Oklahoma Map Of Counties And Cities
Introduction
Oklahoma is often overlooked as a travel destination, but it has a lot to offer visitors. From the vibrant nightlife of Oklahoma City to the stunning natural beauty of the Wichita Mountains, there’s something for everyone in this state. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports in Oklahoma Map of Counties and Cities.
Top Attractions
Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum: This powerful museum and memorial commemorate the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in American history.
Tulsa Art Deco Museum: This museum celebrates the Art Deco architecture that is so prevalent in Tulsa. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past.
Philbrook Museum of Art: This world-class museum houses an impressive collection of art from all over the world. The gardens surrounding the museum are also worth a visit.
Hidden Gems
Talimena Scenic Drive: This 54-mile drive through the Ouachita Mountains is one of the most beautiful in the country. It’s a hidden gem that not many people know about.
Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge: This stunning natural area is home to bison, elk, and prairie dogs. It’s a great place to hike, bike, or simply enjoy the scenery.
Blue Whale of Catoosa: This quirky roadside attraction is a must-visit for anyone traveling through Oklahoma. The giant blue whale is a fun photo op.
Food Scene
Barbecue: Oklahoma is known for its delicious barbecue, and there are plenty of great places to try it. Some of the best include Burn Co. BBQ in Tulsa and Leo’s BBQ in Oklahoma City.
Chicken Fried Steak: This Oklahoma classic is a must-try. Some of the best can be found at Cattlemen’s Steakhouse in Oklahoma City and Eischen’s Bar in Okarche.
Burgers: The burgers in Oklahoma are not to be missed. Some of the best can be found at Tucker’s Onion Burgers in Oklahoma City and Claud’s Hamburgers in Tulsa.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Visit State Parks: Oklahoma is home to 33 state parks, and they are all free to enter. They offer hiking, fishing, camping, and more.
Visit Museums on Free Days: Many museums in Oklahoma offer free admission on certain days of the week. Check their websites for more information.
Eat Local: Eating at local restaurants is often cheaper than eating at chain restaurants. Plus, you’ll get to try some delicious Oklahoma cuisine.
Outdoor Adventures
Hiking: There are plenty of great hiking trails in Oklahoma. Some of the best can be found in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge and Beavers Bend State Park.
Fishing: Oklahoma has some great fishing spots, including Lake Texoma and the Lower Illinois River.
Biking: The Katy Trail in northeastern Oklahoma is a popular spot for biking.
Historical Landmarks
Cherokee Heritage Center: This museum in Tahlequah tells the story of the Cherokee people. It’s a fascinating look at Oklahoma’s Native American history.
Fort Gibson Historic Site: This fort played an important role in the history of the American West. Today, visitors can explore the fort and learn about its history.
Marland Estate: This mansion in Ponca City was once home to oil baron E.W. Marland. It’s now a museum that offers a glimpse into the life of the wealthy in the early 20th century.
Family-Friendly Activities
Oklahoma City Zoo: The Oklahoma City Zoo is a great place to take the whole family. It’s home to over 1,800 animals from around the world.
Science Museum Oklahoma: This museum in Oklahoma City is a great place for kids to learn about science in a fun, interactive way.
Frontier City: This amusement park in Oklahoma City has rides for all ages, from roller coasters to kiddie rides.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve: This museum and wildlife preserve in Bartlesville is a unique experience. It’s home to a collection of Native American art and artifacts, as well as bison, elk, and other wildlife.
Alabaster Caverns State Park: This state park in Freedom is home to the largest natural gypsum cave in the world. It’s a fascinating place to explore.
Toy and Action Figure Museum: This museum in Pauls Valley is a fun, quirky experience. It’s home to a collection of over 13,000 toys and action figures.
Natural Wonders
Turner Falls: This 77-foot waterfall in Davis is one of the most beautiful spots in Oklahoma. It’s surrounded by natural pools that are perfect for swimming.
Great Salt Plains State Park: This park in Jet is home to a unique landscape of salt flats. Visitors can dig for selenite crystals in the flats.
Black Mesa: This mesa in the Oklahoma panhandle is the highest point in the state. It’s a great place for hiking and stargazing.
Vibrant Nightlife
Bricktown: This entertainment district in Oklahoma City is home to bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. It’s a great place to spend a night out.
Blue Dome District: This district in Tulsa is known for its nightlife. It’s home to bars, restaurants, and live music venues.
Breweries: Oklahoma has a growing craft beer scene. Some of the best breweries can be found in Oklahoma City and Tulsa.
Local Markets
Cherry Street Farmers Market: This farmers market in Tulsa is a great place to buy fresh produce, baked goods, and other local products.
OSU-OKC Farmers Market: This farmers market in Oklahoma City is open year-round and offers a wide variety of local products.
Bricktown Farmers Market: This farmers market in Oklahoma City is held on Saturdays during the summer months. It’s a great place to buy fresh produce and handmade crafts.
Beaches and Mountains
Beavers Bend State Park: This park in southeastern Oklahoma is home to the Ouachita Mountains and the scenic Mountain Fork River.
Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees: This lake in northeastern Oklahoma is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Little Sahara State Park: This park in Waynoka is home to sand dunes that are perfect for off-road vehicles and sandboarding.
Cultural Immersion
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum: This museum in Oklahoma City celebrates the history of the American West. It’s a great place to learn about the cowboys and cowgirls who shaped the West.
Chickasaw Cultural Center: This center in Sulphur celebrates the history and culture of the Chickasaw Nation. Visitors can learn about Native American art, music, and traditions.
Woody Guthrie Center: This museum in Tulsa celebrates the life and music of Oklahoma native Woody Guthrie. It’s a must-visit for fans of folk music.
Art and Music Scene
OKC Broadway: This theater in Oklahoma City brings Broadway shows to Oklahoma audiences. It’s a great way to experience the magic of Broadway without leaving the state.
Cain’s Ballroom: This music venue in Tulsa is a historic landmark. It’s hosted some of the biggest names in music, from Bob Wills to Nirvana.
Philbrook Festival: This festival in Tulsa celebrates the holidays with live music, food, and holiday lights. It’s a great way to get into the holiday spirit.
Walking Tours
Bricktown Canal: This canal in Oklahoma City is a great place for a leisurely stroll. It’s surrounded by restaurants, bars, and shops.
Historic Guthrie: This town in central Oklahoma is home to over 2,000 historic buildings. Visitors can take a walking tour to learn about the town’s history.
Art Deco District: This district in Tulsa is home to some of the best examples of Art Deco architecture in the country. Visitors can take a walking tour to see the buildings up close.
Architectural Marvels
BOK Center: This arena in Tulsa is a modern architectural marvel. It’s a great place to see a concert or sporting event.
Oklahoma State Capitol: This building in Oklahoma City is a beautiful example of classical architecture. Visitors can take a tour to learn about the history of the state.