Oklahoma, also known as “The Land of Red Men”, or “Sooner State,” has spectacular sites, a rich history, thrilling outdoor adventures, and satisfying family attractions that make it a top destination for both Americans and tourists from beyond the borders. The sights of buffaloes roaming the plains and the sounds of oil rigs pumping out riches create an aura of desire and adventure that makes you want to explore all there is to see and do, and all there is to be done in this state. But as it has always been said, one step at a time. Read below to find the best places to visit in Oklahoma, USA.
1. Ardmore
If you travel to south-central Oklahoma, you will find yourself in Ardmore – a region with a rich history, diverse cultures and a superfluity of outdoor attractions and activities. Equestrians will particularly love the historic Hardy Murphy Coliseum where a lot of equine and other fun events are normally held. History buffs will have a great time touring the Greater Southwest Historical Museum, Cruce Hall Doll Museum, and the Military Memorial Museum. To the outdoor enthusiasts, Lake Murray State Park has lots of hiking, watersports, camping and cycling opportunities that you can’t exhaust in a single visit.
2. Tahlequah
Tahlequah is in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains. It is one of the few towns that has a burden to preserve and showcase the rich heritage of the Cherokee culture. With so many historical sites, including the Cherokee Prison National Museum, you will have an incredible opportunity to increase your knowledge of the Cherokee Nation, and appreciate their culture in a manner you never did before. Other than the history, Lake Tenkiller awaits you with lots of outdoor activities, including kayaking down the scenic Illinois River.
3. Norman
Norman is not just a preserve of history and architecture enthusiasts alone. It has something for everyone. This is where you find the celebrated Miller and Chautauqua Historic District which features over 130 homes whose construction was completed before the 1920s. Art lovers are also welcome to visit Norman since this is also the home to Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art and the historic Sooner Theatre. Families will find so much fun in touring the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, the Discovery Cove Nature, and the National Weather Center. If you are looking for activities outdoors, Lake Thunderbird State Park is inviting you to camp, hike, and bike and enjoy a variety of water sports.
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4. Bartlesville
Bartlesville is 50 mi (80km) north of Tulsa, and it offers visitors a blend of attraction suitable for all ages. You can start by learning the city’s historic architecture with the Bartlesville Heritage Walking Tours before you proceed to Philips Petroleum Company Museum to learn how the city turned into a global energy giant. If you love nature and you prefer spending time outdoors, then you will enjoy viewing wildlife in the Tallgrass Prairie Reserve, and the hiking, biking, and camping experience at Osage Hills State Park are also worth checking out.
5. Tulsa
Tulsa Zoo, Tulsa Aquarium, and Tulsa Air and Space Museums are some of the distinctive attractions that make Tulsa a hot destination for family attractions, not just in the state, but in the entire country. It is also a popular destination for art lovers who normally find it difficult to decide whether they should visit the illustrious Philbrook Museum of Art, The Brady Arts District, or Gilcrease Museum where you find an incredible collection of western American art. If you have the time, nothing should stop you from checking all of them. Tulsa also presents a lot of outdoor opportunities due to the presence of Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area and Tulsa River Parks. The beautiful gardens of Woodward Park, on the other hand, will be a pure haven for garden lovers.
6. Enid
Enid is 100 mi (160 km) north of Oklahoma City, and it harbors an enviable selection of things to do and see that will appeal to visitors of all tastes and interests. The Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center and the Leona Mitchell Southern Heritage Center & Museum have enough attraction for history lovers. The Enid Symphony Center and the Briggs Auditorium will work well for the culture lovers, while families will find lots of adventure at Splash Zone Waterpark, and the Leonardo’s Children Museum. Foodies also have a reason to visit Enid. Exciting wine tours and indulging in authentic Indian cuisines awaits you at the Plain View Winery and the Indian Creek Village Winery.
7. Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City is bustling and vibrant, always full of different kinds of attractions. It doesn’t suffer any shortages of museums since it is the home to the Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, Gaylord-Pickens Museum, Oklahoma History Center, and the American Banjo Museum. The Civic Center Music Hall and the Red Earth Art Center will nourish the soul of every art lover, while families and outdoor lovers can enjoy white-water rafting, tubing, and kayaking at Riversport Adventure Park. If none of these will appeal to you, the simply wander the streets while you admire the beautiful architecture of the city.
8. Lawton
Scenic landscapes, historic sites, and wide open green spaces where wildlife roam freely in their natural habitat are some of the attractions you can expect in Lawton. The Museum of Great Plains and Fort Sill built-in 1869 are must-visit attractions for history lovers. Nature enthusiasts, on the other hand, should get hands and eyes full at the Wichita Wildlife Refuge where you will have a chance to spot longhorn cattle, free-range buffaloes, and deer. This is also where outdoor lovers should visit given the rock climbing, biking, and hiking opportunities the refuge presents.
9. Broken Arrow
Broken Arrow is a suburban of Tulsa, and its notable attractions include eight golf courses, hiking and biking trails, museums, and parks. Some of the facilities you should plan to visit when in Broken Arrows include Museum Broken Arrow, the Military History Center, Ray Harral Nature Center and Park, and the Rose District where you can find exciting art performances at the Performing Art Center.
10. Edmond
Edmond is in north Oklahoma along the legendary Route 66. It is rich in the history of the Wild West and all you need is a visit at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. The museum is the home to the largest collection of western artifacts in North America. After the museum, check out Lazy E Arena for a live rodeo performance. Other museums worth checking out include the Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum to respect those who lost their lives during the 1955 Oklahoma bombing. Families should not fail to visit Barnett Field Splash for some fun and laughter in the water.
Oklahoma has something for everyone
Whether your main interest is in history, nature, outdoors or fun family activities, you can trust that Oklahoma has something for you. Check our recommendations for the ten best places to visit in Oklahoma, USA, and choose the one that suits your needs, and make the trip.