It may not be a town that initially comes to mind when you think of Oklahoma, but the little town of Vinita is one rich with great history, kind people, and plenty of things to do.

Established in 1871, the first town to have electricity in the state is tied forever to Oklahoma’s favorite son, Will Rogers. While he attended Willie Halsell College in his youth, Rogers always held a special place in his heart for this welcoming community. Months before Rogers’ tragic death, he told the people of Vinita to hold a rodeo and he’d be sure to come back to attend. He sadly never made it back, but the good people of Vinita made sure to honor him every year since 1935 with the infamous Will Rogers Memorial Rodeo.

Vinita has also helped produce several American leaders and entertainers. From Dr. Phil McGraw and Illinois Governor Jim Edgar, to Rough Riders who rode with Teddy Roosevelt during the Spanish American War. In fact, it was home to the original Rainbow Chasers (Jack Rorschach, George Schaefer) who lobbied Washington D.C. back in the 1930’s to build the Pensacola Dam which formed Grand Lake.

The town has attracted many visitors from around the world who venture down historic Route 66 and enjoy food at the famously yummy Clanton’s Café. Vinita has a great history in the state of Oklahoma and it’s one not to be missed. Here is a list of things to do in the town that was so special to one of America’s greatest humorists and columnists.

1. The Will Rogers Memorial Archway

It started off as the Glasshouse Restaurant and was once called the World’s Largest McDonald’s. Recently undergoing a 15-million-dollar renovation it’s better than ever and now stands as a proper tribute to Will Rogers. Learn a few things you may not have known on their new educational flat screens or browse through the gift shop. You can still watch the cars pass by below as you enjoy lunch above Interstate 44 on the Will Rogers Turnpike.

2. Clanton’s Café

Open since 1930, this iconic café has been featured in numerous publications as well as Guy Fieri’s ‘Diners, Drive-Ins & Dives’ on the Food Network. Low-prices, superb service and delicious food has brought in customers from around the globe. Always busy, but accommodating, be sure to try the chicken fried steak or the famous calf fries with Guy Fieri’s special sauce.

3. Will Rogers Memorial Rodeo Parade

The kick off to a long week of rodeo fun! This hometown parade is filled with everything you’d expect an old-fashioned parade to be filled with: horses, bulls, beauty queens, motorcycles, classic cars, tractors- it really does have it all. Countless spectators line the streets to take in this lengthy parade to share in the pride of tradition.

4. Will Rogers Memorial Rodeo

Amazingly, now in its eighth decade, this tribute to Oklahoma’s favorite son is one of the best rodeos in the region. Top cowboy champions from around the country take part in this rodeo which includes eight exciting events from barrel racing to bull riding. Fun for all ages, this event takes place every August.

5. The World’s Largest Calf Fry & Cook-Off

This festival includes a little something for everyone. Amusement rides, live music, craft booths and over 2,000 pounds of calf fries served. Cook-off teams compete to be the best of the best while cooking the best part of the bull. Is there any other way to say that? Held in June, come out and see why this is one of the biggest festivals of its kind- where this Oklahoma ‘delicacy’ is the star.

6. Classic Car Show & Oktoberfest

Get the best of both worlds as you enjoy a classic car show on one side of town and all the benefits of an Oktoberfest festival on the other side- all within the same weekend! Every October the town comes together to appreciate classic cars from all over the state as they compete for prizes in different categories. Then they cruise on over to Oktoberfest for live entertainment, vendors and fair style food.

7. Route 66 Punkin’ Chunkin’

A new event to the area that’s really more about physics and engineering than it is about pumpkins. Crowds gather to watch these incredible machines and their makers in action. The current World Record Holders (The Winesburgs) live in Vinita and can brag about their ‘Colossal Machine’ which launched a pumpkin nearly a half mile. Held in October, of course.

8. Ales & Tails Crawfish Festival

This outdoor summer festival will sooth your soul with the sounds of some of the best local bands and plenty of food to boot. Come hungry as you will encounter a two-pound crawfish plate with corn on the cob and potatoes. No worries, the hush puppies will be close by, as well as games, shopping, a mechanical bull and lots of good times for the entire family!

9. The Route 66 Festival

Come and get your kicks for all things nostalgic as Vinita celebrates Historic Route 66. Take a ride down the mother road with classic cars, music, festival rides and an official cruise down the original Route 66 as it used to be. Enjoy the atmosphere that makes the town come alive every June during this one of a kind festival that celebrates an era gone by.

10. Center Theater

One of the first theaters in the state of Oklahoma was built in 1922. Then known as the Lyric Theater, it produced live entertainment and served as a one screen theatre. The theatre has since undergone renovation and today is a popular three screen venue able to seat nearly 750 people.

Have you visited Vinita? What was your favorite thing to do there? Tell us about it in the comments!