Oklahoma vacations

Oklahoma’s capital is a bright beacon in the middle of sweeping plains and sandstone hills, where urban cowboys roam a robust culinary and cultural scene.

Surrounded by wide-open Oklahoma prairie, Tulsa delivers Americana charm with its world-class architecture, buzzing arts scene and historic Black-owned business community.

From its country music heritage to its burgeoning student scene, this charming Oklahoma college town blends youthful energy and old-school charm.

Almost 400 miles of ‘America’s Main Street’ pass through Oklahoma, inviting you to get your kicks on Route 66. Along the way, visit the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum and snap a picture of the Blue Whale of Catoosa. With the highway’s quirky diners, hotels and roadside attractions, cruising Route 66 is one of the best things to do in Oklahoma.

Oklahoman culture is deeply entwined with Native American heritage, the state being home to 39 tribal nations. Immerse yourself in Indigenous history and culture at the First Americans Museum in Oklahoma City, and discover Native-owned art galleries and historical sites in Osage County. Visiting in summer? Join in the festivities at the annual Oklahoma Indian Nation Pow Wow.

One thing that unites locals is their love of sports. Visit the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame in Oklahoma City. And check out the displays honoring Oklahoman athletes at the Territorial Capital Sports Museum in Guthrie. For a truly local experience, time your visit to cheer on the Oklahoma Sooners college football team at the Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium.

With miles and miles of lake and reservoir shoreline, you’ll have no trouble finding beaches in Oklahoma. Stake a spot on the sand around Arcadia Lake in Edmond. Or enjoy swimming, fishing and boating on Cedar Lake in the Ouachita National Forest. For white sands similar to those on the Gulf of Mexico, head to the beaches at Lake Texoma.

Oklahoma is packed with natural beauty, including its lakes, prairies and more than 30 state parks. Spot herds of American bison and Texas longhorns in the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge. And take in sweeping views from the top of Mount Scott. If hiking is your thing, head to Natural Falls State Park with its 77-foot waterfall and rugged trails.

Expect restaurants in Oklahoma to serve plates piled high with chicken-fried steak (fried beefsteak coated in seasoned flour), fried okra and cornbread. Order a tall glass of sweet tea to wash it all down. Fried onion burgers are another regional staple, especially at diners along Route 66. For dessert, nothing beats a big slice of pecan pie.

One of the best history museums in Oklahoma is the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City. This local gem showcases a vast collection of Western and Native American artworks and artifacts. If you’re a music fan, follow the Rhythm and Routes Oklahoma Music Trail to discover the hometowns of local music legends, iconic venues and landmarks like the Gene Autry Museum.

The best time to visit Oklahoma is generally between March and early June or September and November. During these months, the weather is milder than in the blazing summers. If you’re visiting in winter, temperatures can drop below freezing, so be sure to pack accordingly.

This is one of the most affordable US states, so you shouldn’t have much trouble planning a cheap vacation to Oklahoma. You’ll pay around 15 US dollars ($) for a simple meal at a restaurant and about $6 for a local beer. If you need to catch a taxi, expect to pay under $10 for a short ride.