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Are you planning to visit Oklahoma in 2022? You have made a fantastic choice! Oklahoma is a beautiful state, full of natural wonders, vibrant cities, fascinating history, and friendly people. Whether you are a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie, Oklahoma has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we will take you on a journey through the Sooner State, highlighting the best places to visit, things to do, and tips to make your trip memorable. So, let’s get started!
When to Visit Oklahoma?
Oklahoma has four distinct seasons, each with its own charm. The best time to visit depends on your preferences and interests. Spring (March-May) is an ideal time to explore Oklahoma’s outdoor attractions, such as the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve and the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, when wildflowers bloom and wildlife thrives. Summer (June-August) is perfect for water activities, festivals, and events, such as the Oklahoma City Zoo Amphitheatre concerts and the Red Earth Native American Cultural Festival. Fall (September-November) offers picturesque foliage and pleasant weather, ideal for hiking, camping, and fishing. Winter (December-February) in Oklahoma can be chilly but magical, with holiday events, skiing, and snow tubing.
How to Get to Oklahoma?
Oklahoma is easily accessible by air, road, and rail. The state has three major airports – Will Rogers World Airport in Oklahoma City, Tulsa International Airport, and Lawton-Fort Sill Regional Airport – and several smaller airports across the state. If you prefer to drive, Oklahoma is intersected by several major highways, including I-35, I-40, and I-44, making it easy to travel by car. If you plan to take a train, Amtrak’s Heartland Flyer runs daily between Oklahoma City and Fort Worth, Texas.
Where to Stay in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels and resorts to budget-friendly motels and campgrounds. Some popular cities for tourists include Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Lawton, and Norman. These cities offer a variety of lodging options in their downtown areas, near tourist attractions, and along major highways. If you prefer a more rustic experience, Oklahoma also offers numerous state parks with cabins, RV sites, and tent camping areas.
What to See and Do in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma has a rich history and culture, diverse landscapes, and a wide range of attractions that cater to all interests. Here are some of the must-see and must-do experiences in Oklahoma:
Explore Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City is the capital of Oklahoma and the state’s largest city, offering a blend of history, culture, and fun. Some of the top attractions in Oklahoma City include the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, the Myriad Botanical Gardens, and the Bricktown Entertainment District.
Discover Tulsa
Tulsa is an exciting city in northeastern Oklahoma, known for its art deco architecture, music scene, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Some of the top things to do in Tulsa include visiting the Philbrook Museum of Art, the Tulsa Zoo, the Gathering Place park, and the Blue Whale landmark.
Visit the Chickasaw Cultural Center
The Chickasaw Cultural Center is a living history museum in Sulphur, Oklahoma, that showcases the history, art, music, and traditions of the Chickasaw Nation. Visitors can learn about the Chickasaw language, cuisine, and crafts, watch traditional dances and music performances, and experience the beauty of the Chickasaw National Recreation Area.
Take a Scenic Drive
Oklahoma has several scenic drives that offer breathtaking views of the state’s natural beauty. Some of the most popular scenic drives in Oklahoma include the Talimena Scenic Drive, the Route 66 drive, and the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge drive.
Go Fishing and Boating
Oklahoma is a paradise for fishing and boating enthusiasts, with over 1 million surface acres of water and more than 200 lakes and streams. Some of the top fishing and boating spots in Oklahoma include Lake Texoma, Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees, Keystone Lake, and the Illinois River.
What to Eat and Drink in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma’s cuisine is a fusion of southern, Native American, and Tex-Mex influences, resulting in a unique and flavorful culinary scene. Here are some of the must-try foods and drinks in Oklahoma:
Barbecue
Oklahoma is famous for its barbecue, with many restaurants and food trucks offering mouth-watering brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and sausage. Some of the top barbecue joints in Oklahoma include Burn Co. Barbecue in Tulsa, Leo’s Barbecue in Oklahoma City, and Van’s Pig Stand in Shawnee.
Burgers
Oklahoma is also known for its delicious burgers, made with fresh beef and topped with creative combinations of ingredients. Some of the top burger places in Oklahoma include Tucker’s Onion Burgers in Oklahoma City, Claud’s Hamburgers in Tulsa, and Meers Store and Restaurant in Lawton.
Chicken Fried Steak
Chicken fried steak is a beloved comfort food in Oklahoma, made with tenderized beef, breaded and fried to perfection, and topped with gravy. Some of the best places to try chicken fried steak in Oklahoma include Eischen’s Bar in Okarche, Ann’s Chicken Fry House in Oklahoma City, and Cattlemen’s Steakhouse in Stockyards City.
Beer
Oklahoma’s craft beer scene is booming, with many breweries and taprooms offering a wide range of styles, from light lagers to hoppy IPAs to bold stouts. Some of the top craft breweries in Oklahoma include Prairie Artisan Ales in Tulsa, Stonecloud Brewing Company in Oklahoma City, and Roughtail Brewing Company in Midwest City.
Conclusion
Oklahoma is a hidden gem in the heart of America, waiting to be explored. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Oklahoma has something to offer. From stunning landscapes to cultural landmarks, from delicious food to craft beer, Oklahoma will surprise and delight you. We hope this travel guide has inspired you to plan your next trip to the Sooner State. Happy travels!
| FAQ |
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What is Oklahoma known for?Oklahoma is known for its oil and gas industry, Native American culture, western heritage, and outdoor recreation opportunities. |
What are the top tourist attractions in Oklahoma?Some of the top tourist attractions in Oklahoma include the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, the Philbrook Museum of Art, the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, and the Chickasaw Cultural Center. |
What is the weather like in Oklahoma?Oklahoma has a humid subtropical and humid continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, winters are cool and dry, and spring and fall are mild and pleasant. |
What are the best places to stay in Oklahoma?Some of the best places to stay in Oklahoma include downtown Oklahoma City, downtown Tulsa, the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, and state parks such as Beavers Bend and Lake Murray. |
What is the state food of Oklahoma?Oklahoma does not have an official state food, but some popular dishes include barbecue, chicken-fried steak, fried catfish, and pecan pie. |