a great venue in which to admire the accomplishments of your fellow humans. Head to the visitor center to see all that the Philbrook Museum of Art has to offer.
National Weather Center
What is one of the first things people discuss when making small talk? The weather. On the campus of the University of Oklahoma sits the National Weather Center, where federal, state, and academic organizations work together to better understand the events that occur in Earth’s atmosphere. As a visitor, you can admire the inner workings of the National Weather Center to see how the various entities work together to further the research of the planet’s weather patterns.
Woody Guthrie Center
One of the most well-known American folk musicians of all time is Woody Guthrie. The Woody Guthrie Center is a perfect attraction for those who love this singer-songwriter’s legacy and the history of American folk music. The Center also includes stories about another songwriter and activist, Phil Ochs. If you want to learn more about the incredible backstory of the man who wrote “This Land is Your Land,” then plan a visit to the Woody Guthrie Center in Tulsa, OK.
Fun for the Family
Perhaps you are traveling with your family through the state of Oklahoma and you are looking for some fun activities that children and adults can enjoy together. Fortunately, there are many things to do in Oklahoma that will keep the whole family entertained while creating lasting memories that bring you closer together.
Hockey Games
Live sports can be a very exciting experience for families. They can be loud and boisterous of course, but the general feeling of fun is hard to beat. If your vacation takes you to the city of Tulsa, and you have some kids that would love some live entertainment, then a Tulsa Oilers game could be the perfect solution. The Oilers play in the East Coast Hockey League, which means tickets are not going to be as expensive as typical NHL games. They are much more affordable but just as entertaining. The Tulsa Oilers play their games at the BOK Center in downtown Tulsa, so look for some tickets during your stay for a super fun family event.
State Resort Parks
Maybe you are looking for some more relaxing accommodations for the family at a state resort park. Fortunately, Oklahoma has plenty of options to help you have a relaxing vacation in a high-end spot. Roman Nose is a state resort park that features a laid-back lodge not far from Watonga, OK. The Lodge at Sequoyah state resort park has plenty of rooms with lake views and even some cottages that you could rent. Quartz Mountain Park in Lone Wolf, OK is another great spot with beautiful and relaxing accommodations to give your family respite. If you are looking for something all-inclusive and high-end amenities, then you will be spoiled for choice with the various resorts around the state of Oklahoma.
Concerts
Concerts are another great way to entertain the family if you can find the right artists. Venues throughout the state of Oklahoma will feature artists from around the world in various genres of music. Country, rap, pop, R&B, rock, and other types of performers could make for a fun event for older kids. Look for a venue near you such as the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, OK where concerts are a regular part of the calendar of events. If your family loves music, then there is nothing better than creating a memory at a live concert during your stay in Oklahoma.
Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame
If you are a sports-centric family, then a visit to the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame could be the perfect opportunity. The goal of this organization is to promote sports, fitness, and Oklahoma heritage while building pride around the state’s identity. Historic athlete Jim Thorpe is a major focus of the Hall of Fame there, with many accomplishments including Olympic gold medals and All-American honors in collegiate football. Bring your family for a journey through the history of Oklahoma sports and a memorable visit to the Hall of Fame.
Oklahoma City Thunder
As the only top-tier professional sports franchise in the state, the Oklahoma City Thunder are the subject of conversation at water coolers all across the state. This NBA team has a history of success with consistent playoff appearances and a passionate fanbase. Attending an Oklahoma City Thunder game during your stay in Oklahoma City, OK is sure to be full of excitement. You can look for a game against conference rivals like the Golden State Warriors or the Los Angeles Lakers. Cheer on the Thunder with thousands of other fans as they compete for a spot in the playoffs and a world championship ring. Make sure you wear the right shade of blue to the game to demonstrate where your loyalties lie.
A City Guide
Usually, cities are the best places to find a high concentration of attractions. If you are looking for things to do in Oklahoma, then you’ll probably want to travel through some population centers. Let’s break down a couple of the most significant cities in the state so you can plan a whole trip around them if you want.
Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City, OK is perhaps the most well-known metropolitan in the state and serves as its capital. With plenty of attractions for visitors to check out, it is a main hub of tourism in the state. It is also the most populated city in Oklahoma, and there is plenty to do no matter what kind of traveler you are. You can bring your canine friend to an off-leash dog park to let them run around and make friends with some of their fellow pups. In downtown Oklahoma City, you can find popular tourist hotspots like the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, the Centennial Land Run Monument, the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, the Martin Park Nature Center, the Oklahoma City Zoo, the Science Museum Oklahoma, and the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum. Reno Ave is a well-known street in the downtown district that is worth visiting with plenty of tourist activities available. Edmond, OK, a part of the greater metropolitan area, is where you can even see performances by the Russian National Ballet. Visiting Oklahoma City, OK makes it easy to experience a lot of what the state has to offer in one location.
Bricktown
One notable section of Oklahoma City, OK that you should know about is Bricktown. This is a dining and entertainment district that was repurposed after being a warehouse neighborhood for many decades. Now, it is one of the top locations for nightclubs, dining, and other forms of entertainment experiences in the entire state. Outdoor dining along the river is a top choice for many residents and visitors alike.
Tulsa
The second largest city in the Sooner State is Tulsa. It is located in the northeastern portion of Oklahoma and is a great destination for travelers who want to fully experience this state’s art, history, and culture. Attractions like the Woody Guthrie Center, the Will Rogers Memorial Museum, the Philbrook Museum of Art, the Gilcrease Museum, Woodward Park and Gardens, the Center of the Universe, and the Cave House. Whether you are a history buff, art fanatic, nature lover, or adventurer, you will find something to love in the city of Tulsa.
Norman
Norman is technically part of the greater Oklahoma City, OK metropolitan, but it is large enough to be designated as the third largest city in the state. Some of the attractions within its boundaries include the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, Lake Thunderbird State Park, the National Weather Center, the Discovery Cove Nature Center, and HeyDay Entertainment Norman. This city is a great place to bring the kids along, with multiple locations within a short distance that can provide entertainment for all ages.
Ponca City
A city named after the Ponca Tribe, this urban center is on the smaller side of this list. However, there are still plenty of things to do in Oklahoma that can only be found in Ponca City. The Pioneer Woman Museum, for example, is a great place to start. There is also the E. W. Marland Mansion and the Poncan Theater Company to check out. A children’s museum called Exploration Destination is surely worth a visit for young families that have a free afternoon to spend in this city.
Broken Arrow
The fourth largest city by population in the Sooner State is Broken Arrow. This urban center is part of the greater metropolitan area of Tulsa. Some cool places to visit in Broken Arrow include the Ray Harral Nature Park & Center, the gorgeous Broken Arrow Performing Arts Center, Battle Creek Golf Club, the Military History Museum, and Haikey Creek Park. The Rose District Farmer’s Market is also worth stopping by if it is happening when you are in town.
Broken Bow
This tiny city in southeastern Oklahoma is a dream for nature lovers, but it can also offer something for other kinds of travelers. The nearby park at Beavers Bend boasts some lovely views and many opportunities to explore the wilderness. Wildlife species like black bears and bald eagles call this region home, and you can admire them up close or from a distance by hiking through the extensive pine forest trails. Other activities that you can enjoy during a visit to Broken Bow include playing a round at Cedar Creek Golf Course, enjoying the FishTales Winery & Vineyard, and taking a zipline tour at Rugaru Adventures. This small city is often regarded as one of the best places to live in Oklahoma.
Best Drives in Oklahoma
Maybe you are just passing through the state on your way to another location, or you plan to hit multiple stops in the Sooner State. If that is the case, then you should know about some of the coolest places to drive past or the most unique roads to travel on for a quick immersion in the beauty of Oklahoma.
Route 66
One of the most popular drives in the state is Route 66. Known as the “Mother Road,” this scenic byway includes a stretch of over 400 miles that will take you through Tulsa, Oklahoma City, and many charming towns along the way. There are even multiple museums and an interpretive center that are dedicated to the history of Route 66 that you can stop at along the way to learn more about the Mother Road. Plus, there will be plenty of roadside attractions like small-town diners for you to take advantage of. Start at the south end in Texola or the north segment in Quapaw and get ready for a fun-filled drive through one of the state’s most well-known roads.
Wichita Mountains Scenic Byway
While some may classify Oklahoma as a flyover state, roads like the Wichita Mountains Scenic Byway prove this perception to be false. Nature lovers will be thrilled with this byway that takes travelers through prairies, mountains, and other sweeping landscapes. This doesn’t even include the probability that you will witness multiple species of wildlife during your drive, including bison and prairie dogs. You can also make a stop at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge as you navigate the byway for a closer look at the wildlife that you see from the road.
Cherokee Hills Byway
Another excuse for nature fanatics to hit the road is the Cherokee Hills Byway. This road takes you through Sequoyah, Cherokee, Adair, and Delaware Counties for 88 miles of beautiful landscapes. Lake Tenkiller is a lovely freshwater body that you can visit and is a favorite spot for fishers and scuba divers who live nearby or are visiting the area. Views of the Illinois River can be spectacular, particularly the blue-grey flint stone bluffs that have been carved out by the river over thousands of years. You’ll also love the lush forests of the lower Ozark Mountain range.
Mountain Gateway Scenic Byway
A short 22-mile road near the Oklahoma-Arkansas border is known as the Mountain Gateway Scenic Byway. This drive through southeastern Oklahoma can be memorable for multiple reasons. First, you will notice iconic views of the Ouachita Mountains, one of the oldest landmasses in America and a range that stretches from east to west rather than the usual north to south. Additionally, there are multiple campgrounds in beautifully forested areas along the byway, providing you with options for an overnight stay in the wilderness.
Talimena Scenic Byway
Perhaps the most popular scenic drive in Oklahoma is the Talimena Scenic Byway. Drive along the crest of Rich Mountain and Winding Stair Mountain to get a view that can stretch for miles to the horizon. There are plenty of perfect stopping points and vistas along the route from which you can admire the landscape or snap a great photo of the natural beauty of Oklahoma.
How Will You Plan Your Oklahoma Trip?
As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in Oklahoma, whether you are a full-time resident, a world traveler, or just passing through the state. The best part about the Sooner State is that this list hardly even scratches the surface of all that there is to enjoy. There are many towns, parks, drives, and activities that can make your Oklahoma trip truly memorable for yourself and your fellow travelers that were not even mentioned in this list.
Now, the question you have to ask is “How can I make the most of my trip to Oklahoma?”
Will you focus on fully immersing yourself in the history of the land? Then you can head to a historical museum like the Chickasaw Cultural Center or the Western Heritage Museum.
Are you looking to get into the art scene in the Sooner State? Then the extensive collection at the art museum in Oklahoma City, OK will be the ideal choice to satisfy your hopes.
Are you helping a growing child plan for their future? Then you could plan a trip to Oklahoma University to tour the campus and see what life is like for Sooner students.
Do you want to see how the landscape has been formed in the region? Then taking in the Oklahoma River and its water basin can give you a glimpse into the forces of nature and how they have shaped the formations of the state.
Are you hoping for an all-in-one vacation where all the attractions you could ever hope for are within a short driving distance of where you are staying? Then book a place in Oklahoma City, OK, or Tulsa for a week.
Is your family trying to find some respite for a short time to just relax and escape the normal rhythms? There are many relaxing resorts and all-inclusive vacation spots that can give you a weekend or week of luxury living to recoup your energy.
No matter what your personality is, Oklahoma has something to offer you.
Plan Your Oklahoma Travels Today
Hopefully, this guide has given you a clearer picture of the state of Oklahoma and how it can be a wonderful experience for travelers. Even if you are a full-time resident of the Sooner State, chances are that you have not yet explored everything that is available in your home state.
Using this guide as a road map, you can plan out the perfect Oklahoma trip for you and your fellow travelers. Choose the things to do in Oklahoma that make you say “I have got to see that.” Then build out your itinerary from there.
Remember that when you are planning a vacation, you should never pack the schedule so that it is completely full. Leave some gaps in the itinerary to relax or improvise, because you never know what you might discover during the trip that you will want to add. However, if your schedule is already full, then you could miss out on a full experience. Give yourself some spare time to recuperate from all the sightseeing and adventures that you will be engaging in so that you can get the most enjoyment out of your Oklahoma trip.