Oklahoma, located in the Great Plains region of the United States, offers visitors a unique blend of Western heritage and Native American culture. From wide open prairies and rolling hills to lively cities and small towns, Oklahoma has something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip to the Sooner State, here are the top 5 can’t-miss Oklahoma tourism sites you need to add to your itinerary.
Introduction
Oklahoma may sometimes fly under the travel radar, but it is filled with destinations that should be on every tourist’s must-see list. Famous for its “wide open spaces,” Oklahoma offers pristine natural beauty through outdoor attractions and state parks. The state also has a rich history, from Native American territories and the Oklahoma Land Run to the beginnings of Route 66. Oklahoma City, the state’s capital and largest metro area, features outstanding museums and performing arts. And everywhere you’ll find that friendly, southern hospitality Oklahomans are known for.
Whether you love the outdoors, history, art, or just experiencing new places, Oklahoma will capture your heart. To help you make the most of your Oklahoma getaway, we’ve put together this list of the 5 best tourist sites the state has to offer. From natural wonders to manmade creations, these are the essential spots you don’t want to miss on your Oklahoma vacation.
Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in southwest Oklahoma is a must for nature lovers. Established in 1901, it was one of the first wildlife preserves in the United States. The 59,000 acre refuge is home to a variety of wildlife including bison, elk and longhorn cattle. The refuge also features stunning granite rock formations that rise dramatically from the prairie.
Some of the highlights at Wichita Mountains include Mount Scott, the refuge’s highest peak at 2,464 feet. Hikers can climb to the summit for spectacular views. The summit also features the ruins of a turn-of-the-century bank building. Mount Sheridan is another popular hiking destination with scenic overlooks. Measuring Mountain is a unique granite rock measuring 768 feet tall. The iconic rock formation was used by Native Americans to find the summer solstice.
The refuge has numerous hiking trails that wind through the boulder-strewn mountains, mixed-grass prairie, and woodlands. The excellent wildlife viewing opportunities make Wichita Mountains a top spot for birdwatchers and nature photographers. Other activities include camping, fishing, and rock climbing.
Gathering Place, Tulsa
If you’re visiting Oklahoma with kids, Gathering Place in Tulsa is an absolute must. Located along the Arkansas River, this brand new, 100-acre park opened to the public in 2018 and has already won several national awards. Gathering Place aims to bring people together and foster happiness through experiences.
Major components of the park include an adventure playground, splash playground, great lawn, lagoon, outdoor sports courts, bike and skate parks, nature trails, and more. Some of the highlights at Gathering Place include a five-story wooden castle with slides, climbing structures, and lots of kid-friendly activities. The misting umbrella lets kids cool off on hot days. There are also multiple unique playgrounds tailored to different age groups.
Parents will find plenty to do as well with lounge chairs, hammocks, garden spaces and a cafe. The on-site boathouse offers kayak and stand up paddleboard rentals. Gathering Place frequently hosts community events such as concerts, movie nights and festivals. Thanks to a generous private donation, admission to the park is free. This world-class park is an absolute must-visit on any trip to Oklahoma.
Route 66, Oklahoma City
Get your kicks on the Mother Road! No trip to Oklahoma is complete without experiencing part of the iconic Route 66 highway. Running diagonally 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, Route 66 passes through the heart of Oklahoma City.
The Oklahoma City metro area contains some of the best preserved and longest stretches of original Route 66. Visit the Route 66 Museum to learn all about the history and culture surrounding America’s Main Street. Just outside downtown, stop to take a photo with the giant milk bottle at POPS, a must-stop roadside diner and soda ranch.
Make sure to cruise along NW 23rd Street for vintage neon signs and Midcentury architecture. Grab a burger at Johnnie’s Grill, billed as Oklahoma City’s oldest restaurant, and a throwback to Route 66’s glory days. Swing by the eclectic shops and eateries in Bricktown, the city’s entertainment district. Be sure to check out the American Banjo Museum here too.
Further west, Route 66 passes through El Reno, home to the fried onion burger, and Canadian County, where you can still get your kicks on long stretches of old Route 66 pavement. Exploring Oklahoma City’s Route 66 attractions offers the perfect blend of nostalgia, history and fun.
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma City
Experience the enduring legacy of the American West at Oklahoma City’s National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. This world-class museum showcases Western history and culture through colorful interactive exhibits and one of America’s largest collections of Western art.
Founded in 1955, the museum offers a fascinating look at the West’s influence on American culture. Interactive exhibits let you try your hand at roping, get behind the wheel of an open range tractor, and listen to Native American stories. The maze-like gallery of a Prosperity Junction frontier town will transport you to the Wild West. Kids will especially enjoy the children’s gallery with activities and dress up.
The museum’s renowned Western Performers Gallery highlights the careers of over 180 major Western film stars such as John Wayne, Clint Eastwood, and Cher. Movie buffs will be enthralled by the vast collection of film memorabilia. The museum also houses a world-class Western art collection with paintings, sculptures and more.
Outside, kids will love seeing the live longhorn cattle and American Paint horses. Don’t miss experiencing a bite of history at this Oklahoma City gem illuminating the Western spirit.
Chickasaw National Recreation Area, Sulphur
For a refreshing outdoor escape, head to the Chickasaw National Recreation Area located just outside of Sulphur. Situated in the foothills of the Arbuckle Mountains, the park encompasses 9,888 acres of springs, streams, forests and sprawling green spaces.
Several mineral springs flow through the park, historically believed to have healing properties. Visitors can sample the springs at unique pavilions such as the Pavilion Springs and Governors Springs.
A major highlight of Chickasaw is the Travertine Creek area filled with cool, crystal clear waters flowing over travertine rock formations. Visitors will feel like they’ve been transported to a tropical paradise complete with mini waterfalls.
Popular activities at the park include hiking, fishing, swimming, camping and wildlife viewing for blue herons, roadrunners and more. Be sure to visit the Chickasaw Cultural Center to immerse yourself in the art, dance, food and more of Oklahoma’s Native American heritage.
With an intriguing combination of natural beauty, Native American history and opportunities to relax in refreshing waters, Chickasaw National Recreation Area promises the perfect Oklahoma escape.
Conclusion
From wide open prairies and granite mountains to rejuvenating waters and family fun, these diverse attractions prove Oklahoma offers outstanding tourism opportunities. Whether you want to immerse yourself in Native American culture, get your kicks on Route 66, or enjoy world-class museums and parks, the Sooner State delivers unforgettable experiences.
Oklahoma’s blend of natural beauty and rich heritage make it a vacation destination not to be missed. Use this list of must-see sites to start planning your own memorable Oklahoma getaway. With so many unique attractions to discover, the possibilities for adventure are as wide open as Oklahoma’s famous prairies and skies. Let the Oklahoma spirit win you over on your next heartland holiday!
