12 Magnificent Hidden Gems To Discover In Oklahoma This Year
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Ashley
Author
Discover several Oklahoma hidden gems with a year-long adventure! From unique museums to beautiful hiking trails, we compiled a list of 12 of the most magnificent locations to explore in the Sooner State. Take a spontaneous trip each month to make unforgettable memories and experience all that Oklahoma has to offer. With all the best hidden gems in Oklahoma, there is no doubt that this state is a place to explore and remember.
1. January: Woody Guthrie Center, Tulsa
102 Reconciliation Way, Tulsa, OK 74103, USA
The Woody Guthrie Center in Tulsa is an amazing educational and cultural center dedicated to preserving the legacy of the famous Oklahoma singer-songwriter. The center houses an impressive collection of artifacts, memorabilia, recorded performances, artwork, and even outfits worn by Woody Guthrie himself. It also offers a variety of special events and activities that are designed to engage and educate the public about Guthrie’s life and work. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits, movie screenings, concerts, lectures and symposiums, and hands-on workshops for both adults and children. Through its vast collection of artifacts and educational programming, the Woody Guthrie Center serves as a unique and powerful resource for preserving and sharing the memory of this legendary Oklahoman.
Check out some of the exhibits at the Woody Guthrie Center:
Check out some of the exhibits at the Woody Guthrie Center:
2. February: Paseo Arts District, Oklahoma City
Paseo, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
The Paseo Arts District in Oklahoma City is a vibrant, creative community filled with history, art, and culture. Located in the heart of the city, this district is home to a variety of galleries and art studios, showcasing a wide selection of work from local and international artists. There are over 20 galleries in the district, ranging from established powerhouse galleries to up-and-coming artists looking to make a name for themselves.
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3. March: Sheppard Point Trail, Kellyville
Sheppard Point, Oklahoma 74010, USA
A great choice for an easy hike when looking for an outdoor adventure is Sheppard Point Trail. The 3.2-mile trail travels through lush diverse forests, meadows, rocky outcroppings, and even a few natural spring-fed streams. With an elevation change of nearly 400 feet, hikers are rewarded with expansive views of the surrounding area from the top. This trail also offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, with whitetail deer, wild turkeys, and a variety of birds to be found along the way. Ultimately, Sheppard Point Trail is a great choice for hikers of all skill levels looking for a scenic and enjoyable journey through Oklahoma's natural beauty.
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4. April: The Botanical Garden at Oklahoma State University, Stillwater
The Botanic Garden at Oklahoma State University, 3300 W. 6th Street, (south entrance), Stillwater, OK 74078, USA
Oklahoma State University's Botanical Gardens offer a relaxing and inspiring atmosphere. You can explore over 20 acres of themed gardens and lawns filled with native plants, sculptures, and water features. The gardens also host a variety of events throughout the year, from a flower show and garden symposium to educational activities for kids. With its picturesque setting, it's the perfect destination for a beautiful spring afternoon.
Take a look at the beauty of these gardens:
Take a look at the beauty of these gardens:
5. May: Foss State Park, Foss
Foss State Park, 10252 Oklahoma, OK-44, Foss, OK 73647, USA
Foss State Park is an ideal destination for a summer getaway. Located in southwestern Oklahoma, the park is characterized by its majestic bluffs, rolling prairies, and a huge lake. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as fishing, boating, swimming, and camping. If you're looking for an affordable and enjoyable outdoor experience, Foss State Park is an ideal destination for you.
6. June: Boiling Springs State Park, Woodward
Boiling Springs, SC 29316, USA
Looking for a picturesque, secluded paradise perfect for a day out in nature? Boiling Springs State Park is full of natural beauty and unique features, such as the Boiling Spring, a rare phenomenon caused by the geothermal activity below the park. The crystal-clear spring empties into a pond surrounded by lush wildlife and picturesque cliffs, creating the ideal backdrop for an afternoon of swimming, fishing, or just enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
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7. July: Chickasaw Cultural Center, Sulphur
Chickasaw Cultural Center, 867 Cooper Memorial Rd, Sulphur, OK 73086, USA
Located in Sulphur, Oklahoma, the center offers visitors the chance to learn about the Chickasaw people and culture through interactive exhibits, films, hands-on activities, and live cultural demonstrations. You can take a tour of the grounds and experience the living village, art galleries, and nature trails, or take in a traditional Chickasaw stomp dance. You can also experience the history of the Chickasaw people by taking part in traditional activities like grinding corn, tanning buckskin, and making pottery.
Get an in-depth look at the Chickasaw Cultural Center:
Get an in-depth look at the Chickasaw Cultural Center:
8. August: Harn Homestead, Oklahoma City
Harn Homestead, 1721 N Lincoln Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73105, USA
This historic site was founded in 1890 as a homestead of the Harn family and is now a museum that tells their story. Located in a park-like setting, the site features a 2-story ranch house, a one-room schoolhouse, barns, and an original windmill. Visitors can explore the homestead's original building and artifacts, as well as learn about the family's struggles with drought and economic hardship. The Homestead is also a great place for outdoor activities, with plenty of trees, grassy open spaces, and a picnic area. With its combination of Oklahoma history and outdoor recreation, Harn Homestead is the perfect spot for a day of learning and fun.
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9. September: Red Slough Wildlife Management, Idabel
Red Slough Wildlife Management Area, E2240, Haworth, OK 74740, USA
Red Slough provides a unique refuge for over 300 species of birds, reptiles, amphibians, fish, and mammals. The wetlands provide a rich environment for wildlife, including ducks, geese, egrets, herons, and even the occasional bald eagle. Visitors can also explore Red Slough's nature trails and boardwalks, or take a canoe or kayak tour to observe the area's wildlife from the water. It's also one of the few places where you'll find the American Alligator in Oklahoma.
10: October: Mt. Olivet Cemetery
Mt Olivet Cemetery, 1198 S 8th St, Grant, OK 74738, USA
Mount Olivet Cemetery stands out due to its unique memorials, many of which feature circus animals. The cemetery is home to many grave sites that feature carvings of circus animals and other memorials that reflect the history of circuses that once passed through Grant. Many of these sculptures have been carved by local wood carvers who specialize in creating memorials of this kind.
11. November: Roman Nose State Park, Watonga
Roman Nose State Park, Lodge, 3236 OK-8A, Watonga, OK 73772, USA
Roman Nose State Park is located in the ruggedly beautiful, rolling hills of north-central Oklahoma and is home to a variety of outdoor activities and attractions. The park has a large, crystal-clear lake that is ideal for swimming, fishing, and boating. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, mountain biking, camping, and horseback riding on the park’s trails. There is an 18-hole golf course, a replica of a turn-of-the-century Western town, and a full-service resort with a spa, pool, and dining areas. The park also has an on-site museum with exhibits about local Native American culture and the park’s history.
12. December: Chisholm Trail Park, Yukon
Chisholm Trail Park, 500 W Vandament Ave, Yukon, OK 73099, USA
Chisholm Trail Park is a great place to visit during December for Christmas lights. This festive park features a holiday light display with over a mile of lights synced to festive holiday music, as well as a Winter Wonderland area with sleigh rides, carnival rides, and holiday shopping. If you’re looking for a Christmas light show that’s sure to get you into the Christmas spirit, then Chisholm Trail Park is the place to be!
Have you visited any of these hidden gems in Oklahoma? What are some of your favorites on this list? Let us know in the comments section! To explore more of this lovely state, head out on the road and check out even more Oklahoma hidden gems!
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More to Explore
Intriguing Attractions in Oklahoma
What are some hidden gem attractions in Oklahoma?
Hidden gem attractions in Oklahoma include:
- Myriad Botanical Gardens is in the heart of Oklahoma City and its 15 acres of walking paths and lush plant life provide a respite from the noise of the city.
- Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve, near Bartlesville, has 3,700 acres of land where bison, longhorn cattle, elk, and other animals roam across the landscape.
- The Museum of the Great Plains in Lawton provides interactive natural history exhibits that educate visitors about Native American and pioneer life.
Find out more about hidden gem attractions in Oklahoma.
What are the most beautiful natural attractions in Oklahoma?
The most beautiful natural attractions in Oklahoma include:
- Bathtub Rocks. The fascinating rock formations here are a natural network of pools and slides and are a local favorite during the summer.
- Black Mesa Country. With over 10 eco-regions, this natural area is awe-inspiring with its wildlife, rock formations, mesas, prairies, and more.
- Lake Tenkiller State Park. This lake has amazingly clear water and is surrounded by thick, lush forests and pristine views.
- Talimena National Scenic Byway. A drive along this byway, especially during the fall, will offer sights you won’t soon forget.
Discover more about the most incredible natural attractions in Oklahoma.
What are some bucket list attractions in Oklahoma?
Some bucket list attractions in Oklahoma include:
- Little Sahara State Park. You’ll see how this place got its name when you see the sand dunes stretching over 1,600 acres.
- Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. This refuge was established in 1901 and contains free-range buffalo, prairie dogs, Texas longhorn cattle, and other wildlife.
- Chickasaw National Recreation Area. This area near Sulphur has mineral waters, beautiful streams, and many boating and swimming spots.
- Turner Falls State Park. You’ll find this idyllic spot in the Arbuckle Mountains a short distance from Davis. This 77-foot-tall waterfall is one of the tallest in the state.
Learn more about bucket list attractions in Oklahoma.