There are so many hidden gems in Oklahoma. Sure, we've got plenty of places that locals and tourists alike love to visit, but we've also got plenty of little-known places in the Sooner State that you won't want to miss. We've put together a fun road trip that will take you to six of our favorite hidden gems to visit in Oklahoma. Gas up the car, load up the kids, and follow along. This road trip will take you to some of the best spots you won't find on every travel list. This road trip is focused on the eastern side of the state. You can check out the customizable itinerary on Google Maps.
The entire trip will take about seven hours of driving time. You'll travel from the southern border to just below Kansas, getting to see much of the eastern part of the state.
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Red Slough Wildlife Management Area, E2240, Haworth, OK 74740
You'll start your trip at one of the most under-appreciated parks in the state. The Red Slough Wildlife Management Area is in southeast Oklahoma. The preserve covers nearly 6,000 acres. You'll see several different habitats, including woodlands, riparian zones, marshes, and wet prairies. Approximately 38 different species of reptiles call this refuge home, the most notable of which is the American alligator. If you're looking to spot gators here, the best time of year is between March and May.
Clayton Lake State Park: US-271, Clayton, OK 74536
Head north to another underrated gem, Clayton Lake State Park. This park spans over 500 acres and includes the 80-acre lake that shares its name. This is one of the best places to see fall foliage in Oklahoma (we even featured it in an autumn road trip). If you get a chance to visit in the fall, the bright autumn colors reflecting off the pristine surface of the lake are absolutely out-of-this-world.
Next on this road trip is the gorgeous small town of Carlton Landing. This town is situated right on Lake Eufaula and the township looks more like Florida than Oklahoma. The small town is home to a restaurant, general store, shops, and more. It's set up like a charming resort-style walking community and it's so peaceful. It's one of our favorite small towns in Oklahoma and you won't ever want to leave.
Shad's Catfish Hole: 462700 E 1140 Rd, Sallisaw, OK 74955
This next stop is sure to satisfy your belly's seafood cravings. This place serves up some of the best fried catfish in Oklahoma. And what's even better than delicious fried catfish? All-you-can-eat fried catfish. This unlimited buffet features perfectly seasoned, breaded-to-perfection seafood that will fill you up beyond your wildest dreams. After enjoying this delicious meal, hop back into the car. Get ready for another epic nature destination!
J. T. Nickel Family Nature and Wildlife Preserve, Tahlequah, OK 74464
If you're a fan of nature, you'll fall in love with this stop. The J. T. Nickel Family Nature and Wildlife Preserve is located near Tahlequah in the Ozarks. The preserve comprises 17,000 acres of astonishing beauty and it's one of the most peaceful places in Oklahoma. This environmental protection area is filled with spring-fed creeks, forests, woodlands, prairies, wildlife species, and so much more. This unique nature preserve is a one-of-a-kind destination in the Sooner State that overlooks the Illinois River. Best of all, it's admission-free!
Lendonwood Gardens: 1308 Har-Ber Rd, Grove, OK 74345
You'll end this road trip to hidden gems in Oklahoma at Lendonwood Gardens in Grove. This small botanical garden is only about eight acres. However, it features over 1,200 different types of plants and flowers! You can meander the garden pathways on your own or take a guided tour upon request. Every corner you turn will have breathtaking scenery and colorful plants. There's even a small waterfall and pond that's a great place to stop and relax. You'll feel like you stepped into a fairy tale!
How many of these destinations in Oklahoma have you been to? Do you have any more suggestions you'd want to add to this road trip? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments!
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!
Oklahoma in the fall is pretty hard to beat - it's full of vibrant colors, gorgeous weather, breathtaking scenery, and pumpkin spice lattes. Fall colors in Oklahoma peak in late October and early November, so there's no better time to get out and see the pops of crimson colors. For the best fall foliage in Oklahoma, check out this Google map and follow along this road trip. You'll experience Oklahoma like you've never seen it before.
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This gorgeous road trip is 434 miles long and will take about eight to nine hours without stops. It's the perfect weekend road trip for fall in Oklahoma!
Start your fall foliage road trip in northeastern Oklahoma in the quaint town of Tahlequah. This area of the state is known as Green Country but when fall arrives, the gorgeous lush green turns to crisp golds, reds, and oranges.
The drive around Lake Tenkiller is full of rolling hills and it's a favorite lake of Oklahomans. You can drive around the lake to see the best fall colors in Oklahoma or continue on to the next destination.
Robbers Cave State Park houses the stunning San Bois Mountain Range — a range full of scenic bluffs, rich fall colors, and an abundance of outdoor activities. If you feel like getting out to explore, check out the caves or take an easy hike up the mountain.
On your route from Robber's Cave State Park to the next destination, you'll travel along Highway 63. It's a spectacular drive in the fall that is full of magical scenery. You can even turn off on side roads and take a detour to see some fall foliage in Oklahoma up close.
Probably the most spectacular part of this road trip is the Talimena National Scenic Byway — a 54-mile route that winds you throughout the Ouachita National Forest. This area is home to some of the most spectacular fall colors in Oklahoma. Make sure to have your camera ready for this drive and look for the turnouts to stop and capture the incredible views.
There are many activities to do along Talimena Drive. From hiking to horseback riding to fishing, fall is the perfect season to enjoy the great outdoors in the Sooner State.
Another spectacular destination on this road trip is Clayton Lake State Park. Here you'll view the rich colors of the Kiamichi Mountains. The park is over 500 acres, including the 80-acre Clayton Lake. The bright fall colors reflecting off the lake are out-of-this-world!
Next, you'll head south to Beavers Bend State Park, one of the most beautiful places in the state. This magical place is full of areas to view the bold colors of fall. The best time to view the fall hues is October and November.
Your next stop will take you into the town of Sulphur — home to the
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Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Known as the "Oasis in the Prairie," this area is full of waterfalls, streams, and lakes, and with the added colors of fall, the area looks breathtaking.
The last stop on this fall foliage road trip will land you in the mesmerizing Arbuckle Mountains, home to Turner Falls in Davis. The 77-ft. waterfall will be surrounded by spectacular fall colors and is a must-see this time of year.
Does that not look like the most spectacular road trip in Oklahoma? If you take the trip, remember to send us pictures!
