Exploring Oklahoma with Children 2012

2012 Edition

Exploring OK with Children w i t h

Family fun on Oklahoma's Route 66

Sponsored by

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Great festivals fromGreat acrossfestivals the state across Save at thebig state attractions Kids Pass our Savearound big atOklahoma Oklahomawith attractions with Enter Kids Pass photo contest for aphoto chance to win of two Enter our contest for aone chance totrips win.

Enjoy Enjoy the the ride! ride! Tips Tips for for car car travel travel with with kids kids EOWC 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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Exploring Oklahoma with Children 2012

Contents

Exploring Oklahoma with Children E7 Route 66: Miami to Catoosa E10 Be Prepared!

Books and products to make your travels safe, successful and fun.

E12 Route 66: Tulsa to Stroud E16 Route 66: Arcadia to Yukon E22 Enjoy the Journey!

Tips for making traveling with your kids a fun experience.

E24 Money-Saving Kids Pass E28 Route 66: El Reno to Clinton E36 Route 66: Foss to Sayre E41 The best Oklahoma festivals

ON OUR COVER: Ten-year-old Spencer, son of Tony and Mari Farthing, with 9-year-old Aubree Snider, daughter of Nicole and Adam Stepniewski of Oklahoma City. Both children are in fourth grade and love to explore new places in Oklahoma.

PHOTO BY: Kathryne Taylor Photo above and throughout the travel articles provided by Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Dept.

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Exploring Oklahoma with Children 2012

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publisher's note Dear MetroFamily,

Welcome to the 2012 Exploring Oklahoma with Children. As the purveyors of family fun in central Oklahoma, we at MetroFamily are very proud and excited to bring your family the info you need to enjoy traveling the historic Route 66 in the state.

This guide begins at what is generally considered the starting point for Route 66 in our state, near the far northeastern corner and the town of Miami, and continues all the way past Elk City on the far western border. In between these two points of entry and exit, your family can experience a world of history, adventure and hands-on fun and exploration. From nature trails to rappelling, ghost stories to pioneer history lessons, you’ll find it all along the Mother Road.

And why do we work to bring you this travel guide to Oklahoma? Because we believe it’s important to have shared experiences that you can reminisce about for years; that it's also important for families to get away from distractions, to get out and enjoy nature. Travel exposes your kids to new cultures, new (and maybe old) ways of thinking, and also helps parents learn from their children as the adventure of traveling unfolds. We look forward to hearing your stories of adventure—and seeing your photos as you enter them in the Exploring Oklahoma Photo Contest (details, page E-26).

Our sincere gratitude to the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department for their continued sponsorship and support— and all the great photos that we include here!

See you on the Mother Road! Enjoy!

Info And Questions: 405-601-2081 To submit events to our calendar calendar@metrofamilymagazine.com Publisher Sarah L. Taylor sarah@metrofamilymagazine.com Editor Mari M. Farthing editor@metrofamilymagazine.com Art Director Kathryne Taylor kathryne@metrofamilymagazine.com Advertising Sales Athena Delce Dana Price ads@metrofamilymagazine.com Office and Distribution Manager Kathy Alberty kathy@metrofamilymagazine.com Assistant Editor & Online Content Manager Brooke Barnett brooke@metrofamilymagazine.com Calendar Editor Sara Riester calendar@metrofamilymagazine.com Special Projects Assistant Terri Fields Contributing Writers Brooke Barnett, Heide Brandes, Lawrence Evans, Mari Farthing, Jennifer Geary Circulation 35,000 – OKC, Edmond, Nichols Hills, Norman, Moore, Midwest City, Yukon plus 8,000 distributed through the Oklahoma Welcome Centers throughout the state.

Also available as a digital edition at MetroFamilyMagazine.com.

Travel photos provided by Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department

Our family has had fun exploring Oklahoma for many years.

Top photo: Kathryne, Reed and Zane at the Blue Whale in 1998. Middle photo: The kids and me on the top of Mount Scott in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, 1991.

Bottom photo: Reed and Zane at Totem Pole Park, 1998.

Sarah Taylor, Publisher

Fun facts about Route 66 in Oklahoma:

• The father of Route 66 is considered to be Cyrus Stevens Avery from Tulsa and consequently, Oklahoma has more miles of Route 66 than any of the other states. It was commissioned in 1926 and the last stretch of the road disappeared from official maps in 1985.

• Route 66 is known as the Mother Road, The Main Street of American and The Will Rogers Highway. Its approximate 2448 miles of highway runs from Chicago, IL to Los Angeles, CA, through the states of Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California.

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Exploring Oklahoma with Children 2012

Articles and advertisements in MetroFamily do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the magazine or Inprint Publishing, Inc. We do not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

The acceptance of advertising by MetroFamily does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature.

MetroFamily Magazine is published monthly

by Inprint Publishing, Inc. 725 NW 11th, Suite 204 • Oklahoma City, OK 73103 Fax: 405-445-7509 E-mail: info@metrofamilymagazine.com ©Inprint Publishing, Inc. 2012, All Rights Reserved.

Number 4, 2012 edition

ROUTE

66

Miami to Catoosa

My kids and I went on road trips covering two sections of Route 66.

On the eastern portion of our travels, which covered the road between Miami and Catoosa, we had many more sites to see and the places were all very different. Several of these destinations are a bit off of the actual Route 66 and some are a bit off the beaten path, but we enjoyed our visits and it was time well spent.

We began our Route 66 trip in Miami with a stop at the Coleman Theatre. The theatre opened in 1929, just six months before the stock market crash, and has been open ever since, featuring stars like Will Rogers and Sally Rand. Eventually, the theater showed movies, but after it was donated to the city of Miami, restoration began and it is once again primarily a live-performance venue. When I visited the Coleman’s website, I wasn’t sure what to expect, and I was thinking this would be a stop my children (ages 2 and 7) would find boring.

Instead, we were all amazed at what we found.

The Theatre’s director gave us a tour that lasted a little over an hour.

We started in the lobby, where pictures of the original décor are on display. Almost every detail has been recreated, down to the specially woven carpets that feature the Coleman family crest. The theater itself is nothing short of amazing. My kids loved standing on the stage and listening to the original Wurlitzer organ play. We also went backstage to see the huge old lighting board and ropes to raise and lower the curtains. Also on the tour were the new banquet facilities and the park area next to the theater, which would make a great picnic spot.

Leave Miami going east on Highway 10 (also marked as Steve Owens Boulevard). Continue east about 5 miles on Highway 10 until you turn right (south) on Highway 137. After about 6 miles, you’ll see Twin Bridges State Park.

This park is a wonderful place to visit. If your family likes to camp, there are options for RVs, tents and lake huts. The park is also known for its excellent fishing, so bring your pole and tackle. If you’re just driving through, the park is a great place to stop for a lunch break and some play time. There are several playgrounds throughout the park that are fun for kids of all ages.

After your stop at Twin Bridges, take Highway 60 West. After about 11 miles, you’ll come to the interchange with Highway 69 South (If you reach I-44, you’ve gone too far!). Once you’re on 69 South, it’s about three miles until you cross Horse Creek Bridge into Afton.

Slow down as you enter Afton, or you’ll miss it. This bridge is significant because it’s one of the last original bridges on Route 66 to still have a separate walkway for pedestrians.

By Jennifer Geary

Afton Station is just a few blocks past Horse Creek Bridge and will be on your left as you come into town. The owner, Laurel Kane, is so knowledgeable about Route 66 and will helpfully answer your questions. Afton Station is in a restored D-X filling station and houses a huge collection of Route 66 memorabilia as well as an impressive collection of vintage Packards and other vehicles—including the first motorhome! Call ahead to make sure Afton Station will be open; with enough notice they can work with your schedule. This is one of a few different stops along Route 66 that has a specialized penny press machine, so bring some extra quarters for the kids!

Darryl Starbird’s National Rod & Custom Car Hall of Fame is a 20 minute drive from Afton Station. Head back out of Afton over Horse Creek Bridge (the same way you came into town). Two miles outside of town, you’ll turn right onto Highway 59 South. Make another right onto Highway 125 South and follow it until you turn right onto Highway 85A. Darryl Starbird’s will be on your left. Open from April through November, Darryl Starbird’s features numerous custom-built cars and a large collection of car memorabilia.

Leave Darryl Starbird’s and continue west on Highway 85A; continue onto 85 North. Make a left onto Highway 60 (also marked as Highway 69) and keep on going past the Will Rogers Turnpike. This road will become Illinois Avenue as you get into Vinita.

The Eastern Trails Museum (in the same building as the Vinita Public Library) has a little bit of everything related to Vinita and Oklahoma history. One of the rooms is divided into sections depicting different scenes from the past, such as a newspaper printing office and a drugstore. There are also displays of nature items from the area and other artifacts donated by Vinita-area residents. Be sure to call ahead to ensure the museum will be open.

Before you leave Vinita, stop for a restroom break, because the next leg of your trip is very scenic and you’ll want to be able to enjoy it.

Head back down Illinois Avenue the way you came into town, but make a right turn onto Wilson Street (also be marked as Highways 60 and 69) as you leave Vinita. A few miles out of town, turn left (south) onto Highway 69; follow this down to Adair. This part of your trip will take about 30 minutes. Highway 69 will intersect with Highway 28; go east (left) on Highway 28 about eight miles until you reach the town of Pensacola.

Coleman Theater in Miami, Twin Bridges State Park and Afton Station.

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The Cabin Creek Battleground is a bit off the beaten path, but its worth the extra time to get there. On the north side of the highway you will see a small blue and white sign indicating the turn. If you pass the propane dealership on your right, turn around! Once you’ve made the left turn at the sign, follow the road signs. This is extremely rural and you will probably think you’re lost, but if you follow the signs, you will get there eventually.

The gates to the site are open during daylight hours every day except Sunday, but there are no guides or buildings (including restrooms), so you may way to read about the battle before visiting. Markers around the site show the placement of different groups during the battle and there is a path to the creek. My children are fairly young and weren’t too interested in all the battle logistics, but we still spent a few hours at the site exploring and enjoying the scenery, especially the creek.

If you don’t take the time to leave the actual Route 66 and visit Ed Galloway’s Totem Pole Park, you are missing an amazing place. To get to there, go through Adair (on Highway 28), pass the Will Rogers Turnpike and look for the signs for the park on your left. There is a well-marked parking area before you actually get to the park. From the Pensacola area to the Totem Pole Park will take you about 30 minutes of driving.

The park is home to the World’s Largest Totem Pole and other interesting carvings. There is also a small museum and gift shop (The Fiddle House) which displays more of Mr. Galloway’s work. If you get tired of the totem poles (which my kids never did), there is a half mile walking trail and picnic shelters, too. This is a great place to spend an hour or two on your trip—and don’t forget to bring cash since the gift shop doesn’t accept credit cards. You will definitely want a souvenir from here!

Now is the time on your Route 66 trip that you’ll actually be driving on Route 66! When you leave Totem Pole Park, continue west on Highway 28; this will take you right to Highway 66, which will lead into Claremore after about 15 minutes. When you reach Claremore, Route 66 is also marked as Lynn Riggs Boulevard. There are several Route 66 attractions in Claremore and the J.M. Davis Arms & Historical Museum is a great place to start because it opens so early, and it features the largest privately-owned gun collection in the world. You can see these thousands of guns—from all time periods and all over the world—at this museum. As you come into town from the north, the museum will be on your right—just look for the big armored tank!

If you’re not interested in guns, there are many other artifacts on display, from a vast collection of German beer steins to musical instruments to movie posters. My children loved the model train.

There is also a gift shop, if you want to take home a souvenir from a really unique museum.

The Will Rogers Memorial Museum also has longer hours than many other sites along Route 66, so you may want to visit it

Totem Pole Park, Will Rogers Memorial and Will Rogers' Birthplace in Claremore.

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earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon. Just take Lynn Riggs Boulevard to Will Rogers Boulevard and go left (northwest). The museum is well marked and is just across the street from Rogers State University.

Even if you think you know a lot about Will Rogers, you are sure to learn something new. The museum has information and exhibits on Rogers’s entire life, from his childhood in Oklahoma to his multiple careers as a trick roper, movie star, writer, and radio personality. You can even view one of Rogers’s many films in the theater! Downstairs is a great children’s area with a stage and dress-up room, as well as several other areas with hands-on activities. Outside on the gorgeous grounds overlooking Claremore is the tomb of Will Rogers and several family members.

The Belvidere Mansion is a few blocks off of Route 66, but it’s still easy to find! Go southeast on Will Rogers Boulevard and turn left on Chickasaw Avenue. You’ll know you’re there when you see the giant house your kids want to move into immediately.

Visiting the Belvidere Mansion in Claremore is like stepping back in time. This building, originally built as a single-family home in the early 1900s, now has a gift shop and tea room on the first floor and rooms restored to accurately reflect the period on the second floor.

The third floor is a ballroom available for rental.

The drive from Claremore to Catoosa will only take you about 15 minutes. The Blue Whale will be on your right, and is a must-see!

This giant blue whale used to be part of a swimming hole, though swimming is no longer allowed. Visitors can fish (catch and release only) and walk into the whale, too. The ladders to the diving platform at the tail and up into the top of the whale are still there so wear shoes good for climbing! There is also a picnic area with several tables, but restrooms are closed, so plan accordingly.

After you’ve seen the whale, continue south on Route 66 until you find Pine Street. Take Pine over to Highway 167 (also marked in some spots at 193rd East Avenue or South 4070 Road). Go right (north) until you see the signs for the Tulsa Port of Catoosa on your right; at this point, you are actually going through the Port gates. Follow Cimarron Road and you will see the Port Authority building on your right. Just look for the big boat.

The Arkansas River Historical Society Museum is located at the Tulsa Port of Catoosa Port Authority building. The museum is one good-sized room containing displays and photographs of the Arkansas River and the construction of the McClellan-Kerr Arkansas River Navigation System. My kids enjoyed the lock and dam model that actually moves and shows how the big barges can move in the river.

Outside is the Charley Border, the first towboat at the Port of Catoosa.

Now on land, you can go on it and have a look around. Also just outside is a gazebo and picnic area. You can also pick up a Tulsa Port of Catoosa tour guide at the museum for some more history and a driving tour guide of the port.

Go south on Highway 167 back to Pine Street and turn right (west).

Take Pine Street to South 4050 Road (also marked in some spots as 161st East Avenue) and go right (north). This is pretty rural and you might think you made a wrong turn, but keep following the road north.

Redbud Valley Nature Preserve will be on your left.

Though we’ve hiked at the Ray Harral and Oxley Nature Centers before, this was our first trip to Redbud Valley. It is beautiful! The trails wind up through the hills and you are able to see different types of vegetation as you make your trek. A couple of words of caution: It is fairly isolated, so I would go in a group. It is also quite rugged.

Strollers and wheelchairs will not work here as there are many steps and several places where you are climbing up (or down, depending on the direction you take) at least a few feet of rock. Our seven-year-old made it just fine and our two-year-old did pretty well, too, though we had to carry her in some spots. If you have some adventurous hikers in your group, there are more difficult trails, too. The Visitor Center has some nice displays about wildlife and vegetation in the preserve, and the naturalist working there was able to answer my son’s questions and even took the time to help him identify a snake skin that was on display. There are classes available for very little cost at the preserve, so check their website for the latest information.

Also check their site before you visit as the open dates vary with the seasons.

The Blue Whale and The Belvidere Mansion outside of Claremore.

Attractions

Coleman Theatre 103 N Main, Miami 918-540-2425, www.colemantheatre.org Tuesday–Friday, 10:00am–4:00pm; Saturday, 10:00am–2:00pm Free admission; donations accepted

J.M. Davis Arms & Historical Museum 330 North J M Davis Boulevard, Claremore 918-341-5707, www.thegunmuseum.com Monday–Friday, 8:30am–5:00pm; Sunday, 1:00–5:00pm Suggested donation of $5 for individuals or $8 for families

Twin Bridges State Park 14801 S Hwy 137, Fairland 918-542-6969, www.travelok.com/listings/view.profile/id.8250 Call for camping rates

Will Rogers Memorial Museum 1720 West Will Rogers Boulevard, Claremore 800-324-9455, www.willrogers.com Open every day, 8:00am–5:00pm $5 for adults; $4 for seniors and military; free for 17 and under; call ahead for group rates

Afton Station 12 Southwest First Street, Afton 918-382-9465, www.postcardsfromtheroad.net/afton.shtml Tuesday–Sunday, 9:30am–3:00pm Free admission; donations accepted Darryl Starbird’s National Rod & Custom Car Hall of Fame 55251 E Hwy 85A, Afton 918-257-4234, www.darrylstarbird.com Daily, 10:00am–5:00pm (closed Tuesdays) $8 for adults (13 and up); $5 for children (8–12) Eastern Trails Museum 215 West Illinois Avenue, Vinita 918-256-2115, www.vinita.com/museum Monday–Saturday 1:00–4:00pm Free admission; call ahead to confirm the museum will be open.

Cabin Creek Civil War Battle Site 442370 East 367 Road, Big Cabin www.civilwardiscoverytrail.org/location_detail.php?SiteID=742 Monday–Saturday, daylight hours Free admission Totem Pole Park 21300 Hwy 28A E, Foyil 918-283-8035, www.travelok.com/listings/view.profile/id.13179 Park open all daylight hours; Fiddle House open Tuesday–Sunday, 11:00am–5:00pm; call to confirm hours Free admission; donations accepted

Belvidere Mansion 121 N Chickasaw Avenue, Claremore 918-342-1127, www.rogerscountyhistory.org Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00am–3:00pm; Tea room open 11:00am–2:00pm Free admission for tours Blue Whale 2600 N Hwy 66, Catoosa 918-694-7390, www.travelok.com/listings/view.profile/id.653 Open daily, 8:00am–dark Free admission Arkansas River Historical Society Museum 5350 Cimarron Road, Catoosa 918-266-2291, www.tulsaweb.com/port/museum.htm Monday–Friday, 8:00am–4:30pm Free admission; donations accepted Redbud Valley Nature Preserve 16150 Redbud Drive, Catoosa 918-669-6644, www.oxleynaturecenter.org/redbud.htm Wednesday–Sunday, 8:00am–5:00pm; closed on city holidays Free admission

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Travel Reads and Products Safe and Fun Travel Items Books Go Out And Play!

(Candlewick Press, softcover, $12) You might remember playing blind-man’s bluff or four-square as a kid— but do you remember the rules? This book contains those games and so many more that will get your family out of the house and engaged in some good, old-fashioned fun.

Includes description of games, suggested age ranges and a list of necessary equipment.

Historical Atlas of Oklahoma (Fourth Edition)

By Charles Robert Goins and Danney Goble Cartography by Charles Robert Goins and James H. Anderson (OU Press, softcover, $30) What do you want to know about Oklahoma? You can likely find it in this indispensible resource.

From the early 1800s formation of Indian Territory to the state highway system in 1929 (including Route 66) and a current map of the 27 different types of rock formations found in Oklahoma soil, this book contains something to inform everyone.

On the Go Time

By Elizabeth Verdick, illustrated by Marieka Heinlen (Free Spirit Publishing, board book, $8) Is your child ready for an adventure? Traveling with a toddler or preschooler

may not seem worth it if your child is not excited about the trip. This book will teach them about the rules of good behavior when on the go. Includes tips for parents to ensure your outings are fun and successful.

Oklahoma Hiking Trails

By Kent F. Frates and Larry Floyd (OU Press, softcover, $20) Do you like to get out and explore when you travel?

This guide has hiking ideas whether you prefer Piney Hills, Woods and Lakes, Great Plains or Urban adventures. Includes a “Getting Started” guide with tips for those new to hiking and a list of six “best trails” as rated by the writers of this book.

Oklahoma Wildlife Pocket Naturalist Guide

By James Kavanagh, illustrated by Raymond Leung (Waterford Press, laminated pamphlet, $6) Exploring nature in the Sooner State is easier with this handy, pocket-sized, laminated guide to Oklahoma’s wildlife. Organized by animal type (insects, butterflies, fish, reptiles and amphibians, birds and mammals) with a handy guide to the location of 24 sanctuaries around the state. You won’t want to leave home without this title!

Travel-Friendly Items Keep your kids busy in the car with the My Friendship Bracelet Maker for ages 6 and up. An all-in-one travel kit to make stripe pattern bracelets. More patterns available online. ($17, www. myfbm.com) Healthy snacking on the go can be mess-free with fun treats like GoGosqueeZ Applesauce Pouches in easyto-pack leakproof, resealable pouches. Made from 100% fruit and available at most grocery stores. ($3/4, www. gogosqueez.com) Travel with tissues that fit snugly in your car’s cup holder with the Kiss U Tissue Tubes. These stylish tubes are refillable, ensuring that you always have a tissue close at-hand. ($8/2, www. kissucorps.com) If your littlest one is near nap time when you’re out and about, slip the Snooze Shade onto his stroller and give him a safe and breathable cocoon to rest in while also protecting him from bugs and sun. ($30, www.snoozeshade.com) The Motorola Talkabout 2-way radios are both walkietalkies and weather radios to help keep you safe during the storms. Radios come with charging stand. ($100, www. motorola.com) Wrapeaze Rain Ponchos pack easily and cover you when severe weather strikes. Keep a few in the car to protect you during Oklahoma’s storm season! ($25 child / $40 adult, www. wrapeaze.com) If the baby made a mess that just can’t wait to get home, keep dapple Baby Laundry Handwash in Sink Detergent packets stashed in the car and you can quickly wash out the messes while on the go. ($2/3, www. dapplebaby.com)

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ROUTE

66

Tulsa through Stroud

This section of Route 66 is very straightforward—just look for the Route 66 signs. Some of these sites, like the Rock Café, the Route 66 Interpretive Center and the filling station, had more of a Route 66 focus than many of the places we visited on the first leg of our trip, but there are still a variety of venues so that everyone could find something to enjoy. We were able to cover Route 66 from Bristow to Warwick in one day, so if your time is short, it’s still possible to see a great deal!

The Cherry Street district, on 15th Street between Peoria and Utica, is home to many restaurants, shops and galleries. Many shops in the area are upscale, but you can find family-friendly places as well.

We recently found a new fun place, Andolini’s, which has a huge selection of pizzas and other Italian foods. They solve the problem of bored kids waiting for food by giving them their own miniature pizza pans of dough to make their creation. They’ll bake them for you and deliver them back to your table before you leave! The service is great and the windows offer beautiful views of the Cherry Street area.

When you’re done, head south on Utica and you will come to Swan Lake, a great place to watch the birds and take a stroll.

After visiting the Cherry Street area, it is easy to find Philbrook Museum of Art. Go south on Utica to 21st Street, one mile west to Peoria, then south on Peoria until you see the sign telling you to turn left. This gorgeous museum has a vast collection of European and American art as well as a large amount of Native American art, and best of all, this museum is very family-friendly. Second Saturdays are always free at Philbrook and are filled with many fun family activities.

Of course you can tour the museum on your own, but docent guided tours are available each day at 2:00pm, or you can pre-arrange a group tour for 10 or more.

Kids will enjoy checking out a backpack that contains activities tailored to a specific area of the museum or trying out one of the

Cherry Street Farmers' Market and Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa.

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By Jennifer Geary

scavenger hunts. The gardens are a favorite of my children and we spend a great deal of time in them each time we visit. The gardens do have quite a few steps in areas, so you may want to keep that in mind if you are using a stroller or wheelchair. If you would like to treat your family to a nice meal, visit la Villa restaurant downstairs, and don’t forget to stop by the gift shop for a wide selection of books, games and activities. Visit Philbrook’s website before your visit for a schedule of classes or special events that may be held during your visit.

Gilcrease Museum is only about fifteen minutes from Philbrook on the west side of Tulsa. Just head toward Sand Springs and look for the Gilcrease Museum Road exit. This museum’s collections focus on art of the American West and Native Americans. Their children’s room offers kids a chance to explore the old West and related art with hands-on activities, books, and computer games. Docent-guided tours are available each day at 1:00 and 2:00pm, or you can pre-arrange a special needs tour or group tour for 10 or more by submitting a tour reservation form (available on their website) at least three weeks in advance. Children can explore the museum’s collections with SmART Cards (which have questions and fun facts about different items in the museum) or with the Trailblazer Bags. Available in different themes, these bags contain information on art and artists and have related activities that can be done on site or at home.

If you have time, Gilcrease has beautiful gardens, many of which are accessible with strollers or wheelchairs. The Restaurant at Gilcrease is also open for lunch from 11:00am-3:00pm. A few things to be aware of before you visit Gilcrease: no photography is allowed inside the museum; you must check large purses, bags, and diaper bags at the front desk; and strollers are allowed and are available at the front desk at no charge if you did not bring your own. All visitors receive free

Attractions

Andolini’s 1552 East 15th Street, Tulsa 918-728-6111, www.andopizza.com Sunday–Thursday, 11:00am–9:00pm; Friday–Saturday, 11:00am–late

admission the first Tuesday of each month. Before you visit Gilcrease, check their website for special events and classes that are ongoing and you may be able to take part in some artistic family fun.

After you leave Gilcrease, head back toward Tulsa on 412 East until you see the I-244 West exit. Look for the Southwest Boulevard exit (Exit 1D), which will put you just around the corner from Ollie’s Station. It’s only about a fifteen minute drive.

Ollie’s is a fun place to have a meal and watch some trains. The restaurant has three different trains running around the dining area on elevated tracks, which make for great entertainment as you’re waiting for your meal. There is so much railroad and Route 66 memorabilia displayed around the room that our waitress said she still finds new things, even after working there for three years. The food at Ollie’s Station is diner fare. My kids loved the grilled cheese sandwiches and my chicken fried steak was delicious.

Head to the Sapulpa Historical Museum next, which is only a 15–20 minute drive from Ollie’s. Go south on I-244 West, which will merge with I-44 West. Continue on I-44 until you see the Turner Turnpike sign—but if you take the Turner, you’re going to miss out on a lot of exciting sights! Keep to the left to stay on Route 66 into Sapulpa, where it is also marked as Mission Street, and then as Dewey Avenue.

You’ll find the museum one block south of Route 66 on East Lee Avenue—just turn left when you see Water Street.

The Museum is in the heart of downtown Sapulpa and will take you a while to tour, but it’s worth the time. If you are with a large group, call ahead for a tour guide, but if it’s just your family, you don’t need to pre-arrange anything. There are three floors of exhibits covering Sapulpa’s history from early Native American influences to present day. Most of the items are displayed in themed rooms or areas, such as a doctor’s office, a military room and an oil field room. Our tour guide grew up in Sapulpa and was able to add personal stories and even point out his father in a few of the pictures.

To get to Bristow, follow the Highway 66 signs out of Sapulpa. You’ll have about a half-hour drive, which will take you through Kellyville.

When you arrive in Bristow, Route 66 is also Main Street.

The Bristow Historical Museum is located in the town’s restored train depot. Outside is a caboose to climb on, which sometimes is open for visitors (call ahead). Inside is a collection of articles and artifacts related to Bristow’s history. You can read a program from

Philbrook Museum 2727 South Rockford Road, Tulsa 800-324-7941, www.philbrook.org Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00am–5:00pm; Thursday until 8:00pm. $9 for adults; $7 for seniors, students, and groups of 10 or more; Under 18, free. Free admission and activities the second Saturday of each month.

Gilcrease Museum 1400 North Gilcrease Museum Road, Tulsa 888-655-2278, www.gilcrease.utulsa.edu/ Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00am–5:00pm $8 for adults; $6 for seniors, active duty military, and groups of 10 or more; Under 18, free. Free admission the first Tuesday of each month.

No photography allowed Ollie’s Station Restaurant 4070 Southwest Boulevard, Tulsa 918-446-0524, www.olliesstation.com Sunday–Wednesday, 6:30am–3:00pm; Thursday–Saturday, 6:30am–8:30pm Sapulpa Historical Museum 100 E Lee Avenue, Sapulpa 918-224-4871, www.sapulpahistoricalsociety.com Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00am–3:00pm Free admission, donations accepted Bristow Historical Museum, Depot & Town Square One Railroad Place, Bristow 918-367-5151, www.visitbristowok.com/museums Monday–Friday, 10:00am–2:00pm Free admission, donations accepted Rock Café 114 West Main Street, Stroud 918-968-3990 Sunday–Saturday, 6:00am–9:00pm Route 66 Interpretive Center 400 East Hwy 66, Chandler 405-258-1300, www.route66interpretivecenter.org Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00am–5:00pm; Sunday 1:00–5:00pm (Closed Sundays October–April) $5 for adults; $4 for seniors and students; call ahead for group rates and discounts Historic Phillips 66 Filling Station 7th and Manvel, Chandler www.oklahomaroute66.com/preservation/chandler_sta.html Lincoln County Museum of Pioneer History 719 Manvel Avenue, Chandler 405-258-2425, www.pioneermuseumok.org Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00am–4:00pm Free admission, donations accepted Seaba Station Motorcycle Museum 336992 East Highway 66, Chandler 405-258-9141, www.seabastation.com Monday–Sunday, 10:00am–5:00pm; Closed Wednesday Free admission, donations accepted

Interior of the Gilcrease Museum in West Tulsa.

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Eleanor Roosevelt’s 1937 visit to dedicate the town youth center or see a barber’s chair from the early 1900s. The museum has Gene Autry memorabilia, too, as the famed Western movie and music star worked at the depot when he was a young man. Also featured is a large display on the town’s Lebanese heritage.

Just across from the museum is the Town Square, a covered plaza with plaques featuring different families that played a part in Bristow’s history. After leaving the depot, get back on Main Street and follow the Route 66 signs out of town. It will take you about 20–30 minutes of scenic driving to get to Stroud. After you pass by Depew, keep an eye on the left side of the road for a shoe tree!

The Rock Café in Stroud is another fun and historic place to eat on Route 66. The café was built in 1936 from rocks moved when Route 66 was paved. The owner, Dawn Welch, was the inspiration for the character of Sally in the Disney Pixar movie Cars, which instantly interested my son. She was not there when we visited, but there is Route 66 and Cars movie memorabilia on the walls that your children will enjoy. The menu at the Rock Café has something for everyone, from grilled cheese sandwiches to alligator burgers to Paleo Diet selections.

Another half hour or so of following Route 66 signs will bring you to Chandler, home of three different Route 66 attractions. The scenic drive also takes you through the quaint town of Davenport—home of Miss Oklahoma 2011, Betty Thompson—the road between Stroud and Chandler is pretty scenic.

In Chandler, the Route 66 Interpretive Center is very impressive.

Housed in the old armory, the center boasts six different stations where visitors can watch videos about Route 66. You can choose to sit in vintage car seats or relax on an upholstered bed while you take in the show. There is also a small theater with Route 66 movies.

The Center has information on all the states along the Mother Road and has a great collection of photographs as well. If you have young children, they can enjoy the play area while you are viewing the displays. Everything is in one large room, so it’s easy to keep an eye on your children even if they’re not right with you.

The Rock Cafe in Stroud and Lincoln County Museum of Pioneer History in Chandler.

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Just down the street from the Route 66 Interpretive Center is a historic Phillips 66 filling station. The station is currently being restored but will hopefully one day be fully operational with vintage pumps.

Continue down the street from the filling station and you will reach the Lincoln County Museum of Pioneer History. Exhibits on the first floor focus on early settlement of Lincoln County; upstairs displays show Lincoln County from statehood to present day. There are many interesting things to see, from an old-fashioned dentist chair to a vintage telephone that still works! If you plan to visit in the fall, call ahead or visit the website for a schedule of one-of-a-kind marionette shows.

The drive from Chandler to Warwick will only take you another 10 minutes. Look for the Seaba Station Motorcycle Museum, a red brick building, on your right. Here you’ll find over 100 motorcycles, from a 1909 Triumph and a 1939 Pope to a 1979 Triumph still in the crate. They also host a motorcycle swap meet the third weekends of May and September for those interested in motorcycles. And if, like me, you know next to nothing about motorcycles, there is still a large collection of “anything and everything,” in the words of the owner, Jerry Ries. After you see the motorcycles, be sure to head behind the building for a peek at the old outhouse, a hit with most visitors—and definitely with my kids!

If you’re looking for something fun to do that’s close to home, I encourage you to hit the Mother Road! There is something for everyone along the way, both silly and serious, and even if you’re a lifelong Oklahoman, you’re sure to learn something new about our state. Getting off the interstate and taking the back roads was a great change of pace and we were able to see so many unique things. A Route 66 trip will satisfy your whole family this summer!

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Arcadia to Yukon

Driving Route 66 through Central Oklahoma, the route seems deceptively simple; jump on I-35 to I-44 and continue on the 39th Expressway. But nothing is ever that easy, is it? And Route 66 has taken many paths through the city over the years.

From Arcadia, Route 66 still follows what becomes Second Street in Edmond, but from there it gets tricky. According to the Oklahoma Department of Transportation’s website, the next leg of the route has traveled either down what is now Broadway/I-235 (from 1926-1954) or I-35 (where it moved in 1954). And the further you get into Oklahoma City, the more confusing it is to trace the “Mother Road.” During its existence (from 1926-1985) the path of the road was often reimagined and revised.

So, we will take a bit of a disjointed tour of the metro, making our way from Arcadia to Yukon and visiting as many fun family attractions as we can along the way!

Arcadia’s first stop is the iconic Round Barn, built in 1898 and the only remaining original wooden round barn in the state. The building has been restored and contains many exhibits about round barns and Route 66. The top floor of the barn is available for rental for events and is a stunning room to visit. A few old farm implements may be viewed on the grounds as well. Admission is free, but donations to help maintain the structure are welcome.

Just up the road from the Round Barns is POPS, the restaurant known for its wide variety of soda flavors—everything from Avery Orange to Zuberfizz Key Lime—and the iconic 66-foot LED-lit pop bottle that marks its location. It’s a great place to stop for lunch, but be warned that on any given day the wait for a table may be in excess of an hour.

Continuing west on Second Street (which is a leg of the historic road), you’ll pass through a beautiful section of road where you are likely to see longhorn cattle grazing in the Oklahoma sunshine. On your left you’ll find Lake Arcadia, which features 26 miles of shoreline. Along with providing the city of Edmond its water, the lake provides ample opportunity for recreation—including fishing, boating and swimming, trails for walking, biking or horses and camping.

If you continue to follow Second Street through Edmond, take a right at Boulevard and you’ll find the Edmond Historical Society Museum, a small but informative museum on the history of the area going back to the late 1800s. Admission is free and the museum has a children’s hands-on area where little ones can play. Next to the museum is Stephenson Park, with

a playground, rest rooms and a pavilion for a picnic. Further down Second Street is the historic 1889 Territorial Schoolhouse, also maintained by the Edmond Historical Society.

When I drove south into Oklahoma City from Edmond, I traveled on Kelley Avenue (following a “Historic Route 66” marker) and it was a scenic drive that I hadn’t experienced before. Following more signs, I was briefly directed onto I-44. This section of interstate is near the area known as the Adventure District, which is the home to several great destinations for exploration.

The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum features galleries filled with Western-themed fine art, sculpture and tributes to heroes of the wild west of both the actual and Hollywood versions.

Children of all ages are sure to enjoy are the old-west town Prosperity Junction, which features period buildings and a setting that evokes a turn-of-the-century western town. The Children’s Cowboy Corral area behind the museum offers a space for creative play and fun and if the weather permits, be sure to tour the grounds which provide ample natural beauty and artwork.

From here, head over to Martin Luther King Avenue to find other fun venues. Science Museum Oklahoma features amazing and fun hands-on science activities for kids, plus a planetarium with free shows and the Dome Theater which has regularly-scheduled movies for an additional fee. Other highlights include a giant tree house (Gadget Trees) where kids can climb, run, explore and slide down a three-story spiral slide and free Science Live! shows that inform and entertain.

Just next door is the Oklahoma City Zoo. Featuring acres of animals, activities and gardens, the Zoo is a great place to spend a few hours relaxing or running! The Children’s Zoo area has opportunities for hands-on fun for kids, the Oklahoma Trails features the amazing diversity of wildlife found in the state and the most recent update, an all-new elephant habitat, features two additions to Zoo favorites Asha and Chandra—baby elephant Malee and Rex, a bull elephant.

Down the road from the Zoo and across the street, the National Softball Hall of Fame and Museum Complex includes a museum

The Round Barn and Pops in Arcadia, and The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City.

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By Mari Farthing

Attractions that highlights the history of the sport plus the Hall of Fame exhibit.

The beautiful stadium is home to games and events, including the NCAA Women’s College World Series (May 31–June 6) which features softball games, fanfest and giveaways and the World Cup of Softball (June 27–July 2) which features teams from several other countries including Brazil, Australia and the Netherlands.

Directly across the street, the Oklahoma State Firefighters Museum features indoor and outdoor exhibits celebrating Oklahoma’s community helpers. Outdoors, you’ll find the Fallen Firefighters Memorial. Behind the museum is a fun area for kids—with a large play structure, a period fire truck perfect for exploration and “his and hers” fire hydrants for your four-legged friends. Firefighter memorabilia inside the museum includes both historic and modern equipment, and a special memorial pays tribute to those involved in the rescue operations following the 1995 Murrah Building bombing.

Backtrack to I-44, and signs direct you to continue on Route 66, which is now Lincoln Boulevard. This path will take you to the Capitol District, and even from two miles away, the Captiol building boasts an impressive backdrop.

Along Lincoln Boulevard, you’ll pass Woodland Park, Langston University and the Jim Thorpe Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame.

This museum pays tribute to athletes, journalists, coaches and sports patrons connected to Oklahoma. In three exhibit areas, visitors to this free museum will see permanent and rotating exhibits that highlight Jim Thorpe award winners and a vast collection of memorabilia. Call ahead to schedule a free, guided tour and Museum Director Justin Lenhart will lead you on a scavenger hunt through the exhibits. One current highlight is the exhibit of Olympic memorabilia.

The Oklahoma State Capitol, in the middle of the road near 23rd Street, is an impressive sight to drive upon, and makes up for the snarl of one-way streets and confusion of government buildings. If you take the time to park and explore, you’ll find that the Capitol is home to beautiful architecture and information about the building, which began construction in 1915 but wasn’t completed until 2002!

Just across from the Capitol, the Oklahoma History Center is a unique venue that showcases the history of Oklahoma through beautiful permanent and rotating exhibits. Outside, the celebration of our state continues with botanical gardens, sculpture and a ¼-mile walking path that replicates the path of the Red River. The Winnie

The Round Barn 107 E Hwy 66, Arcadia 405-396-0824, www.arcadiaroundbarn.com Open daily, 10:00am–5:00pm Free admission, donations accepted POPS 660 W Hwy 66, Arcadia 405-928-POPS, www.pops66.com Restaurant: Monday–Friday 10:30am–9:00pm, Saturday–Sunday 7:00am–3:00pm; Gas station open daily, 6:00am–10:00pm Reasonably-priced diner fare

Lake Arcadia 9000 E Second, Arcadia 405-216-7470, www.edmondok.com Daily entry fees range from $2–$7; annual passes available A variety of facilities including camping, water sports, multi-use trails and playgrounds.

Edmond Historical Society Museum 431 S Boulevard, Edmond 405-340-0078, www.edmondhistory.org Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00am–5:00pm Free admission, donations accepted National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum 1700 NE 63rd Street, OKC 405-478-2250, www.nationalcowboymuseum.org Open daily, 10:00am–5:00pm (closed Thanskgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day) Adults $12.50, $9.75 seniors and students with ID, $5.75 ages 4–12, age 3 and under free Science Museum Oklahoma 2100 NE 52nd Street, OKC 405-602-6664, www.sciencemuseumok.org Monday–Friday, 9:00am–5:00pm, Saturday 9:00am–6:00pm, Sunday 11:00am–6:00pm Museum admission: $11.95 adults, $9.95 over age 65 or age 4–12; Dome theatre admission: $8.95 adults, $6.95 over age 65 or age 4–12; Museum plus theatre: $15.95 adults, $12.95 over age 65 or age 4–12; age 3 and under free Oklahoma City Zoo 2101 NE 50th Street, OKC 405-4240-3344, www.okczoo.com Open daily, 9:00am–5:00pm (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day) $8 adults, $5 seniors or kids 3–11; group rates available National Softball Hall of Fame and Museum 2801 NE 50th Street, OKC 405-424-5266, www.asasoftball.com/hall_of_fame Monday–Friday, 8:30am–4:30pm (October–March) $6 adults, $3 children Oklahoma State Firefighters Museum 2716 NE 50th Street, OKC 405-424-1452, www.osfa.info Monday–Saturday, 9:00am–4:30pm; Sunday 1:00–4:30pm $5 adults, $4 seniors, $2 age 6–12, under age 6 free Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame Museum 4040 N Lincoln Boulevard, OKC 405-427-1400, www.jimthorpeassoc.org Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00am–5:00pm Free admission

Science Museum Oklahoma in Oklahoma City.

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Mae Café, open for lunch, provides diner fare in a 1930s aviationthemed ambience.

South of the Captiol area, the Harn Homestead takes visitors back in time to the Land Run era. Bring the family here to explore the grounds and historic buildings. To explore even more, take part in a free tour (held at 11:00am, 1:30pm and 3:00pm) or schedule a group field trip in advance. Each April, the Harn hosts a Land Run, with oldfashioned events and games celebrating the historic Land Run. Other events are held throughout the year.

From here, follow the signs to continue on Route 66 through the city and onto 23rd Street. This is a bustling section of the city that still holds many highlights from Route 66’s heyday. The Gold Dome building (at NW 23rd between Classen and Western) was originally a bank and is now on the National Register of Historic Places and is an events venue. If you are hungry, stop by Someplace Else, a deli and bakery across Western Avenue that serves up sandwiches and baked goods that are fast and delicious.

From 23rd Street, it’s an easy trip to the Plaza District (16th between Classen and Penn), a rejuvenated area which houses art galleries, shops, restaurants and the renovated Plaza Theater. The Paseo District (23rd–30th between Walker and Western) is also a vibrant community of restaurants, galleries and shopping. Both areas are known for concerts and art walk events and are a step outside of the everyday.

Take a detour from Route 66 at this point, and you won’t be disappointed; there are many venues to explore nearby!

The Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum, located in the Midtown area and just on the edge of the historic, tree-filled Mesta Park neighborhood, features exhibits that highlight the story of

The Oklahoma State Capitol and the Oklahoma History Center in Oklahoma City.

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Exploring Oklahoma with Children 2012

Oklahoma through its sons and daughters via a variety of permanent and special exhibits. In the ONEOK Tell Your Story exhibit, visitors can share their own stories, then email a copy of their recording to themselves as a one-of-a-kind memento of the visit.

Further south, at 6th Street and North Harvey, the Oklahoma City National Memorial marks the site of the Murrah Federal Building tragedy with an outdoor Memorial Garden and Memorial Museum that seeks to bring comfort and hope to anyone who has experienced tragedy. The museum provides an in-depth look into the events surrounding the 1995 bombing and if you plan to tour it, make sure you allow yourself several hours. The outdoor Memorial area is free and open to the public.

It’s not far from the Memorial to the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, which recently celebrated their 10 year anniversary. The museum is home to an impressive permanent collection of pieces by glass artist Dale Chihuly, along with a wide collection of paintings, sketches and sculpture. The museum holds regular events including hands-on art for kids each Saturday, free Family Days, classes for all ages and evening events.

If you find yourself with extra time for exploration here, there are a wide range of venues to visit including the Myriad Botanical Gardens, Bricktown and the Oklahoma River. But we need to get back to Route 66 exploration!

From 23rd Street, the route jogs north to 39th Street, either via Western Avenue (1930) Classen Avenue (1926) or May Avenue (1933).

This section takes you out of Oklahoma City and west toward Bethany.

Along Classen Avenue, the historic Milk Bottle Building which sits atop a small building in what is now the city’s Asian District, home to a variety of ethnic restaurants and stores.

From I-44, take the exit for the 39th Expressway and make your way into Bethany. The Main Street area of town (along 39th

Street) is home to a row of quaint shops and restaurants that will bring you back in time and give you some rest from the road, should you need it. A few blocks away, Eldon Lyon Park (36th Street between Rockwell and Council) is a 60-acre oasis that includes a wide lawn for picnics plus play areas, shelters and a great multi-use trail and restrooms.

Continue west on 39th and turn right at Overholser Drive to follow Route 66 around Lake Overholser. The historic bridge (over the canal connecting Lake Overholser to Lake Hefner) is narrow and fun to drive over with the span of ironworks overhead. Less adventurous drivers may skip the bridge by turning on County Line Road, a bit further west). This historic leg of the Route winds around the lake, offering picturesque views. Route 66 splits off onto 36th Street (where it continues west for a few miles before re-merging with 39th Street), but continue your trek around the lake on Morgan Road.

Built in 1919, Lake Overholser is the city’s oldest water reservoir.

Fishing spots and covered docks are available at intervals around the lake, but the highlight for me is Route 66 Park, at 23rd Street and Morgan Road. This park is a fun place to spend the day—there is an observation tower to climb and check out the lake and surrounding area, a Route 66 Plaza that shows Route 66’s path from Chicago to Santa Monica, the largest playground in the city’s parks department, a skate park and a walking trail that winds through a wetlands area complete with bridges, raised boardwalk paths and information about the wildlife that can be seen in the area.

Further around the lake, the Overholser Dam, also on the National Register of Historic Places and worth the visit. Get out of the car and walk along the dam to get an up-close view.

Riding the historic Mother Road through Oklahoma City is tricky, but it can be done! And the fun you’ll find along the way will make it all worthwhile.

Oklahoma State Capitol 2300 N Lincoln Boulevard, OKC 405-521-3356, www.ok.gov Monday–Friday, 7:00am–7:00pm; Saturday–Sunday, 9:00am–4:00pm Self-guided tours are available weekdays 8:00am–5:00pm, weekends all day. Trained volunteers conduct 45-minute tours on weekdays.

Call 405-522-5173 for groups of 10 or more.

Oklahoma History Center 800 Nazih Zudhi Drive, OKC 405-522-5248, www.oklahomahistorycenter.org Monday–Saturday, 10:00am–5:00pm $7 adults, $5 seniors, $4 students, free for age 5 and under and military veterans Winnie Mae Café open 11:00am–3:00pm Harn Homestead 1721 N Lincoln Boulevard, OKC 405-235-4058, www.harnhomestead.com Gates open Monday–Friday, 10:00am–4:00pm; guided tours at 11:00am 1:30pm and 3:00pm $5 admission, $1 discount for seniors and military with ID The Gold Dome 1112 NW 23rd Street, OKC 405-582-0782, www.golddomeokc.net Someplace Else 2310 N Western Avenue, OKC 405-524-0887 Monday–Friday 7:00am–6:30pm, Saturday 9:30am–4:00pm Reasonably-priced deli and bakery The Plaza District www.plazadistrict.org The Paseo District www.thepaseo.com Gaylord-Pickens Oklahoma Heritage Museum 1400 Classen Drive, OKC 405-235-4458, www.oklahomaheritage.com Tuesday–Friday 9:00am–5:00pm, Saturday 10:00am–5:00pm $7 adults, $5 seniors and students, age 5 and under free Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum 620 N Harvey, OKC 405-235-3313, www.oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org Museum: Monday–Saturday 9:00am-6:00pm, Sunday noon–6:00pm Museum admission $12, $10 for seniors, military and students, age 5 and under free. Group rates available Outdoor memorial open all hours, free admission. Park rangers available 9:00am–5:30pm daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day Oklahoma City Museum of Art 415 Couch Drive, OKC 405-236-3100, www.okcmoa.com Museum: Tuesday–Saturday 10:00am–5:00pm; Sunday noon– 5:00pm;May–October, open until 9:00pm Thursdays $12 adults, $10 seniors, college students with ID and children 6 and up, $5 military with ID, age 5 and under free. Group rates available.

See website for cafe and theater hours and prices Bricktown www.bricktownokc.com Eldon Lyon Park 7400 NW 36th Street, Bethany www.cityofbethany.org/2011/01/eldon-lyon-park Lake Overholser located between Council and Morgan Roads www.okc.gov/lakes/overholser.html

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Tips for having fun on the journey

For Amanda Carman, founder of www.excited2learn.com, a breakthrough came while taking her young child on a 10-hour car trip. “Instead of looking at it like ‘we just have to get there, how much longer?’ and having the whole trip being something akin to travel torture, we went the other direction,” Carman explains. “Travel is no longer just a means to an end. It becomes part of the adventure, part of the fun and quality family time.”

on a page in the notebook, adding her own words and artwork. At the end of the trip, you have a ready-made keepsake created from your child’s perspective.

6.

Looking for ways to reducing the driving doldrums and fall in love a road trip? Try these ten tips from Carman and other experts: 1.

Be over-prepared. Bring the necessities (wipes, trash bags, snacks, first aid supplies) as well as the things you will need to for more comfortable travel (a mini-flashlight for kids, frozen juice boxes to keep other food cold until drinkable, books on CD, hand-held games, pillows, extra clothes). When in doubt, pack it.

2. Encourage backseat driving. Use your route as part of the entertainment. Have your children use a Bingo marker to make a dot on a map to represent each place you pass or stop. Or mark the route you are taking using a highlighter. Challenge kids to count the number of towns until your next stop—or better yet, use the map to help determine a few fun stops along the way.

3.

Break it up. Plan a new activity, snack, rest stop or treat for every 30 minutes of your drive. “The amount of time you spend preparing will save you twice that amount of time on the road,” Carman says. “It can be a quick snack, a coloring sheet or a small toy. Your child will look forward to picking a treat each time.” Or, write clues to a riddle on index cards and place them in a series on envelopes. Every 30 minutes, your child opens an envelope until he guesses the answer. Reward him with stickers, a small toy or other fun treat.

4.

Eat on the road. Your instincts might tell you to plan your stops around meals, but Carman recommends the opposite. “Eat in the car. Use it as part of the entertainment to pass time,” she advises.

“When planning your route, scope out places to stop along the way. Use stops exclusively for exercise and restroom breaks.”

5.

Make an evolving scrapbook. Create flashcards of common sights (stoplights and road signs), landmarks or major cities along your route. As you pass each one, have your child glue that card

Engage in some Q&A. Ask interesting questions and record your child’s responses on your iPhone or handheld recorder. What will he be when he grows up? What has been the most fun part of the summer? Download these audio files after the trip and label them with the year. These clips will become an keepsake (and possibly, great blackmail material!) as your child grows older.

7. Get clingy. Provide two passengers in the car with identical sets of window clings. Have one make a design on their window while the other has his back turned. The first then tells the other how to replicate the same design. Do they match?

8. Name it. If you find yourself traveling near the same cars for a period of time, name them. The white sports car becomes the White Racer and the sedan is dubbed the Green Hornet. “Track how long you travel together and make up stories for who is inside and where they are they going,” suggests parenting expert and father of six Robert Nickell, founder of www.daddyscrubs. com. “Make it about the experience of the drive and use creative storytelling to increase family bonding.”

9.

Let them be actively bored. Eileen Gunn, Founder and Editor of FamiliesGo!, (www.familiesgotravel.com), says that its not a bad thing to embrace boredom. “It helps them to think creatively,” she explains. “Sometimes when you leave them to their own devices, they will surprise you with their elaborate ideas and imagery scenarios. ”

10. Music appreciation. Stock the car with CDs or download a variety of songs from artists old and new. Take turn playing DJ in the car and introduce your kids to artists you like. “Throw in artists like Dan Zanes or They Might be Giants. A lot of kids’ music is good, and use this time to learn more about what your children enjoy listening to,” Gunn explains.

Tips such as these do more than just pass the time, says Mathias Friess of www.webjet.com. “Everyone has heard the adage, ‘Life is not a destination, but a journey.’ Car travel can seem daunting and stressful, but with a bit of creativity, you can have just as much fun while traveling as you do at your destination.”

By making the process fun, you can help change your entire family’s perception of car travel and help you make the most out of the time you have with your children—while they’re still children. “When kids do fun activities in the car, they are making good childhood memories that will make them look forward to family travel, forge deeper connections with family members and also make them want to travel with their families once they grow up,” Friess says.

Such has been the case for Carman and her family. “It gets easier each time we take a trip,” she explains. “We never thought long distance travel with kids could be so much fun, but now we look forward to the drive.”

Now hit the road and enjoy the experience!

Brooke Barnett is the Assistant Editor at MetroFamily Magazine.

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Exploring Oklahoma with Children 2012

Stafford Air & Space Museum

1721 N Lincoln, OKC 405-235-4058 – harnhomestead.com 1 free child’s admission with each paid adult admission.

Not valid for group admissions or educational programming.

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

Oklahoma Aquarium

300 Aquarium Drive, Jenks 918-296-FISH – okaquarium.org Buy 1 adult ticket get 1 child ticket free.

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

Jump!Zone Party & Play Center SW 104th & S Western (Palagio Shops), OKC 405-200-1691 – jumpzoneparty.com $5 off Jump!Pass Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art

1900 West MacArthur, Shawnee 405-878-5300 – mgmoa.org Buy 1 adult admission and get 2 free children’s admissions.

Promo code SCVB. Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

Paid Advertisement Andy Alligator’s Fun Park

3300 Market Place, Norman (I-35 & Indian Hills Road) 405-321-7275 – andyalligators.com Purchase a $20 game card and get $5 free.

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

Oklahoma Route 66 Museum

2229 W Gary Blvd, Clinton 580-323-7866 – route66.org Free child admission for each paid adult admission.

Bouncin Craze

14901 N Lincoln Blvd, Edmond & 9333 W. Reno, OKC 405-607-2020 – bouncincraze.com Buy 1 admission and get another admission 1/2 off.

Limit 1 per customer. Cannot be used on special event days.

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Museum

Oklahoma History Center

800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive, OKC 405-522-0765 – okhistorycenter.org $2 off regular price of Family Pass. Good for 1 Family Pass per customer.

Each Family Pass is good for up to 6 people.

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

Paint N’ Station

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

HC 64 Box 3270—Council House Road, Tuskahoma, OK 918-569-4465 – choctawnationculture.com Free admission for entire family. One free surprise gift for children 10 and younger. Not valid Labor Day Weekend, 2012.

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

7906 N May Ave, OKC 405-842-7770 Spend at least $25 and receive $5 off your entire purchase. 1 discount per visit.

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

Dawn to Dusk Inflatables

Jasmine Moran Children’s Museum

Museum of Osteology

1714 W Wrangler Blvd, Seminole 800-259-5437 – jasminemoran.com $1 off single admission. (Children 2 and under free.)

PO BOX 5531, Edmond 405-630-7275 – dawntoduskinflatables.com $10 off inflatable rental.

1 coupon per event/family.

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

10301 S Sunnylane Rd, OKC 405-814-0006 – museumofosteology.org Buy 1 adult admission at regular price, get 1 child admission (age 3-17) free.

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

Heritage Park Theatre

Science Museum Oklahoma

Tulsa Air & Space Museum & Planetarium

1 mile west of Weatherford on Rt 66, Weatherford 580-774-2117 – oktheatres.com One dollar off admission.

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

Southwestern Lanes

2100 NE 52nd St, OKC 405-602-6664 – sciencemuseumok.org $2 off any general admission ticket. Good for up to 4 people.

Does not include dome theater. Code: 700-038 Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

Enid Welcome Center

125 S. Broadway, Weatherford 580-772-7500 – southwesternlanes.com Buy 1 game get one free, shoes not included, not valid after 6pm Fridays and Saturdays.

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

123 W Maine, Enid 580-233-3643 – visitenid.org Enid information available in one stop. Meet our buffalo “Prairie Thunder” and enjoy free Enid-made toffee featured on “Discover Oklahoma.”

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

Oklahoma River Cruises

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Leonardo’s Children’s Museum

Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center

405-702-7755 – okrivercruises.com Buy 1 adult ticket at regular price, and get 1 kids ticket free. Only valid on service between Regatta Park and Exchange Landing and only on in-person or phone ticket sales.

Valid 2012 season only (Expires 12/31/12) Code: Metro12 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

200 E Maple Avenue, Enid 580-233-2787 – leonardos.org $1 off admission for up to 5 people.

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

Exploring OK with Children w i t h

1700 NE 63rd – OKC 405-478-2250 – nationalcowboymuseum.org Free child admission with paid adult. Limit 2 children, ages 4-12, per coupon. Not valid for special events including Chuck Wagon Gathering.

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

507 S 4th Street, Enid 580-237-1907 – csrhc.org 1 free child’s admission with paid adult admission.

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

3624 N 74th East Ave, Tulsa 918-834-9900 – tulsaairandspacemuseum.org $2 off admission for up to 4 visitors. Not valid for special events, group tours, or any other TASM promotion. Promo code TASM 2012.

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

Dodge City Paintball & Outdoor Laser Tag

16425 NW 150th, Piedmont 405-373-3745 – dodgecitypaintball.com $5 off regular admission price. 1 coupon per player.

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

Oklahoma Railway Museum

13400 NE Grand Blvd, OKC 405-424-8222 – oklahomarailwaymuseum.org 1 free child’s train ride (ages 3-15) when accompanied by a paying adult.

Valid only for regular museum trains that take place the 1st and 3rd Satruday of the month, April - September. Not valid during special events.

Expires 4/30/13 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

OKC RIVERSPORT 725 S Lincoln Blvd, Boathouse District, downtown OKC) 405-552-4040 – riversportokc.org Free youth RIVERSPORT Adventure Saturday Pass with purchase of adult pass. Valid 2012 season only.

Expires 10/27/12 MFMKidsPass2012 Not to be combined with other offers.

2012-2013 Kids Pass

Kids Pass coupon must be presented to admission personnel to receive discount. *Good thru 04/13 or the entity’s season end date.

metrofamilymagazine.com/exploring-oklahoma

Good thru 04/13*

EOWC 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

E25

Exploring OK with Children w i t Enter the Exploring Oklahoma Photo Contest for your h

chance to win one of two great Oklahoma trips!

It's easy! Go to our website to submit your favorite Oklahoma family vacation photo

by June 15th. The first and second place winners will be determined by popular vote between June 16th and July 6th.

• First Place Prize: a $500 voucher to be used at any Oklahoma State Park of your choice for camping, lodging and/or golf (expires 3/31/13).

• Second Place Prize: a fun Oklahoma City trip that includes a two-night stay at the Wyndham Garden Oklahoma City and four tickets to each of the following attractions: Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, Museum of Osteology, Science Museum Oklahoma and the new Water Park at Andy Alligator's Fun Park (valued at over $375).

Deadline for submissions is Friday, June 15th metrofamilymagazine.com/exploring-oklahoma-contest

Thank you to our contest sponsors:

MetroFamily Magazine • 405-601-2081 • metrofamilymagazine.com/contests

EOWC 2012 | www.metrofamilymagazine.com

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ROUTE

66

El Reno to Clinton

Heading west on Route 66 from Oklahoma City, the Mother Road becomes more rustic as it winds through the early history of Oklahoma’s frontier, where children can ride a turn-of-the-century trolley, rappel down towering red bluffs or explore the great unknown of space.

From the trolley rides and cavalry fort of El Reno to the iconic Route 66 Museum in Clinton, this section of the Mother Road brings road trippers to POW camps, historic old bridges and gas stations, Native American history and one of the prettiest state parks in Oklahoma.

History and architecture notwithstanding, the drive in western Oklahoma is more steeped in the early days of statehood than it is scenery, with the exception of Red Rock Canyon State Park—a surprising and impressive box canyon that looms out of otherwise flat land—and Foss Lake by Clinton. Let’s get going.

Start your trip in El Reno, but be sure to stop at Sid’s Diner for the famous onion burgers to give you fuel for a day of history, hiking, exploring and driving.

By Heide Brandes

“That building right there has a second-story bricked-up door in the back. Because it was the gambling hall, it led to a platform that crossed the alley into the other building so people could hide if the sheriff came,” she says.

Children especially will enjoy exploring the Rock Island Railroad restored caboose, and for a special treat, the Canadian County Historical Museum offers Heritage Express Trolley rides Wednesdays through Sunday for $3 for adults and $1.50 for children and seniors.

This Heritage Express Trolley is a fully-restored 1924 Brill Motor Car that seats 48, and the ride winds through old downtown El Reno past the National Historic Register buildings of the Goff House and the turn of the century high school that’s still in use.

Don’t miss a visit to the Red Barn, which is also located on the museum grounds. Be sure to sit at the Elkhorn Saloon, an actual preCivil War bar that was brought to El Reno for the 1901 land drawing and used until 1907.

Situated on the original Rock Island Railroad Depot, the Canadian County Historical Museum hosts original historic buildings such as the Possum Hollar one-room school house, the oldest and first Mennonite church in Oklahoma, a log-cabin structure that served as the first Red Cross canteen in America and the old Hotel El Reno, built in 1892 and used until the mid-1970s.

If ever a place was haunted by ghosts and frontier violence, Historic Fort Reno might be that place. Established as a military camp in 1874, Fort Reno and the Darlington Agency was originally used to quell uprisings and unrest among the Native Americans in the region.

Inside the museum, visitors can explore early statehood artifacts ranging from Native American tools, garb and headdresses (some with human hair attached to the end of feathers) to pictures of early life in El Reno. Be sure to ask the curator or weekend volunteers questions, because they love to share the lore and history of a town that made its fortune with beer and flour.

Several battles between the Native Americans and the soldiers were fought in the area, including the 1875 Battle of the Sand Hills.

Three years later, in 1878, more than 300 Northern Cheyenne made a dramatic escape to freedom from Fort Reno after being forcibly rounded up from Montana and moved to Indian Territory. As a military encampment, the history of Fort Reno is steeped in violence.

“See that buffalo head up there,” said Debbie Kauffman, weekend volunteer and trolley conductor. “He liked to get into fights with cars, and in the last fight, he won. They figured they better put him down.”

It’s steeped in history, too. The Buffalo Soldiers were stationed there, and in the World War II era, the fort was used as a POW camp for captured German soldiers.

“See that contraption right there? What do you think that is? It’s a dishwasher!” she points out.

Visit the Fort Reno Visitors Center to talk to Karen Nix, a bubbly blonde with more stories about Fort Reno than even the history books

Fort Reno and Red Rock Canyon.

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Exploring Oklahoma with Children 2012

Attractions have. From Amelia Earhart landing at the airstrip in the 1920s to the racing of horses at the Fort, she has a tale for everything.

She also knows about the hauntings. Brave visitors to Fort Reno can delve into the ghostly legends surrounding the Fort during the Ghosts of Fort Reno Tours, held one Saturday of every month. For $8 for adults, $7 for seniors and $5 for children under 12, families can hear the stories of the spirits by lantern light in a guided tour that unearths unsolved mysteries and murder stories.

Also, don’t miss the Fort Reno Candlelight Tour Re-Enactment on September 29 at the Fort. By candlelight and lantern, re-enactors portray the people of the Fort Reno’s past.

Although the main building on the fort serves as a United States Department of Agriculture research station now, several buildings and landmarks are easily explored, including the chapel and the Fort Reno cemetery.

As you leave Fort Reno, follow old Route 66 to one of Oklahoma’s most unique bridges. A little tricky to get to, the William Murray Bridge, or Pony Bridge, is made famous in the film The Grapes of Wrath, in which Grandpa dies and is buried near the west end of the Pony Bridge. It’s a classic example of early 20th Century bridges in Oklahoma. At 3,944.33 feet long, it was completed on July 1, 1933 and has 38 “pony trusses.”

While you are in the area, head east to the ghost town of Bridgeport up the Bridgeport Hill, which legend says was so steep, vehicles at the time had to drive up the hill backwards. Bridgeport had the potential to be a booming town in 1904 when it had 76 businesses and two hotels. By 1909, however, businesses began to decline and the changing of Route 66 to bypass the city led to its downfall. A ghost town, Bridgeport still has about 30 families who live there, so if exploring, be respectful of private property.

Heading west along Route 66 will bring families to Hinton, home of an outdoor-lover’s dream. Surrounded by towering red canyon walls, Red Rock Canyon State Park offers rugged and well-marked trails through marshy lands or over rocky terrain. More adventurous families can bring rappelling gear for thrilling descents down the walls or can just enjoy a day of fishing and playing in the park’s playground and pool. A popular place for campers, this Park offers bunkhouse, RV sites, tent site and a kitchen/dining hall.

Expect to stay more than a few hours here, as some of the hikes can last hours and the scenery alone—a massive box canyon tucked away

Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton.

Canadian County Historical Museum 300 South Grand Avenue, El Reno 405-262-5121 Wednesday–Saturday 10:00am–5:00pm; Sunday 1:00–5:00pm Admission is free Heritage Express Trolley rides: Wednesday–Sunday; $3 adults, $1.50 children and seniors.

Historic Fort Reno 7107 West Cheyenne, El Reno 405-262-3987, www.fortreno.org Open daily, 10:00am–4:00pm Admission is free Red Rock Canyon State Park Hwy 281 South, Hinton, OK 73047 Admission is free Camping rates: primitive tent or RV camp site is $12 per night Semi-modern site with electric and water is $20 per night. For campers over the age of 62, Oklahoma State Parks offer a $2 discount on the base rate per night, with proper identification.

Additional rates for electric, sewer or water are not discounted.

Stafford Air and Space Museum 3000 Logan Road, Weatherford 580-772-5871, www.staffordmuseum.com Monday–Saturday 9:00am–5:00pm; Sunday 1:00–5:00pm Flight Simulation Lab closes at 4:30pm daily Admission: adults $7; seniors & military $5, students 6-18 $2 Planetarium: adults $3; students 6–18, $1.50 Fly In: adults $5; students 6–18 $2 Heartland Museum of America 1600 S Frontage Road, Weatherford 580-774-2212, www.oklahomaheartlandmuseum.com Tuesday–Saturday 9:00am–4:00pm Admission free for under 6; student $2; SWOSU student $2; Adults $6, special rates for 10 or more adults Oklahoma Route 66 Museum 2129 Gary Boulevard, Clinton 580-323-7866, www.route66.org Open hours vary by season Admission $4 adults, discounts for seniors, children and groups McLain Rogers State Park S 10th & Jaycee Lane, Clinton 580-323-4572 Admission is free The Maize at P Bar Farms 1002 Old 66 Road, Weatherford 580-772-4401, www.pbarfarms.com Only open in fall: Thursday & Friday 5:00–10:00pm, Saturday 10:00am–10:00pm

Lucille's Roadhouse and Service Station.

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among the flat plains of Western Oklahoma—is too enjoyable to rush through.

But when pulling into Clinton along Route 66, make a special effort to stop at the Mohawk Lodge Indian Store.

When leaving, be sure to stop by the Hinton Museum to check out the large collection of buggies used in the early 1900s in Oklahoma.

Until a tornado blew through a few years ago, the store was marked with a large teepee in front, but the Mohawk Lodge still retains one of the most interesting and eclectic collections of Native American goods and history. Patricia and Charles Henry, owners of the store, will tell you it’s the oldest Indian store in Oklahoma, and in fact, the same counter display that sold shiny colored beads to Native Americans in the Old West still carries beads today. From brightly-beaded papooses to buckskin Indian tunics to Native American headdresses, the store is overflowing with artifacts, goods and memories.

Route 66 is home to many legends, but Lucille’s Service Station in Hydro brings travelers back to the days of riding the two-lane highway in an open convertible. A two-story white gas station tucked on the north side of Route 66, Lucille’s was built in 1927 and Lucille and Carl Hamons purchased the station in 1941. For years, the couple ran the station—which still sports two old-time Phillips 66 gas pumps— until the interstate highway was built, delivering a crushing blow to the historic gas stop.

In 1998, the little service station was placed on the National Register of Historic Places. Known as the “Mother of the Mother Road,” Lucille died in August 2000.

After visiting and peeking in the windows of the old station, travel just a mile or two down the road to Weatherford and eat at Lucille’s Roadhouse, a 1950s-style diner and replica of the Provine gas station where Lucille lived and worked. Try the burgers or enjoy an oldfashioned ice cream shake.

There’s no shortage of exploring to do along Route 66 in Weatherford and Clinton. See a moon rock and engage in a battle in a World War I dog fight at Tom Stafford Air and Space Museum in Weatherford, browse through vintage automobiles and see early pioneer life at Heartland Museum of America or taste a bit of Americana at the Route 66 Museum in Clinton, which has been recently renovated.

Along every wall, black and white photos tell the stories of Native Americans near and dear to the Henrys. They’ll tell you about the Armstrong sisters (now deceased), two somber little Indian girls dressed in traditional garb. One long photograph features about 100 fully-decorated Indians gathered on horseback in the streets of Watonga. Even Patricia Henry’s grandmother, garbed in buckskin dress, holds a spot on the wall of photos.

“The counters are original, and for 120 years, this store has been selling to Indians,” said Charles Henry. “The cash register is from 1892. We don’t take credit cards, obviously.”

After spending time talking with the Henrys, outdoor fun can be found at the McLain Rogers State Park in Clinton with its massive stone outdoor amphitheater, miniature golf course, tennis courts and water park.

After working up an appetite, try a buffalo burger at the Cherokee Trading Post along the interstate service road in Clinton.

Make a special trip during the fall to Weatherford and look for the large barn with an ear of corn painted on the roof that says simply, “The Maize.” The Maize is part of P_Bar Farms, a treat for families looking for fun wandering corn mazes, petting animals at the Barnyard Petting Farm and Chicken Ranch or chasing friends in a game of laser tag. Most activities are open in the fall, so call ahead to check event schedules.

Mohawk Lodge in Clinton.

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Exploring Oklahoma with Children 2012

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Our guide to

Where to Go+What to Do Eighteen fantastic Oklahoma destinations and attractions perfect for family fun & adventure.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Andy Alligator's Water Park Chickasaw Cultural Center City Arts Center Enid Welcome Center Great Plains Country Green Country Heartland Flyer National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 9. Oklahoma City Museum of Art 10. Oklahoma River Cruises 11. Oklahoma WONDERTORIUM 12. Pauls Valley 13. Phillips 66 Big 12 Baseball Championship 14. Red Carpet Country 15. Sam Noble Museum 16. Stafford Air & Space Museum 17. Stillwater Convention & Visitors Bureau 18. Weatherford Tourism Find out more about these places and others at metrofamilymagazine.com/ exploring-oklahoma-guide.

EDITOR'S NOTE: Our sincere gratitude to Zachary Burch for providing the above map. You may purchase his original map as a poster (18X24) which features over 75 interesting sites and facts about Oklahoma. Makes a great gift for family and friends. Discounts available for ordering 8 or more. Purchase the poster at www. neptoonz.com.

Special Advertising Section

Exploring OK with Children

Our guide to

Where to Go+What to Do

w i t h

Heartland Flyer

100 S E.K. Gaylord Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 73102 800-USA-RAIL amtrak.com Your Oklahoma Rail Connection: Daily Round-Trip between Oklahoma City and Ft. Worth, Texas with stops along the way in Norman, Purcell, Pauls Valley, Ardmore and Gainesville. There are thrills and attractions for everyone! Senior discounts and Kids Club available. For reservations, contact 1-800-USA-RAIL or www.amtrak.com

Stillwater Convention & Visitors Bureau 2617 W. 6th Avenue Stillwater, OK 74074 405-743-3697 visitstillwater.org facebook.com/stillwatercvb

Andy Alligator’s Water Park 3300 Market Place Norman, OK 73072 405-321-7275 andyalligators.com

Safe, clean and affordable family fun is just around the corner. From kid’s parties and office celebrations to splishsplash family fun at the new water park, Andy Alligator’s Fun Park & Water Park has the rides, games and attractions to keep the party going all day long!

Chickasaw Cultural Center

CHICKASAW

Now open 24 hours a day and 7 days per week, the Stillwater Convention & Visitors Bureau is your place for information about events and activities in Stillwater.

Whether it’s an outdoor adventure, an OSU sporting event, or a trip to a children’s museum like the Oklahoma WONDERtorium—Stillwater is the ideal location for family fun.

867 Cooper Memorial, Sulphur, OK 73086 (580) 622-7130 CULTURAL CENTER chickasawculturalcenter. com Nestled on 109 acres of rolling hills, woodlands and streams near Sulphur, Oklahoma, the Chickasaw Cultural Center utilizes the latest technology, live demonstrations, ancient artifacts and natural outdoor spaces to tell the Chickasaw story. Features of the sprawling campus include a traditional village, amphitheatre, state-of-the-art exhibit buildings, indoor theater, café and honor garden.

Stafford Air & Space Museum

City Arts Center

3000 Logan Road Weatherford, OK 73096 580-772-5871 staffordmuseum.com

3000 General Pershing Blvd.

Oklahoma City, OK 73107 405-951-0000 cityartscenter.org

From the Wright flyer to General Stafford’s flown Apollo space suit, adventurers will have fun getting up close with the milestones of flight. The Stafford Air & Space Museum is a fun place to bring your family for our flight simulators, planetarium shows and to see a shuttle launch.

City Arts Center supports Oklahoma City’s thriving arts culture by hosting innovative exhibits throughout the year in the Eleanor Kirkpatrick Gallery, free of charge, and a variety of arts education opportunities for adults and children.

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Where to Go+What to Do

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Sam Noble Museum 2401 Chautauqua Ave. Norman, OK 73072 snomnh.ou.edu

This museum is one of the finest university-based museums in the world. Breathtaking galleries feature awesome dinosaurs, realistic nature dioramas showcasing Oklahoma’s biodiversity and exhibits tracing the history of humans in the state. The museum offers special exhibitions, school and family programs, a hands-on Kids Discovery Room, plus a museum store and café.

Red Carpet Country

800-447-2698 redcarpetcountry. com

Enid Welcome Center 123 W Maine Enid, OK 73701 580-233-3643 visitenid.org Conveniently located in the historic Kress Building on the downtown square, the Enid Welcome Center is your one stop for information on Enid attractions, events, restaurants and more. Meet the buffalo, Prairie Thunder, and see a Chisholm Trail marker up close. Kids can color on the Leonardo’s table, and mention MetroFamily Magazine to receive a free sample of locally-made toffee.

Great Plains Country 866-GPC-OKLA greatplainscountry.com

Visit Red Carpet Country, a land of high mesas, vast plains and picturesque sunsets, where adventure waits at every turn to welcome you! The diversity of our area offers hunting, fishing or digging for salt crystals; touring a sod house or an oil baron’s estate; everything from a children’s hands-on museum to a relaxing Bed & Breakfast. Rodeos, festivals, caves, sand dunes and lakes are unique to the region and perfect for your enjoyment!

Ancient mountains, rolling plains and a rich blend of Native American and Western heritage make Southwest Oklahoma’s Great Plains Country a majestic and unique destination. Museums, historic sites, arts and culture, outdoor recreation, shopping, fairs and festivals—there’s something for every member of your family in Great Plains Country.

Call or visit our website to request a Great Plains Country Travel Guide.

Pauls Valley Chamber

NE Oklahoma’s Green Country

405-238-6491 paulsvalley.com Make easy connections to Pauls Valley via the Heartland Flyer. Near the station, view local history & a 1902 steam engine at the Santa Fe Depot Museum. Try some Field’s Pecan Pie while seeing the Toy & Action Figure Museum & Rotary Rose Garden. Mark your calendar for Okie Noodling on June 23.

800-922-2118 or 918-744-0588 greencountryok.com Northeast Oklahoma’s Green Country is the perfect destination for families. This beautiful 18-county region will stretch your vacation dollars while amazing you with all there is to see and do. Families can enjoy wonderful attractions, state parks, beautiful lakes with abundant water sports, festivals & events, world-class museums, historic sites, music festivals, rodeos, and much more. Contact us today for your free 2012 Coupon Book and Guide to Green Country.

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Our guide to

Where to Go+What to Do

w i t h

Oklahoma WONDERTORIUM 308 West Franklin Lane Stillwater, OK 74075 405-533-3333 okwondertorium.org Enjoy memory-making experiences and engage children in creative, developmental play at Oklahoma’s newest children’s museum in Stillwater. The Oklahoma WONDERtorium offers fourteen exhibits filled with handson play to learn activities especially created for children birth to 12 years of age. General admission is $6 plus tax per person; children under 12 months free.

Oklahoma River Cruises 405-702-7755 okrivercruises.com Oklahoma River Cruises is a unique way to discover some of Oklahoma City’s hidden treasures. River transit provides access to Historic Stockyards City, the bustling Meridian Corridor and the lush Regatta Park/Boathouse District. We offer several family friendly options; History Comes Alive, Shakespeare On the River and Cartoon cruises! All landings are ADA accessible, have parking, connect with public transit and provide access to miles of bike trails. Contact us to learn more.

Oklahoma City Museum of Art 415 Couch Drive Oklahoma City, OK 73102 405-236-3100 okcmoa.com Located in downtown Oklahoma City’s Arts District, this museum presents a range of exhibitions and is home to a spectacular collection of Chihuly glass. It offers a broad spectrum of programs and events and people of all ages, including lectures, family events, Museum School classes and camps, film screenings, and more.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

1700 NE 63rd OKC, OK 73111 405-478-2250 nationalcowboymuseum.org This world-class museum features Prosperity Junction (an old West town), Western art, rodeo exhibit and much more. A sampling of upcoming exhibitions and events include the 22nd Annual Chuck Wagon Gathering & Children’s Cowboy Festival, May 26 – 27, 2012, and Will James: The A.P. Hays Collection through October 14, 2012.

Phillips 66 Big 12 Baseball Championship Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark 2 South Mickey Mantle Drive, Bricktown Oklahoma City, OK 73104 Tickets: okcallsports.org

This exciting baseball event returns to downtown Oklahoma City May 23-27. The top 8 teams from the regular Big 12 season standings compete in a double-elimination format to determine the Big 12 baseball champion. Be sure to come cheer on your favorite team. You can also keep up with the baseball standings at Big12Sports.com.

Weatherford Tourism 522 W. Rainey Weatherford, OK 73096 580-330-1386 cityofweatherford.com

Located one hour west of Oklahoma City on I-40, Weatherford is full of fun activities to discover! With 12 parks, Historic Main Street, two museums, a bowling alley and movie theater, and the freedom to indulge at your leisure, Weatherford is the only place where you can take the Mother Road, fly to the moon, and explore the Heartland within a five mile radius. You’ll have more fun with us.

ROUTE

66

Foss to Sayre

By Lawrence Evans

Driving Route 66 is always an adventure, but this section particularly provides a journey of discovery down memory lane. Western Oklahoma and this section of the Mother Road feature wide-open spaces dotted with historic and unique locations to visit. Let's start with a park that allows your family the opportunity to stretch their legs—and get wet or go fishing if they want.

Heading West From the Cherokee Trading Post and Route 66 Museum in Clinton, head west to Foss State Park where you’ll find many family fun amenities, including trails for hiking and horseback riding, camping spots, fishing areas and swimming opportunities from sandy beach areas. There are two ways to get to the park—either go straight west out of Clinton on Highway 73 (which is the faster trip) or go back to I-40 (which more closely matches the original Route 66) and at Highway 44, go north.

Attractions Foss State Park Hwy 44 N & Hwy 73 W, Foss 580-592-4433, www.travelok.com/listings/view.profile/id.2848

After you’ve exhausted the fun at the park, head south to I-40 then continue west to Elk City, home of another Route 66 museum and much more. Start your visit at Elk City’s park and museum complex that includes Ackley Park, the National Route 66 Museum and the Old Town Museum Complex. Your kids will enjoy learning about the early pioneers of western Oklahoma through the Beutler Brothers Rodeo Hall, the Farm and Ranch Museum, Train Depot and much more. Museum worker Linda Wray hopes that families take away an appreciation for the many things that they have once visiting museum complex. “I hope that they’ll see the way that we lived and learn to enjoy and respect what they have,” said Wray.

Since you’re on a Mother Road adventure, you might want to spend the most time at the National Route 66 Museum. Here, kids and adults will literally take a “drive through time” along the historic road, can marvel at vintage cars and see an educational, 15-minute film detailing the history of Route 66.

And when the kids say they’ve had enough of the good history lessons, you’ll know it’s time to get to nearby Ackley Park and ride the Centennial Carousel with its 36 hand-carved horses and two chariots.

It’s probably the most fun that a dollar can buy! Seasonally available are a miniature golf course and a miniature train ride around the park along with the typical playground equipment kids love.

Next, head 20 minutes west of Elk City along I-40 to the small town of Sayre. But first, call ahead to the married couple who runs the RS & K Museum. The Killians turned their love of antiques and toy and model trains into a museum located in their garage. If you visit the

Washita Battlefield National Historic Site and the National Route 66 Museum.

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Ackley Park Hwy 66 & Pioneer Rd Elk City, OK 73648 Open daily 6:00am–10:00pm Elk City: Old Town Museum Complex, National Route 66 & Transportation Museum, the Farm & Ranch Museum National Route 66 Museum Elk City 580-225-6266, www.visitelkcity.com/museums Monday–Saturday, 9:00am–5:00pm, Sunday 2:00–5:00pm, closed some holidays Complex admission: $5 adults, $4 seniors, students age 6–16, under age 6 free; single museum admission $3; group rates available RS & K Railroad Museum, Sayre 411 N 6th, Sayre 580-928-3525, www.sayrechamber.com/railroadmuseum.html Open daily 9:00am–9:00pm by call-ahead appointment only Free admission (donations accepted) Washita Battlefield National Historic Site Located west of Cheyenne, OK on Hwy 47 580-497-2742, www.nps.gov/waba Open daily 8:00am–5:00pm closed some holidays Free admission; dress for conditions and bring a fully-charged phone for guided tour

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RS & K Museum, remember that it is located in a neighborhood, not at all where you’d expect a museum. However, once there and exposed to the Killians and their treasures, you’ll know you’ve entered a kid’s wonderland.

The Killian’s museum is filled with antiques and toy train systems.

They are proud of the fact that visitors from all 50 states and 21 foreign countries have viewed their collections. One year, the Killians were shocked to get a visit from the team at Pixar, the studio behind many of today’s popular animated films, who came to the museum to research one of their then-upcoming projects.

“They were gathering information for their Cars movie,” explains Mrs. Killian. “And we’re in the credits,” adds Mr. Killian proudly. You’ll find the couple is just as charming as the antiques that they collect.

Up next, head off the normal Route 66 path and go north from Sayre on Highway 283 to the small town of Cheyenne. Turn west on Main/ Broadway (Highway 47) and continue on a short distance to the Washita Battlefield National Historic Site. This historic site is a national landmark that pays homage to the lives that were lost when, in 1868, Lt. Col. George Armstrong Custer’s army forged a surprise attack on the Cheyenne camp headed by Chief Black Kettle. The tour gives recounts of the haunting screams of women and children as they jumped in cold winter waters hoping to escape an attack on their peaceful village. Parts of the battlefield site might make you and your kids uncomfortable as they learn about this battle history but the peaceful and beautiful surroundings will balance out your visit.

The Washita Visitor’s Center offers a gift shop, museum and a video that gives visitors insight into what actually happened during the raid.

Buffalo at Foss State Park.

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From here, Route 66 continues on westward, out of Oklahoma and across Texas, New Mexico and Arizona before arriving at its final destination in California. Though the Mother Road is no longer the powerful transportation artery that it was in its heyday, the stories and history of the road can be shared and enjoyed by future generations for many years to come.

Step back in time...

Visit our historic land run property nestled deep in the heart of OKC. Take a guided tour of Mr. Harn’s victorian mansion, historic oneroom school house and 1900’s dairy barn. Hands-on educational programs for children ages 4 and up are available.

Schedule a tour @ (405) 235-4058 or visit www.harnhomestead.com.

1721 N. Lincoln Boulevard, Oklahoma City

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Family-Friendly Festivals There’s always something to do in Oklahoma—and this festival guide proves it! Almost without exception, there’s a family fun event waiting to be explored around out state. We’ve included many of the great festivals in this listing, but check www.metrofamilymagazine.com/oklahoma-festivals for a complete listing.

Our website includes Guides to Independence Day Fun (available June 1), Fall Festivals (September 1) and Holiday Fun (November 1) that provide hundreds of family fun opportunities that you won’t want to miss.

Enjoy your adventures—and don’t forget to tell them that MetroFamily sent you!

For many more Oklahoma City-area events and festivals held in May, be sure to check out the May 2012 calendar either in the May 2012 issue or at www.metrofamilymagazine.com/calendar.

Through May 5

Destination Claremore, a week-long celebration of the town’s history. Features multiple festivals, car show, craft show, live entertainment & more. 918-341-8688, www.visitclaremore.com.

Through May 28

17th Annual Oklahoma Renaissance Festival at the Castle of Muskogee. Over 500 costumed performers & artisans recreating a day in Renaissance England.

Saturdays & Sundays, 10:30am-6pm. 918-687-3625, www.okcastle.com.

May 3–5

17th Annual Skyline Bluegrass Festival in Wewoka features traditional music, instrument workshops & multiple bands. 677-1509, www.okbgc.org.

May 4–5

FREE Brickfest in downtown Pauls Valley includes Valley Rally Bike Tour, Hot Wheels Double Dog Dare Derby, Brick Toss Competition, vendors & music. 2382555, www.mainstreetpaulsvalley.com.

Duncan Crafts, Arts & Hobbies Association Spring Craft Show at the Stephens County Fair & Expo Center in Duncan. 580-656-7310.

23rd Annual Chisholm Trail Stampede PRCA Rodeo at the Stephens County Fair & Expo Center in Duncan.

580-467-2329.

May 5

FREE Claremore’s Lilac Festival in historic downtown features activities, vendors, master gardeners selling lilacs & more. 10am-6pm. 918-341-8688, www. visitclaremore.com.

Prague Kolache Festival on Main St includes dance, song, food, crafts, parade & carnival rides. 567-4866, www.praguekolachefestival.com.

Center in McAlester features Italian food, entertainment, vendors, craft show & fine arts. Saturday, 9am-dark; Sunday, 10am-4pm. www.themcalesteritalianfestival.org.

May 11–13

May 20

FREE Arts For All Festival at Shepler Park near downtown Lawton features art, entertainment, food & children’s art area. 580-248-5384, www.artsforallfestival. org.

May 24–27

FREE Rooster Days Festival at Central Park in Broken Arrow. Family-friendly fest with music, food, parade, bands, carnival rides & a 5K run. www.roosterdays.com.

May 12

Durant Main Street Bass Tournament annual event featuring weigh-ins, tournament points system & prizes.

580-924-1550, www.durantmainstreet.org.

26th Annual Ostrich Egg Breakfast at the OKC Zoo includes an all-you-can-eat breakfast of pancakes, sausage, scrambled hens’ eggs, waffles & Ostrich Egg Omelets. Preregister. $10 adults, $6 children ages 3-11 for members; $12 adults, $8 children ages 3-11 for nonmembers. 8-11am. 425-0618, www.zoofriends.org.

McSpadden Arrington All Indian Rodeo at Living Legends Rodeo Arena in Henryetta. 2pm. 918-652-3331, www.henryetta.org.

May 17–20

FREE Mayfest in downtown Tulsa includes fine arts & crafts, entertainment, food, KidZone, indoor galleries & more. 918-582-6435, www.tulsamayfest.org.

May 19–20

FREE Camp McFadden Outdoor Expo in Ponca City features Dutch oven cooking, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, shotgun shooting, archery & zip line. Donation requested. Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm.

580-762-9955, www.campmcfadden.com.

FREE Italian Festival at the Pittsburg County Expo

Herb Fest at Crestview Farms in Arcadia features entertainment, garden tours & vendors selling herbs, soaps & plants. 9am-4pm. 823-2430, www. crestvieworganicfarms.net.

65th Annual Will Rogers Stampede PRCA Rodeo in Claremore includes barrel racing, team roping, mutton-bustin’ & rodeo pageant. 918-798-3201, www. willrogersstampede.com.

May 25–27

FREE Celebration of Freedom in Hobart includes patriotic events a parade, motorcycle ride through the Wichita Mountains, quilt show, live entertainment, rodeo, carnival & food. 580-726-5900, www. celebrationoffreedom.net.

Rocklahoma in Pryor features more than 70 hard rock entertainment acts on 3 stages. 918-825-0157, www. rocklahoma.com.

May 26

FREE Rhythm Q’s & Blues at Hafer Park in Edmond features BBQ cook-off, cars, music & kids activities.

10:30am-3pm. 340-4481, www.visitedmondok.com.

Bethany 66 Festival in downtown Bethany includes the Diffee Motor Car Show, an entertainment tent, children’s activities, vendors & merchants. 11am-5pm. 312-0155, www.bethany100.com.

May 26–27

FREE Jazz & Blues Festival at Stephenson Park (5 & Boulevard, Edmond) features live jazz & blues performances. Saturday, 4-10pm; Sunday, 2-10pm. 3413321, www.edmondjazzandblues.org.

All area codes are 405 unless otherwise noted.

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22nd Chuck Wagon Gathering & Children’s Cowboy Festival at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum features campfire-cooked foods, children’s hands-on activities, stage entertainment & stagecoach & pony rides. 1 & 2 day passes available. 10am-4pm. www.nationalcowboymuseum.org.

May 26–28

2012 Paseo Arts Festival in the Paseo Arts District showcases original works in a juried show, performance art & live music. 525-2688, www.thepaseo.com.

May 29–June3

27th Annual Charlie Christian International Music Festival in downtown OKC features special exhibits, music, food, fun, & festivities celebrating the musical contributions of jazz guitar legend, Charlie Christian.

524-3400, www.charliechristian.org.

May 30–June 2

Oklahoma Magnolia Festival in Durant includes family-friendly activities, ferris wheel, carnival, crafts, entertainment, car show & quilt show. 580-924-1550, www.magnoliafestival.com.

May 31–June 2

Concessions & worms available for purchase. Register by 9am. 216-7471, www.arcadialakeok.com.

2nd Annual Battle of the Burger at Marc Heitz Chevrolet in Norman (I-35 & Lindsay) includes burger grilling contest, live music & more. Proceeds benefit Toby Keith Foundation OK Kid’s Korral. 321-7150, www. battleoftheburger.com.

FREE Tinker Intertribal Pow Wow at Joe B Barnes Regional Park in Midwest City honors the Veteran Warriors from Oklahoma’s Native American tribes.

Includes dancing, singing, art, jewelry, exhibits & food.

Noon-10pm. 739-8232, www.midwestcityok.org.

12th Annual Mark Harmon Celebrity Weekend Baseball Game on the UCO campus. Mark Harmon & his Bombers take on the OSSO Outlaws for a 5-inning charity baseball game benefitting the OKC Indian Clinic & Anna’s House Foundation. Gates open at 1:30pm.

3pm. 419-5639, Ltalton@live.com.

FREE 19th Annual Ponca City Herb Festival at the Cann Memorial Gardens (14th & Grand) features vendors selling plants, birdhouses & more plus children’s activities, entertainment & seminars. 8am4pm. 580-765-2305, www.poncacityherbfestival.com.

June 9

KawFest on the beach at Kaw Lake near Ponca City includes a pork cook-off, live music & sandcastle contest. $5, FREE children 6 & under. 10am-10pm. 580762-9494, www.kawlake.com.

FREE Ice Cream Festival at Tilghman Park in Chandler features entertainment, carnival & ice cream courtesy of Hiland Dairy. 258-0673, www.chandlerok.com.

June 9–10

Fort Reno Reunion welcomes those (or their relatives) having lived or worked at Fort Reno. Friday Gab Fest, 5pm; Saturday Luncheon, 8am-2pm. 262-3987, www. fortreno.org.

June 14–16

Kiamichi Owa-Chito Festival at Beavers Bend State Park features arts & crafts forestry competitions, art shows, children’s activities & entertainment. ThursdaySaturday, 9am-10pm. 580-584-3393, www.beaversbend. com.

June 15–16

Juneteenth Heritage Festival in Shawnee observes the emancipation of African Americans from slavery, with historical talks by community elders, gospel signing, parade & craft demonstrations. 275-3999, www. visitshawnee.com.

8th Annual Tallgrass Music Festival in Skiatook features nationally known bluegrass acts, junior fiddle contest, workshops, vendors & food. 918-261-3443, www.skiatookbluegrass.com.

Catfish Festival at Feyodi Creek Park in Cleveland includes all-you-can eat catfish fry, carnival, live entertainment, 5K & competitions. 8am-8pm. 918-3582131, www.chamberofclevelandok.com.

FREE Summerfest in Wagoner includes a carnival, live music, children’s games, car show, motorcycle show, crafts, food & vendors. Thursday-Friday, 5pm; Saturday, 10am. 918-485-3414, www.thecityofwagoner.org.

FREE Chisolm Trail Crawfish Festival at Kirkpatrick Family Farm (1001 Garth Brooks, Yukon) features Kid’s Kreative Korral, Marvin the Mechanical Bull, Crawfish eating contest & live Cajun music with dance lessons.

9am-6pm. 350-8937, www.cityofyukonok.gov.

Hog Wild BBQ & Chrome Fest in Chandler includes a BBQ contest, car & bike show, vendors, artists, food & entertainment. 258-0673, www.chandlerok.com.

June 6–10

June 16

May 31–June 6

NCAA Women's College World Series at the ASA Hall of Fame Stadium (2801 NE 50). For tickets & more information, visit www.ncaa.com/wcws.

June 1

12th Annual Mark Harmon Celebrity Weekend Stars & Strikes Bowling Event at AMF Boulevard Lanes (3501 S Boulevard, Edmond) benefits the OKC Indian Clinic & Anna’s House Foundation. Doors open, 6:30pm; Bowling starts, 7pm. 419-5639, Ltalton@live.com.

12th Annual deadCenter Film Festival includes films, panel discussions, workshops & parties in downtown OKC. 246-9233, www.deadcenterfilm.org.

June 7–9

American Heritage Music Festival at the Gore Civic Center & Snider’s Camp in Grove includes national clogging & fiddle contests with evening performances.

918-786-8896, www.grandlakefestivals.com.

June 8–9

June 1–2

Spirit of Oklahoma Storytelling Festival at Seminole State College features prairie & American Indian stories, concerts & ghost tales. Preregister. www.territorytellers. org.

Jim Shoulders Spring Round-up Rodeo at Living Legends Rodeo Arena at Historic Nichols Park in Henryetta. 8pm nightly. 918-652-3331, www.henryetta. org.

June 1–3

June 8–10

FREE Sunfest in Bartlesville is Oklahoma’s biggest outdoor picnic. Features arts, crafts, music, YouthFest & food. Friday, 3-11pm; Saturday, 10am-11pm; Sunday, 10am-5pm. 918-331-0456, www.bartlesvillesunfest.org.

26th Annual Red Earth Native American Cultural Festival at the Cox Convention Center includes dance competition, art market & parade representing more than 100 tribes. 427-5228, www.redearth.org.

FREE A Small Town Weekend in El Reno includes car show, motorcycle show, grascar races, drag races, festival food, vendors, live entertainment & more.

Children’s activities, including a hot wheels race, on Sunday. 350-3048, www.ercrusiers.com.

Ozarka OKC Nationals produced by OKC Motorsports at the Oklahoma River Boathouse District features one of the largest drag boat races in the nation. $15 & up, FREE ages 12 & under. www.okcmotorsports.com.

June 2

FREE Kids All-American Fishing Derby at Spring Creek Park in Edmond for kids ages 5-15 with adult to bring their own fishing equipment & compete for prizes.

June 8–17

OK Mozart International Music Festival in Bartlesville features professional orchestras, concert artists & musical performances of artistic excellence. 918-3369900, www.okmozart.com.

All area codes are 405 unless otherwise noted.

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FREE 14th Annual Farming Heritage Festival in Shawnee. 623-2834, www.oktractorclub.com.

Pawnee Bill’s Original Wild West Show at the Pawnee Bill Ranch site is one of the longest-running, historically-accurate shows featuring performing cowboys & American Indians, chariot races, trick riders & musicians. 7:30pm. 918-762-2513, www. pawneebillranch.com. Also held 6/23 & 30.

June 21

Summer Solstice Walks at Spiro Mounds Archeological Center includes 2-hour guided tour about the mounds. $7 adults, $3 children. 11am, 2pm & 7pm.

918-962-2062, www.okhistory.org.

June 21–24

FREE Muscogee (Creek) Nation Festival at the Claude Cox Omniplex in Okmulgee celebrates contemporary Muscogee life with cultural exhibitions, rodeo, concerts, sports, arts & crafts, food, parade, art market & activities. 918-732-7992, www. muscogeenation-nsn.gov.

June 21–23

FREE 28th Annual Jazz in June in Norman features contemporary, swing, blues, salsa, improv & smooth jazz. Full schedule online. Thursday-Friday, 7pm; Saturday, noon-1am. 325-3388, www.jazzinjune.org.

June 23–24

Kidfest at Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve in Bartlesville with crafts, games, entertainment, food & reenactors. 10am-5pm. 918-336-0307, www.woolaroc. org.

June 23–July 4

Liberty Fest in Edmond features 11 family-oriented events, including a concert, road rally, kite fest, rodeo, car show, food fest, pageant, parade & fireworks.

Named by CNN & USA Today as one of the top 10 July 4th festivals in the US. 340-2527, www.libertyfest.org.

June 30

Huckleberry Festival in Jay includes a carnival, parade, pageant, refreshments, huckleberry pie contest, hog fry, games & fireworks. 918-253-8698, www.jayokchamber. com.

June 30–July 1

with art booths, children’s’ art wall & activities, live music, demonstrations & food. 6-11pm. 329-4253, www. normanfirehouse.com.

July 13–15

An Affair of the Heart of Tulsa at the Quick Trip Center at Expo Square is one of the largest arts & crafts shows in the nation, with a variety of crafts, antiques, collectibles, furniture, decorative items, jewelry, & clothing. 632-2652, www.aaoth.com. Also held on 11/16-18.

July 18–21

Stars & Stripes River Festival in the Boathouse District in OKC will include children's activities, bounce houses, face painting, games, Olympic Day, food & beverage vendors, live music, fireworks & more. www. oklahomariverevents.org.

82nd Annual Woodward Elks Rodeo is the state’s oldest continuous PRCA rodeo, featuring bull riding, calf & steer roping, barrel racing, chuck wagon cook-off, children’s activities & longhorn cattle drive into town at various locations in Woodward. 580-256-8202, www. woodwardelksrodeo.com.

Throughout July

July 19–21

Selman Bat Watch at Alabaster Caverns State Park in Freedom allows 75 visitors per night to watch over one million bats fly into the nighttime sky at the only public viewing of Mexican free-tailed bats in Oklahoma.

Thursday viewings accommodate children ages 3-7; Friday & Saturday, ages 8 & up. Preregister. 424-0099, www.watchbats.com.

July 1

FREE Rockets Over Rhema at Rhema Bible College in Broken Arrow features a car show, inflatables, concert, mechanical bull, rock climbing wall, face painting, concessions & one of the largest fireworks displays in the area at 10pm. 918-258-1589, www. rocketsoverrhema.com.

July 4

Independence Day celebrations abound in Oklahoma. See a full list at metrofamilymagazine. com/independence-day-fun (available after June 1).

FREE Cajun Festival at the Grove Civic Center features Cajun music, food & dancing. 918-786-8896, www.grandlakefestivals.com.

July 6–7

Living Legends National Junior Rodeo at Living Legends Rodeo Arena at Historic Nichols Park in Henryetta. 7pm. 918-652-3331, chamber@henryetta. org.

FREE Porter Peach Festival in Downtown Porter features arts & crafts, games, parade, car show, 5K Run, peach auction, music, food, tractor pull, carnival & peach picking. 918-483-4205, www. porterpeachfestivals.com.

July 20–21

26th Annual World’s Largest Garage Sale & SummerFest at Fuqua Park in Duncan features a city wide sale, vendors, outdoor concerts, family activities & fair food. 8am-10pm. 580-255-3644, www. duncanchamber.com.

July 26–28

28th Annual Whole Hawg Days in downtown Eufaula include a parade, car show, barbecue cook-off, carnival, rodeo & children’s activities. 918-689-2791, www. eufaulachamberofcommerce.com.

July 27–29

American Cowboy Trade Days at Whitaker Park in Pryor celebrates the history of the American Cowboy.

Includes activities, stagecoach & buggy rides, food, entertainment & vendors selling handmade items (such as beads, quilts, soaps) & guns. 918-825-0157, www. pryorchamber.com.

August 3–5

FREE Gatesway Balloon Festival at Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Down in Claremore features over 30 hot air balloons from across the country, family activities, live entertainment, arts & crafts vendors & balloon competitions. Friday, 4-11pm; Saturday, 1am-11pm; Sunday, 7am-10pm. 918-258-3900, www.gatesway.org.

August 6–11

FREE 81st American Indian Exposition at the Anadarko Fairgrounds seeks to perpetuate the culture, arts & crafts & native languages of the Southern Plains tribes through dances, pageants & presentations, including one of the largest American Indian parades in Oklahoma. www.americanindianexposition.org.

August 9–11

53rd Annual 101 Wild West Rodeo in Ponca City is a PRCA rodeo including amateur team roping, bull riding, parade & children’s rodeo. 580-765-2980, www.101wildwestrodeo.com.

August 11

FREE Watermelon Festival in Rush Springs celebrates the watermelon harvest with a seed spitting contest, arts & crafts, carnival rides, entertainment, 5K Watermelon Run & free watermelon in the afternoon. 9:30am-9pm.

580-476-2338.

August 16–18

75th Anniversary Freedom Rodeo & Old Cowhand Reunion at the Rhodes Arena in Freedom includes rodeo, outdoor dances & activities. Rodeo at 8pm. $10 adults, $5 children, age 6 & under FREE. 580-621-3583, www.freedomrodeo.com.

August 22–25

104th Annual Stephens County FREE Fair at the Stephens County Fair & Expo Center in Duncan includes carnival, livestock show, rodeo, food & entertainment. 580-467-3824, www.duncanchamber. com.

August 24–25

Annual OCA Range Round-Up at the Oklahoma State Fair Arena features events including saddle bronc riding, wild cow milking, team branding, & wild horse race.

7:30pm. 235-4391, www.okcattlemen.org.

July 8–13

International Finals Youth Rodeo at the Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center in Shawnee features barrel racing, pole bending, breakaway roping & bareback riding. $8 & up adults, $5 age 11 & under. Sunday, 8pm; Monday-Friday, 9am & 7:30pm. 275-7020, www. shawneeexpo.org.

July 11–15

FREE Woody Guthrie Folk Festival in Okemah celebrates the life & musical legacy of one of America's greatest folk music songwriters with indoor & outdoor concerts & activities. 918-623-2440, www.woodyguthrie. com.

July 13–14

FREE Midsummer Nights’ Fair at Lions Park (450 S Flood, Norman) is a celebration of the visual arts

All area codes are 405 unless otherwise noted.

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August 25

Annual Calf Fry Festival & Cook-Off in Vinita includes samples of the “local delicacy” as well as crafts, kids games, cook-off competition, entertainment, inflatables, crafts & cowboy games. 918-256-7133, www.vinita.com.

August 31–September 2

September 14–16

Oklahoma Scottish Festival at the River West Festival Park in Tulsa celebrates Celtic history & heritage, with food, crafts, music, highland games, 5K & Scottish & Irish dance demonstrations. 918-740-7738, www. okscottishfestival.com.

Oktoberfest at Choctaw’s Creek Park features homemade German food, genuine German beers & wine & continuous live entertainment for all ages, plus German dance groups, crafts & activities for children.

390-8647, www.choctawfestival.org. Also held 9/5-8.

Murray County Antique Tractor & Implement Show in Sulphur includes hands-on activities, demonstrations & shows highlighting tractors & farming implements as well as entertainment & vendors. 580-264-0500, www. arbuckletourism.com/mcatia.

September 1

September 15

FREE Loose Caboose Festival on Main Street in Purcell is a family event featuring antiques, collectibles, crafts, art, children’s activities, wine tasting, food & live entertainment throughout the day. 9am-4pm. www. loosecaboosefestival.com.

September 1–2

For our complete list of Fall Fun events, go to metrofamilymagazine.com/fall-fun (available after September 15).

Cherokee Strip Celebration in downtown Enid commemorates the land run with food, entertainment & parade. 580-237-2494, www.enidchamber.com.

Living Legends Rodeo in Henryetta pays tribute to all of the world caliber rodeo cowboys of Oklahoma.

Pre-Rodeo entertainment starts at 6:30pm. 8pm nightly.

918-652-3331, www.henryetta.org.

Cherokee Strip Celebration in downtown Perry celebrates the city’s founding with entertainment, food, exhibitors, 5K run & food . 580-336-4684, www. perryokchamber.com.

September 1–3

FREE Septemberfest at the Oklahoma History Center includes crafts, music, storytelling, historical reenactments, exhibits & admission. 522-5248, www. okhistorycenter.org.

FREE Arts Festival Oklahoma at Oklahoma City Community College features fine art, crafts, children’s activities, culinary specialties & live entertainment. $5 parking. Saturday-Sunday, 10am-9pm; Monday, 10am5pm. 682-7576, www.occc.edu/afo.

September 3

FREE Labor Day Celebration in downtown Henryetta includes parade, concerts, carnival, rodeo, car & bike show & fireworks. 918-652-3331, www.henryetta.org.

September 5–9

36th Annual Western Days in downtown Mustang includes a chili cook-off, carnival, open rodeo, parade, car show, pancake breakfast & races. 376-2758, www. mustangchamber.com.

September 6–8

FREE 104th Annual Cleveland County Fair at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds (615 E Robinson, Norman) features livestock shows, carnival rides, tractor pulls, celebrity cow-milking contest, kiddie pedal pulls & petting zoo. www.clevelandcountyfair.org.

FREE 33rd Annual Bluegrass & Chili Festival at the Claremore Expo Center features chili-cook off, Kiddie Korral, vendors, concessions & live music. 918-3412818, www.visitclaremore.com.

September 13–16

FREE 98th Annual Rogers County Fair at the Claremore Expo Center features made in Oklahoma products, arts & crafts, baked goods, livestock exhibits, children’s area, carnival & food . 918-341-2736, www. visitclaremore.com.

September 13–23

Oklahoma State Fair at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds features carnival, midway rides & games, 5 exhibit buildings, shopping, concerts, arts, livestock competitions & Disney on Ice. 948-6704, www. okstatefair.com.

September 15–18

FREE Western Spirit Celebration in Duncan includes longhorn cattle drive, chuck wagon brisket dinner, Western artisans & vendors, children's games & cowboy poets. 580-252-6692, www.onthechisholmtrail.com.

September 20–22

FREE Oklahoma Indian Summer at the Bartlesville Community Center includes an intertribal powwow, traditional craft making & demonstrations. 918-3310934, www.okindiansummer.org.

FREE 33rd Annual International Festival at Elmer Thomas Park in Lawton features concerts, food, children’s activities, demonstration artists, vendors & multi-cultural entertainment. Friday, 5-10pm; Saturday, 11am-10pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. 580-581-3470, www. cityof.lawton.ok.us/lahc/if.htm.

FREE Rock Island Arts Festival at the Rock Island Depot in Chickasha features fine art displays, live music, entertainment, activities & entertainment for children.

Friday-Saturday, 11am-9pm; Sunday, noon-5pm. 4260651, www.rockislandartsfestival.org.

September 29

Oklahoma Heritage Quilts & Arts Festival in downtown Pauls Valley features hand made goods made exclusively in Oklahoma. Includes art contests, talent show & contest, quilt contest & music. 238-2555, www.mainstreetpaulsvalley.com.

Fort Reno Candlelight Tour in El Reno features reenactors portraying scenes from various time periods. $8 adults, $6 seniors, $5 children. 8pm. 262-3987, www. fortreno.org.

September 30

FREE Norman Groovefest at Andrews Park in Norman promotes community awareness through art, music & human rights information. 514-0781, www.groovefest. org.

October 4–6

Oklahoma International Bluegrass Festival in Guthrie includes bluegrass bands, children’s activities & workshops. 282-4446, www.oibf.com.

October 5–6

FREE Annual Guthrie Art & Wine Festival includes live music, visual arts, drama, music & interactive exhibits. 260-2345, www.guthrieescape.com.

September 27–October 7

October 6

September 28–30

FREE Global Oklahoma at Rose State College promotes an appreciation of the peoples of the world through exhibits, entertainment, food, school displays, arts & children's activities. This year’s festival focuses on Haiti. 10am-5pm. 736-0313, www.rose.edu/ globaloklahoma.

Tulsa State Fair at Expo Square features rides, attractions, concerts, creative arts, food & livestock competitions. 918-744-1113, www.tulsastatefair.com.

2012 Oklahoma Regatta Festival at the Oklahoma River includes the OCU Head of the Oklahoma, VIP Party, & a family festival featuring live music, art, a children’s area, food & racing. 552-4040, http:// oklahomariverevents.org.

FREE Oklahoma Wildlife Expo at the Lazy E Arena in Guthrie hands-on exhibits, seminars, clinics, workshops & demonstrations centering on wildlife & outdoor life.

Friday is School Day. 8am-6pm daily. 522-6279, www. wildlifedepartment.com.

FREE 44th Annual Fin & Feather Fall Festival Arts & Crafts Show near Lake Tenkiller in Gore features more than 200 exhibitors from several states. Friday-Saturday, 9am-6pm; Sunday, 9am-5pm. 918-487-5148, www. finandfeatherresort.com.

Day Out with Thomas at the OK Railway Museum invites all Thomas the Tank Engine Fans to spend the day with their favorite engine plus music, art, activities & train rides. Advanced ticket purchase is recommended

All area codes are 405 unless otherwise noted.

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Exploring Oklahoma with Children 2012

FREE Oklahoma Czech Festival in Yukon features a carnival, parade, craft booths & food. 8am-5pm. 2068142.

October 12–13

Heritage Days: A Living History Festival in Muskogee includes a walking tour, chuck wagon breakfast, shootouts in the street, re-enactors, storytellers, live music, food, Western crafts, Native American song & dance, outhouse races & kids’ games. 918-683-2400, www.downtownmuskogee.org.

Watonga Cheese Festival & Arts Show on Main Street includes cheese tasting, wine tasting, art show, craft show, vendors & food as well as a kids craft area, amusements, parade, car show, running races & a bicycle race. $5 admission for both days, kids 12 & under FREE. 9am-6pm. 580-623-5452, www. watongacheesefestival.com.

October 13

Blue Bell’s Taste of Summer at Blue Bell Creameries in Broken Arrow features self-guided tours, entertainment & all the ice cream you can eat. 9am-3pm.

918-258-5100, www.visitbrokenarrowok.com.

An Affair of the Heart at the State Fairgrounds is among the largest arts & crafts shows in the nation occupying more than five buildings & offering a variety of crafts, antiques, collectibles, furniture, decorative items, jewelry & clothing. 632-2652, www.aaoth.com.

November 12

October 14

October 21

December 1

October 27

December 1–2

November 1

December 31

FREE ShalomFest at Temple Israel in Tulsa seeks to educate about & celebrate Judaism & its cultural traditions with food, entertainment, model rituals, synagogue tours & holiday demonstrations. Noon-6pm.

918-747-1309, www.templetulsa.com.

October 18–21

Oktoberfest at the River West Festival Park in Tulsa offers an authentic German festival with music, dancing, arts & crafts & Bavarian-style entertainment. $6 adults, 12 & under FREE. 918-596-2007, www.tulsaoktoberfest. org.

October 19–20

Poteau Balloonfest at the Leflore County Fairgrounds with hot air balloon races & glows, entertainment, arts & crafts, games, food, carnival & more. $3 advance, $5 at gate, children 3 & under FREE. Friday noon11pm; Saturday, 9am-11pm. 918-647-9178, www. poteauchamber.com.

October 19–21

FREE 26th Annual Robbers Cave Fall Festival in Wilburton features arts & crafts, carnival, car show, a variety of music & food . 918-465-3400, www. robberscavefallfestival.com.

Fall Festival at Camp McFadden in Ponca City features pumpkin decorating, hayrack rides, craft show & haunted cabins. $3. 11am-5pm. 580-762-9494, www. kawlake.com.

FREE National Weather Festival at the National Weather Center (120 David L Boren, Norman) includes tours, children’s activities, demonstrations & storm chaser cars. www.norman.noaa.gov/events/nwf.

For a complete list of Holiday Fun events, go to metrofamilymagazine.com/holiday-fun (available after November 15) Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Arts Festival in Tulsa celebration of Hispanic culture including exhibits, music, food & dancing. 5-11pm. 918-585-1234, www.livingarts.org.

November 1–4

FREE Will Rogers Days at the Will Rogers Memorial Museum & Birthplace Ranch in Claremore celebrates the 133rd birthday of Will Rogers with a parade, birthday party & other festivities. 918-341-0719, www.willrogers. com.

FREE Veterans Day Ceremony at the 45th Infantry Division Museum in OKC honors our nation’s veterans form all branches & time periods. 10am. 405-424-5313, www.45thDivisionMuseum.com.

FREE Honey Festival in Minco features tours of the Ross Honey Plant, honey bake-off, crafters, quilt show, kids’ tractor pull & Made in Oklahoma Products. 3520518, www.minco-ok.com.

OKC Train Show at the State Fairgrounds features the largest model train layout in the southwest. Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm. 842-0518, www. oklahomarailwaymuseum.org.

Opening Night in Downtown OKC is a family friendly New Year's Eve celebration with music, dancing, theater & fireworks. 7pm-midnight. 270-4848, www. artscouncilokc.com.

Visit www.metrofamilymagazine. com/oklahoma-festivals for our complete festival listing.

All area codes are 405 unless otherwise noted.

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Exploring Oklahoma with Children 2012

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Exploring Oklahoma with Children 2012