Norman, Oklahoma Is the Most Charming College Town Getaway in Fall

Because they cater to their populations of college students, college towns are generally known for three things: academics, athletics, and fun! Towns that have sprung up around and thrive from colleges and universities are vibrant, exciting, and active, and that's why they're often great places to visit, even if you don't know anyone going to school there.

With that in mind, if you're looking for the perfect place for a fun fall getaway in Oklahoma, you might consider taking a trip to Norman, just south of Oklahoma City. It's home to the University of Oklahoma and has much to offer its residents and visitors. This city is the third-largest in The Sooner State, but it's still small enough to be charming, welcoming, friendly, and easy to navigate and enjoy. Read on to learn more about it and plan a visit today.

Welcome to Norman, Oklahoma

Norman, Oklahoma, was first settled in 1889 as part of the Land Run of 1889, which opened up land that was formerly Native American territory to American settlement. A year later, in 1890, it became home to the University of Oklahoma — even though Oklahoma didn't gain statehood until 1907! Since then, this university has grown and grown; today, it's the largest in the state. The town of Norman has a population of around 128,000 residents, but the town grows during the school year; 34,000 students attend the University of Oklahoma annually.

An Idyllic Campus Atmosphere

The university is highly regarded for its academic and athletic programs. 85,000 people attend football games at the school to watch the Sooners play — and often win. Most visitors to Norman take in a college sporting event of some kind while in town! However, if sports aren't your thing — or even if they are — there are many other great things to keep you busy during a visit to Norman, too.

Cultural Sights and Things To Do

On campus, visitors will find two truly fantastic museums: the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art and the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. The Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art has over 20,000 objects in its permanent collection and specializes in French Impressionism and Native American Art. The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History is the state's primary natural history museum, and it has over 10 million objects and specimens in 12 different collections. Both museums are not to be missed.

If you'd like to learn even more while you're in town, be sure to stop by the National Weather Museum and Science Center. It includes exhibits on weather phenomena and their measurement and prediction, and offers hands-on opportunities for children.

Historical Locations Throughout Norman

Once you've visited these interesting spots, there's still more to see in Norman. History enthusiasts will enjoy checking out and touring the 1899 Queen Anne Victorian Moore-Lindsay Historical House Museum. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring George Miksch Sutton Urban Wilderness Park, Lake Thunderbird State Park, or the Discovery Cove Natural Center. Lovers of the theater might also catch a show at the historic Sooner Theatre, built in the 1920s, or an on-campus performance at the Donald W. Reynolds Performing Arts Center.

Beautiful Rural Scenery Surrounding the City

There's something for everyone in Norman, Oklahoma! There are also plenty of places to stay in town for people wishing to visit and check it out. You might choose a place like a top-rated bed and breakfast. There are also plenty of hotels and other accommodations to consider. Further, there's lots of great food to eat in Norman, Oklahoma, as no group of people has a heartier appetite than college students — and the small businesses of Norman sure meet that need!

You're sure to have a great time when visiting Norman. It's a perfect and charming college town to visit this fall or anytime. If you're interested in taking a trip there this autumn, why not try planning your own trip using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner?