Oklahoma's 8 Most Underrated Towns to Visit in 2024

2024 is looking like another year to travel. While Oklahoma City and Tulsa are the two most populated cities in Oklahoma, that doesn't mean they are the only places for fun. For starters, Davis and Marlow are two wonderful areas to spend the Fourth of July in. These towns are known for putting on quite the show during this festive time of year. Chandler offers foodies the chance to have delicious crawfish at the end of April. No matter which of these underrated small towns you want to visit, there is something planned throughout 2024 that everyone will enjoy.

Broken Bow

There are always countless reasons to visit Broken Bow, regardless of the year. However, the Beavers Bend Folk Festival & Craft Show in the town between November 8th and 10th should bring countless visitors out. Seeing homemade crafts, listening to music, and enjoying the beauty Oklahoma has is ideal for art lovers. While there, also make sure to check out some of Oklahoma’s nicest campsites. There is also the Lakeview Lodge for those who want to sleep in a heated room. The David Boren Hiking Trail is where anyone with the itch to explore should spend time.

Davis

There is nothing like the Fourth of July. Everyone is together, eating food and watching fireworks explode. Davis celebrates this by having Summerfest, which is an event on July 4, 2024, where the town puts on a fireworks display. It’s a wonderful way to get out and about. For those who want to spend time fishing during the day before the fireworks, Davis is the ideal place. Lake of the Arbuckles is one of the clearest lakes in the world, where tons of bass live. The hiking trail to this lake and waterfall is one of the most memorable in the state.

Chandler

If there is one thing people have found delicious to eat over the years, it’s crawfish. On April 26, 2024, Chandler is going to celebrate this with a crawfish-eating festival, the Bell Cow Boil Crawfish Festival. There will be crawfish served with corn, potatoes, and countless other sides to enjoy. Those who want to take a step back in history will enjoy the other parts of Chandler as well. The town’s buildings resemble what life was like in the early 1900s. There is a motorcycle museum (nearby in Warwick), a bowling alley, and an arcade. These family-friendly activities will ensure your loved ones have a great time.

Medicine Park

Oklahoma is known for having a large Native American population. One way to celebrate this group is by learning about their culture. In Medicine Park, the Artwork/Flute Festival on October 6th is an ideal way to learn about Native American history. Seeing local art, playing the flute, and learning about cultures are great ways to understand others. Aside from this event, Medicine Park is known for Lake Lawtonka, one of the best places to take a boat out and spend time with family.

Eufaula

Getting to bring your furry friend out for the weekend is an ideal way to show them love. On October 12, 2024, Eufaula is hosting Barktoberfest, an event where bringing your dog out to play and meet new people is encouraged. Having a dog is a great way to stay active and social. Eufaula is also known for the countless RV and campsites at Lake Eufaula State Park. There are hiking, fishing, picnic areas, and even more places for your dog to roam after the fun of the day concludes.

Marlow

Another town in Oklahoma with a longstanding Fourth of July tradition is Marlow. Since 1892, Marlow has put on a show to celebrate America’s independence from England. There is a beautiful fireworks display, amazing food, and great people to meet. After the festivities, make sure to check out the downtown region and boutique shops. The town is also home to Cotton Blossom Winery and is only a few miles away from Chisholm Trail Casino. Marlow provides that charm people look for during the Fourth of July.

Tishomingo

Tishomingo, in Johnston County, is home to a large Native American population and is known as the capital of the Chickasaw Nation. On July 21, the city is hosting the annual meeting and festival. After the meeting, make sure to enjoy the Chickasaw Bank Museum. This cultural icon showcases some of the most important artifacts from the group while also teaching everyone the amazing history of the tribe. it is a great opportunity to learn more about Native American groups and become more understanding.

Claremore

Racing is a huge part of the Oklahoma culture, and there is no better way to get the full experience than in Claremore on April 26th. This is when the Sling’n Dirt Nationals event takes place. The fastest lawnmowers from across the nation will show up and see if they can take home the gold. Claremore is also home to the Belvidere Mansion, one of the few period-maintained homes visitors can freely explore. Enjoy looking at what life was truly like back in the day for the super-wealthy.

Oklahoma should be on the list for travelers coming from all around the world. There is plenty to see and do in 2024, regardless of what town you decide to visit. The countless Native American experiences in places like Tishomingo and Medicine Park offer a unique way to learn about the culture of Native American people. Getting to bring your dog to Eufaula to meet fellow dog lovers is another great way to spend the weekend. There is something for everyone in Oklahoma.