Enjoy the Fall colors like never before when you travel a short drive to the Talimena National Scenic Byway. Explore the golden valleys of a spectacular byway and discover historic towns along the way. The Talimena Scenic Drive offers you more than 50 miles of the most breathtaking vistas Oklahoma has to offer. Located in Oklahoma's Southeast corner near the Oklahoma-Arkansas border, this captivating, winding road is an experience you will not soon forget. Below are just a few of the activities and beautiful sites that await you.
The Talimena Scenic drive winds 54-miles along the crest of Rich Mountain and Winding Stair Mountain in the Ouachita National Forest. Taking this drive at this time of year is mesmerizing and unforgettable.
Incredible, gorgeous, and majestic are just some of the adjectives used to describe nature's beauty here. Whether it is a sunrise, sunset, or anywhere in between, you will be happy you made the trip.
If you are interested in staying overnight in the area then skip the hotel and check out Stonehill Cottages. These quaint and cozy cottages are perfect for a weekend getaway.
If you can resist stopping to enjoy the many scenic views and attractions along the way, the route takes only 1 hour and 10 minutes to drive. A leisurely drive, however, can take all day.
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...
The state of Oklahoma offers a great deal of wonderful sights and experiences, and we think that one of the best ways to explore the region is by car! You’ve likely heard of the famous Route 66, or maybe you’ve considered taking a day trip to Tulsa or Oklahoma City. Whether you’re familiar with the Sooner State or you’ve never been before, believe us when we tell you that there’s a ton of breathtaking natural beauty, fabulous dining, historical landmarks, and unique adventures for people of all ages. Looking for some inspiration? Whether you're looking for weekend road trips in Oklahoma or quick road trips in Oklahoma, you'll love browsing our list of the best road trips in Oklahoma!
Our first itinerary on the list is this 1-day trip through the state's Southeastern region. This is a great route to see some of Oklahoma’s beautiful topography. Starting off at Lake Eufaula, visitors can experience the largest body of water in the state. The summer is a great time to visit, but the lake offers stunning views all year round. Take your time in this gorgeous setting before heading off to Talimena, where the featured section of this itinerary is located. The Talimena National Scenic Byway is a lovely scenic drive through the Ouachita National Forest. All four seasons offer incredible sightseeing, but the Fall foliage is hard to beat. Finally, you’ll conclude this day trip at the Kerr Nature Center in Hodges. You can enjoy a leisurely hike, or simple rest and take in the scenery.
Route: Talihina>Broken Bow>Beavers Bend State Park and Nature Center
Distance: 69.6 Miles
Trip Time: 1 Hour And 28 Minutes Driving Time
Next on our list is this fantastic 3-day road trip itinerary that’s got a good mix of natural beauty and great dining. Starting off in the Talimena National Scenic Byway, you’ll explore the Talimena State Park and take in one of the most breathtaking locations in all of Oklahoma. Then, you’ll pay a visit to the Grateful Head Pizza Oven and Tap Room- a restaurant known for its customizable pizzas in the Broken Bow area. The first day of this three-day Oklahoma road trip concludes with a stay at a unique Vrbo cabin- everyone will appreciate the hot tub and deck area. Day two involves a visit to Beavers Bend State Park, where guests can participate in hiking, canoeing, fishing, and more. You can also swim in Broken Bow Lake or rent a paddle boat to explore the Mountain Fork River. On the third day, you may want to hop on the open-air train that explores the Nature Center. This road trip is great for a weekend getaway with more activities besides driving through scenic backroads.
Our next great Oklahoma road trip is a special one- get ready for a fun-filled road trip that stops at some amazing pie shops and bakeries! You’ll begin in Oklahoma City at Brown's Bakery: a bakery that’s been around since 1946. You’ll then head to Pie Junkie, which is a popular dessert spot that’s also in OKC. About three hours later, you’ll arrive in Tulsa to try even more delicious treats, followed by stops in Claremore and Muskogee. One of the eateries on the itinerary is an Amish Bakery where you can try some great home-cooked meals as well as desserts!
This next road trip itinerary is a fun-filled adventure that’s suited for travelers of all ages. You’ll enjoy the roadside attractions and historic information about Oklahoma’s “Wild West” days. Starting off in Tulsa, you’ll have a meal at Ollie’s Station on historic Route 66. This train-themed spot is about two hours away from your next stop in the small town of Heavener. The Southern Belle train car is a restaurant situated in an actual train car and is a fun place to have another bite to eat before heading off to Antlers for an overnight stay at the Rebel Hills Guest Ranch. This train-themed hotel is fashioned in a 1911 train car, and will certainly be one of the most unique getaways on this trip. The next morning, head to the Oklahoma Railway Museum in OKC, followed by a one-of-a-kind train ride that crosses state lines. The Heartland Flyer actually takes passengers from OKC to Fort Worth, Texas- this is a great opportunity to visit The Dallas area as well, but you can also head back to Oklahoma the same day.
Route: Keystone State Park>Greenleaf State Park>Lake Eufaula State Park
Distance: 130 Miles
Trip Time: 2 Hours And 7 Minutes Driving Time
Spring is a wonderful time of year to explore the natural beauty of Oklahoma, and this 130-mile trip can help you do just that! Starting off At Keystone State Park, you can enjoy countless outdoor activities with friends and family. This area near Tulsa is a must-see if you’d like to stay in a lakeside cabin. Next, head over to Greenleaf State Park and have fun swimming, kayaking, or hiking in a peaceful environment. This state park is sort of unknown when compared to the six National Parks in Oklahoma, but it’s a lovely place to have some outdoor fun. Lastly, drive on to Northeastern Oklahoma (about four hours from the Arkansas border) and explore the wonderful Lake Eufaula State Park. The largest lake in the state is also home to great trails and incredible sunset views. Be sure to stop at the visitor’s center to learn more about lodging options.
A beautiful Summer day awaits on this next Oklahoma road trip. About three hours from Oklahoma City is the lovely town of Tahlequah: home to the picturesque Lake Tenkiller, a charming Main Street, and more. When you think of the Ozarks, you may first think of Missouri or Arkansas, but this small town features some gorgeous sights of the Ozarks, as it’s in close proximity. It also has a Native American history that can be traced back hundreds of years. The main focus of this Summer day trip will be Lake Tenkiller, which is surrounded by hiking, fishing, and swimming opportunities. Another popular activity is tubing down the Illinois River! Head over to the cozy downtown area to shop for handmade jewelry and vintage pieces, as well as get a snack at one of the many eateries. This is a great place to spend a day or stay overnight for a leisurely getaway.
Route: Miami>Spavinaw>Tenkiller Lake>Robbers Cave State Park>Talimena National Scenic Byway>Beavers Bend State Park and Nature Center>Chickasaw National Recreation Area>Turner Falls>Red Rock Canyon Adventure Park
Distance: 618 Miles
Trip Time: 11 Hours And 29 Minutes Driving Time
Fall will be here before we know it, and Oklahoma happens to have some of the most beautiful spots to see the changing leaves in the US. This itinerary will take around 600 miles, so be sure to book out two or three days to enjoy the Autumn season. This trip begins on Highway 10 in Miami (not the Florida one), where you will be able to take in the beautiful colors before heading onto Tenkiller Lake. This lake is typically seen as a Summer destination, but just wait until you see all the natural beauty that this area exudes in the Fall. You’ll then visit the San Bois Mountains before heading on to the Talimena National Scenic Byway- both of these destinations have remarkable views. Then it’s on to Beaver Bend, which is one of the most breathtaking locations in all of the state, followed by a stop in the Chickasaw National Recreation Area’s town of Sulphur. This region is known for its lush beauty amongst the great plains of Oklahoma, and this is even more lovely during the Autumn months. You’ll then visit Turner Falls- another spot that is usually thought of as a Summer destination but becomes even more beautiful with the chill of Fall. Lastly, you’ll drive to Red Rock Canyon State Park, where the red walls of the area are striking alongside the changing leaves.
In the Winter, people of all ages can enjoy the Holiday-time festivities! This road trip itinerary will stop at some of the best holiday light displays in the state of Oklahoma. Starting off in Broken Arrow, you can either drive or walk through over two million lights at the annual Christmas event. The lights are synchronized to music, which makes it even better! Then it’s off to the Twin Bridges Park of Lights, where you can also find carolers and hot dogs as well. Next, you’ll drive to Bartlesville and enjoy free admission to the light display put on by the Sunrise Rotary before heading off to The Festival of Light in Chickasa. Then, head on to Yukon to conclude your trip at the largest light display in the state!
If you’re looking for a fun-filled getaway that’s especially great for kids, look no further than this itinerary. Starting off at the Leonardo’s Children Museum in Enid, kids will love the outdoor castle of Adventure Quest. The museum is also a fun place to explore as well! Next, you’ll move along to Oklahoma City to visit the Bricktown Candy Co. This candy store has every sweet you could imagine, as well as some “vintage” treats that older family members will appreciate. The next stop, located in Stroud, has been around since 1936. It’s the Rock Cafe, which is now inspired by Pixar’s “Cars”! This is super fitting, considering its location right off The Mother Road. Then it’s on to Tulsa’s “Center of the Universe”- a hidden gem that has a surprise for pedestrians who come by. You’ll then visit the well-loved Gathering Place in Tulsa, which now offers boat rentals, before heading to Heavener. Here, you’ll make a stop at Runestone Park before finishing the trip at the Southern Belle restaurant (the eatery in a train car that was previously on this list)!
Road Trip to Oklahoma's Landmarks & Natural Wonders
This next road trip itinerary is awesome because it features some amazing landmarks that can be seen all in one day! Starting off along Route 66, you’ll see the famous Blue Whale of Catoosa. This landmark is super special, attracting people from all over the globe. This iconic stop is a great opportunity to take photos as well. Next, you’ll head to Tulsa to see The Gathering Place. This is a park unlike any other- it’s actually been voted as one of the best attractions in the U.S.! Then it’s off to Oklahoma City, where you’ll first visit Lake Hefner. The image of the lighthouse is reminiscent of a New England setting and may cause you to forget you’re in the state of the Tallgrass Prairie. You’ll then visit the Capitol building, the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, and the Myriad Botanical Gardens. The journey will conclude in Oklahoma City at the SkyDance Bridge sculpture- a sight even more beautiful as the sun goes down.
Route: Medicine Park>Chickasha>Pauls Valley>Sulphur>Tishomingo>Broken Bow>Talihina>Fort Gibson>Tahlequah>Bernice
Distance: 529 Miles
Trip Time: 10 Hours Driving Time
Some of the most magical destinations in the state of Oklahoma are actually the small towns! This itinerary features some amazing locations that’ll leave you with long-lasting memories. Starting off in the Wichita Mountains, you’ll visit the cobblestone community of Medicine Park. Then, you’ll drive to Chickasha- a historic town that’s full of charm- before stopping in Pauls Valley. This small town is home to the Toy & Action Figure Museum, and it’s the only one in the world! Next, you’ll move on to the beautiful town of Sulphur along the route to Tishomingo- a scenic town that also features shops and restaurants. Then it’s off to the natural wonders of Broken Bow, where you can enjoy some time outdoors and perhaps stay overnight. Following Broken Bow, you’ll drive to the quaint town of Talihina, which is close to the famous Talimena National Scenic Byway. Next, head on to Fort Gibson to experience some historic architecture, and then move on to the well-loved town of Tahlequah. This area is near Tenkiller Lake, as well as many fun attractions that guests can enjoy. Lastly, enjoy a day in Bernice, which is known for its fishing!
The state of Oklahoma has no shortage of adventure, history, natural beauty, and fun! We think that the best way to see it all is by car. Have you been to any of the destinations on this list? Would you add any stops along the way? Let us know in the comments! And don't forget to take a look at our road trip essentials before hitting the road!
