13 Amazing Oklahoma Day Trips That Are Worth The Drive
While oil fields and endless grasses dominate perceptions of Oklahoma, a wealth of hidden treasures await discovery across this central state. Just outside the bustling metro zones of Oklahoma City and Tulsa (home to the only two international airports in the state) lie numerous intriguing locales primed for perfect day trips. From quaint historic villages that have barely changed since frontier days to scenic natural spots in the Wichita Mountains, an array of surprises transport visitors to new worlds just short rides away.
These top destinations within comfortable two to three hours of major urban centers with international airports provide memorable glimpses into Oklahoma's richness. Be it Native American culture strongholds or lakeside enclaves ringed by hardwood forests, taking these amazing Oklahoma day trips unveils unexpected facets of the Sooner State.
John H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve
A 1.5-hour drive north of Tulsa, this sprawling natural space preserves the country's largest remaining tallgrass prairie. Visiting the areas presents a glimpse of a time when the United States was teeming with wildlife and sparsely populated. Tallgrass Prairie has no shortage of wonders, including the massive herbivores roaming the area. Guests can observe the American bison up close, grazing in their thousands. The flora and fauna are impressively diverse at the park, featuring over 700 plant species and almost 400 bird and mammal species, so grab your binoculars to spot animals like coyotes, red-tailed hawks, and bobcats.
The reserve harbors three hiking trails varying in length and hosting different habitats. However, the most spectacular hike is along the rugged Prairie Earth Trail, which straddles around 2 miles and houses several wildlife species.
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
A 12-minute trip from downtown Oklahoma City engrosses you in the state's deep heritage at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. This magnificent facility boasts over 28,000 Native American and Western artifacts that could easily take up your day's itinerary. Visitors are always intrigued by the American Rodeo Exhibition, home to the world's largest collection of related artifacts, ranging from photographs and barbed wire to saddlery and antique rode trophies.
There is always something new to impress you at every turn, and the 13,000-square-foot replica depicting a turn-of-the-century Western community makes for a nostalgic experience. Meanwhile, those visiting with kids can take them to the interactive children's museum areas.
Myriad Botanical Gardens
A 1.5-hour trip from Tulsa, and right in the heart of Oklahoma City, allows you to explore one of the capital's most green natural spaces. Spread over 15 acres, the Myriad Botanical Gardens is a serene escape from the noise, housing a vibrant mix of fauna. Guests can enjoy lazy strolls along quiet walking paths to learn about and admire native and exotic plant species.
The Inasmuch Foundation and Crystal Bridge Conservatory provide a neat learning experience, with more space to roam about and discover. The area features a reflecting pool, a stunning waterfall, and an overlook terrace. Children are also invited to have a blast at the designated children's garden and playground, culminating in wholesome fun for all ages.
Quartz Mountain State Park
This rugged nature area in southwestern Oklahoma promises an oasis of family-friendly fun and exploration. Located 2 hours and 15 minutes by car from Oklahoma City, it is the ultimate day trip for ardent outdoorsmen. The reward is countless recreational opportunities, including rock climbing and bouldering at the Baldy Point climbing area. Numerous biking and hiking trails wind throughout the park, allowing you to work out your legs and witness the beautiful nature in backcountry Oklahoma. If you are interested in nature viewing and photography, you will enjoy the scenes along Twin Peaks Trail.
Camping is a big deal at Quartz Mountain State Park. Those who feel like pitching a tent can find lovely campsites at Live Oak Campground, which offers a shaded space with access to a swimming spot and boat launch.
Arcadia Lake
Beautiful Arcadia Lake, on the Deep Fork River, is a terrific getaway if you appreciate isolated settings and water-based fun. The reservoir is only 25 minutes north of Oklahoma City and under 2 hours from Tulsa. It sprawls 1,820 acres, rewarding enthusiasts with 26 miles of rocky shoreline. Aquatic recreation takes center stage at Arcadia Lake, with swimmers cooling off with a dip in the summer. The reservoir is a popular angling spot known for its sizeable crappie, striped bass, channel catfish, and bluegill populations.
The picturesque lake shoreline presents an ideal space to picnic under the shade and take in the water views with friends and family. Finally, several rugged trails, like the Arcadia Lake East Loop, Arcadia Lake Bike Path, and Spring Creek Trail, invite bikers and hikers to discover more about the site away from the water.
Frontier City
A classic blend of old-time fun and modern thrills makes Frontier City one of the best Oklahoma day trips for families. Oklahoma's favorite theme park is 13 miles northeast of Oklahoma City, which welcomes guests for a jam-packed encounter on adrenaline-filled coasters, thrill rides, and other kid-friendly entertainment. The not-so-faint of the heart can try out Diamondback for a ride of their livers. This infamous coaster races through a heart-stopping loop, leaving you gasping for air.
On the other hand, the Grand Carousel provides a more easygoing alternative with a classic merry-go-round. Also, be sure to get on the Grand Centennial Ferris Wheel for a delightful ride and sweeping views of Oklahoma.
Tahlequah
Discover the dynamics and intrigues of the Cherokee Indians with a tour of this quaint community at the base of the Ozark Mountains. Tahlequah is just over an hour from Tulsa and houses a treasure trove of historical and cultural sites. Start your itinerary at the Cherokee National History Museum, home to the three branches of the Cherokee Nation government. A tour reveals artifacts and relics documenting the nation's traditions and struggles. Move to the Cherokee National Prison Museum and explore a sandstone Indian Territory prison built in the 19th century.
Cap off your visit by stopping by the Cherokee Nation Gift Shop for a unique retail therapy experience. The welcoming store sells assorted souvenir items, from poetry, baskets, dresses, handmade dolls, and other cute crafts.
Oklahoma City Zoo
Take the family on a once-in-a-lifetime safari at the Oklahoma City Zoom, just a 15-minute drive from downtown Oklahoma City. This charming sanctuary covers 130 acres and boasts over 2,000 animal residents, representing at least 500 species. Exciting wildlife encounters await, with an opportunity to get up close with exotic canines, from leopards and tigers to lions, and feed gentle giants like giraffes. You can also range over world-class habitats, with Expedition Africa being the most impressive and the largest in the zoo.
Other notable exhibits to look out for include the Great EscApe, Sanctuary Asia, and Cat Forest. The facility hosts a pleasant botanical garden with tracks you can walk to check out the different flora.
Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge
Take a scenic 2-hour drive southwest of Oklahoma City to hike rugged trails and spot wild bison in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. The 60,000-acre wilderness consists of a mix of prairie, grass, lakes, and granite mountains, which provide a habitat for thriving bison herds, Rocky Mountain elk, and longhorn.
Multiple walking paths wind through the sanctuary, allowing adventurers to move around. If you want a friendly hike, you can take the accessible Jed Johnson Tower Trail, which stretches half a mile along Jed Johnson Lake. The lake is also an excellent spot for boaters and anglers. Meanwhile, those who want to remain in the comfort of their cars can drive along the picturesque Mount Scott Road to discover the area.
Lake Thunderbird State Park
Lake Thunderbird State Park sits a half-hour drive southeast of Oklahoma City and provides travelers with a secluded escape to enjoy Mother Nature's bounty. This recreation hub comprises a 6,000-acre reservoir surrounded by a 7,100-acre land wilderness. The 86-mile shoreline invites first-timers to get lost in various water-fueled adventures, from boating and fishing to swimming and kayaking.
Lake Thunderbird is situated along the winter migratory route for bald eagles, and visitors between December and February can bring their binoculars to spot the fabulous raptors. Multiple pathways loop around the lake, offering ways to explore the area on foot, bike, or horseback.
Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park
Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park draws outdoorsy tourists with the thrill of rappelling and hiking red rock trails. Situated about one hour west of Oklahoma City, it is a popular drive for hikers, thanks to the endless walkways of varying degrees of difficulty. The Canyon Rim Trail is the longest route at 4 miles and delivers exquisite canyon vistas. The Walnut Grove area has plenty of space for campers, including 13 RV spots. The red sandstone cliffs are excellent for rappelling, and a public swimming pool lets you cool off after miles of hiking under the scorching sun.
Stillwater
Get behind the wheel for a one-hour trip from either Tulsa or Oklahoma City to discover the bustling college community of Stillwater. The town boasts world-class points of interest, but it's best known for housing the National Wrestling House of Fame and Museum. This magnificent facility pays tribute to nationally renowned wrestlers who made a mark on the sport through interactive displays and memorabilia. Being home to Oklahoma State University, art is a big part of the local fabric. Exploring downtown exposes you to multiple galleries, and you can stop by the Hazel Modella Art Gallery to peruse intimate fine art pieces.
Like art, sports are a significant source of entertainment among the student populace in Stillwater. You can sample the same by catching a live football game at Boone Pickens Stadium, home of the Cowboys.
Guthrie
This Logan County borough, situated just 30 miles north of Oklahoma City, promises an absorbing historical encounter. This is a credit to its vibrant historic district, which harbors an impressive cluster of at least 2,000 structures from the 19th and 20th centuries. Walking through the neighborhood is a blast from the past, inviting newcomers to glimpse the rich history at the Oklahoma Territorial Museum. This Renaissance Revival building is filled with artifacts chronicling the town's past.
You can further delve into Guthrie's heritage at the Oklahoma Frontier Drug Store Museum. Besides the history, get to know the region's captivating culture at the Pollard Theatre. It stages various live productions in a welcoming atmosphere, including concerts, plays, and musicals.
Start planning your next amazing road trip from Oklahoma City or Tulsa. Venturing to locales from living history museums and quaint townships to scenic parks and wildlife refuges offers unexpected insights beyond preconceived perceptions of the state. Oklahoma day trips provide the perfect opportunity to sample the Sooner State's charm in bite-sized portions through mini-escapes that are well worth the comfortable drive times. From Guthrie to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, abundant hidden gems scattered across the landscape invite future return visits to continue unraveling Oklahoma's rich tapestry.
