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.
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:
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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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!
The Completely Free Nature Center Hiding in an Oklahoma State Park Is a Must-Visit
Searching for a free attraction in Oklahoma? If so, check out Tucker Tower Nature Center. It's a great family-friendly attraction you don't want to miss.
There is no doubt that the best things in life are free. If you agree with me, then you must check out Tucker Tower Nature Center at Lake Murray State Park in Ardmore, OK. As the largest state park in OK, chances are, you’ve probably been here before. However, if you’re yet to explore the nature center, plan a trip to visit soon. Not only is there a medieval tower here, but it’s a great place for the kids to learn about wildlife as well as the history of the lake. Plus, it’s free! If you ask me, you can’t beat that! This free attraction in Oklahoma definitely belongs on your list, especially if you have little ones.
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We all know that Lake Murray State Park is jam-packed with all kinds of activities. From swimming to fishing to hiking to kayaking to camping and more, the possibilities are endless. But let’s face it, sometimes you want to do something different, and luckily, I found just that thing for you.
United States, Oklahoma, Lake Murray State Park
Nestled on the banks of the stunning Lake Murray is Tucker Tower Nature Center. Fun fact: At 65-feet tall, Tucker Tower is the “most identifiable structure within any of Oklahoma’s state parks” and it is said that it was built to be used as a summer retreat for Governor William H. Murray. Built in the 1930s, the gorgeous stone structure perched on top of a cliff overlooks the lake, so it’s a great spot to take some incredible pictures.
There are 2 buildings here to explore - the tower and the nature center. From the nature center, there is a paved pathway to get to the tower, it’s uphill and there are several steps to climb too. So, you’ll want to keep that in mind. History buffs and the kiddos will love the medieval-style tower as it looks like a fortress over the lake. Climbing to the top will be an awesome adventure for everyone. The expansive views of the lake from the top will leave you speechless. I’ll advise that you have your camera or phone ready here.
What’s more, you’ll learn about the history of the tower and park too. Transformed into a museum in the early 1950s, there are several displays inside the nature center including part of a large 4-billion-year-old meteorite. Also, there are interactive exhibits, local wildlife and insect displays, live reptiles, hummingbird feeders, prehistoric fossils, and more. The tower has old machinery as well as artifacts and collectibles for you to see.
If you have little kids with you, allow for about an hour to see the tower and the nature center. Best of all, you will have tons of time to take advantage of all the amenities inside Lake Murray State Park. To be honest, this is one of the best free attractions in Oklahoma and you don’t want to miss your chance to see it.
Please note: Though the state park and the nature center are free, there is a small charge for parking.
Address: 1587 Tucker Tower Road, Ardmore, OK 73401
If you have yet to visit this unique tower in Oklahoma, I hope you will add it to your list this year. It’s a cool attraction for you and your family to explore.
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Lake Murray State Park is huge, so if you plan to visit and need a place to stay, I found a hotel in Ardmore, that’s minutes away from the park.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
