9 Most Laid-Back Small Towns in Oklahoma
While life in a big city does come with its perks, one cannot ignore the accompanying drawbacks, including crowded spaces, rush-hour traffic, and stressful office environments, to name a few. For those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Oklahoma has a calming scenery to offer in the form of quaint, small towns that promise relaxation and pampering southern hospitality. From the scenic resort town of Medicine Park to the charming and welcoming town of Marlow, let’s have a closer look at some of the most laid-back small towns in Oklahoma.
Medicine Park
Founded in 1908 by John William Elmer Thomas, Medicine Park is known to be the original resort town of Oklahoma. Its characteristic cobblestone deposits, surrounding plains and mountains, and pure wilderness have an inexorable calming effect on one’s mind. Thomas referred to this land as the “Medicine Park Summer Resort and Health Spa,” relating it to the healing qualities of the adjacent Medicine Creek, which was said to him by the Plains Native Americans.
One of the most relaxing spots in the town is Bath Lake, a hidden gem that allows visitors to swim and float amidst beautiful scenery, including striking waterfalls. Situated in the heart of downtown, Bath Lake is also the perfect spot to spend some quiet time just enjoying the surrounding nature or perch on the banks and indulge in some trout fishing.
Another way to destress in Medicine Park is to witness the spectacular wildlife. One can spot species such as the Rocky Mountain Elk, White-tailed Deer and American Bison almost any day in this picturesque town.
Talihina
Talihina is located in Oklahoma’s LeFlore County and sits on a land of nearly 525 acres. It is also the entry point to the stunning Talimena National Scenic Byway, a 54-mile route that is famous for its spectacular views of the towering Ouachita Mountains. Along with these calming views, there is also the opportunity to destress by engaging in outdoor activities such as hunting, day hiking, fishing, backpacking, horse riding, and mountain biking.
Talihina is a town surrounded by some amazing state parks, including the Talimena State Park, which is known to offer several facilities such as seven designated tent campsites, several RV sites and provision for both water and electricity. Camping in this state park is the perfect way to decompress and escape from all the troubles of city life. One can enjoy picnics with family and friends, hiking trails, a playground, and many other comforts on the premises of the park.
Ringling
Situated in Jefferson County, Ringling gives visitors a warm, welcoming hug owing to its quintessential small-town charm. One of the best ways to elude the hustle and bustle of city life is to explore the wilderness, and what better place than Mudcreek Outfitters, a massive hunting outfitter covering more than 1,200 acres of prairie and wooded land?
At Mudcreek Outfitters, one can be entertained by outdoor activities such as deer hunting, turkey hunting, and archery, among others. It is also the ideal place to just sit back, relax, and watch the beautiful surrounding wildlife. Most visitors end up planning a stay at the Allie B Country Getaway Cabin, located within the property. This is a fully furnished rustic style with rocking chairs and a wraparound porch. Some of the best ways to tune out and relax are to walk around the scenic property and pick wildflowers or simply enjoy a lazy afternoon on the beautiful porch!
Perry
Located in Noble County in north-central Oklahoma, Perry may not at first seem as a holiday destination or weekend getaway spot, but it is in fact a hidden gem of relaxation. Starting with the Perry Lake, which is a popular spot for camping amidst nature and enjoying activities like swimming, fishing, boating and skiing. It also offers RV camping facilities, and is a great spot to drown your worries in the beautiful lake waters.
Those who find their peace and calm in exploring history and culture should definitely visit The Cherokee Strip Museum & Rose Hill School. It is a historic site that gives one an opportunity to discover life in the early days of Oklahoma. The museum premises is also home to The Rose Hill School, a unique schoolhouse that hosts interactive history programs as a means to educate the school children. After the tour of the museum, indulge in a laid-back picnic on the grounds or stroll along the picturesque nature trails on the site.
Pryor
Pryor is located in the center of the beautiful Green Country and is especially popular for the Rocklahoma festival, hosted annually in the summer. Bury your worries and embrace the beauty of scenic lakes, historical sites and museums, art galleries, and much more in this charming town.
Fishing is undoubtedly one of the most relaxing and rejuvenating activities, and Pryor has three fishing lakes that are considered to be the best for bass fishing in Oklahoma. The Katy Railroad Depot is home to The Mayes County Historical County Museum, where one can enjoy a laid-back exploration of the Osage and Cherokee exhibits and artifacts, a one-of-a-kind assortment of salt-glazed pottery as well as other treasures.
Pauls Valley
For those who wish to divert their mind from the stresses of big city life, there is no better place to visit than Pauls Valley. Offering numerous entertainment opportunities and vibrant landscapes, this town is ideal for a laid-back and fun holiday. The downtown district of Pauls Valley has 12 beautiful blocks where one can explore historic architecture, fine dining restaurants, and several other attractions.
There is much to explore in Pauls Valley, and a great way to enjoy a pleasant day is to visit the Lakeview Lavender Farm, where one can’t help but be amazed by the beauty of flowers. Stroll through the farm and breathe in the natural aromas of lavender, which is sure to have a calming and therapeutic effect on your senses.
Poteau
Poteau is a breezy town with a nonchalant vibe where one can spend a day or even a week exploring all the attractions that make it a true gem. Perhaps the best way to kickstart a relaxing vacation in Poteau is to visit Cavanal Hill, the “World’s Highest Hill,” standing at an elevation of 1,999 feet. It offers the most spectacular views of Leflore County, creating an atmosphere of peace and tranquility.
A trip to Poteau would be incomplete without a visit to the Leflore County Museum, located in the historic downtown. Next up, brush up your golfing skills and enjoy a game at one of the town’s golf courses, like the Wolf Ridge Country Club or Choctaw Country Club.
Tishomingo
It is impossible not to get engulfed in the beauty and history of Tishomingo in Oklahoma. Nestled in Blue River, this is yet another town in the state that promises some destressing time, away from the chaos of the city. Visit the Chickasaw National Capitol Building and the Chickasaw Council House Museum to get a taste of the town’s history and culture.
The scenic Blue River is the perfect spot to unwind and relax. Here, one can enjoy trout fishing and explore the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge. For those wanting to stay in the area, the Cedar & Stone Bed and Breakfast is a warm and comfortable lodging option. Feel the energy and liveliness of the surroundings with some live entertainment at Ole Red Tishomingo, Blake Shelton.
Pawhuska
Nestled deep in Osage County is the beautiful town of Pawhuska, which offers an eclectic mix of Western and Native American cultures. The downtown area has 98 buildings, many of which give one a glimpse of the charming history of Pawhuska. The Osage Nation Museum is one of the most historical sites to visit in the town. It is the oldest museum in the United States that is owned and operated by a tribal community. For history buffs, there is no better way to relax than to enjoy a laid-back tour of the historic downtown and the museum.
Pawhuska is also the entry point to the Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, North America’s biggest tallgrass prairie that makes one’s soul connect to a beautiful ecosystem.
The stunning natural landscapes of Oklahoma, surrounded by the Ozark and Wichita Mountains make the state the ideal destination for a relaxed, laid-back holiday. Get that much-needed break from city life by getting lost in the woodlands, prairies and plains across Oklahoma. Whether it's exploring scenic byways, enjoying outdoor adventures, or simply soaking in the tranquility, Oklahoma’s charming destinations promise an unforgettable retreat.
