visit oklahoma state

Personalized Campus Visit

We are excited to host you and your guests for a personalized visit to the campus of Oklahoma State University. Based on your interests, we will create an individualized itinerary designed to give you an in-depth view of life as an OSU student. Our scholar recruitment team will introduce you to current students, faculty and staff in your areas of interest and share with you the many experiential learning opportunities available to you at OSU. Come spend the day with us and see how you can find a home in the Cowboy family. We look forward to meeting you!

Personalized visits are offered Monday through Friday and though times and durations vary, typically begin around 9:30 a.m. and finish around 3:30 p.m.  Please utilize the calendar to the right to select an available date , and we will contact you one week prior to your requested tour date. If you have questions about scheduling, please contact our outreach staff at 405 744-5358 or email  [email protected] .

17 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Oklahoma State

Written by Chloë Ernst and Lura Seavey Updated Oct 14, 2022

Oklahoma is an authentic gateway to the west – a land of red dirt, where buffalo roam the plains, and oil rigs pump riches. But the largest cities, Oklahoma City and Tulsa , also have a distinctly refined air, having been built on the proceeds of an early-1900s oil boom.

Modern museums, galleries of international art, and lavish gardens, among other cultural attractions, all give the state a more cosmopolitan edge, but many tourists choose to experience Oklahoma with the simple pleasures of a road trip, and no highway is more iconic than the state's stretch of Route 66.

For more ideas on the best places to visit, read our list of the top tourist attractions in Oklahoma State.

1. Route 66

2. oklahoma city zoo, 3. philbrook museum of art, 4. science museum oklahoma, 5. woolaroc museum & wildlife preserve, 6. myriad botanical gardens, 7. university of oklahoma, 8. woody guthrie center, 9. museum of the great plains, lawton, 10. oklahoma city museum of art, 11. jm davis arms & historical museum, 12. gilcrease museum, 13. oklahoma aquarium, 14. national cowboy & western heritage museum, 15. national weather center, 16. oklahoma city national memorial, 17. marland estate mansion.

The full stretch of Route 66 runs from Chicago to Los Angeles, but the longest run of miles cuts diagonally through the state of Oklahoma. This OK length begins in the northeastern corner of the state and travels through Tulsa and Oklahoma City before crossing the border into Texas.

Roadside attractions range from the historical, such as Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton and National Route 66 and Transportation Museum in Elk City , to the odd, like the Blue Whale of Catoosa or Golden Driller in Tulsa .

The Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton is a great way to learn about the road's history, with immersive experiences like a 1950s diner and changing exhibits that celebrate the Route 66 experience.

Generally, sightseeing draws on Route 66 have a motor-head bent, such as drive-ins, motorcycle museums, and old-timey filling stations, meaning that it's avid road-trippers who most enjoy the journey.

Official site: www.okhistory.org/sites/route66.php

Ambling pathways take visitors through many ecosystems at the Oklahoma City Zoo, from African plains to tropical jungles. One of the top tourist attractions in Oklahoma City , the zoo and botanical gardens were established more than a century ago and have since nurtured 500 species of animals, including some endangered, as well as a grand garden landscape.

Demonstrations and educational sessions are a highlight for families, whether it's a giraffe feeding or elephant show. Other fun things to do include exploring the stingray touch tank, hopping on a train ride, or boating on the zoo's lake.

Address: 2101 NE 50th Street, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Official site: www.okczoo.com

Collections at the Philbrook Museum of Art include works from Africa, Asia, and Europe in a variety of media, as well as the work of American artists and craftspeople.

One of the highlights of Tulsa , this Italian Renaissance-style villa turned art museum sits on 23 acres of picturesque formal and informal gardens along Crow Creek. It has the elegance and wealth of oil-rich Tulsa in the 1920s, while the art collection has a decidedly international scope.

When visiting the gardens, keep an eye out for the cats on rodent patrol and the bees who both pollinate and produce local honey, which is sold in the gift shop seasonally. There is a second branch of the art museum located in downtown Tulsa.

Address: 2727 South Rockford Road, Tulsa, Oklahoma

Official site: www.philbrook.org

The Science Museum of Oklahoma is home to an astounding number of exhibits that engage curious visitors of all ages. The main exhibit hall of the museum is filled with hands-on activities and interactive exhibits that teach about all aspects of scientific study, from biology to physics.

Visitors can also enjoy a range of live shows, including the planetarium shows and movies shown on the dome, a Tesla coil show, and a lights and shadows show.

Younger kids can get in on the fun in "CurioCity," an activity-packed indoor city with a variety of challenges and endless opportunities for learning, or design and create their own inventions using a variety of materials from paper and string to Lego bricks and then test their new inventions against wind, gravity, and each other.

Visual and artistic minds can explore the technology studio that includes coding, animation, and sound mixing, or combine art and science in the Tinkering Garage.

The museum is also home to an extensive exhibit on Oklahoma's long-standing connection to the country's space program, including not only artifacts and actual space craft but also an actual Mercury Capsule Simulator, which is used by astronauts to train.

The museum is also home to beautiful gardens, where visitors can learn about botany and nature.

Address: 2100 NE 52nd Street, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Official site: www.sciencemuseumok.org

Woolaroc Ranch covers 3,700 acres where American bison, longhorn cattle, and elk roam free on the wide-reaching landscape. Visitors can safely see and photograph these magnificent beasts from their vehicles.

Also on the ranch grounds are a western-focused museum (exhibiting art and artifacts) and a rustic lodge. The preserve is a 20-minute drive southwest of Bartlesville , which is also worth a visit to see Price Tower Arts Center - the only skyscraper constructed from renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright's designs.

Address: 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Road, Bartlesville, Oklahoma

Official site: www.woolaroc.org

Myriad Botanical Gardens provides an oasis in Oklahoma City's downtown for residents, families, and tourists. The space and facilities are free to use, covering 15 acres with walking paths, a large lawn, and small lake. There is also a playground, an off-leash dog park, and a visitor center.

The gardens include a children's garden, ornamental gardens, and the impressive Crystal Bridge Conservatory , which is undergoing major renovations in the summer of 2022. Here, visitors can explore the plants of two climates, the Tropical Wet Zone and the Tropical Dry Zone, and the desert plant area.

Together, more than 750 species of plants are represented in lovely surroundings that include a waterfall and a bridge over the tropical forest from which visitors can get a bird's-eye view.

Address: 301 W. Reno, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

In Norman, on the southern fringes of Oklahoma City, the University of Oklahoma is home to many tourist attractions as well as strong sports programs. The school was established in 1890 and has since grown into a 3,000-acre campus.

There are many things to see and do on campus, including contemporary exhibits at the Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art and artifacts from worldwide civilizations (plus dinosaur bones) at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. For bibliophiles, the Bizzell Memorial Library is a lovely landmark structure dating to 1929.

Address: 660 Parrington Oval, Norman, Oklahoma

Official site: www.ou.edu

The Woody Guthrie Center contains a comprehensive collection of exhibits, which celebrate the life and work of this artist, including not only his music but also his contributions to social and political discourse.

Visitors are walked through his life by way of film presentations, audio experiences, timelines, and of course an extensive collection of his musical instruments and personal items.

This museum partners with the Bob Dylan Center , also located on Tulsa's East Reconciliation Way, with options to purchase dual tickets to save on admission fees. The Bob Dylan Center is home to artifacts, educational exhibits, photographs, and a screening room.

Address: 102 East Reconciliation Way, Tulsa, Oklahoma

Official site: http://woodyguthriecenter.org

The Museum of the Great Plains in Lawton features hands-on and interactive natural history exhibits that unveil life in the west for Native Americans and pioneers. Venture outdoors to see a number of historic buildings, including a train depot, trading post, and schoolhouse.

Also in Lawton, tourists can discover local culture at the Comanche National Museum and Cultural Center, or tour The Holy City - an unusual collection of buildings constructed to look like Israel during the Biblical period.

Address: 601 NW Ferris Ave, Lawton, Oklahoma

Official site: http://www.discovermgp.org

The museum's collection is diverse, featuring all mediums of visual art including photography, drawing, painting, sculpture, textiles, film, glass, and mixed media. Genres are equally inclusive, with examples of pop art, abstract art, American & European art, post-war and contemporary works, and others.

Among the museum's most popular exhibits are those focused on the work of renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly. Installations rotate the museum's large collection of Chihuly's work, as well as the rest of its expansive collection, and the museum hosts traveling exhibits as well.

Among the well-known artists represented here are American artists Georgia O'Keefe and Charles Wilson Peale, European artists Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Gustave Courbet, and photographers Elliott Erwitt and Garry Winogrand.

Address: 415 Couch Drive, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Official site: http://www.okcmoa.com/

The collections at the Jim Davis Arms & Historical Museum in Oklahoma City include 50,000 items. The main exhibit is Davis' massive private collection of more than 12,000 firearms that date as far back as the 14th century.

Additional displays include Native American artifacts, authentic riding saddles, and spurs from the "Wild West" historic items. The museum also features a re-creation of the lobby from JM Davis' Mason Hotel, as well as World War II memorabilia and information on local history. Outside, visitors can admire the collection's largest piece, a U.S. Army M41 Walker Bulldog tank, circa 1950.

Address: 330 North JM Davis Blvd, Claremore, Oklahoma

Official site: www.thegunmuseum.com

The Gilcrease Museum in Tulsa presents an extensive art and history collection from the American West, exploring both frontier settlement and Native American cultures. Collections include art, historical manuscripts, and anthropological artifacts.

The museum is set on 460 acres in the Osage Hills . Stunningly lush gardens cultivate 23 of those acres with thematic gardening styles, including pretty Victorian, colonial, pre-Columbian, and pioneer landscapes.

Address: 1400 North Gilcrease Museum Road, Tulsa, Oklahoma

Official site: www.gilcrease.org

Located in Jenks, just south of Tulsa, the Oklahoma Aquarium is renown for having the world's largest collection of bullhead sharks . You can see them in the Shark Adventure exhibit, where you can watch these beautiful creatures glide gracefully from the walk-through glass tunnel.

Other interesting exhibits include Extreme Fishes, Sea Turtle Island, Eco Zone, and Polynesian Reef, all of which showcase colorful and fascinating sea creatures from around the world. In addition to exotic species, the aquarium presents local marine life in the engaging Aquatic Oklahoma exhibit, where you can see a 120-year-old alligator snapping turtle.

Address: 300 Aquarium Drive, Jenks, Oklahoma

Official site: www.okaquarium.org

The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City began in 1955 as a "Hall of Fame" dedicated to American cowboys, and has grown to be the country's foremost archives of Western art, artifacts, and cultural history.

Galleries display a variety of Western art that includes painting and sculpture, as well as interactive exhibits about the people and culture of the Old West. Areas of focus include military and firearms, the tradition of rodeos and Western performers, and Native American culture.

The museum also includes a replica of a western town, and hosts regular educational events. Parents can relax in the garden while the kids play and learn outdoors in a kid-sized Wild West that includes the Children's Cowboy Corral.

Address: 1700 Northeast 63rd St. Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Official site: www.nationalcowboymuseum.org

Oklahoma State has some of the most severe weather occurrences of anywhere in the world, with powerful tornadoes, sky-splitting lightning, and searing heat. These extreme conditions are what makes a tour of the National Weather Center in Norman (south of the capital) so interesting.

The guided session visits Oklahoma University's School of Meteorology, as well as the Storm Prediction Center. Advance reservations are required. There is also an on-site café open to the public, and there is no admission charge to visit the weather center.

Address: 120 David L Boren Blvd, Norman, Oklahoma

Official site: www.ou.edu/nwc/visit

The 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building is poignantly remembered at this outdoor memorial and museum in Oklahoma City. Victims, survivors, and rescuers are honored within the grounds, which include a reflection pool, gardens, and symbolic sculptures. It's become a landmark of the state capital.

The nearby Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum recounts the tragic events felt across the nation.

Address: 620 North Harvey Ave, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Near the Kansas border to the north, Ponca City is another Oklahoma oil-boom town. The grand Marland Estate Mansion dates to 1928, ordered as a second home for millionaire oilman and 10th governor of Oklahoma, E. W. Marland. The palatial home has 55 rooms, including three kitchens, plus expansive grounds with a swimming pool, artist studio, and boathouse.

Other historic museums within the estate include the Bryant Baker Gallery dedicated to the namesake sculptor and the Marland Oil Museum. For a look at the Marland's earlier home, visit his smaller city residence (also in Ponca City) known as Marland's Grand Home.

Address: 901 Monument Road, Ponca City, Oklahoma

Official site: www.marlandmansion.com

More on Oklahoma

Oklahoma State Capitol

VISIT THE CAPITOL

Capitol Restoration Project Engraved Pavers - south side Friends of the Capitol

Ground Floor Food Service Bee Healthy Café Monday - Friday: 8:00 to 3:00. Phone (405) 600-6410

STATE CAPITOL OFFICES

Auditor and Inspector Election Board Ethics Commission House of Representatives Lt. Governor OMES Secretary of State State Senate State Treasurer

2300 N. Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, Oklahoma  73105

Walk-up tours available weekdays from 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. No reservation required.

Scheduled tours available weekdays 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservation required.

405.521.6813   |   [email protected]

The Oklahoma State Capitol offers an incredible, one-of-a-kind experience in art, history, and government for thousands of school groups, residents, and visitors each year.

Tours of the Capitol are operated by the Oklahoma Arts Council. The state agency leverages staff expertise in leading a museum-quality volunteer docent program that brings to life hundreds of artworks throughout the Capitol and creates an unforgettable journey through history while touring The People’s House.

Guided tours are available at no cost. Walk-up tours are available weekdays at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. and do not require reservations. Scheduled tours are available weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and reservations are required.

For more information, visit arts.ok.gov/tours or email [email protected] .

PARKING Parking is available in the SOUTH PARKING LOT. Parking is free, but the area can get crowded when the Legislature is in session (February through May).

Office of Governor J. Kevin Stitt

2300 N. Lincoln Blvd., Suite 212

Oklahoma City, OK 73105

Phone 405.521.2342

Open M-F; 8 am - 5 pm

Visit our Contact page for:

• Commendations/proclamations
• Scheduling requests
• General assistance

Certificates of Pardons and Paroles Executive Appointment Records Executive Orders Executive Proclamations Recognition Proclamations Signed Legislation Flag Status: Full-Staff

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Oklahoma (OK) » 19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Oklahoma

19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Oklahoma

Oklahoma, also know as “Sooner State”, “Land of the Red Man” and “Native America”, offers some of the most beautiful and spectacular sights and places to visit! Just browse through these awesome pictures and be amazed by it’s beauty.

1. Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge

Located in Southwest Oklahama, not far from Lawton, the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge has acted as a safe haven for its unique and diverse wildlife since 1901. It is the oldest facility of its kind in the United States. As well as being an important place for wildlife such as elk and bison, the refuge is also a great place to hike, rock climb and mountain bike.

2. Turner Falls

Turner Falls Park acts as a sanctuary for the citizens of Oklahoma. The land is wild but there is plenty to do.  Icy cold streams, a 77-foot high waterfall, caves, camp sites and plenty of good food all ensure that the Turner Falls Park is a great place to visit at any time of the year.

3. Ghost Town in Cogar

There are a large number of ghost towns in Oklahoma that make for great places to explore and offer an eerie kind of beauty.  There are a number of groups in the state that work to preserve the abandoned spots as well as uncovering new ones.

4. Gloss Mountain State Park

The shiny glass surface of the Selenite mountains are responsible for the name Gloss Mountains State Park. The scenery is beautiful and provides a great backdrop for hiking and other outdoor pursuits. Along the way there are a number of facilities including grills and restrooms.

5. Tropical Conservatory, Oklahoma City

The unique design of the Crystal Bridge Conservatory is well renowned in the world of architecture. The 224-foot long tropical conservatory is home over 13,000 square feet of plants on display in two different climate zones: namely the Tropical Wet and Tropical Dry zones.

6. Roman Nose State Park

The Roman Nose State Park takes its name from a Cheyenne chief and is an original Oklahoma State Park. Within the park, which is situated inside a stunning canyon, there are hiking trails, an 18 hole golf course and some beautiful places to stay including a 22-room lodge built in 1956.

7. Lake Tenkiller

Lake Tenkiller, also known as Ferry Lake Tenkiller, is a reservoir in Oklahoma caused by the damming of the Illinois River. It is situated at an altitude of 193m above sea level and covers an area of 52 square kilometres.

8. Beavers Bend State Park

Beaver’s Bend is one of the most popular parks in the State of Oklahoma. As well as taking in the stunning scenery, the park also has a number of interesting attractions such as the Forest Heritage Centre Museum and events throughout the year like craft and art competitions.

9. Natural Falls State Park

The Natural Falls State Park is situated on the border of Oklahoma and Arkansas and within the stunning Ozark highlands. The famous waterfall has two viewing platform to allow visitors to see the fall from the best possible angle. There is even seating available on the lower platform.

10. Red Rock Canyon State Park

Red Rock Canyon State Park is a must visit for any outdoor enthusiasts in the state of Oklahoma. Hikers walking through the state park will see wagon wheels left by settlers in the region. The hiking routes are of different levels of difficulty and there is something for everyone to enjoy.

11. Glass Mountains State Park

Many mountains are climbable in the Glass Mountains State Park. Cathedral Mountain in Glass Mountain State Park has an elevation of 498m above sea level and makes for a great walk. Just be sure to watch out for snakes!

12. Lake Hefner

Lake Hefner is located in the northeast of Oklahoma City and has a surface area of 2,500 acres. Attractions for visitors included a heated and covered fishing deck, a wharf restaurant and a golf course. The lake is easily accessed from the Hefner Parkway.

13. Robbers Cave State Park

Yet another beautiful state park in Oklahoma, the Robbers Cave State Park is San Bois Mountains in the south-eastern part of the state. The park covers an area of over 8,000 acres and contains 189 lakes. Horse riding is a popular activity within the park as is fishing in the many lakes.

14. Talimena Scenic Drive

For visitors who like to see the sights from within the comfort of a vehicle the Talimena Scenic Drive is a perfect option, offering 50 miles of breath-taking scenery and historic towns. The route has some of the best views on offer in the entire state and is well worth a drive.

15. Oklahoma City Bombing Memorial

The Oklahoma City National Memorial pays tribute to the many victims of the Oklahoma City bombing that took place in 1995. The site is one of the most sacred spots in the city of Oklahoma and is a place to remember those that were killed, injured or lost loved ones in the bombing.

19 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Oklahoma:

• Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge
• Turner Falls
• Ghost Town in Cogar
• Gloss Mountain State Park
• Tropical Conservatory, Oklahoma City
• Roman Nose State Park
• Lake Tenkiller
• Beavers Bend State Park
• Natural Falls State Park
• Red Rock Canyon State Park
• Glass Mountains State Park
• Lake Hefner
• Robbers Cave State Park
• Talimena Scenic Drive
• Oklahoma City Bombing Memorial

Protect Your Trip »

30 Top Things to Do in Oklahoma

The Sooner State offers much to explore from Western history to cultural museums and outdoor adventures.

Getty Images

Historic Oklahoma offers a plethora of museums, cultural sites, parks and more to explore.

Oklahoma is rich in history, both in terms of Native American legacy and life on the frontier. From the state-of-the-art Gathering Place in Tulsa to the futuristic Pops roadside attraction in Arcadia to the Five Civilized Tribes Museum in Muskogee, there's plenty to see, learn and experience throughout the state. If you're planning a visit to the Sooner State, this guide can help you find the top things to do.

(Note: Some of the following activities, attractions and locations may be affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions, reservation requirements or mask mandates. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum

Courtesy of Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum

On April 19, 1995, a tragedy rocked Oklahoma when Timothy McVeigh and accomplice Terry Nichols committed the deadliest act of domestic terrorism in U.S. history. McVeigh's homemade bomb, stashed in a rented truck, killed 168 people in and around the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in downtown Oklahoma City and injured several hundred more.

The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum remembers and honors the victims and survivors of that horrific day. Visitors can view photos, biographies and stories of those impacted by the bombing, as well as read about the heroic efforts by citizens, first responders and leaders from around the nation who came to the aid of survivors buried in the wreckage and helped the city and state heal. Visitors call the memorial and museum a sobering experience but say the stories are told respectfully; if you don't have time for the museum, the memorial alone is worth a visit. Note that you'll want to reserve a ticket to the museum in advance, as a limited number of timed tickets are available each hour.

Address: 620 N. Harvey Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73102

Oklahoma City Museum of Art

Mel Willis | Courtesy of Oklahoma City Museum of Art

About half a mile from the bombing memorial in Oklahoma City sits one of the region's leading art institutions. The Oklahoma City Museum of Art has an impressive range of exhibitions, from paintings and photography to glass pieces and sculptures from around the world – though its specialty is American art and postwar abstraction. A state-of-the-art theater offers on-site film screenings on certain days throughout the year for an additional fee. Many past visitors have specifically called out the museum's collection of Dale Chihuly's glass masterpieces as a highlight. The museum doesn't have its own parking lot, so you may need to find a paid public parking space. If you want to stay nearby and take in yet more art, you can't go wrong with the 21c Museum Hotel Oklahoma City , a former car assembly plant turned into a stylish boutique hotel that houses its own contemporary art gallery inside.

Address: 415 Couch Drive, Oklahoma City, OK 73102

[See more of Oklahoma City: Things to Do | Hotels | Photos ]

Five Civilized Tribes Museum

Courtesy of Five Civilized Tribes Museum

Located in Muskogee, less than 50 miles southeast of Tulsa, the Five Civilized Tribes Museum is focused on preserving the history, art and culture of the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Muscogee and Seminole nations. The term that gives the institution its name came into use in the 1800s to describe the seeming assimilation of these five Native American peoples to the norms of white Americans. This museum houses artwork, artifacts and displays detailing the history of the tribes and their removal from their lands. If you want to learn more about each Indigenous nation, you can also visit the Cherokee National History Museum in Tahlequah, the Chickasaw Cultural Center in Sulphur, the Choctaw Cultural Center in Calera, the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Museum in Okmulgee and the Seminole Nation Museum in Wewoka.

Address: 1101 Honor Heights Drive, Muskogee, OK 74401

National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum

Courtesy of National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum

If you're interested in learning about Western history, culture and art, the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City is a must. The museum is home to artifacts, artwork and interactive exhibits that give you a taste of what it was like to live in the Old West and how the influences of that period in U.S. history permeate our culture today. You'll be able to learn about the American cowboy, rodeos, Native American culture, the frontier military, Victorian-era firearms and more. The museum also hosts a number of events throughout the year, including OktoberWest, the Cowboy Christmas Ball, book clubs, painting workshops, contemporary art sales and more. Visitors say you can spend several hours in the museum without seeing everything it has to offer.

Address: 1700 NE 63rd St., Oklahoma City, OK 73111

Visit Bricktown

Located in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City, Bricktown is a dining and entertainment district set within a restored warehouse neighborhood. This popular destination is located on a canal that links Bricktown with downtown and the Oklahoma River. While here, travelers can dine at a variety of restaurants and nightclubs, including The Mantel Wine Bar & Bistro, which serves New American cuisine, and the Bourbon St. Cafe. For activities and socializing, HeyDay Entertainment has bowling and an arcade, while Brickopolis has a multilevel laser tag experience where participants hunt aliens, plus an outdoor putt-putt course, climbing wall and bungee trampoline. There's also an array of shops for a little retail therapy, and the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark with minor league baseball games and Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame are steps away.

Address: 429 E. California Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73104

Gathering Place

Courtesy of Gathering Place

This free riverfront park in Tulsa unfurls across more than 65 acres – and the city has plans to expand it to 100. Gathering Place boasts more than 100 unique experiences, including an adventure playground, climbing structures, suspension bridges, slides, puzzles, a sensory garden, a reading tree, a picnic grove and many other attractions. If you're planning a day at Gathering Place, you don't even need to leave for meals: Instead, visit one of the three restaurants within the park. There's also an opportunity to enjoy the flora and fauna of Oklahoma, with 400 species of plants, 16 acres of wildflowers, and animals such as great blue herons, squirrels, turtles, bats, owls and more. Past visitors call the park a Tulsa gem and highly recommend it for families with children. If you're planning on staying the night in the city, the Ambassador Hotel Tulsa, Autograph Collection less than 2 miles from the park is highly rated for its amenities and dining.

Address: 2650 S. John Williams Way E., Tulsa, OK 74114

[See more of Tulsa: Things to Do | Hotels | Photos ]

Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden

Courtesy of Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden

The Oklahoma City Zoo seeks to let guests connect with wildlife, and as such you'll be able to see around 1,900 animals throughout the zoo's 140 acres. In addition to regular admission, there are a number of activities you can pay extra for, including the chance to ride a camel, feed a giraffe or rhino, explore a one-of-a-kind exhibit of toy brick animals or take a safari cart tour. Also for an additional fee, the zoo offers up-close encounters with grizzly bears, bison, Indian rhinos, Galápagos tortoises, sea lions and Asian elephants. You can sit down for a meal at a handful of restaurants within the zoo, though some of the options are seasonal. The botanical garden, filled with exotic animals and native plants, covers 120 acres and features flowering trees, wildflower meadows, the largest outdoor butterfly garden and more. Zoo guests say there's plenty of shade, and it offers a lot of fun activities for the whole family.

Address: 2000 Remington Place, Oklahoma City, OK 73111

Factory Obscura Mix-Tape

Courtesy of Factory Obscura Mix-Tape

Factory Obscura Mix-Tape is an immersive and interactive art experience in Oklahoma City. A team of around 30 artists ranging from muralists to musicians alongside community volunteers created this 6,000-square-foot space filled with art you can touch. Visitors say it's unlike any other place you've experienced and can make you feel confused, excited and amused all at the same time. Each element is handcrafted and intended to be accessible for people with vision or hearing loss; there are also spaces designed like "sensory rooms" to accommodate those with autism.

Address: 25 NW 9th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73102

Pops 66 Soda Ranch

Situated on the old Route 66 in Arcadia, just outside of Oklahoma City, you'll find the Pops 66 Soda Ranch. The first thing you'll see is the 66-foot soda bottle, which lights up with different colors at sunset. Visitors can see and buy soda drinks of just about every color and flavor possible, and then check out a variety of other souvenirs such as clothing and hats. You can also stop by the restaurant for a meal or even to just sit down and enjoy a milkshake. Travelers note this small attraction as a great place for a break if you're exploring Route 66 and enjoy seeing all the different soda flavors that are available.

Address: 660 W. U.S. Route 66, Arcadia, OK 73007

45th Infantry Thunderbird Museum

Courtesy of 45th Infantry Thunderbird Museum

The 45th infantry division was first organized in 1923 and included service members from Oklahoma, Colorado, Arizona and New Mexico. Nicknamed the Thunderbirds, the division was one of the first National Guard units to be activated for World War II and also fought in the Korean War. At this Oklahoma City museum, which is the largest you'll find dedicated to the state's military history, visitors can peruse a variety of military weapons and see the cartoon collection of division member Bill Mauldin, as well as learn about the history of the Thunderbirds, including their participation in the liberation of the Dachau concentration camp, and more. On the grounds of the museum, you'll find more than 60 military tanks, vehicles, guns and aircraft. Past visitors of the museum say it's an excellent stop for military buffs and that the guides are very knowledgeable.

Address: 2145 NE 36th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73111

Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve

Courtesy of Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve

Less than 50 miles north of Tulsa, Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve was initially a ranch retreat built in 1925 by oil baron Frank Phillips. The 3,700-acre space is now a wildlife preserve, home to bison, elk, longhorn cattle and many other species. The museum offers a unique display of Western art and artifacts such as sculptures, ranch memorabilia and old photographs, in addition to a Colt firearms collection and Native American pieces that span pottery, art, baskets, blankets and beads. Travelers call the preserve a pleasant surprise that offers something for just about everyone who visits. If you're planning to stay near the preserve, consider the Hilton Garden Inn Bartlesville or the Hampton Inn Bartlesville.

Address: 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Road, Bartlesville, OK 74003

Beavers Bend State Park

Located in the southeast corner near Broken Bow, this nearly 3,500-acre state park is one of the most popular natural areas in Oklahoma. Outdoor adventurers will have plenty of activities to choose from, including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, river floating and more. At Broken Bow Lake, you'll have opportunities to fish, boat, water ski, canoe and even scuba dive. You can even bring your golf clubs and play the Cedar Creek Golf Course. Some of the other activities include volleyball, mini golf and tennis. Visitors can stay in one of the park's cabins, RV sites or almost 400 campsites. There's also a lodge on the shore of the lake that you can stay in. Visitors say the park is clean and beautiful, with plenty of scenic views while you're off the grid.

For other entertainment, nearby Hochatown offers a variety of family-friendly amusements including bowling and trail rides. What's more, the town has ATV, slingshot and power sports rentals, along with Hochatown restaurants and additional lodging.

Six Flags Frontier City

If you're looking for a full day of fun in Oklahoma City, look no further than Six Flags Frontier City. The theme park has rides for all age groups, including attractions for the most avid thrill-seekers. The park also houses what it calls the largest water structure in Oklahoma: Wild West Water Works, which is included in park admission, features a playground, slides, a tipping bucket and more. If you're planning to stay all day, plenty of restaurants throughout the park can sate your hunger, or you can browse the shops for snacks, souvenirs and gifts. Past guests say it can be a great experience if you have kids, but note that park rides can be consistently down. Six Flags Frontier City typically closes for winter, so be sure to consult the park's schedule before planning your visit.

Address: 11501 N. Interstate 35 Service Road, Oklahoma City, OK 73131

Experience life at Orr Family Farm

Situated in the southern part of Oklahoma City, Orr Family Farm has been designed as a family-friendly attraction since it first opened its doors in 2004. Some activities, including the tube rollers, life-size foosball field, gemstone mining and cannon blasters, are available in both the spring and fall, but the farm also has seasonally specific attractions, such as autumn's pumpkin patch and hayrides. Orr Family Farm is open from March to late June, as well as mid-September through mid-November, but fear not if you want to enjoy this attraction in summer or winter: You can stay overnight on the farm in a conical tent or Conestoga wagon for an upscale camping experience year-round. As a glamping guest, you'll get access to certain attractions even when the farm is closed to the public. Visitors say Orr Family Farm is an excellent option if you have small children and recommend staying in the covered wagon or tent for at least one night.

Address: 14400 S. Western Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73170

Oklahoma Route 66 Museum

Courtesy of Oklahoma Route 66 Museum

With about a 90-mile drive west of Oklahoma City, you can visit the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton. The museum details the complete history of one of the first and most famous highways in the U.S. You'll be exposed to images, myths, and stories about life and travel along the route, as well as what it took to make the iconic road possible. You can also step back in time at the 1950s diner and listen to the music of the time. At the end of your experience, consider stopping by the gift shop to buy signs, books, clothing, toys, games or other items to commemorate your experience. Visitors say the museum tells a compelling story of Route 66, even if you're not particularly fascinated by the highway's history. If you're thinking about staying the night in Clinton, the Hampton Inn Clinton and La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Clinton Historic Route 66 are both highly rated by fellow travelers.

Address: 2229 W. Gary Blvd., Clinton, OK 73601

Philbrook Museum of Art

Courtesy of Philbrook Museum of Art

If you're going to be in Tulsa, stop by the Philbrook Museum of Art for a cultural experience. The museum first opened in 1939 after Waite Phillips gifted his 72-room mansion, Villa Philbrook, to the city. Now, the historic home is joined by a 70,000-square-foot wing and a 25-acre garden and has been called the most beautiful place in Oklahoma. You can take a self-guided tour through the museum and its grounds or consult the museum schedule to sign up for one led by a curator. You'll be able to see various pieces of art, sculptures, pottery, furniture and photographs from around the world. Many travelers rate it the best thing to do in Tulsa and say the garden alone is worth the cost of admission.

Address: 2727 S. Rockford Road, Tulsa, OK 74114

Oklahoma State Capitol

The Sooner State's Capitol building is unique in that it's the only state capitol surrounded by working oil wells. Guided tours, which last about 45 minutes, can walk you through Oklahoma history and the building's Greco-Roman architecture, but you'll want to schedule them in advance. You can also take a self-guided tour of the more than 100-acre property with the aid of a brochure. In addition to 650 rooms, the Oklahoma State Capitol houses murals, restored stained glass, art exhibits and a tribal flag plaza. Visitors say the building's artwork is impressive and the guides are very knowledgeable.

Address: 2300 N. Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105

Oklahoma History Center

Courtesy of Oklahoma History Center

Although Oklahoma has plenty of museums where you can learn about different aspects of the state's history, you won't want to miss the Oklahoma History Center. This Smithsonian affiliate provides a comprehensive look at the state's history of Native American culture, pioneers, aviation, commerce and more. Even before you enter the museum's doors, you'll be able to take a quarter-mile walking tour of the gardens, where you'll get a sample of Oklahoma's terrains, trees, flowers and plants. There are also various statues, an oil and gas park, a Vietnam-era helicopter and other attractions on the museum grounds. Inside the museum, you'll learn about the history of free enterprise in the state, astronauts and aviators, Oklahoma's early settlers and development into a state, and more. Visitors say that the Oklahoma City museum offers an excellent, holistic look at the state's history and can leave you with a deeper appreciation of Oklahoma.

Address: 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive, Oklahoma City, OK 73105

Forgotten Wheels Museum

For vintage vehicle enthusiasts, the Forgotten Wheels Museum in Davis, about 80 miles south of Oklahoma City, is a must. The museum offers an impressive array of antique cars and trucks, older authentic Harley Davidson motorcycles – including more than two dozen Harley Hummers that date back to 1948 – and riding accessories. You'll also find other antique collectibles, postcards, children's toys and more. Past guests say that the museum is small but full of nostalgia. If you're thinking about staying overnight in Davis, consider Treasure Valley Casino & Hotel or La Ville Inn.

Address: 1775 U.S. Route 77, Davis, OK 73030

Washita Battlefield National Historic Site

One of many historic landmarks in Oklahoma, the Washita Battlefield National Historic Site is located in Cheyenne, a little more than 130 miles west of Oklahoma City. This location marks where in 1868 Lt. Col. George Custer made a surprise attack on the Southern Cheyenne village led by Peace Chief Black Kettle, leading to a massacre. The self-guided trail for the site is 1.5 miles long and has 15 stops. You can also step into the visitor center to explore the different exhibits and watch a 27-minute film about the events that led to the ambush and massacre of Indigenous people. Finally, you can visit the Washita Native Garden, where you'll find plants used by the Cheyenne people for daily living, food, medicinal purposes and domestic use. Past visitors say that the Washita Battlefield National Historic Site provides important insight into a dark aspect of U.S. history, and the stories are ones that need to be remembered. There aren't any hotels in Cheyenne, but if you want to stay nearby to take your time exploring this site, options include the Executive Plus Inn & Suites and the Flamingo Inn, both of which are about 20 miles away in Elk City.

Address: 18555 state Highway 47A, Cheyenne, OK 73628

Lake Tenkiller

Located about 85 miles southeast of Tulsa, Lake Tenkiller is a favorite among Oklahoma residents for its rocky bluffs and wooded shores, its clear waters with a slight emerald hue, and its amenities. The reservoir is an excellent place for hiking, fishing and boating; if you're a scuba diver, you'll probably love the underwater dive park, which features a helicopter, sunken boats and a plane fuselage. If you're hoping for an exclusively outdoor experience, there are campgrounds in Tenkiller State Park and Cherokee Landing State Park, both of which surround the lake. But there are also hotels, motels and vacation rentals in nearby towns, including Talequah and Muskogee. Visitors and locals say the beauty of Lake Tenkiller is tough to beat and that this reservoir is best for water sports and relaxing on the shore.

First Americans Museum

James Pepper Henry | Courtesy of First Americans Museum

In Oklahoma City, the First Americans Museum, which opened in September 2021, provides a collective history of the 39 Native American nations that reside in Oklahoma today. While only a few are Indigenous to what is now the state, the rest were removed from their homelands and relocated here in a forced migration known as the Trail of Tears. You'll learn about their unique cultures, resilience and contributions through a variety of museum exhibits with first-person narratives and multimedia experiences. You can also join workshops with artists, artisans and performers, which are held at different times throughout the year and require registering in advance. Visitors say the new museum provides a wonderful and thought-provoking representation of the First Americans.

Address: 659 First Americans Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73129

[Read: The Best Tourist Attraction in Every U.S. State .]

The Cave House of Tulsa

Near downtown Tulsa, you may come across a home that looks like it was pulled from "The Flintstones." The Cave House is arguably the quirkiest building in the city and was originally built in the 1920s as a restaurant by day and speakeasy at night; a secret tunnel via the fireplace led to a large room set in the hill behind the front portion of the restaurant. Unfortunately, the tunnel has been sealed off, but visitors today can schedule a guided tour of the unique structure. Some swear the Cave House is haunted, which could make it an appealing stop for travelers fascinated by the paranormal. Visitors say the current owner of the home is just as unique as the structure itself and provides guests with fascinating and passionate stories throughout the tour. Tours are available by appointment, so call 918-378-1952 before your trip to reserve a time.

Address: 1623 W. Charles Page Blvd., Tulsa, OK 74127

Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve

The Joseph H. Williams Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, spread across 40,000 acres about 75 miles northwest of Tulsa, is the largest protected area of tallgrass prairie in the world. The preserve was first created in 1989 when the Nature Conservancy purchased the Barnard Ranch. You can make the scenic 50-mile drive through the prairie and its adjacent ranches, which can take about two hours with stops. Throughout the preserve you can see more than 210 species of birds, as well as bobcats, armadillos, badgers, woodchucks, white-tailed deer and more. There's a dedicated bison unit with more than 2,100 American bison, one of the largest herds in the country. You can also step out of your car at one of the designated picnic areas, enjoy a self-guided nature trail and check out the ranch bunkhouse built in 1920. Visitors say the abundance of wildlife and beauty of the prairie are worth the drive. You can't camp in the preserve, but you can camp nearby at Chase State Fishing Lake and Swope Park. Lodgings are also available in the nearby town of Emporia, among others.

Address: 15316 County Road 4201, Pawhuska, OK 74056

Science Museum Oklahoma

Courtesy of Science Museum Oklahoma

Science Museum Oklahoma in Oklahoma City is known for its hands-on approach to teaching science, art and history. Children can wander the 20,000-square-foot CurioCity and learn through interactive activities. The Kirkpatrick Planetarium features shows exploring the cosmos that are included with your admission to the museum. This institution has a range of other exhibits with opportunities to learn about your body's heat patterns, decorate and color an animal in a digitally simulated forest, and more. Past guests say that while it's especially worth visiting if you're traveling with kids, guests of all ages will appreciate time spent here.

Address: 2020 Remington Place, Oklahoma City, OK 73111

Henry and Anna Overholser Mansion

Courtesy of Oklahoma Historical Society

This mansion was built in 1903 by Henry Overholser – who is considered the "father of Oklahoma City" – and his wife, Anna. Now, the Henry and Anna Overholser Mansion serves as a museum where visitors can learn about the family, as well as their servants and neighbors. Self-guided tours with an introduction given by the museum’s manager are available on certain days, but you'll need to book in advance unless you happen to visit on one of the mansion's "drop-in" days; check its website for more information. If you're visiting Oklahoma City in October, buy a ticket for the History and Haunts tour, which begins after dark on select days and includes scary stories in Oklahoma history. Past visitors say the tour lasts about an hour and presents an interesting slice of the state's history.

Address: 405 NW 15th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73103

Museum of the Great Plains

About 85 miles southwest of Oklahoma City, you'll find the Museum of the Great Plains in Lawton. The museum offers interactive exhibits and self-directed activities that allow guests to learn about human history on the Great Plains, as well as the present and the future of the region. Browse artwork, artifacts, archaeological finds, archives such as advertisements and more. You can also sit down in the auditorium for educational films that can vary depending on the date and time. Visitors say the exhibits are well organized, engaging and educational for all ages. If you're looking for accommodations in Lawton, consider the Homewood Suites by Hilton Lawton or the Sleep Inn & Suites Lawton Near Fort Sill.

Address: 601 NW Ferris Ave., Lawton, OK 73507

Explore the Rhythm & Routes Oklahoma Music Trail

From jazz and Western swing to blues and modern country music, there are many musicians, performers and venues that have played an important role in the history of the state. To commemorate this, the Rhythm & Routes Oklahoma Music Trail highlights places to visit that were selected to be a part of this trail due to their significant connection and contribution to the state's music history. Oklahoma has a helpful website where visitors can learn more about the trail, see a list of inductees, and plan an itinerary based on a music genre or artist.

There are many famous musicians with highlighted itineraries, including the greatest-selling solo artist in U.S. history, Garth Brooks. His itinerary highlights Brooks' hometown of Yukon (17 miles west of Oklahoma City), where visitors can see the water tower that says "Home of Garth Brooks" and drive along Garth Brooks Boulevard. You can then venture to Stillwater to visit Willie's Saloon (now State Room Bar), where he played regularly while attending Oklahoma State University, and the Tumbleweed Dance Hall, where Brooks worked as a bouncer.

Another popular itinerary option is Carrie Underwood's route, with stops at the Happy Paws Animal Shelter she opened in her hometown of Checotah as well as her high school. The Reba McEntire itinerary lets you see her hometown of Chockie, drive along Reba McEntire Avenue in Stringtown and visit the McSwain Theater in Ada, where McEntire performed before being discovered. What's more, Reba's Place, a new dining and entertainment venue in Atoka, is scheduled to open in November 2022.

Myriad Botanical Gardens

Carl Shortt | Courtesy of Myriad Botanical Gardens

You'll find this 15-acre natural oasis right in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City. Myriad Botanical Gardens features ornamental gardens, a carousel, an outdoor ice rink during the winter, a dog park, splash pads for the summer, a children's garden and playground, and more. Before your trip, look at this attraction's calendar for concerts, bulb displays, movies, classes, children's festivals and other special events that you might enjoy. Some say the gardens feel like an escape from the bustle of the city and offer a relaxing experience.

Address: 301 W. Reno Ave., Oklahoma City, OK 73102

See a TV filming set in Pawhuska

Courtesy of The Mercantile

Fans of the Food Network show "The Pioneer Woman" venture to this town in Osage County where they can tour The Lodge at Drummond Ranch, the filming location of the popular cooking show. While tickets are not offered in advance, visitors can go to The Mercantile in downtown Pawhuska, where complimentary tickets are available for tours offered on that particular day. (Note, as it is a filming location on a working ranch, daily tours are not available; be sure to check the calendar before planning your trip). While at The Mercantile – the destination restaurant owned by Food Network star Ree Drummond and her husband – you can have breakfast, lunch or dinner in the restaurant; grab a fresh-baked treat or crafted coffee at the bakery; and shop for fun finds in the historic century-old building on Main Street. What's more, you can spend the night in "cowboy luxury" at The Pioneer Woman Boarding House. Just a few steps from "The Merc," this eight-room hotel owned by the "Pioneer Woman" herself offers regionally inspired decor and walls adorned with photographs taken by Ree Drummond.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Tourist Attraction in Every State
• The Top Things to Do in Arkansas
• The Top Things to Do in Eureka Springs, Arkansas
• The Top Things to Do in Texas
• The Top Travel Backpacks
• The Top Fanny Packs

Tags: Travel , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Flight canceled or delayed what to do.

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

John Rodwan April 24, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

The Best East Coast Beaches

April 19, 2024

The Best Luggage Brands

Rachael Hood April 17, 2024

• North Dakota
• South Dakota
• Exciting Cities
• Food And Drink
• Outdoor Adventures
• Where To Stay
• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to the Midwest!

15 Things To Do In Oklahoma: The Ultimate Bucket List

December 11, 2022 by //  by  Midwest Explored Leave a Comment

Are you looking for things to do in Oklahoma? You are in the right place.

In this article, I will walk you through places to visit in Oklahoma and tell you everything you need to know about this amazing state.

Oklahoma is a state located in the south-central region of the United States. With a diverse range of landscapes, there are so many things to see in Oklahoma.

From the Great Plains to the Ozark Mountains, Oklahoma offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.

It’s also a state often overlooked by tourists which I’m looking to put right. This state has everything from picturesque prairies to low-lying mountain ranges and everything in between.

It’s also a state rich in culture, and heritage, with fantastic towns and cities. Attractions in Oklahoma come in all shapes and sizes. Oklahoma makes a great state for a Midwest getaway.

So are you ready to see which Oklahoma landmarks and attractions I have chosen for you? Pull up a chair, grab a cold drink and let me walk you through the best things to do in Oklahoma.

Marvel At The Great Salt Plains State Park

One of the top things to do in Oklahoma is to take a trip to Great Salt Plains State Park. Located in the west of the state this park is a unique and beautiful natural area.

As you would expect it is named after the large salt flats that can be found here. These salt flats are the result of a prehistoric ocean that once covered the area.

Over time, the water evaporated and left behind a layer of salt that is now exposed on the surface.

The salt flats cover about 11,000 acres. You can walk out onto them and the white crystals that cover the ground are certainly dazzling.

They are an Oklahoma landmark not to be missed.

One of the most popular activities at the park is birdwatching. The salt flats attract a wide variety of birds, including sandhill cranes, snow geese, and other waterfowl.

Bison, deer, and coyotes can also be seen here.

There are also several hiking trails that wind through the salt flats and surrounding areas, providing opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.

The park also has a swimming area and a playground for children, as well as picnic areas and campsites for overnight visitors.

If you are wondering what to do in Oklahoma or even what to do in the Midwest then a trip to this unique place should be high on your list.

Visit A Museum In Stillwater

One of the places to go in Oklahoma is Stillwater. Founded in the late 1800s this Midwest town is located in north-central Oklahoma.

The town has really grown up around Oklahoma State University and is now a thriving city. It’s one of those perfect Oklahoma vacation spots if you want a mix of old and new.

One of the top attractions in Stillwater is the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum.

The museum is dedicated to the history of wrestling in the United States and the famous athletes and coaches.

Another popular destination in Stillwater is Boomer Lake Park, which is a scenic park located on the city’s north side.

This park has a large lake, a walking trail, and a playground, and is great if you have children.

This historic town has many Oklahoma attractions and is with a visit.

Explore the Chickasaw Cultural Center

One of the must-visit places to visit in Oklahoma is the Chickasaw Cultural Center.

This unique and educational attraction offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the Chickasaw Nation.

It is based in Sulphur, in southern Oklahoma, and is operated by the Chickasaw Nation

It is more than just a museum; it is a living, interactive experience that immerses visitors in the history and culture of the Chickasaw people.

The center has a variety of exhibits and displays, including a replica of an ancient Chickasaw village, where visitors can learn about the tribe’s traditional ways of life.

The center also has a research library and archive.

One of the highlights of the Chickasaw Cultural Center is the Haakapapahpa (pronounced “haka papa”) Living Village.

It is a replica of an ancient Chickasaw village, complete with traditional homes, gardens, and a council house.

Visitors can explore the village and learn about the Chickasaw people’s traditional way of life, including their food, clothing, and customs.

The center also offers a variety of educational programs and events.

This Oklahoma attraction is perfect for those history buffs, culture enthusiasts, or those just looking for something different to do. This is definitely one of the things to see in Oklahoma

Get Arty In Norman

Norman is located in central Oklahoma and a visit here is an Oklahoma travel must.

The town was founded in the late 1800s and named after Abram Norman, who owned the land on which the city was built.

Norman is another university town that grew up around the University of Oklahoma. The university shaped what the city is today.

One of the top attractions in Norman is the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art.

The museum is one of the finest art museums in the state and features a diverse collection of art from around the world, including works by Native American artists and Impressionist paintings.

Another popular destination in Norman is the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. The museum is one of the largest of its kind in the state.

It features exhibits on the natural history of Oklahoma, including dinosaurs, mammals, and birds.

The National Severe Storms Laboratory in Norman is also worth a visit. It’s a research facility that studies severe weather and its effects, with a variety of exhibits and interactive displays.

If you are looking for events in Oklahoma this city hosts a number of annual events and festivals.

The Norman Music Festival, which features live music from various genres, and the Norman Film Festival, which showcases independent films from around the world, are worth attending.

Visit the Stafford Air and Space Museum

If you looking for places to go in Oklahoma then how about the Stafford Air and Space Museum?

It’s a must-see attraction in Oklahoma, especially for those interested in the history of aviation and space exploration.

The museum is located in Weatherford, in western Oklahoma, and is named for General Thomas P. Stafford, a native Oklahoman who is a retired NASA astronaut and Air Force General.

There are a wide variety of exhibits and displays that showcase the history of aviation and space exploration.

The museum has a collection of more than 30 aircraft, including historic military and civilian planes, as well as a collection of space artifacts and memorabilia.

Some of the highlights of the museum’s collection include a replica of the Wright brothers’ Wright Flyer, a Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird, and a lunar rover from the Apollo 15 mission.

This is one of the top things to do in Oklahoma for all those who love history.

Getting Historic In Ardmore Is One Of The Best Things To Do In Oklahoma

Your Oklahoma vacation wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Ardmore. In southern Oklahoma, the town is located along the Red River and Arbuckle Mountains, near the Texas border.

One of the top attractions in Ardmore is the Greater Southwest Historical Museum.

Located in the historic district this museum is dedicated to the history of southern Oklahoma. It features exhibits on the region’s Native American heritage, pioneer history, and oil industry.

There is also a thriving art scene here and the town is home to one of the best art events in Oklahoma.

The Ardmore Arts Festival, which showcases the work of local artists is held here annually

This town also celebrates its German heritage with the Ardmore Oktoberfest. It’s a great event if you are there when it is on.

It is one of the best things to do in Oklahoma.

See a Waterfall At Natural Falls State Park

One of the best things to do in Oklahoma is to take a trip to Natural Falls State Park. It’s a beautiful natural area that offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy.

The park is located in the northeastern part of the state, near the town of Colcord. It is named for the 77-foot waterfall that can be found there.

The highlight of Natural Falls State Park is its namesake waterfall, which is one of the tallest in the state.

The waterfall is formed by the water of Honey Creek, which flows over a steep cliff and cascades down into a pool below.

You can view the waterfall from a viewing platform, or hike down to the base of the falls for a closer look.

The park also has several hiking trails that wind through the woods and along the creek. There is also a playground and a picnic area and you can also camp overnight.

Oh and for those, a bit more adventurous the park has floating cabins that are available for rent.

This park offers so many opportunities for activities in Oklahoma and is a really beautiful place to visit. It offers some of the best hiking in Oklahoma!

Spend Some Time In Tulsa

Tulsa is one of the places in Oklahoma that you must visit. It’s the 45th largest city in the United States and has many Oklahoma attractions to enjoy.

Tulsa was founded in 1836 and was named after the Greek word “tallest,” which means “old town.”

The city grew quickly and by the early 1900s, it had become a major center for oil and gas production in the region. In fact, Tulsa bills itself as the ‘Oil Capital of the World’.

The city is home to a number of museums, galleries, and theaters, including the Philbrook Museum of Art and the Tulsa Performing Arts Center.

And it is leaving its culinary mark with so many excellent restaurants in Tulsa to explore!

Tulsa is also home to a number of parks and recreational facilities, including Mohawk Park.

There are so many interesting things to do in Tulsa.

If you are wondering what to do in Oklahoma take a trip here you won’t be disappointed. It is one of the best things to do in Oklahoma.

Enjoy Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park

Looking for fun things to do in Oklahoma then how about a visit to Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park?

It’s a unique and fascinating attraction in Oklahoma that offers visitors the opportunity to see one of the largest and most beautiful totem poles in the world.

The park is located in Foyil, in northeastern Oklahoma, and is named after its creator, Ed Galloway.

Ed Galloway was a self-taught artist and folk sculptor who began working on his totem pole in 1937, when he was 76 years old.

He worked on the pole for over 20 years, and when he finished, his totem pole stood 90 feet tall and was covered with intricate carvings and colorful paintings.

The park includes his totem pole, as well as several other sculptures and displays that showcase Galloway’s talent and creativity

The park also has a cabin that was built by Ed Galloway. The cabin is a replica of a traditional Cherokee dwelling, and it is filled with Galloway’s artwork and personal belongings.

Visitors can tour the cabin and learn more about the artist and his life.

If you are looking for something a little different to do then this is it.

Visit Edmond

No Oklahoma vacation would be complete without a trip to Edmond. It’s the sixth-largest city in the state and has a lot to offer. Visiting here is one of the best things to do in Oklahoma.

Edmond was founded in 1889 and was named after Edmond Burdick, one of the town’s investors who had purchased the land on which the city was built.

One of the top tourist spots in Edmond is the University of Central Oklahoma, which is the largest university in the state.

The university offers a wide range of programs and has a student population of more than 18,000.

Edmond is also home to a number of parks and recreational facilities, including Mitch Park, which features a number of sports fields, a playground, and a public pool.

Explore the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

One of the top attractions in Oklahoma is The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. It is a beautiful natural area that offers a variety of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy.

It was established in 1901 to protect the natural habitat and wildlife of the Wichita Mountains.

The refuge covers more than 59,000 acres, and it is home to a wide variety of plants and animals, including bison, elk, deer, and coyotes.

The best way to explore this area is on foot and there are more than 20 miles of trails that wind through the mountains and forests. There is also a scenic drive through the heart of the refuge if you prefer to not get out of the car.

The refuge also has a large population of birds, including bald eagles, golden eagles, and peregrine falcons.

A visit here is one of the top things to do in Oklahoma. This is a great place for some Midwest hiking .

Attend An Event At Durant

If you are looking for Oklahoma vacation spots then consider Durant. The town was founded in 1872 and was named after Durant Station, a local train stop.

Today, Durant is known for its rich history and its vibrant arts and culture scene. The city is home to the Three Valley Museum, which showcases the history of Durant and the surrounding area.

Durant is also home to a number of parks and recreational facilities, including the Durant Nature Park and the Choctaw Wellness Center.

If you are looking for events in Oklahoma this is the place to come. Both the Three Valley Cultural Arts Festival and the Choctaw Nation Labor Day Festival are held here.

There are a lot of things to do n the quaint towns of Oklahoma.

Spend A While At Lawton

Lawton is a city in southwestern Oklahoma that is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty.

Located near the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, Lawton is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, as well as history and culture buffs.

This tourist spot is full of history. The town contains a number of historic sites including the Museum of the Great Plains, which showcases the history and culture of the Great Plains region.

Some events in Oklahoma held in Lawton are the annual Great Plains Indian Art Market and the Redbud Festival, which celebrate the city’s Native American heritage. Both are fantastic.

If you are after a town in Oklahoma full of history then this is the one.

One Of The Fun Things To Do In Oklahoma Is Enjoying The Route 66 Museum

One of the fun things to do in Oklahoma is to take a trip to the National Route 66 Museum.

It’s a must-see attraction in Oklahoma for anyone interested in the history of Route 66 and a very cool Midwest road trip .

The museum is located in Elk City, in western Oklahoma. It is one of eight museums that make up the National Route 66 Museum network.

There are a variety of exhibits and displays that showcase the history of Route 66, from its early days as a dusty dirt road to its heyday as the “Main Street of America.”

The museum also has a collection of vintage cars and motorcycles that were used on Route 66, as well as a variety of other artifacts and memorabilia.

One of the highlights is its collection of original neon signs from businesses along Route 66.

The museum has more than 20 neon signs, including the famous U-Drop Inn sign from Shamrock, Texas, and the Blue Whale of Catoosa, Oklahoma.

The signs are beautifully restored and are a testament to the colorful history of Route 66.

If you are looking for places to visit in Oklahoma then this museum will likely have something to please everyone.

It is really a cool thing to do in Oklahoma.

Live It Up In Oklahoma City

One of the places in Oklahoma, you must visit is Oklahoma City. It is the state capital and largest city in the state.

Oklahoma City is known for its rich history, numerous museums, galleries, theaters, and numerous recreational opportunities.

Some of the best camping in Oklahoma is in or near Oklahoma City.

Some Oklahoma landmarks here include the Oklahoma City Museum of Art and the Civic Center, Music Hall.

In addition to its cultural offerings, Oklahoma City is also home to a number of parks and recreational facilities. Including Lake Hefner and the Myriad Botanical Gardens.

Both are beautiful, and worth a visit. And some of the best things to do in Oklahoma.

Oklahoma City is a vibrant and thriving city with a lot to offer residents and visitors alike. It is definitely one of the things to see in Oklahoma.

This is definitely one of the cities in the Midwest you need to visit.

Packing List When Looking For Things To Do In Oklahoma

If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to Oklahoma, here are some  tips on how to pack lightly.

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when searching for things to do in Oklahoma. 

It is  always   important  to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This  unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

You can place it under your clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID sleeves are the perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet. 

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery .

This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone like I have. And wow is it fast!

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking photos during Montana attractions.

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you. 

I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble filtration bottle .  The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

When filled with water, it is not too heavy to carry. And the charcoal filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car.

Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle  would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all. 

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc… No matter the time of day or evening.

This   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great.

It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from. The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack.

As you can see when it comes to things to do in Oklahoma there are so many and this is only just a fraction of what is available. Oklahoma really is a great state with so much history and culture to offer.

Whichever of these Oklahoma attractions your visit I hope you have an amazing time. Please come back and tell me all about it and enjoy your vacation.

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Other Sports

UCF Transfer Forward Set to Visit Oklahoma State

The Cowboys are looking to sell Marchelus Avery on Stillwater this weekend.

• Author: Ivan White

In this story:

Oklahoma State is looking to add another transfer from a conference rival.

UCF transfer Marchelus Avery will visit OSU this weekend, according to a report from Jeff Goodman . Avery could be the next transfer to join Steve Lutz as he builds a roster for next season.

Avery played last season at UCF and played a vital role for the Knights in their first Big 12 season. In 17.7 minutes per game, Avery averaged 7.6 points and four rebounds.

Coming off the bench in 29 of his 31 appearances, Avery often provided a spark for UCF. Last season, he scored in double digits 11 times, including four conference games.

Avery’s best scoring performance came in a win against South Dakota State early in the season, scoring 22 points on 7-of-16 shooting. Finishing third on the Knights in rebounds, Avery had 12 games with at least five rebounds and averaged 1.5 offensive rebounds per game. He was also a solid option from beyond the arc, shooting 34.3% from that range on 3.4 attempts. 

Before signing with UCF last offseason, Avery spent two seasons at New Mexico State. In 2022-23, he averaged 8.2 points and 4.5 rebounds in 21 games before the Aggies’ season was suspended due to hazing allegations.

Before his season ended in February, Avery started seven games and had one of his best games in his first start. Against Northern New Mexico, Avery scored 26 points on 11-of-14 shooting to go with eight rebounds.

In his first season at NMSU, Avery averaged four points and 2.5 rebounds in 11.1 minutes. Before going to NMSU, Avery began his collegiate career at Northwest Florida State.

If Lutz can secure Avery’s commitment, the Cowboys will have brought in multiple players with Big 12 experience after Texas Tech transfer Robert Jennings committed earlier this week.

Want to join the discussion? Like AllPokes on Facebook and follow us on Twitter to stay up to date on all the latest Cowboys news. You can also meet the team behind the coverage.

Latest Cowboys News

Oklahoma State Linebacker Ranked Top-Ten Returner At Position For 2024 Season

OSU Football: 14-Team College Football Playoff Likely Beginning in 2026

Tennessee Titans Sign Former Cowboys Quarterback Mason Rudolph

OSU Football Superstar Listed on PFF's 2024 All Returning Team

OSU Football Offensive Coordinator 'Facing Pressure' in 2024 College Football Season

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• Personal Finance
• AP Investigations
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Shopping
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Election Results
• Delegate Tracker
• AP & Elections
• Auto Racing
• 2024 Paris Olympic Games
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Personal finance
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

Tornadoes kill 4 in Oklahoma, leaving trail of destruction and thousands without power

People gathered Saturday morning in the streets in the Elkhorn area of Omaha amid the scattered remains of the homes.

A car lies knocked over on its side after a tornado tore through Sulphur, Okla., Sunday, April 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Ken Miller)

• Copy Link copied

This image taken from video provided by KOCO shows damage caused by a tornado in Sulphur, Okla., Sunday, April 28, 2024. (KOCO via AP)

A row of buildings is left damaged by a tornado in Sulphur, Okla., Sunday, April 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Ken Miller)

People remove items from a building damaged by a tornado in Sulphur, Okla., Sunday, April 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Ken Miller)

Sean Thomas Sledd salvages items from his room after it was hit by a tornado the night before in Sulphur, Okla., Sunday, April 28, 2024. Sledd sought shelter at Oklahoma School for the deaf. (Bryan Terry/The Oklahoman via AP)

This image taken from video provided by KOCO shows buildings destroyed by a tornado in Sulphur, Okla., Sunday, April 28, 2024. (KOCO via AP)

This image taken from video provided by KOCO shows a crew working on clearing debris caused by a tornado in Sulphur, Okla., Sunday, April 28, 2024. (KOCO via AP)

Charlie Schwake walks past his property in Sulphur after a tornado hit the area the night before in Sulphur, Okla., Sunday, April 28, 2024. (Bryan Terry/The Oklahoman via AP)

A man is surrounded by tornado damage after severe storms moved through the night before in Sulphur, Okla., Sunday, April 28, 2024. (Bryan Terry/The Oklahoman via AP)

People look at tornado damage in Sulphur, Okla., Sunday, April 28, 2024, after severe storms hit the area the night before. (Bryan Terry/The Oklahoman via AP)

Tornado damage in Sulphur, Okla., is pictured on Sunday, April 28, 2024, after severe storms hit the area the night before. (Bryan Terry/The Oklahoman via AP)

A man walks past tornado damage in Sulphur, Okla., Sunday, April 28, 2024, after severe storms hit the area the night before. (Bryan Terry/The Oklahoman via AP)

A school bus lies on its side after being knocked over during a tornado in Sulphur, Okla., Sunday, April 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Ken Miller)

A car lies on its side after being knocked over during a tornado that tore through downtown Sulphur, Okla., Sunday, April 28, 2024. (AP Photo/Ken Miller)

SULPHUR, Okla. (AP) — Tornadoes killed four people in Oklahoma, including an infant, and left thousands without power Sunday after a destructive outbreak of severe weather flattened buildings in the heart of one rural town and injured at least 100 people across the state.

More than 20,000 people were still without electricity hours after tornadoes began late Saturday night. The destruction was extensive in Sulphur, a town of about 5,000 people, where a tornado crumpled many downtown buildings, tossed cars and buses and sheared the roofs off houses across a 15-block radius.

“You just can’t believe the destruction,” Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt said during a visit to the hard-hit town. “It seems like every business downtown has been destroyed.”

Stitt said about 30 people were injured in Sulphur, including some who were in a bar as the tornado struck. Hospitals across the state reported about 100 injuries, including people apparently cut or struck by debris, according to the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management. An infant was among those killed, Hughes County Emergency Management Director Mike Dockrey told Oklahoma television station KOCO .

White House officials said President Joe Biden spoke to Stitt on Sunday and offered the full support of the federal government.

The deadly weather in Oklahoma added to the dozens of reported tornadoes that have wreaked havoc in the nation’s midsection since Friday . Another death was reported Sunday in Iowa, where officials in Pottawattamie County said a man critically injured during a tornado Friday had died.

In Oklahoma, authorities said the tornado in Sulphur began in a city park before barreling through the downtown, flipping cars and ripping the roofs and walls off of brick buildings. Windows and doors were blown out of structures that remained standing.

“How do you rebuild it? This is complete devastation,” said Kelly Trussell, a lifelong Sulphur resident as she surveyed the damage. “It is crazy, you want to help but where do you start?”

Carolyn Goodman traveled to Sulphur from the nearby town of Ada in search of her former sister-in-law, who Goodman said was at a local bar just before the tornado hit the area. Stitt said one of the victims was found inside a bar but authorities had not yet identified those killed.

“The bar was destroyed,” Goodman said. “I know they probably won’t find her alive ... but I hope she is still alive.”

Farther north, a tornado near the town of Holdenville killed two people and damaged or destroyed more than a dozen homes, according to the Hughes County Emergency Medical Service. Another person was killed along Interstate 35 near the southern Oklahoma city of Marietta, state officials said.

Heavy rains that swept into Oklahoma with the tornadoes also caused dangerous flooding and water rescues. Outside Sulphur, rising lake levels shut down the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, where the storms wiped out a pedestrian bridge.

Stitt issued an executive order Sunday declaring a state of emergency in 12 counties due to the fallout from the severe weather.

At the Sulphur High School gym, where families took cover from the storm, Jackalyn Wright said she and her family heard what sounded like a helicopter as the tornado touched down over them.

Chad Smith, 43, said people ran into the gym as the wind picked up. The rain started coming faster and the doors slammed shut. “Just give me a beer and a lawn chair and I will sit outside and watch it,” Smith said. Instead, he took cover.

Residents in other states were also digging out from storm damage . A tornado in suburban Omaha, Nebraska, demolished homes and businesses Saturday as it moved for miles through farmland and into subdivisions, then slammed an Iowa town.

A partially torn off roof is seen on a damaged home in Omaha, Neb., on Saturday, April 27, 2024. Dozens of reported tornadoes wreaked havoc Friday in the Midwest. (Chris Machian/Omaha World-Herald via AP)

The tornado damage began Friday afternoon near Lincoln, Nebraska. An industrial building in Lancaster County was hit, causing it to collapse with 70 people inside. Several were trapped, but everyone was evacuated, and the three injuries were not life-threatening, authorities said.

One or possibly two tornadoes then spent around an hour creeping toward Omaha, leaving behind damage consistent with an EF3 twister, with winds of 135 to 165 mph (217 to 265 kph), said Chris Franks, a meteorologist in the National Weather Service’s Omaha office.

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen and Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds spent Saturday touring the damage and arranging for assistance for the damaged communities. Formal damage assessments are still underway, but the states plan to seek federal help.

Associated Press journalists Acacia Coronado in Austin, Texas, and Sophia Tareen in Chicago contributed to this report.

Oklahoma State men's basketball adds Texas Tech transfer Robert Jennings

STILLWATER — Oklahoma State basketball coach Steve Lutz is picking up momentum on the recruiting trail, adding his second transfer of the week in Texas Tech forward Robert Jennings II.

Jennings averaged 4.4 points and 3.3 rebounds last season, appearing in 31 games and making 10 starts. The 6-foot-7, 230-pound junior, who is originally from DeSoto, Texas, has two years of eligibility remaining.

Jennings’ announcement came at the same time a former Cowboy has been spotted hanging out with OSU assistants on campus.

Ole Miss center Moussa Cisse, who played for the Cowboys from 2021-23 before transferring , has been on campus this week. He averaged 7.0 points, 7.3 rebounds and 1.9 blocked shots per game during his time at OSU. Multiple social media posts showed him at the OSU baseball game with basketball staff members Thursday.

With the additions of Jennings and point guard Arturo Dean, the Florida International transfer who signed with the Cowboys earlier this week, OSU now has six spots filled on its roster for the 2024-25 season.

More: Which basketball players are coming to Oklahoma State via the transfer portal? The list

At least 5 people, including infant, dead after night of tornadoes, storms in the Midwest

Dawn broke over scenes of devastation in several counties across Oklahoma on Sunday, with reports of severe structural damage, closed highways, blackouts, injuries and at least five deaths. There have been 35 reports of tornadoes overnight so far.

Twenty-seven million people remained at risk of severe weather into Sunday, including wind gusts, hail, flood risk and potentially more tornadoes.

Saturday's severe weather came less than 36 hours after more than 100 tornadoes leveled homes and buildings in six states Friday, with Nebraska and Iowa being hit hardest, officials said.

The National Weather Service office in Norman, Oklahoma, confirmed late Saturday that multiple tornadoes were in its area, including one near Davenport and more than one in the area of Sulphur, a small town of about 5,000 people 80 miles south of Oklahoma City, which appeared to have taken the biggest hit.

On Sunday, the weather service's Norman office said that, based on preliminary damage survey results, tornadoes with ratings of at least EF3 tore through Sulphur and Marietta in Oklahoma. The service said more investigation would be necessary to determine whether the rating will go higher.

The Murray County Emergency Management reported “significant damage” in Sulphur. In Love County, patients had to shelter during storms that damaged Marietta Hospital, though no injuries were reported, the county emergency management office said.

Also in Marietta, four semitrucks overturned, killing one person, after a tornado ripped through Interstate 35 on Saturday night, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol said.

Oklahoma’s Office of Emergency Management confirmed three deaths, one near Marietta on I-35 and two others in Holdenville. Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt arrived Sunday afternoon in Sulphur, where he said a fourth person died in the downtown area.

One of the Holdenville victims was 4 months old, Stitt's press secretary said, citing Holdenville officials.

More than 170 storms were reported Saturday after days of severe weather. Storms were still expected through southern Missouri to southeast Texas on Sunday.

Flash flooding is also a concern for 18 million people from Kansas City to Lake Charles, Louisiana. Some flood warnings will continue into Monday.Video emerging on social media early Sunday showed heavy damage across Sulphur, including toppled trees and scattered bricks and wooden beams. Buildings in the downtown area sustained significant structural damage, including blown-out windows and missing walls. Others appeared to have been leveled and reduced to rubble.

The Oklahoma Health Department reported 100 injuries at area hospitals, according to the state Emergency Management Department. Of the injured, 25 were cut or had been pierced, 30 fell, 16 were hit by or struck against objects, 17 sustained transportation-related injuries, and 12 others were hurt by other means, the emergency services department said. The extent of each of the injuries was unclear.

Red Cross Oklahoma said early Sunday that it was opening a shelter in Sulphur and was in contact with officials in more than a dozen counties to help with the immediate needs of affected residents.

Stitt signed an executive order Sunday declaring a disaster emergency.

In neighboring Hughes County, officials reported four people injured, as well as several structures either damaged or destroyed, after a tornado ripped through its western part late Saturday.

On Sunday, Hughes County Emergency Management reported 14 homes were damaged or destroyed in Holdenville. In addition, officials said four properties were damaged in Okfuskee County, and Pottawatomie County Emergency Management reported seven damaged structures in Dale and unincorporated areas of Shawnee.

There were also "numerous injuries" and damaged structures in Wagoner County, officials said.

Homes and other structures were also damaged in communities in Garfield, Grant, Kay, Payne and several other counties in Oklahoma, officials said.

The National Weather Service in Norman said that as of 1:25 a.m. local time Sunday, some tornado warnings had passed but that flash flooding remained a threat.

Bruce Thoren, meteorologist for the agency's Norman branch, said teams will go out to the Marietta and Sulphur areas while others may be sent elsewhere through the week.

"We are aware of other places that received damage, but based on travel time and other factors they will be looked at in days to come, probably not today," Thoren said. "The area that we cover is pretty large compared to other forecast offices, so to travel down and back could be up to four hours. So we’ll for sure get there, and we know there’s damage — just trying to figure out where we go today."Oklahoma Gas and Electric Co. said early Sunday about 28,000 customers were without service as a result of the storms, primarily in southern Oklahoma.

The Oklahoma Transportation Department warned early Sunday that I-35 was closed in both directions in Love County because of storm damage cleanup.

More than 30 million people in Oklahoma City; Dallas; Wichita, Kansas; Omaha, Nebraska; Milwaukee; and Madison, Wisconsin, were in the path of severe weather Saturday.

This round of severe weather arrived even as parts of Nebraska and Iowa were still reeling from the damage caused by two tornadoes that struck the region.

Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert said Saturday that no deaths had been reported and that there were relatively few minor injuries.

Despite heavy damage to some residents' homes, including those belonging to three Omaha firefighters and two police commanders, officials Saturday were grateful it wasn't worse.Speaking at an afternoon news conference, Stothert said she planned to sign an emergency declaration, which would allow residents to tap state and federal recovery aid.

She credited the National Weather Service and local news media for warning the public about the tornadoes.

"I do want to thank our local forecasters for the clear and accurate warnings that they gave," she said. "I absolutely feel that this early warning, because of all of you, you prevented a lot of injury and probably death."

Lindsay Huse, health director for Douglas County, where Omaha is located, said by email that fewer than two dozen people suffered minor injuries. They were treated at medical facilities and have been released, she said.

"That's just miraculous," Huse said earlier at the news conference.

The National Weather Service assessed two tornadoes that struck the Omaha area Friday afternoon. One started in the area of Lincoln and ended up in western Douglas County, NWS meteorologist Chris Franks said at the news conference.It was preliminarily assessed at a "solid" EF3 on the 0-5 scale used by federal forecasters, he said. An EF3 tornado can produce sustained winds of 136-165 mph and shift homes off their foundations while peeling away exterior walls.

At Omaha Eppley Airfield, a tornado preliminarily assessed at EF2 struck Friday afternoon, Franks said. An EF2 tornado can produce sustained winds of 111-135 mph that can partly peel away rooftops and breach window glass.

Tornado activity was also reported in neighboring Iowa. Franks estimated that 80 tornadoes were reported in Douglas County and adjacent communities in Nebraska and Iowa on Friday.

In Lancaster County, Nebraska, a tornado was blamed for a train derailment and a semitruck rollover, according to National Weather Service notes on Friday's vortexes.

Omaha Police Lt. Neal Bonacci said hundreds of homes were damaged, most of them in the Elkhorn area in the western part of the city.

“You definitely see the path of the tornado,” Bonacci said.

Police and firefighters went door to door to help residents and search areas where people could be trapped, Omaha Fire Chief Kathy Bossman said.

"We’ll be looking throughout properties in debris piles, we’ll be looking in basements, trying to find any victims and make sure everybody is rescued who needs assistance," Bossman said.

Pat Woods, who lives in Elkhorn, told The Associated Press that he and his wife took shelter but could hear the tornado "coming through."

"When we came up, our fence was gone, and we looked to the northwest and the whole neighborhood’s gone," he said.

His wife, Kim Woods, said the neighborhood to the north of them was "pretty flattened."

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds declared a disaster emergency for Pottawattamie County after video on social media showed parts of Minden, about 30 miles northeast of Omaha, completely flattened.Jeff Theulen, the chief deputy of the Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Office, said at a news conference Friday evening that 40 or 50 homes were "completely destroyed." There have been two reports of injuries, one "fairly severe but not life-threatening," he told reporters.

By Sunday, officials estimated that the storms had damaged 300 homes and businesses in the county, Pottawattamie County said in a release. In the city of Minden, 48 homes were "completely destroyed."

Pottawattamie County added in the release that four people sustained storm-related injuries. Three were treated and released Friday evening. The fourth, who was previously listed as stable in critical condition, died overnight Saturday.

"It's very dangerous right now. We've shut off entrance to the city except for the people that live here," he said, noting that "50% of the town is damaged badly and then there’s light damage everywhere else."

In nearby Shelby County, about 40 homes were damaged, county emergency coordinator Alex Londo said. Officials were assessing the destruction, he said, noting there have been no reports of deaths.

National Weather Service offices surveyed damage ahead of more severe weather expected Saturday.

The service reported 106 tornadoes Friday in Nebraska, Iowa, Texas, Kansas and Missouri. Another tornado was reported Friday morning in Pottawatomie County, Oklahoma.Oklahoma was also affected by the unstable air and thunderstorms that marched eastward Friday, but the weather service listed no confirmed tornadoes in the state.

Among Friday's tornadoes getting a preliminary assessment by the weather service were two near Waco, Texas — one believed to be at EF2 strength — and the other assessed at EF1 (86-110 mph).

Minyvonne Burke is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News.

Kathryn Prociv is a senior meteorologist and producer for NBC News. 

Christine Rapp is a meteorologist for NBC News.

Dennis Romero is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital. 

Yuliya Talmazan is a reporter for NBC News Digital, based in London.

Rebecca Cohen is a breaking news reporter for NBC News.