Overview

Oklahoma is a state where Western heritage meets Native American culture and natural diversity. Known as the Sooner State, it boasts a rich history of cowboys, oil booms, tornadoes, and trailblazing spirit. With bustling cities, quiet prairies, red rock canyons, and scenic lakes, Oklahoma is full of surprises for curious travelers.

  • Capital: Oklahoma City
  • Largest Cities: Oklahoma City, Tulsa, Norman, Broken Arrow, Edmond
  • Population: ~4 million (2024 est.)
  • Time Zone: Central Standard Time (UTC−6) / CDT (Daylight Saving)
  • Climate: Humid subtropical to semi-arid — hot summers, cool winters, and frequent thunderstorms in spring

Top Destinations in Oklahoma

Oklahoma City

The capital offers museums, cowboy culture, a revitalized downtown, and one of the most moving memorials in the country.

Tulsa

A city with Art Deco charm, a thriving music scene, and cultural landmarks along the historic Route 66.

Norman

Home to the University of Oklahoma, college sports energy, and family-friendly attractions.

Broken Bow

A peaceful southeastern escape with lakes, forests, and outdoor cabins ideal for nature lovers.

Medicine Park & Wichita Mountains

A quirky cobblestone village surrounded by wildlife, granite peaks, and hiking trails.

Must-See Attractions

  • Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum – Honoring victims and survivors of the 1995 bombing
  • National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (OKC) – Celebrating the American West
  • Philbrook Museum of Art (Tulsa) – Housed in a stunning Italian-style villa
  • Route 66 – Iconic stops like the Blue Whale of Catoosa and the Round Barn in Arcadia
  • Beavers Bend State Park (Broken Bow) – Hiking, kayaking, and scenic cabins

Things to Do

  • Trace Route 66 through quirky roadside attractions and diners
  • Explore Native American history and culture at museums and heritage centers
  • Attend a rodeo or powwow and experience Oklahoma’s frontier spirit
  • Fish, camp, or hike in state parks and along the lakes
  • Enjoy live music and local festivals in cities and small towns alike

Getting There & Around

Major Airports

  • Will Rogers World Airport (OKC), Tulsa International Airport (TUL), Lawton–Fort Sill Regional Airport (LAW)

Transport

  • Rental cars are best for statewide exploration
  • Public transit is limited to metro areas
  • Amtrak serves Oklahoma City via the Heartland Flyer

Best Time to Visit

  • Spring (Mar–May): Wildflowers bloom, but be prepared for stormy weather
  • Summer (Jun–Aug): Great for lake trips and festivals, but hot
  • Fall (Sep–Nov): Pleasant weather, fall foliage, and college football
  • Winter (Dec–Feb): Cool and calm, with fewer crowds

Local Food & Culture

  • Cuisine: A hearty mix of Southern comfort, Tex-Mex, and Native American traditions
  • Specialties: Chicken-fried steak, Indian tacos, fried okra, catfish, barbecue
  • Drinks: Craft beer, sweet tea, and local spirits
  • Events & Festivals:
  • Red Earth Festival (OKC) – Native American art and dance
  • Tulsa State Fair
  • DeadCenter Film Festival (OKC)
  • Chuck Wagon Gathering (Oklahoma City)
  • Woody Guthrie Folk Festival (Okemah)

Souvenirs from Oklahoma

  • Native American jewelry or beadwork
  • Route 66 memorabilia
  • Local sauces, spice rubs, or pecan products
  • Western hats, boots, or cowboy-themed decor
  • University of Oklahoma or Oklahoma State gear

Fun Facts

  • Oklahoma has more man-made lakes than any other U.S. state
  • It’s home to 39 Native American tribes, with the most tribal headquarters in the U.S.
  • The center of the U.S. mainland is located near Lebanon, OK
  • The first parking meter was installed in Oklahoma City in 1935
  • The state’s name comes from Choctaw words meaning “red people”

Suggested Itineraries

3-Day City & Culture Trip

  • Day 1: Oklahoma City – Memorial, Bricktown, and Western Heritage Museum
  • Day 2: Tulsa – Philbrook Museum, Route 66 stops, and live music
  • Day 3: Arcadia and Catoosa – Roadside sights along Route 66

5-Day Nature & Heritage Journey

  • Day 1: Oklahoma City – explore museums and nightlife
  • Day 2: Norman – university campus and Sam Noble Museum
  • Day 3: Broken Bow – hiking, kayaking, and forest retreat
  • Day 4: Wichita Mountains – bison sightings, hikes, and scenic views
  • Day 5: Return via Medicine Park and Chickasaw Cultural Center

Cities

  • Oklahoma City