Road trips are quintessentially American, involving scenic landscapes, a playlist full of your favorite music, and snacks galore! As you travel along highways, the journey itself becomes a wonderful experience – you take in the changing scenery around you, get to see different cities en route and enjoy local food specialties at every stop. Every part of America affords options for exciting road trips, and Tulsa in Oklahoma is no different. You can head out up north to charming historic cities or go south towards the coastline. Indeed, there are several fantastic destinations you can explore. We have curated the 10 best road trips from Tulsa, Oklahoma, so read on to find out which of these destinations you can head to next.
1. Seward, NE
Known as “America’s Small Town 4th of July City" Seward in Nebraska is a great option if you are looking for a lowkey vacation. Located around 435 miles (700 km) away from Tulsa northward via I-135 N, Seward offers the typical laidback charm of small-town America. Spend some time exploring the city attractions such as the world’s largest time capsule and Bartels Museum and Marxhausen Gallery of Art. You must, of course, drive by the Parade of Flags. This interesting permanent display along Highway 34 towards the east of the town showcases flags from all 50 states.
2. New Albany, MS
Situated on the banks of Tallahatchie River, New Albany in Mississippi lies in the center of the state’s ‘Hill Country’. The city is located at a distance of around 482 miles (776 km) from Tulsa. The drive on I-40 E will take you alongside the beautiful green landscapes of Ozark National Forest as well as large cities like Fort Smith, Little Rock and Memphis. New Albany itself has numerous places of interest such as the 43-mile (69 km) long Tanglefoot Trail and the ancient historical site, the Ingomar Indian Mounds.
3. Aurora, NE
Yet another destination you can head to towards the north of Tulsa is Aurora in Nebraska, which is around 428 miles (689 km) away. Take the I-135 N going through Kansas, passing via cities like Wichita and Selina to hit Aurora. This small city in Nebraska, just across its southern border, is most well known for being the hometown of inventor Harold Edgerton. So, drop into Edgerton Explorit Center which showcases his work and also acts as a hands-on science center. The other major attraction of the city is The Plainsman Museum, where you can learn about the city’s history. The Central Park Square, in its historic quarter, is where you can explore beautifully preserved buildings like the Courthouse.
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4. Lynchburg, TN
If you are looking for a slightly longer drive then consider Lynchburg in the state of Tennessee. One option is to drive along I-40 E which will take you through Memphis, Hatchie National Wildlife Refuge and Natchez State Park and Forest to reach Lynchburg (a distance of around 670 miles /1,078 km). Alternatively, you can take the US-60 E which, though a bit longer, will offer you the opportunity to explore Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Lake Barkley, Nashville, before reaching Lynchburg. At the city, enjoy Lynchburg’s charming historic downtown and, of course, a tour of Jack Daniels Distillery, the oldest whiskey distillery in the nation and a drive through The Jack Trail.
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5. Nebraska City, NE
Lying at a distance of 349 miles (562 km) from Tulsa, Nebraska City is another small town that offers a great mix of scenic outdoors, historic museums and great food. As you head to Nebraska on US-75 N, you will pass through cities like Bartlesville and Topeka, each offering plenty of attractions to explore. In Nebraska City, get to know more about local history with a visit to Arbor Lodge State Historical Park set amidst beautiful hills, or enjoy a fun family day at Arbor Day Farm Tree Adventure. You can also visit the inspiring Lewis and Clark Interpretive Trails.
6. Gatlinburg, TN
Although known best as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Gatlinburg in Tenessee offers a whole range of exciting attractions. The road trip from Tulsa will be around 833 miles (1,341 km) on I-40 E through Nashville and Knoxville. A beautiful mountain town at Gatlinburg, you can enjoy its abundant natural beauty. Attractions you must check out include the Space Needle Observation Tower, the Sky Lift, Ober Gatlinburg, and Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies. Its downtown features several historic and cultural landmarks including the Arts and Crafts Loop.
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7. Oxford, MS
Oxford, Mississipi, is a historic city located around 486 miles (782 km) away from Tulsa. Head eastward on the I- 40 through Arkansas to reach this picturesque town in North-central Mississippi. The home of the University of Mississippi, also known as “Ole Miss,”, Oxford is a scenic city with a pretty town square, charming old-world neighborhoods and beautiful outdoors. Explore attractions like Rowan Oak, The Grove, The Park and of course, the beautiful grounds of Ole Miss.
8. McCook, NE
The city of McCook in Nebraska is situated around 500 miles (805 km) away, on the I-70 westward from Tulsa. Known as the Capitol of The Buffalo Commons, McCook features several historic attractions and amazing outdoors. With a rich cowboy heritage, the city has several fascinating sites that you can explore including Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Harvey P. Sutton House and the Museum of the High Plains. Surrounding the city are several options for outdoor recreation like hiking through natural parks or camping/fishing in the prairie lakes. A great time to visit the city is during summer when it hosts the Buffalo Commons Storytelling Festival, where artists perform folk music and cowboy poetry and recount the city’s history.
9. Ocean Springs, MS
Feeling the urge for a beach vacation? Then plan a trip to Ocean Springs in Mississippi which is at a distance of 695 miles (1118 km) from Tulsa. A slightly long road trip, it will take you through Arkansans and Mississippi including large parks of Jackson and Hattelsurbu. At Ocean Springs, you will find the combined charm of a coastal town and a Southern small town! Apart from its beaches, the city is also known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, so you have museums, art galleries and art/music/food festivals aplenty, plus outdoor recreation options like canoeing and fishing in the bayous.
10. Chattanooga, TN
Set on the banks of the Tennessee River, Chattanooga is counted among the top destinations of the nation. Chattanooga is at a distance of 739 miles (1189 km) from Tulsa, via I-40 E, the furthest of the cities on this list. Located at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains, this southern town not only boasts breathtaking natural beauty but rich history too. You can check out enthralling outdoor attractions like Ruby Falls, enjoy a laidback boat ride down the river or walk around the city exploring its landmarks like the famous Walnut Street Bridge.
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Make the most of your road trip experience
This list of best road trips from Tulsa, Oklahoma, is sure to inspire you to set out on your next adventure. While road trips promise a lot of fun, you need to, however, be properly prepared. From ensuring your car is in top order to packing essentials, you have several aspects to consider so that your journey is as enjoyable as you’d want it to be.