Oklahoma Road Trip Ideas: 11 Best Road Trips + Itinerary
Oklahoma boasts a rich tapestry of landscapes and cultures, perfect for exploring via the classic American road trip. Here are 11 road trip ideas complete with itineraries to make your Oklahoma journey unforgettable:
1.Route 66 Experience
Take a nostalgic ride along the iconic Route 66, which runs through Oklahoma, offering plenty of historic sites. Stop in at the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton, and don’t miss the Round Barn in Arcadia.
2.Great Plains Adventure
Starting from Lawton, head towards the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge to enjoy hiking and wildlife viewing before driving up north to see the prairies and plains around Enid.
3.Northeastern Green Country Excursion
Explore Tulsa before cruising through the lush rolling hills of Northeastern Oklahoma with stops in Muskogee to experience native history and Tahlequah to visit the capital of the Cherokee Nation.
4.Lake Hopping Voyage
For water enthusiasts, tour some of Oklahoma’s best lakes – Grand Lake, Lake Eufaula, and Broken Bow Lake – each offering unique experiences from fishing to watersports.
5.Southwest Granite Landscape Trail
In the southwest corner of the state, marvel at the ancient granite mountains in Quartz Mountain State Park, then continue to Altus for local vineyards and Wine tasting opportunities.
6.Southeastern Autumn Foliage Tour
If you’re visiting in the fall, you can’t miss the vibrant autumn colors of Beavers Bend State Park. Combine this with a trip through Ouachita National Forest for a dazzling display of nature.
7.Cultural Heritage Route
Put Oklahoma’s diverse culture on display starting from Oklahoma City’s cultural districts before embarking west to experience Native American history at Anadarko or The Southern Plains Indian Museum.
8.Western Red Rock Drive
In western Oklahoma, marvel at Red Rock Canyon State Park’s stunning red stone canyons and enjoy hiking or camping amidst this breathtaking backdrop.
9.Sci-Fi and Supernatural Sightseeing
Visit fans’ favorite spots from literature and lore, including the ‘UFO’ incidents near Heavener or purported “spooklights” observed around Quapaw.
10.Oklahoma City to Tulsa Urban Adventure
Indulge in an urban escapade by traveling interstate I-44 from OKC to Tulsa with recommended stops at The Paseo Arts District or Philbrook Museum of Art for those craving cultural urbanite experiences.
- Historical Highway Expedition
Traverse Oklahoma on highways once roamed by outlaws and cowboys; visit Guthrie for a taste of historic buildings and Old West stories before traveling on to enjoy modern cowboy culture at a rodeo in Duncan.
Whether you’re after outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or historical journeys, Oklahoma’s diverse landscapes offer road trips suitable for every traveler’s taste. Remember to check local travel guidelines before setting out on your adventure!