Are you looking for things to do in Oklahoma? You are in the right place.
In this article, I will walk you through places to visit in Oklahoma and tell you everything you need to know about this amazing state.
Oklahoma is a state located in the south-central region of the United States. With a diverse range of landscapes, there are so many things to see in Oklahoma.
From the Great Plains to the Ozark Mountains, Oklahoma offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.
It’s also a state often overlooked by tourists which I’m looking to put right. This state has everything from picturesque prairies to low-lying mountain ranges and everything in between.
It’s also a state rich in culture, and heritage, with fantastic towns and cities. Attractions in Oklahoma come in all shapes and sizes. Oklahoma makes a great state for a Midwest getaway.
So are you ready to see which Oklahoma landmarks and attractions I have chosen for you? Pull up a chair, grab a cold drink and let me walk you through the best things to do in Oklahoma.
15 Things To Do In Oklahoma: The Ultimate Bucket List
Marvel At The Great Salt Plains State Park
One of the top things to do in Oklahoma is to take a trip to Great Salt Plains State Park. Located in the west of the state this park is a unique and beautiful natural area.
As you would expect it is named after the large salt flats that can be found here. These salt flats are the result of a prehistoric ocean that once covered the area.
Over time, the water evaporated and left behind a layer of salt that is now exposed on the surface.
The salt flats cover about 11,000 acres. You can walk out onto them and the white crystals that cover the ground are certainly dazzling.
They are an Oklahoma landmark not to be missed.
One of the most popular activities at the park is birdwatching. The salt flats attract a wide variety of birds, including sandhill cranes, snow geese, and other waterfowl.
Bison, deer, and coyotes can also be seen here.
There are also several hiking trails that wind through the salt flats and surrounding areas, providing opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
The park also has a swimming area and a playground for children, as well as picnic areas and campsites for overnight visitors.
If you are wondering what to do in Oklahoma or even what to do in the Midwest then a trip to this unique place should be high on your list.
Visit A Museum In Stillwater
One of the places to go in Oklahoma is Stillwater. Founded in the late 1800s this Midwest town is located in north-central Oklahoma.
The town has really grown up around Oklahoma State University and is now a thriving city. It’s one of those perfect Oklahoma vacation spots if you want a mix of old and new.
One of the top attractions in Stillwater is the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum.
The museum is dedicated to the history of wrestling in the United States and the famous athletes and coaches.
Another popular destination in Stillwater is Boomer Lake Park, which is a scenic park located on the city’s north side.
This park has a large lake, a walking trail, and a playground, and is great if you have children.
This historic town has many Oklahoma attractions and is with a visit.
Explore the Chickasaw Cultural Center
One of the must-visit places to visit in Oklahoma is the Chickasaw Cultural Center.
This unique and educational attraction offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the Chickasaw Nation.
It is based in Sulphur, in southern Oklahoma, and is operated by the Chickasaw Nation
It is more than just a museum; it is a living, interactive experience that immerses visitors in the history and culture of the Chickasaw people.
The center has a variety of exhibits and displays, including a replica of an ancient Chickasaw village, where visitors can learn about the tribe’s traditional ways of life.
The center also has a research library and archive.
One of the highlights of the Chickasaw Cultural Center is the Haakapapahpa (pronounced “haka papa”) Living Village.
It is a replica of an ancient Chickasaw village, complete with traditional homes, gardens, and a council house.
Visitors can explore the village and learn about the Chickasaw people’s traditional way of life, including their food, clothing, and customs.
The center also offers a variety of educational programs and events.
This Oklahoma attraction is perfect for those history buffs, culture enthusiasts, or those just looking for something different to do. This is definitely one of the things to see in Oklahoma
Get Arty In Norman
Norman is located in central Oklahoma and a visit here is an Oklahoma travel must.
The town was founded in the late 1800s and named after Abram Norman, who owned the land on which the city was built.
Norman is another university town that grew up around the University of Oklahoma. The university shaped what the city is today.
One of the top attractions in Norman is the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art.
The museum is one of the finest art museums in the state and features a diverse collection of art from around the world, including works by Native American artists and Impressionist paintings.
Another popular destination in Norman is the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. The museum is one of the largest of its kind in the state.
It features exhibits on the natural history of Oklahoma, including dinosaurs, mammals, and birds.
The National Severe Storms Laboratory in Norman is also worth a visit. It’s a research facility that studies severe weather and its effects, with a variety of exhibits and interactive displays.
If you are looking for events in Oklahoma this city hosts a number of annual events and festivals.
The Norman Music Festival, which features live music from various genres, and the Norman Film Festival, which showcases independent films from around the world, are worth attending.
Visit the Stafford Air and Space Museum
If you looking for places to go in Oklahoma then how about the Stafford Air and Space Museum?
It’s a must-see attraction in Oklahoma, especially for those interested in the history of aviation and space exploration.
The museum is located in Weatherford, in western Oklahoma, and is named for General Thomas P. Stafford, a native Oklahoman who is a retired NASA astronaut and Air Force General.
There are a wide variety of exhibits and displays that showcase the history of aviation and space exploration.
The museum has a collection of more than 30 aircraft, including historic military and civilian planes, as well as a collection of space artifacts and memorabilia.
Some of the highlights of the museum’s collection include a replica of the Wright brothers’ Wright Flyer, a Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird, and a lunar rover from the Apollo 15 mission.
This is one of the top things to do in Oklahoma for all those who love history.
Getting Historic In Ardmore Is One Of The Best Things To Do In Oklahoma
Your Oklahoma vacation wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Ardmore. In southern Oklahoma, the town is located along the Red River and Arbuckle Mountains, near the Texas border.
One of the top attractions in Ardmore is the Greater Southwest Historical Museum.
Located in the historic district this museum is dedicated to the history of southern Oklahoma. It features exhibits on the region’s Native American heritage, pioneer history, and oil industry.
There is also a thriving art scene here and the town is home to one of the best art events in Oklahoma.
The Ardmore Arts Festival, which showcases the work of local artists is held here annually
This town also celebrates its German heritage with the Ardmore Oktoberfest. It’s a great event if you are there when it is on.
It is one of the best things to do in Oklahoma.
See a Waterfall At Natural Falls State Park
One of the best things to do in Oklahoma is to take a trip to Natural Falls State Park. It’s a beautiful natural area that offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy.
The park is located in the northeastern part of the state, near the town of Colcord. It is named for the 77-foot waterfall that can be found there.
The highlight of Natural Falls State Park is its namesake waterfall, which is one of the tallest in the state.
The waterfall is formed by the water of Honey Creek, which flows over a steep cliff and cascades down into a pool below.
You can view the waterfall from a viewing platform, or hike down to the base of the falls for a closer look.
The park also has several hiking trails that wind through the woods and along the creek. There is also a playground and a picnic area and you can also camp overnight.
Oh and for those, a bit more adventurous the park has floating cabins that are available for rent.
This park offers so many opportunities for activities in Oklahoma and is a really beautiful place to visit. It offers some of the best hiking in Oklahoma!
Spend Some Time In Tulsa
Tulsa is one of the places in Oklahoma that you must visit. It’s the 45th largest city in the United States and has many Oklahoma attractions to enjoy.
Tulsa was founded in 1836 and was named after the Greek word “tallest,” which means “old town.”
The city grew quickly and by the early 1900s, it had become a major center for oil and gas production in the region. In fact, Tulsa bills itself as the ‘Oil Capital of the World’.
The city is home to a number of museums, galleries, and theaters, including the Philbrook Museum of Art and the Tulsa Performing Arts Center.
And it is leaving its culinary mark with so many excellent restaurants in Tulsa to explore!
Tulsa is also home to a number of parks and recreational facilities, including Mohawk Park.
There are so many interesting things to do in Tulsa.
If you are wondering what to do in Oklahoma take a trip here you won’t be disappointed. It is one of the best things to do in Oklahoma.
Enjoy Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park
Looking for fun things to do in Oklahoma then how about a visit to Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park?
It’s a unique and fascinating attraction in Oklahoma that offers visitors the opportunity to see one of the largest and most beautiful totem poles in the world.
The park is located in Foyil, in northeastern Oklahoma, and is named after its creator, Ed Galloway.
Ed Galloway was a self-taught artist and folk sculptor who began working on his totem pole in 1937, when he was 76 years old.
He worked on the pole for over 20 years, and when he finished, his totem pole stood 90 feet tall and was covered with intricate carvings and colorful paintings.
The park includes his totem pole, as well as several other sculptures and displays that showcase Galloway’s talent and creativity
The park also has a cabin that was built by Ed Galloway. The cabin is a replica of a traditional Cherokee dwelling, and it is filled with Galloway’s artwork and personal belongings.
Visitors can tour the cabin and learn more about the artist and his life.
If you are looking for something a little different to do then this is it.
Visit Edmond
No Oklahoma vacation would be complete without a trip to Edmond. It’s the sixth-largest city in the state and has a lot to offer. Visiting here is one of the best things to do in Oklahoma.
Edmond was founded in 1889 and was named after Edmond Burdick, one of the town’s investors who had purchased the land on which the city was built.
One of the top tourist spots in Edmond is the University of Central Oklahoma, which is the largest university in the state.
The university offers a wide range of programs and has a student population of more than 18,000.
Edmond is also home to a number of parks and recreational facilities, including Mitch Park, which features a number of sports fields, a playground, and a public pool.
Explore the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
One of the top attractions in Oklahoma is The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. It is a beautiful natural area that offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy.
It was established in 1901 to protect the natural habitat and wildlife of the Wichita Mountains.
The refuge covers more than 59,000 acres, and it is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, including bison, elk, deer, and coyotes.
The best way to explore this area is on foot and there are more than 20 miles of trails that wind through the mountains and forests. There is also a scenic drive through the heart of the refuge if you prefer to not get out of the car.
The refuge also has a large population of birds, including bald eagles, golden eagles, and peregrine falcons.
A visit here is one of the top things to do in Oklahoma. This is a great place for some Midwest hiking.
Attend An Event At Durant
If you are looking for Oklahoma vacation spots then consider Durant. The town was founded in 1872 and was named after Durant Station, a local train stop.
Today, Durant is known for its rich history and its vibrant arts and culture scene. The city is home to the Three Valley Museum, which showcases the history of Durant and the surrounding area.
Durant is also home to a number of parks and recreational facilities, including the Durant Nature Park and the Choctaw Wellness Center.
If you are looking for events in Oklahoma this is the place to come. Both the Three Valley Cultural Arts Festival and the Choctaw Nation Labor Day Festival are held here.
There are a lot of things to do n the quaint towns of Oklahoma.
Spend A While At Lawton
Lawton is a city in southwestern Oklahoma that is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty.
Located near the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, Lawton is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, as well as history and culture buffs.
This tourist spot is full of history. The town contains a number of historic sites including the Museum of the Great Plains, which showcases the history and culture of the Great Plains region.
Some events in Oklahoma held in Lawton are the annual Great Plains Indian Art Market and the Redbud Festival, which celebrate the city’s Native American heritage. Both are fantastic.
If you are after a town in Oklahoma full of history then this is the one.
One Of The Fun Things To Do In Oklahoma Is Enjoying The Route 66 Museum
One of the fun things to do in Oklahoma is to take a trip to the National Route 66 Museum.
It’s a must-see attraction in Oklahoma for anyone interested in the history of Route 66 and a very cool Midwest road trip.
The museum is located in Elk City, in western Oklahoma. It is one of eight museums that make up the National Route 66 Museum network.
There are a variety of exhibits and displays that showcase the history of Route 66, from its early days as a dusty dirt road to its heyday as the “Main Street of America.”
The museum also has a collection of vintage cars and motorcycles that were used on Route 66, as well as a variety of other artifacts and memorabilia.
One of the highlights is its collection of original neon signs from businesses along Route 66.
The museum has more than 20 neon signs, including the famous U-Drop Inn sign from Shamrock, Texas, and the Blue Whale of Catoosa, Oklahoma.
The signs are beautifully restored and are a testament to the colorful history of Route 66.
If you are looking for places to visit in Oklahoma then this museum will likely have something to please everyone.
It is really a cool thing to do in Oklahoma.
Live It Up In Oklahoma City
One of the places in Oklahoma, you must visit is Oklahoma City. It is the state capital and largest city in the state.
Oklahoma City is known for its rich history, numerous museums, galleries, theaters, and numerous recreational opportunities.
Some of the best camping in Oklahoma is in or near Oklahoma City.
Some Oklahoma landmarks here include the Oklahoma City Museum of Art and the Civic Center, Music Hall.
In addition to its cultural offerings, Oklahoma City is also home to a number of parks and recreational facilities. Including Lake Hefner and the Myriad Botanical Gardens.
Both are beautiful, and worth a visit. And some of the best things to do in Oklahoma.
Oklahoma City is a vibrant and thriving city with a lot to offer residents and visitors alike. It is definitely one of the things to see in Oklahoma.
This is definitely one of the cities in the Midwest you need to visit.
Packing List When Looking For Things To Do In Oklahoma
If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to Oklahoma, here are some tips on how to pack lightly.
A concealed travel pouch may be one of the most important items you bring along when searching for things to do in Oklahoma.
It is always important to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.
This unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.
You can place it under your clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.
If you have a pouch already that does not come with RFID protection, as I do, these RFID sleeves are the perfect solution.
This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet.
If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an external charging battery.
This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.
It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone like I have. And wow is it fast!
My daughter gifted me with this FugeTek selfie stick and tripod setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.
It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking photos during Montana attractions.
You will want to bring your own refillable water bottle with you.
I never leave home on a trip without my Bobble filtration bottle. The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.
When filled with water, it is not too heavy to carry. And the charcoal filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.
Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car.
Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all.
You will want a backpack or daypack with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc… No matter the time of day or evening.
This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great.
It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from. The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack.
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As you can see when it comes to things to do in Oklahoma there are so many and this is only just a fraction of what is available. Oklahoma really is a great state with so much history and culture to offer.
Whichever of these Oklahoma attractions your visit I hope you have an amazing time. Please come back and tell me all about it and enjoy your vacation.
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