7 Perfect Destinations For A Long Weekend In Oklahoma
With over 200 lakes, a dash of Route 66 history, and holiday events popping up all winter long, Oklahoma is bursting with entertainment year-round. Additionally, the state’s winding rivers, seasonal ice skating rinks, botanic gardens, and quirky antique shops ensure there is something for every kind of traveler. If you have been craving a weekend escape from the city but are having trouble deciding where to begin, look no further than these seven towns that strike the perfect balance of fun and relaxation.
Medicine Park
Medicine Park became Oklahoma’s first resort town in 1908. Along both Bath Lake and Lake Lawtonka, there are plenty of relaxing activities to partake in. Bath Lake is a nice place for a stroll, offering waterfalls and a variety of shallow and deep access points for swimming. The lake is also popular in the winter months for trout fishing. Lake Lawtonka, created in 1905 by a dam, is a great place to camp, picnic, and boat as well.
For a fresh cinnamon roll and hot coffee, stop by one of Medicine Park’s cozy local bakeries, such as Mrs. Chadwick’s Bakery and Coffees. Camping is a favorite activity in Medicine Park, but for those seeking more comfortable accommodations, the town offers numerous cabin options. Among them, the Wichita Mod Lodge stands out, combining a mid-century modern style with the character of its renovated 1959 building.
Ponca City
Ponca City, with a population of approximately 24,000, sits along the Arkansas River and embodies the spirit of small-town America. The town frequently hosts events on the weekends, making it the perfect time to visit. On December 6th, the town will host its Annual Ponca City Downtown Lighted Christmas Parade, followed the next week on December 13th with its “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown!” play at the Ponca Playhouse.
Visitors can continue to appreciate the winter season in Ponca City at the town’s seasonal “Ice on the Plaza”, an ice skating rink on the Veteran’s Plaza. For a comfortable stay, the Osage Casino Hotel is a convenient option just nine minutes from downtown Ponca City, offering a restaurant, bar, live music, and more.
Barnsdall
Barnsdall is the perfect representation of the American Southwest and is best known for its operational oil well located on Main Street, which travelers can see for themselves upon visiting. Travelers also must explore the Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve, once an oilman’s ranch retreat but now a 3,700-acre wildlife preserve and art museum. Plan a Saturday afternoon at Birch Lake, spanning over 1,100 acres for fishing, picnicking, and camping.
On December 6th, travelers can also enjoy Barnsdall’s annual Christmas event, featuring a parade, Santa appearance, tree lighting, and hot chili. The Mabelle, located in the neighboring town of Pawhuska, is an elegant brick inn named after an Oklahoma pioneer who settled in the area in the late 19th century, offering a refined place to stay.
Stillwater
Stillwater, home to just under 50,000 residents, thrives as a college town and the hub of Oklahoma State University. As the birthplace of Red Dirt Music, Stillwater offers travelers the chance to enjoy live performances at venues like Stonecloud Brewing, Eskimo Joe's, and Outlaws, all supporting local artists.
To unwind, travelers can take a stroll through the Botanic Garden at OSU, which spans 100 acres and has walking trails that wind around Oklahoma's native plant species. Lake McMurtry is a popular recreational site as well, attracting kayakers, mountain bikers, hikers, and even disc golfers with its two 18-hole courses. To be centrally located in the heart of Stillwater, consider the Atherton Hotel, a historic inn that has welcomed guests since 1950 and offers a premium complimentary breakfast each morning.
Tahlequah
Located near the Illinois River, Tahlequah has become well-known over the years for its wide range of outdoor activities. Adventurous visitors can spend a day kayaking, paddleboarding, or rafting down the Illinois River or go boating on either Tenkiller Ferry Lake or Ft. Gibson Lake, both within 30 minutes of downtown Tahlequah.
Not in the mood to hit the water? Stay in town in Tahlequah’s shopping district and search for a souvenir or Christmas gift at one of its local shops, such as Cherokee Nation Gift Shop or Grapevine Collectibles. Tahlequah offers a variety of cozy, historic cabins and lodges. The Historic Smoke House, for example, is a quaint brick cottage built in 1840 that has been recently remodeled and features a private garden.
Bartlesville
The town of Bartlesville, with roughly 38,000 residents, has a rich fine arts and historic scene. Visitors can stop by the Price Tower, designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright, a 19-story innovative landmark that was completed in 1956. To learn more about the area’s history, spend a day museum hopping by visiting the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe/M-K-T Railroad Depot, Bartlesville Area History Museum, and the historic 20th-century Union Depot.
In Bartlesville's historic downtown district, visitors can enjoy ice skating at the seasonal Christmas In the Ville Ice Rink, open until January 4th. In addition to skating, the event features carriage rides, Santa sightings, movies in the park, and festive photo opportunities. For a relaxing retreat, visitors can spend the night at BarDew Valley Inn, which has cozy amenities such as electric fireplaces and a complimentary country breakfast.
Stroud
Stroud, located along the historic Route 66, offers visitors a firsthand experience of Route 66's history. The Route 66 Spirit of America Museum is a good starting point, exploring not only Route 66's history but also the innovative American spirit through a number of exhibits. On Stroud’s main street, travelers can also stop by the Route 66 Obelisk Replica, which commemorates the original Ozark Trail, Route 66’s precursor that existed between 1915 and 1926.
From Friday to Tuesday, visitors can immerse themselves in western cowboy culture with a horseback ride at Tatanka Ranch, navigating through forested trails across more than 500 acres. For a conveniently located lodging option, consider staying at Cattle Country Lodge, located minutes from downtown and offering breakfast each morning.
Final Thoughts
There’s no need to leave Oklahoma’s borders when a diverse array of entertainment is just a couple of hours’ drive away. From horseback riding and museum hopping to disc golfing, boredom is never an option with the right itinerary. So, pack your weekend bag, request that personal time off, and get ready to hit the road for a well-deserved getaway!
