7 Of The Most Welcoming Towns In Oklahoma
An important component of the South Central United States, the “Sooner State” of Oklahoma is a land of special history and unique geographic beauty. Long the home of indigenous peoples, Oklahoma also became a crucial spot for the westward growth of the young nation of America. Today, it is the home of just over 4 million inhabitants who can take pride in their State’s stunning mountain and prairie vistas and loads of fascinating histories of the West. While major cities in any locale will surely dominate attention, it is also the smaller towns that warrant a spotlight. So come discover the rich land of Oklahoma through a voyage to some of its most charming and welcoming towns!
Goodwell
Situated in Texas County in the Oklahoma Panhandle region, Goodwell was formally established in 1903 and today maintains a very modest population of just under 1,000 inhabitants. Yet this small community is indeed full of welcoming charm and a warm climate that will surely attract the attention of any passing visitors. Home of Oklahoma Panhandle University (1909), tourists can take a wonderful stroll through the pleasing campus and truly enjoy the town’s hot summers and warm winters in a most comfortable ambiance. Learn more about Goodwell’s special rail heritage at several train museums or spend an afternoon at the No Man’s Land Museum, which highlights the historic growth of the State’s panhandle region. And, of course, like many typical small American towns, an assortment of charming local businesses, tasty eateries, and welcoming faces all dot the landscape, which makes Goodwell indeed a spot of goodwill for all who spend time in it.
Perry
Perry is an ideal place to get a feeling of small-town life but with a big-town heart. Home to some 4,500 residents and the seat of Noble County, there is plenty of natural beauty and historic allure to enjoy in Perry, which makes it a great town in Oklahoma for a variety of interests. Enjoy opportunities for boating, camping, fishing, and simple outdoor relaxation at Perry Lake, while the history enthusiast can surely appreciate the Cherokee Strip Museum. Here, a commendable assortment of artifacts and exhibits highlight the region’s history, its indigenous peoples, and the westward expansion of the nation. In addition, Perry is home to several landmarks on the National Register of Historic Places, including the National Bank Building (1902), adding to the town’s unique charm.
Boise City
Also, in the Panhandle Region, Boise City may boast “City” in its name, but it is really a humble small town where just over 1,000 residents live. The seat of Cimarron County, the town and region are known for their hot and arid summers, and indeed, Boise City was one of several places severely affected by the Dust Bowl Storms of the 1930s. Yet, in spite of its sometimes stifling climate, this town remains a most welcoming Oklahoma destination, where a great assortment of local shops, restaurants, and unique landmarks make it a worthy stop. Spend time at the Cimarron Heritage Center Museum, which chronicles the paleontological and historical evolution of this region of the State in a most immersive, fun, and informative way. Take photos inside an authentic 19th-century schoolhouse, and, of course, do not forget to pose with the giant 35-foot-tall Cimmaronsaurus that will surely make for quite a special memory.
Bartlesville
The seat of Washington County, the town of Bartlesville, is one of Oklahoma’s larger mid-sized centers with just over 37,000 residents. Situated along the Caney River, which flows beautifully through town, plentiful opportunities for fun on the water make this a most welcome place for visitors. In addition, young families can enjoy time spent at Kiddie Park, full of games and amusement rides that will surely delight a wide range of ages. Meanwhile, for the adults looking for some unique eye candy, the Price Tower Arts Centre, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1952, cannot be missed. And with Bartlesville’s unique skyline of skyscrapers, quaint waterside charm, and plenty of welcoming stores, galleries, and restaurants, it is undoubtedly one of the best places in Oklahoma to discover and enjoy the sights.
Woodward
Before its modern foundation in the late 19th century, the site of the town of Woodward was the home of several indigenous groups, including the Comanche, Cherokee, and Kiowa. Today, this seat of the same named county is home to just over 12,000 inhabitants and is both a culturally and naturally beautiful destination to discover. History lovers will surely not want to miss the Plains Indians & Pioneers Museum, where interactive exhibits detail the growth and interactions between settlers of the land and those who lived there from time immemorial. Meanwhile, several landmarks like the Federal Courthouse and Post Office are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, bringing guests back to the turbulent foundational years of the State and nation. And, of course, spending time in Woodward would not be complete without visiting Crystal Beach Water Park, where splendid opportunities for swimming and water rides are a treat for the entire family.
Hugo
Hugo was established in 1901 and named for the French author Victor Hugo, and today, it is the home of just over 5,000 inhabitants. The seat of Choctaw County, this town in the Little Dixie region of Oklahoma is a most welcoming and charming place that epitomizes the special ambiance that is small-town America. With an assortment of cute local restaurants, shops, and warm hospitality, Hugo never disappoints, while outdoor lovers can also enjoy time spent at the Hugo Lake State Park. Here, wonderful opportunities for hiking, swimming, cycling, and even kayaking can be enjoyed in a scenic recreation area. Meanwhile, an afternoon at the Frisco Depot Museum or strolling through the town’s Historic District may be just enough to not only get better acquainted with American history but to enjoy a calm and relaxing outing.
Guymon
Just under 13,000 residents call Guymon, the seat of Texas County, home. Situated within the Oklahoma Panhandle, the town has a local economy dominated by such sectors as cattle and pork farming and natural gas production, and it is a significant regional hub. Guests who visit can expect to encounter hot summers and warm winters while enjoying places like Sunset Lake in Thompson Park or the nearby Optima National Wildlife Refuge for great encounters with local animals and plants. Meanwhile, the annual Guymon Pioneer Days Rodeo is fun for the whole family while offering a unique slice of the American West. With a plethora of fine local diners, boutique shops, and loads of Oklahoma smiles, Guymon stands as a captivating example of what makes the “Sooner State” such a welcoming place.
Oklahoma has many things to offer any potential visitors, not least of which include plenty of fascinating American history and beautiful natural landscapes. And through an exploration of its smaller welcoming towns, one can really appreciate what makes the “Sooner State” so unique. From the Panhandle towns of Guymon and Goodwell to the scenic river town of Bartlesville, Oklahoma’s small towns are indeed places that the solo traveler or traveling family can enjoy. So hit the road and see some of the very best of Oklahoma by experiencing these charming and welcoming towns firsthand!
