7 Perfect Long Weekend Destinations in Oklahoma

With over 200 lakes, a touch of Route 66 history, and holiday events throughout the winter, Oklahoma offers plenty of entertainment year-round. Additionally, the state’s winding rivers, seasonal ice skating rinks, botanical gardens, and quirky antique shops ensure there is something for every traveler. If you’re longing for a weekend getaway from the city but can’t decide where to start, these seven cities are for you, offering the perfect balance of fun and relaxation.

Medical Park

Medicine Park became Oklahoma’s first resort town in 1908. There are numerous relaxing activities along Bath Lake and Lake Lawtonka. Bath Lake is a beautiful place for walking and offers waterfalls and a variety of shallow and deep bathing access points. In the winter months the lake is also popular for trout fishing. Created by a dam in 1905, Lake Lawtonka is a great place for camping, picnicking and boating.

For a fresh cinnamon roll and hot coffee, head to one of Medicine Park’s cozy local bakeries, such as Mrs. Chadwick’s Bakery and Coffees. Camping is a popular activity in Medicine Park, but for those looking for more comfortable accommodations, the city offers plenty of cabin options. Standing out among them is the Wichita Mod Lodge, which combines a mid-century modern style with the character of its renovated 1959 building.

Ponca City

Ponca City, with approximately 24,000 residents, is located on the Arkansas River and embodies the spirit of small-town America. The city often hosts events on weekends, making it a perfect time to visit. On December 6th, the city hosts its annual lighted Christmas parade in downtown Ponca City. Next week, December 13th, is the “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown!” parade. Play at the Ponca Playhouse.

Visitors can continue to enjoy the winter season in Ponca City at the city’s seasonal Ice on the Plaza, an ice skating rink located in Veteran’s Plaza. For a comfortable stay, the Osage Casino Hotel is a convenient option just nine minutes from downtown Ponca City. It offers a restaurant, bar, live music and more.

Barnsdall

The perfect representation of the American Southwest, Barnsdall is best known for its operating oil well on Main Street, which travelers can see for themselves when they visit. Travelers must also explore the Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve, once a retreat for oil workers, now a 3,700-acre nature reserve and art museum. Plan a Saturday afternoon at Birch Lake, which spans 1,100 acres for fishing, picnicking and camping.

On December 6, travelers can also enjoy Barnsdall’s annual Christmas event, which includes a parade, Santa Claus appearance, tree lighting and hot chili. Located in the neighboring town of Pawhuska, the Mabelle is an elegant brick inn named after an Oklahoma pioneer who settled in the area in the late 19th century and offers elegant accommodations.

still water

Stillwater, home to nearly 50,000 residents, is a thriving college town and home to Oklahoma State University. As the birthplace of Red Dirt Music, Stillwater offers travelers the opportunity to enjoy live performances at venues such as Stonecloud Brewing, Eskimo Joe’s and Outlaws, all of which support local artists.

To relax, travelers can take a stroll through the OSU Botanical Garden, which spans 100 acres and features trails that wind through Oklahoma’s native plant species. Lake McMurtry is also a popular recreational spot, attracting kayakers, mountain bikers, hikers and even disc golfers with its two 18-hole courses. If you prefer a central location in the heart of Stillwater, consider the Atherton Hotel, a historic inn that has been welcoming guests since 1950 and offers a first-class complimentary breakfast every morning.

Tahlequah

Located near the Illinois River, Tahlequah has become known over the years for its wide range of outdoor activities. Adventurous visitors can spend a day kayaking, paddling or rafting on the Illinois River, or take a boat ride on Tenkiller Ferry Lake or Ft. Gibson Lake, both within 30 minutes of downtown Tahlequah.

Don’t feel like going on the water? Stay in Tahlequah’s shopping district and shop for a souvenir or holiday gift at one of the local shops, such as Cherokee Nation Gift Shop or Grapevine Collectibles. Tahlequah offers a variety of cozy, historic cabins and lodges. The Historic Smoke House, for example, is a quaint 1840 brick house that was recently remodeled and features a private garden.

Bartlesville

The city of Bartlesville, home to approximately 38,000 residents, has a rich arts and history scene. Visitors can stop by Price Tower, designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright, a 19-story, innovative landmark completed in 1956. To learn more about the area’s history, spend a day touring museums by visiting Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe/MKT Railroad Depot, Bartlesville Area History Museum, and the historic 20th-century Union Depot.

In historic downtown Bartlesville, visitors can ice skate at the seasonal Christmas In the Ville Ice Rink, open through January 4th. In addition to skating, the event features carriage rides, Santa Claus sightings, movies in the park and festive photo opportunities. For a relaxing retreat, visitors can stay at the BarDew Valley Inn, which features cozy amenities like electric fireplaces and a free country breakfast.

Stroud

Located on historic Route 66, Stroud offers visitors the opportunity to experience the history of Route 66 first hand. The Route 66 Spirit of America Museum is a great starting point to explore not only the history of Route 66 but also the innovative American spirit through a series of exhibits. On Stroud’s main street, travelers can also stop by the Route 66 Obelisk Replica, which commemorates the original Ozark Trail, the forerunner of Route 66, which existed between 1915 and 1926.

From Friday through Tuesday, visitors can immerse themselves in Western cowboy culture with a horseback ride at Tatanka Ranch, navigating forested trails over more than 500 acres. If you’re looking for a conveniently located place to stay, consider the Cattle Country Lodge, which is just minutes from downtown and offers breakfast every morning.

Final thoughts

There’s no reason to leave Oklahoma’s borders when a variety of entertainment options are just a few hours’ drive away. From horseback riding to museum visits to disc golf – with the right itinerary there’s no chance of boredom. So pack your weekend bag, treat yourself to a personal break and get ready for a well-deserved short vacation!