Whether you are a first-time visitor, frequent guest or resident of the state, there are plenty of fun and free things to do in Oklahoma. There is no need to spend a ton of money to have fun on your next road trip.
1. Route 66
A large portion of Route 66 runs right through Oklahoma for nearly 375 miles, offering Americans a glimpse of the country’s recent history. Driver’s can feel nostalgic by the sights of the road, stopping to picnic and take photos at a roadside stand. The most frequented attractions include the Blue Whale, located in Catoosa, and the Totem Pole Park in Foyil.
2. Martin Park
There are plenty of local parks to enjoy the state’s natural surroundings. Martin Park is one of the best spots for hiking on nature trails and taking in everything that the woodlands have to offer. Bird watchers will have plenty to observe here.
3. Gene Autry Museum
There are plenty of museums to visit in Oklahoma, one of the most popular being the Gene Autry Museum. It celebrates much of the state’s western culture.
4. The Oklahoma State Capitol
The Oklahoma State Capitol building and Governor’s Mansion both offer free tours of the buildings and grounds. The Capitol features amazing Greco-Roman architecture and a dome that is not to be missed.
5. The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
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Many opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, outdoor photography and wildlife viewing exist within the wildlife refuges of Oklahoma. The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is one of the most popular in the area, offering guests glimpses of buffalo and longhorn cattle across the park’s 60,000 acres.
6. Lake Eufaula
The state’s largest lake, Eufaula, is a free recreational area for those interested in fishing, swimming and laying out in the summer sun.
7. Tulsa’s Garden Center
There are also plenty of free gardens nearby. Tulsa’s Garden Center is the state’s most popular, featuring fountains, flowers and more than 200 types of delicate roses.
8. Mount Olivet
Oklahoma cemeteries are full of historical information, especially Mount Olivet in the city of Hugo. The town was such a big railroad hub in the early 1900s that many rodeo and circus performers are buried here. Some of the headstones are quite eclectic.
9. Sans Bois Mountains
For those in the mood for some adventure, the Sans Bois Mountains are full of opportunities. A cave located on the grounds once served as a hideout for criminals, giving the park the name Robbers Cave. Jesse James himself is said to have used the cave as a retreat. The park is just five miles from the town of Wilburton. Today, visitors can climb, bike and hike through the park.
10. Art Districts
Creative types will enjoy the various arts districts offered by Oklahoma’s cities. Art lovers will be able to attend events throughout the year. Norman and Oklahoma City both feature extensive art districts. Here, patrons can view paintings and photography while listening to the sounds of street musicians.
Many people perceive the state of Oklahoma as dry and barren, but this simply is not so. Natural beauty, from forests to wild fields, makes up a significant portion of the state’s land. There is so much to do for free in the Sooner State that visitors will surely find themselves coming back for more.