The Up-and-Coming City in Oklahoma That’s Perfectly Sized

When it comes to day trips or weekend getaways, many people tend to focus on the Sooner State's larger cities. The abundance of people in a place like Oklahoma City or Tulsa means that there are so many great attractions, whether you're interested in museums, parks, restaurants, or shops. Many small towns in Oklahoma are also quite spectacular. You really can't beat the rural charm of a little farm town, can you? However, one great alternative is to explore mid-sized cities, as they often seem to offer the best of both worlds. You don't have to worry about the stifling number of people in a big city, but you still get to enjoy a sense of that small-town charm. Mid-sized cities are so underrated as travel destinations, and that's just what you'll find if you pay a visit to Altus, an up-and-coming Oklahoma city in Jackson County, with a population of around 18,600 people.

Altus is tucked away in southwest Oklahoma and, like many towns in the area, was once a cow town along the Great Western Cattle Trail. Today, the city has a historic district with 59 buildings, built between 1900 and 1965, around Courthouse Square, and is best known as the home of Altus Air Force Base and Western Oklahoma State College. It's so much more than just a military or college town, though, especially if you love nature. This is a stunning region of the state, offering excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Lake Altus-Lugert lies just north of Altus proper, and it's a pretty fascinating place that is home to an underwater ghost town. In times of drought, you can actually see remnants of the buildings that once stood in the town of Lugert. The reservoir is a popular place to enjoy the outdoors. Fishing, boating, and swimming are all popular activities here, especially in the warm months.

Another must-visit destination for nature lovers near Altus is the Great Plains State Park. Less than 30 miles from Altus, this sprawling preserve contains nearly 500 developed acres, with an additional 700 acres made up of wilderness. It's a great place for camping and hiking, and you'll find a wonderfully diverse landscape here, including the Tom Sneed Reservoir. You can learn more about Great Plains State Park's trail system from our friends at AllTrails.

If you're feeling a bit peckish after your outdoor adventures, don't miss a visit to Friendship Inn Restaurant. This family-owned hotel buffet serves up all-you-can-eat goodness with breakfast served 24 hours a day and offers a side of friendly service.

Altus is such a delightful spot for a day or two away, particularly if you love the outdoors. Have you been to Altus, one of the best cities in Oklahoma, before? Please share your favorite spots around the city through our nomination page.

Plan your own trip to Altus, Oklahoma, with Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner. And if you're looking for Oklahoma road trip ideas, check out some of the state's best road trips plus itineraries.