These Small Towns in Oklahoma Come Alive in the Fall

Oklahoma is an ideal fall destination for anyone looking to have a good time on a budget this season. In addition to offering some truly magnificent autumn views, the “Sooner State” is also one of the most affordable getaways in the US, according to Travel and Leisure magazine. From state parks filled with fall foliage to various fall-themed festivals, there’s always something exciting to see or do in Oklahoma’s small towns. So bust out those cozy sweaters and get ready for an autumnal adventure you won’t soon forget. 

Poteau

When it comes to enjoying autumn views, Poteau, Oklahoma offers some truly mesmerizing vantage points. Travel up Cavanal Hill–a towering 1,999-foot slope that provides a birds-eye view of the Poteau River and surrounding fall foliage. Or hop in the car and venture out onto the Talimena National Scenic Byway, where drivers can enjoy miles of fall-coloured forest on either side of the famous road. Another town highlight is the Poteau Balloon Fest which takes place each October. Here, visitors can sit back and watch vibrant hot air balloons float into the sky–with mountainous terrain and stunning foliage in the background.

Claremore

Claremore, Oklahoma is a charming place to visit any time of the year, but the city really starts bustling when the leaves begin to change colour. Visitors will enjoy a range of autumn-themed events including the annual Shepherd’s Cross Pumpkin Festival which boasts over 50 family-friendly activities including a petting zoo and pumpkin patch. Those travelling with kids on Halloween will also want to stop at the Will Rogers Memorial Museum for a festive evening of candy and costume contests. For something more laid back, venture out to the Claremore Mountain Bike Trails where adventurers can enjoy hiking, biking, and nature walks while soaking up the beautiful fall foliage. 

Shawnee

With a population of roughly 32,000, Shawnee, Oklahoma is a busy small town with ample fall activities for adventurers to enjoy. Attend countless festivals including Monsters on Main–a Halloween-themed carnival featuring live music, food vendors, rides, and costume contests for pets and kids. Or opt for something more thrilling at Sunshine Shelly's Nightmare Harvest–a local haunted corn maze. Sunshine Shellys is also home to a pick-your-own pumpkin patch for those who don’t want to be scared. Leaf peepers will want to take a stroll through the arboretum at Oklahoma Baptist University which features over 300 trees.

Broken Bow

Mother nature comes alive in the small Oklahoma town of Broken Bow where visitors can spend hours exploring Beavers Bend State Park. A trip to the park in mid-late October means hiking past towering trees lined with fire-coloured leaves, admiring distant mountain views, and wandering along the tree-lined shores of Mountain Fork River. To admire the town's natural beauty from a different vantage point, take a zipline ride at Rugaru Adventures where thrill-seekers will enjoy a half-mile trip among the tree tops. Animal lovers will want to visit Hochatown Rescue Center and Petting Zoo, which is home to a handful of adorable rescue animals ranging from ducks and raccoons to cows and goats. Those visiting Broken Bow in November will have the chance to attend the Beavers Bend Folk Festival & Craft Show. The annual autumn event is free to attend and features live music, crafts, and a scenic backdrop of fall foliage. 

Hugo

Those looking for a memorable experience will love what Hugo, Oklahoma has to offer in the fall. Visitors arriving between the last weekend of September and the last weekend of October won’t want to miss the Hugo Pumpkin Festival. The annual event boasts a range of attractions including everything from pumpkin picking and hayrides to live elephants. The elephants come from the Endangered Ark Foundation–a space where retired circus elephants receive the care they need. After an encounter with elephants, wind down in Hugo Lake Park where you will find colourful leaves, hiking trails, and remarkable sunsets. 

Bixby

Bixby, Oklahoma is a charming small town nestled along the Arkansas River. In the fall, visitors can enjoy pumpkins, farm animals, and a corn maze at Carmichael’s Pumpkin Patch. Before leaving the patch, don’t forget to stop and buy some fresh baked goods as well. Those looking for a light activity can take a relaxing stroll through Lake Bixhoma Park, where the vibrant coloured leaves reflect beautifully off the lake. Another place to admire foliage in Bixby is the Washington Irving Memorial Park and Arboretum. Here, visitors can wander through 32.5 acres of wooded areas, admire the butterfly garden, and see various historical memorials as well.

Sand Springs

Located in Tulsa County, Sand Springs is a naturally beautiful town with plenty of parks and the Arkansas River running through it. During the fall, visitors can choose between two main pumpkin patches: The Patch and Pleasant Valley Farms. At both locations, pumpkin lovers can expect to find fall-themed games, mazes, photo opportunities, farm animals, and of course, pumpkins galore. For something a touch more peaceful, head over to Keystone State Park where hiking enthusiasts can explore various trails including The Ranger Trail–a 1.3-mile loop that’s lined with trees and charming foot bridges.

In Conclusion…

Between its abundance of natural beauty and charming towns that are bustling with seasonal festivities, Oklahoma makes for a memorable fall outing. From hiking enthusiasts to animal lovers and those who simply want to admire the changing colours of the season, Oklahoma truly has something for everyone this time of year.