A Road Trip Through Oklahoma: Hidden Gems and Natural Wonders

Oklahoma—often overlooked as a road trip destination—has some of the most charming small towns, fascinating history, and breathtaking natural landscapes in the U.S. If you're looking for a road trip full of unexpected adventures, here’s a guide to help you explore the Sooner State, from bustling cities to stunning state parks.

Day 1: Arrive in Oklahoma City

Fly into Oklahoma City, the state’s vibrant capital. Start with a visit to the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, followed by the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Stroll through the Bricktown District for dining, nightlife, and a water taxi ride. Spend the evening at Scissortail Park or catch a show at The Criterion.

Running short on time? Take a look at my blog post on a morning in Oklahoma City!

Day 2: Explore Oklahoma City

Take a full day to explore more of Oklahoma City. Consider visiting the Myriad Botanical Gardens, Science Museum Oklahoma, or The Oklahoma City Zoo. For a unique dining experience, try Cheever’s Café or The Jones Assembly. End the evening with a sunset at Lake Hefner or a visit to Paseo Arts District.

Day 3: Drive to Tulsa (2-hour drive)

Head north to Tulsa in the morning, a 2-hour drive. Start your day at the Philbrook Museum of Art, then head to the Gilcrease Museum for more Native American history. In the afternoon, visit the Tulsa Arts District and grab some BBQ at Burn Co. BBQ. End the day with a visit to Cain's Ballroom for a concert or local music scene.

For my favorite spots in Tulsa - Check out this blog post!

Day 4: Tulsa

Spend another day in Tulsa. Explore the Tulsa Botanic Garden, visit the Woodward Park, or take a walk along the Arkansas River. If you're into quirky places, check out the Golden Driller Statue. End the day at Tulsa’s Historic Route 66, where you can explore vintage shops and diners.

Day 5: Woolaroc and Guthrie (1.5-hour drive)

Drive south to Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve (about 1.5 hours). Spend the morning at the museum and wildlife preserve, exploring Western history and Native American art. Afterward, head to Guthrie (a 40-minute drive), a charming Victorian town. Visit the Oklahoma Territorial Museum and explore the quirky downtown with its antique shops and murals.

For my full day guide to Guthrie, check out the blog post here!

Day 6: Gloss Mountains and Quartz Mountain State Park (3.5-hour drive)

Drive southwest to Gloss Mountains State Park, about a 3-hour drive from Guthrie. Hike to the top of the buttes for incredible views of the plains. Afterward, head to Quartz Mountain State Park (another 45-minute drive). This park offers beautiful lakes and impressive granite peaks. Relax by Lake Altus-Lugert or hike in the Quartz Mountain Nature Park for scenic views.

More interested in the nature spots in Oklahoma? Check out my full blog post here!

Day 7: Great Salt Plains and Black Mesa (4-hour drive)

After a leisurely morning at Quartz Mountain, head north to Great Salt Plains State Park, about a 2-hour drive. Spend a few hours digging for crystals or walking along the salt flats. Continue your drive to Black Mesa State Park, which will take around 2 hours. Enjoy the evening by hiking or taking in the incredible landscape at Oklahoma's highest point.

Day 8: Black Mesa and Chickasaw National Recreation Area (3.5-hour drive)

Spend the morning exploring Black Mesa State Park and its unique geological features. Afterward, drive south to Chickasaw National Recreation Area, about a 3.5-hour drive. Explore the serene lakes, swimming holes, and hiking trails. Don’t miss Platt Historic District for its charming stone structures and cool springs.

Day 9: Turner Falls and Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge (1.5-hour drive)

Start your day with a visit to Turner Falls State Park (about 1.5 hours from Chickasaw). Oklahoma's largest waterfall awaits, along with natural pools and scenic picnic spots. Afterward, head to Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, which is about a 2-hour drive. Here, you'll find bison, longhorn cattle, and plenty of hiking trails leading to stunning rock formations and scenic views.

Day 10: Wichita Mountains and Return to Oklahoma City (1-hour drive)

On your last day, spend the morning hiking or taking a scenic drive through the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. Take time to visit Mount Scott for panoramic views of the refuge before heading back to Oklahoma City (just an hour away). If you have time, visit any spots you missed on Day 1, or grab lunch at a local favorite before catching your flight home.

Tips for the Road

• Drive time: Oklahoma is vast, and driving times between destinations range from 1 to 4 hours. Make sure to plan for plenty of breaks and pit stops to stretch your legs, especially between longer stretches.

• Packing: The weather can be unpredictable, so pack for a variety of conditions—from hot days to cooler evenings. Be sure to bring sunscreen, sturdy hiking shoes, and a camera to capture the scenic views.

• Stay: Oklahoma offers plenty of cozy accommodations, from rustic cabins at Turner Falls to charming inns in towns like Guthrie. For an outdoor adventure, consider staying at a state park for a more immersive experience.

This 10-day itinerary allows for a deeper dive into Oklahoma’s natural beauty, culture, and history, with plenty of time to explore each destination without feeling rushed. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or culture seeker, Oklahoma offers a diverse and rewarding road trip experience.