Oklahoma is a state like no other in the USA.
A diverse land filled with natural wonders, a rich cultural heritage and the friendliest people you want to meet. It’s a land of open plains and sweeping vistas, where the open road beckons and adventure awaits.
Take a nostalgic ride on Route 66 and let the golden age of the road whisper to you through brightly coloured neon signs, quaint motels, drive-in movie theatres and friendly small towns you must visit in Oklahoma.
Route 66: The ultimate USA road trip
Many of the biggest bucket wishes when travelling in the USA is to take a road trip down Route 66. The longest driveable original stretch found anywhere in the States, it uncovers a treasure trove of quirky characters and Insta-worthy photo locations you must see to believe.
From the Blue Whale of Catoosa to a giant neon Pop bottle in Arcadia. Experience Oklahoma City, Tulsa and authentic hometowns along the Mother Road. Here you’ll meet the most friendly people and find unique shopping and dining that’s beyond delicious.
Several state-of-the-art museums pay tribute to America’s Main Street. Including the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton, the National Transportation and Route 66 Museum in Elk City. Also worth noting is the Route 66 Interpretive Center in Chandler.
Cowboy Culture
Cowboys and cowgirls still shine in a state where one of the greatest showmen once lived. Once a year, Pawnee Bill’s Wild West Show stages the ultimate cowboy event. Witness trick roping, trick shooting and trick riding. Watch demonstrations in blacksmithing, flint knapping, gunfighting and sharpshooting. Hear Oklahoma musicians croon for thousands of screaming fans. It’s one show worth travelling for.
Cheer on skilled cowboys and cowgirls at an excellent Oklahoma rodeo. Like the Will Rogers Memorial Rodeo or the Freedom Rodeo and Old Cowhand Reunion. For authentic modern cowboy culture, head to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City. Here you’ll see epic displays of internationally renowned Western art by masters like Remington, Russell and Bierstadt. Browse top-notch exhibits detailing life as a ranch hand to singing cowboys on the silver screen. Come celebrate Oklahoma’s Western heritage and unleash your inner cowboy or cowgirl.
Oklahoma’s Music Trail
There’s no doubt that Oklahoma is a hotbed for country music. Yet Oklahoma has also given rise to some of the biggest names in folk, jazz and even opera. From the soulful chords of blues to the high-tempo beats of rockabilly, trace the colourful history of Oklahoma’s diverse music scene at a number of museums that are more than upbeat. Oklahoma really does rolls out the red carpet for music fans.
Opened in 2022, Tulsa’s Bob Dylan Center contains more than 100,000 items from the singer-songwriter’s voluminous archives. Immerse yourself in all things Dylan as you watch videos, listen to music and see special artifacts. Like handwritten lyrics, instruments, clothing and personal correspondence.
Stop by Tulsa’s Woody Guthrie Center to learn about the influential folk artist – and native Oklahoman – whose work still resonates today. In Oklahoma City, be impressed by the American Banjo Museum, where you’ll find the most extensive collection of banjos on public display worldwide.
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