13 minute read

Things to See & Do �������������������������������

3rd Street Flea Market – Pickers, thrifters, antiquers, junknistas…whatever title you proudly wear, you will find your happy place at this flea market. Retro, vintage, re purposed, antique & pure-de-junk can be found here. Fun family atmosphere, vendors ready to deal, huge variety of treasures. Indoor & outdoor booths. No admission charge. Every Fri & Sat except holidays, 9am – 4pm, 100 3rd Ave NE, Downtown Ardmore. (East end of Main St, then 3 blocks north on Caddo St.) Also check out their estate sales on Facebook@Parkway Group Estate Sales. 580-465-5355

Facebook@3rdstreetmarketArdmore

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777 Zipline – A new way to zip in the Arbuckles. With Soaring Eagle-style ziplines, thrill-seekers are strapped into seats, leaving their arms and legs free. Riders of all ages and capabilities may share in the excitement. Brave youngsters meeting the height requirement of 42 inches are welcome. An exhilarating ride without harnesses, hiking or hurdles! Have a bird’s eye view of Honey Creek, Turner Falls and Colling’s Castle while belted in the 2-man formed seat. You will be pulled 717 feet to the tower rising 130 feet above the mountain top, then released to zip back to the launch site. The first zipline of this kind in Oklahoma. Ticket price: $15 single rider, $25 two riders. Ticket office and launch site at Curio Shop at Turner Falls Overlook, 6 miles south of Davis (6250 Hwy 77 South) on Hwy 77 between I-35 exits #47 & #51. 580-369-1887

www.turnerfallszip.com

Arbuckle Trail Rides – Guided trail rides on horseback over large area ranches and in Chickasaw National Recreation Area. Beautiful scenery and wildlife spotting. Voted #1 Horseback Rides by OK Living Magazine. Experienced guides and welltrained horses for beginners or advanced riders. Riding lessons available. Reservations required. Sulphur.

580-993-0097 • www.arbuckletrailrides.com www.wolferanch.com

Arbuckle Wilderness – Exotic animal drive-thru & walk-thru park. See animals of all kinds, many quite unexpected. Great outing for all ages; especially fun experience with kids. Walk-thru park has moonbounce, pony rides, gem mining, petting zoo and reptile house. Safari Gift Shop on site. Groups of 20+ may tour in Safari Bus (reservations required) Discount for groups, seniors, military with ID. Adults - $16.99, Children (4-11) - $12.99, Kids under 3 free. Open at 9:00a, gates close at 5:30p summer/4:00p winter. Approx 1 hour drive. I-35 exit 51, south of Davis, OK. From Hwy 77, turn on Kay Starr Trail and drive 1 mile.

1-800-738-7275 • www.arbucklewildernesspark.com

Artists of the Arbuckles – Gallery displays local artists’ work; many mediums. Annual show & events: Youth Art, Youth Photography, Adult Photography, Adult Art, Annual Show at Artesian Art Gallery. Contact gallery or check Facebook for scheduled classes and events. Gift certificates and lay-away available. Fri-Sat 1pm-5pm, will accommodate groups by appt. 330 W. Muskogee St., downtown Sulphur. 580-622-5744

www.artistsofthearbuckles.com • Facebook

Blue RIver – Beautiful, clear spring-fed river, rolling waterfalls, unusual rock formations that the area is known for, scenic beauty surrounding river. Great location for fishing, hiking, camping, hunting managed by Oklahoma Dept. of Wildlife Conservation. Famous for trout fishing - stocked with trout Nov 1-March 31. Hiking trails, camping (designated area only), float trip opportunities by kayak are available on this Class II-III river. Hunting & fishing license required, all visitors are required to have a Wildlife Conservation Passport. South entrance – From Tishomingo: 4 miles east on State Hwy 78, 6½ miles north on Bullard Chapel Rd (N3590). North entrance – From Tishomingo: 9 miles north on U.S. Hwy 377, 1 mile east on State Hwy 7.

580-443-5728 www.wildlifedepartment.com/wildlife-management-areas/blue-river

Chickasaw National Recreation Area – Oklahoma’s first national park, mineral & fresh water springs, nature center museum, swimming, picnicking, hiking, fishing, camping, boating, hunting, ranger-guided programs, equestrian & mountain bike trail, hundreds of acres of ecologically diverse land. Lake of the Arbuckles, southwest of Sulphur, no admission (boating & camping fees) Platt District, south edge of Sulphur.

580-622-7234 • www.nps.gov/chic

Cross Bar Ranch – largest off-road park in central US, 6500 acres, 200+ miles of trails. Offers something for every skill level and any type of off-road vehicle- from dirt bikes, 4 wheelers, Jeeps, to UTVs & trucks. Diverse terrain of rocky mountainsides, hardwood timbered paths, prairie mountain tops, creeks, spectacular views for 30 miles. New trail to Turner Falls giving access to both parks; dual park tickets available. 28 RV hookups w/ water & electric (30/50 amp) $35/night (reservation required). Unlimited Primitive - RV with generator $15, tent camping $10, anywhere in park. Dump station with water access to fill tanks. Night riding, camping along trails and pets allowed. Cabin rental coming soon. Entrance Fee- Adults 16+ - $20, Kids 10-15 yrs - $10, under 10 - free. Park open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day for riding. Avoid lines and pay online, or pay at cash drop box near office. Office open only on Fri-Sun, 9a-5p. Phon answered 7 days a week, 9a-5p. 4550 Dolese Road. Exit 55 off I-35, west 1 mile, south on Dolese Road 2 miles to dirt road entrance. 580-247-7244 • www.crossbarranch.net

CrossFit Iron Wolf & Iron Wolf Fitness – want to stay fit and at your best while on vacation? Are you temporarily located in the Arbuckle Area and want to keep up with your CrossFit program? Iron Wolf will help you be your fittest, healthiest and sharpest version of yourself. Credentialed trainers, hour long classes coupled with a positive, challenging environment will keep you engaged and reaching your goals. Iron Wolf Fitness is more of a traditional style gym with high quality equipment (membership required). CrossFit Iron Wolf – 103 N. 2nd St and Iron Wolf Fitness - 111 E. Main, both in Downtown Davis.

405-626-5780 • Check Facebook for class info. ironwolfdavis@outlook.com

There are countless fun ways to fill your time in and around the Arbuckles, no matter what your interests. Here are some ways to make your day the best it can possibly be!

Davis Historical Society Museum – Managed by Arbuckle Historical Society, housed in early day Santa Fe Depot, listed on Nat’l Register of Historic Places. History of Davis in pictures & artifacts; features schools, churches, medicine/dentistry, military, fire/police department, railroad memorabilia, Native American culture, geological formations. Fort Arbuckle model, Buffalo Soldier, African American artifacts & history of one of the first African American Paratrooper, old Print Shop exhibit. Visit Territorial Room to see a typical frontier home. Also a museum library of general & family history books, and a display of Davis High School Senior pictures from 19361976. Tue-Fri 1pm-4pm, Sat 10am-4pm. 580-369-2518

Forgotten Wheels Museum – Unique collection of cycles & automobiles - some rare, “a little bit of motorcycle heaven on 77” is their claim. A few items on display: vintage motorcycles, cars, trucks, gas pumps, signs. Complete HD Hummer collection. Handicap accessible, family-friendly, group/school tours - upon request. Open March-Nov, Wed-Sat 10a-5p, (winter hours - call or check FB). General admission $5 - No charge for Veterans, Active-duty Military, and Emergency Personnel (with valid ID) & kids under 8 years old. South of Davis, 1775 S. Hwy 77.

580-369-2764 or 369-8406 or 369-8704. www.forgottenwheelsmuseumandantiques.com

Fun Valley Park & Campground – 350 + acres to roam and ride, bordered by Washita River with stretch of Honey Creek running thru. Hike, fish, picnic, ATV area, shady pecan grove for relaxing family time. Kayak, canoe, tube in creek or lake (bring your equipment). River access for fishing. RV & tent camping on site. Great natural playground for day outing w/ plenty of room to enjoy. Grab a picnic and dine along the freshwater stream. Admission: $10 per person day use, camping additional. I-35 exit 51, then 1/2 mile east on Kay Starr Trail to entrance. 580-369-2022 • check Facebook for info.

Greater Southwest Historical Museum – South Central Oklahoma’s History from mid-1800’s to present. Housed in former National Guard Armory built in 1936. Spans time from early Native American culture to the farmers, ranchers and townspeople. Exhibits include horse-drawn carriage, one room schoolhouse, log cabin, general store and much more. New exhibit - Tools of Our Land highlighting area’s agricultural past. History comes alive. Two more museums here: The Military Memorial Museum and Carter County Genealogical Society Library. Open Tuesday thru Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. No admission - donations greatly appreciated. 35 Sunset Drive, Ardmore (2 blocks off Broadway) or I-35 exit 31A, then 1 mile east (watch for signs). 580-226-3857 • www.gshm.org

Lake Murray State Park – Clear water lake, all types of water sports (boating, fishing, swimming, skiing, sailing, etc.) camping, picnicking, scuba diving, airstrip. 18 hole, par 70 golf course open to public. New Lake Murray Nature Center and Tucker Tower Nature Center. Lake Murray Lodge has rooms, restaurant, pool. Located south of Ardmore on Scenic Hwy 77.

580-223-4044 • www.travelok.com

Share a meal with a new friend at Arbuckle Wilderness!

Enjoy fishing, hunting, and hiking at beautiful Blue River.

Photo courtesy Susan A. George Photography

Military Memorial Museum – Located at Greater Southwest Historical Museum in 1930s Oklahoma National Guard Armory. “All eras, all branches” is their claim, and it is true. Spans from War with Mexico (1847) to Persian Gulf. Rare display of uniforms of all 8 Uniformed Services of U.S., pup tent camp set-up, Fallen Soldier memorial, POW/MIA “Table for One”, paintings of cartoon depictions of military life from 1940s barracks, Hall of Honor presenting local veterans stories, and much more. Great collection of artifacts. Open Tues-Sat, 10a-5p. No admission fee - donations greatly appreciated. 35 Sunset Drive, Ardmore (2 blocks off Broadway) or I-35 exit 31-A, then 1 mile east (watch for sign). 580-226-3857 • www.gshm.org

Pauls Valley Opry – Monthly music show - 1st Saturday of each month. Showcasing the best in local & regional talent. Host band - The Memory Makers w/ musical taste and history rooted in Classic Country, Country, Gospel, Bluegrass, 50/60 Rock, Southern Rock, Folk, and Blues. Doors open at 5:30p, show at 6:30p. Admission price: $10.00 (Kids 12 and under are free) Great family atmosphere. Pauls Valley Jr. High Auditorium, 302 N. Willow St. 405-830-8405 • Facebook - Pauls Valley Opry

Pauls Valley Water Park – Outdoor water park. Toddler's catfish slide, water playground, sprays, huge tipping bucket. Fo teens & adults - body slides, bowl slide, lazy river, 3 lane lap pool w/ diving board. Relax pool side w/ umbrellas, lounge chairs, picnic area & snack bar. Hwy 77, north side of Pauls Valley in Wacker Park. 405-238-1307 • www. dwrrcpv.com

Santa Fe Museum – 1905 depot, managed by Pauls Valley Historical Society. Collection of old photos, school memorabilia and pioneer collectibles. Steam locomotive & coal tender that once traveled over these tracks has found a permanent home near the depot; vintage red caboose rests behind the engine. Closed Sun-Mon. 204 E. Paul, Downtown Pauls Valley

405-238-2244

Sole’renity Spa & Little Soles Spa – Make your vacation complete with a break for relaxation and rejuvenation. Expect restoration & healing in this serene sanctuary. Therapeutic & wellness treatments including whirlpools, steam rooms & saunas. Soothe the mind, body & spirit with a variety of massage services, mud wraps/soaks/scrubs, facials, mani/pedi & waxing. Little Soles Children’s Spa introduces children to the benefits of health an wellness. Colorful setting, friendly atmosphere to serve little soles with alone time, time with mom or dad, or in a Sparty group; variety of services to treat their little hands and feet . Mon-Sun (closed Tues) 10a-7p. 1001 W. 1st St (inside Artesian Hotel) Sulphur. 580-622-8128 • www.solerenityspa.com Sulphur Historical Museum – Managed by Arbuckle Historical Society of Murray County. Located in old Fire & Police Station building, erected in 1917. Still has city jail (great photo opp), court room, fire pole. Platt Nat’l Park & Sulphu history, diorama of Sulphur Springs, Indian Territory (prior to 1903) around current Pavilion Springs in CNRA, Old Belleview and Vendome swimming pools, Boy Scout & Military items, vintage cameras. Also exhibits of Fire Dept. equipment/records, antique switchboard, toy room, kitchen & reminders of past Sulphur businesses. Donations accepted. 402 W. Muskogee St, downtown Sulphur. Hours: Sat 1p-5p (Winter by appt).

580-622-5593 • email: ahsmc@brightok.net

The Clubhouse – New family entertainment center. Enjoy treehouses, arcade area, soft play area, miniature golf, go karts and seasonal ice rink. Take on a challenge with Water Wars, Flight Line Zip or Eagles Landing Adventure Courses. Clubhouse Cafe’ is a great destination for any of your food cravings. Lots to choose from, indoor or outdoor dining, or carry-out. Open: Peak season – (mid-May-Dec) Tues-Thur 11am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am11pm, Sun 12pm-9pm. 2705 North Rockford Road Ardmore, OK 73401 (Exit 33 - off of I-35, east ¼ mile, inside Regional Park) Café - 580-221-2567

Park - 580-221-2566 • Facebook

Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge –

Protected park for wildlife and their habitat and to ensure future generations will always have wild places to explore. Enjoy fishing, boating, kayaking canoeing, hunting, wildlife watching and more. Lies within the upper Washita arm of Lake Texoma, fed by Washita River and Pennington Creek creating the Cumberland Pool, which is especially important to fish, migratory birds and resident wildlife Come for the activities or to enjoy a little peace and quiet. Park is open 7days a week. Visitors Center is open Mon-Fri 7:30a-4p. for maps, brochures, checklists and activities. 11766 S. Refuge Road, Tishomingo. From downtown: Take Hwy 78 to the east edge of town, go south on Refuge Road (at the high school, watch for sign). Follow Refuge Road 3 miles.

580-371-2402 • www.fws.gov/refuge/Tishomingo/

Toy & Action Figure Museum – With over 13,000 action and pop culture figures, the museum has one of the larges collections in the world, colorful & imaginative displays, gift shop, drawings from Oklahoma's most famous cartoonist. Time Magazine named museum among "Top 50 Most Authentic American Experiences". Wed - Sat 10a-5p, Sun 1p-5p. 111 S. Chickasaw, Pauls Valley. Adults $7, Children under 12 $5, under 2 free, Vets/Military $5, Seniors (55+) $5. Group pricing.

405-238-6300 • www.actionfiguremuseum.com

Treasure Valley Casino – This unique casino environment provides gamblers of every skill level with over 400 electronic gaming machines and table games, including Blackjack Match, Three Card Poker with Six Card Bonus, Jack Pot Hold ‘em and Blackjack. Attached to the Treasure Valley Hotel, a 59 room/suite inn w/ a variety of amenities. At I-35 exit 55 (Hwy 7) on east side service road at Davis.

580-369-2895 • www.treasurevalleycasino.com

Turner Falls Overlook – Stop off at the top of the Arbuckles and have a free preview of Turner Falls. The 77-foot waterfall seen from high above is an awesome sight and provides a bird’s eye view of much of what the park has to offer. Launch site of 777 Zipline. Tourist information and restrooms available. Between exits 47 and 51 off I-35, 1 mile south of Turner Falls gate.

580-369-1887

Turner Falls Park – Scenic natural park, 77-foot water fall, hiking, swimming, picnicking, trout fishing (Nov-Feb), camping caves, geological formations, spring-fed creek, snack bars. Pavilion by reservation. Children 12 & under MUST wear Coast Guard certified floatation devic Summer weekend rates: Adults $20.00, Children ages 6-12 $16.00, ages 5 & under - free, Active duty/Vets & Seniors $13.00, (weekdays & winter rates reduced), advance purchased tickets online recommended.

Camping additional fee. Hwy 77 just 5miles south of

Davis, I-35 exits 47 or 51.

580-369- 2988 • www.turnerfallspark.com

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