Day Trips

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Day Trips

www.TravelOK.com Oklahoma’s official tourism website is your source for planning the perfect trip or weekend getaway. You’ll find a wealth of things to do and places to stay. Plus, you can order free travel brochures and take advantage of money-saving discounts.

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GREEN COUNTRY While Tulsa is the biggest and best know city in this region of the state, many other attractions await on the path less traveled. Hop in the car and head for the hills ... the emerald hills of Northeastern Oklahoma! This outdoor lover’s paradise is home to more than half of Oklahoma’s state parks.

And through mile after scenic mile, is guaranteed to leave visitors green with envy.

Bartlesville is proud of its many attractions, including museums, art collections, dramatic architecture, scenic prairie views and world-renowned events. Most visitors are pleasantly surprised by the diversity of culture and wide variety of entertainment that Bartlesville

offers.

“Out Where the West Remains” proclaims the masthead of Pawnee’s newspaper, the Pawnee CHIEF. From Pawnee Agency, Indian Territory in 1874, to the present day City of Pawnee, this town of 2,200 has remained true to its western heritage.

Plus, it is still true to its original mission, as the home of the Pawnee Nation.

Strategically located in north-central Oklahoma, Pawnee is a pleasant day’s outing from Norman.

Downtown Pawnee is replete with century-old native stone buildings, unique shops and outstanding eateries. Annual events such as the Oklahoma Steam Tractor and Gas Engine Show, Pawnee

Bill Wild West Show, and the Pawnee Indian Veteran’s Pow Wow keep the town hopping.

In August, a week-long adventure, beginning with a five-day cattle drive/wagon train and ending with a state championship barbecue cook-off, western art and trade show, and Pawnee Bill Memorial Rodeo, provide a raucous finale to the wild west summer season.

The Pawnee Bill Historic Ranch & Museum offers a glimpse into the life and times of the flamboyant western showman, Major Gordon W. Lillie, “Pawnee Bill.” His home atop Blue Hawk Peak is just as he left it, complete with buffalo and longhorns grazing nearby. A view of the more common lives of

the time is possible at the well-appointed Pawnee County Historical Society Museum on the square in downtown Pawnee, just one block from the largest Dick Tracy cartoon in the world!

Historically known as Three Forks, (the Verdigris, Grand and Arkansas Rivers meet here) the Muskogee/Fort Gibson area has played an important role in the development of northeastern Oklahoma. Established in 1824, Fort Gibson became Oklahoma’s first military establishment. Also rich in both Native American and African American history, visitors today can learn more about these cultures in the many attractions Muskogee has to offer.

The Ataloa Lodge

Museum on the Bacone College campus houses one of the finest privately owned collections of Native American art in the country. One of the most unusual features in the lodge is a stone fireplace made out of rocks and stones from around the world, including a fossilized dinosaur egg. The Five Civilized Tribes Museum pays tribute to the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Creek and Seminole tribes who were forced to relocate to Oklahoma’s Indian Territory after the Louisiana Purchase.

One of the most unique attractions in Muskogee is the U.S.S. Batfish War Memorial, which features an actual WWII submarine that can be toured. Visitors in April and December will want to include a tour through Honor Heights Park, where a kaleidoscope of color adorns the grounds during the Azalea Festival in the spring, and twinking, colorful light displays shine during the Garden of Lights Festival at Christmastime.

Eufaula is located 12 miles south of Interstate 40 at the junction of US Highway 69 and Okla-

Saturday, May 30, 2009 homa State Highway 9.

Just one-half mile east of Eufaula was the site of North Fork Town, settled by the Creek Indians shortly after their arrival in this area in 1836. This important tribal community played host to the treaty made between the Confederates and the Creek, Choctaw, and Chickasaw Nations in 1861. Lake Eufaula now covers North Fork Town.

Much of the colorful history of this area - Indian life, outlaw gangs, and Civil War battles—still remains for visitors to see.

Belle Starr, “Queen of the Bandits” and probably the most famous female outlaw, lived and is buried about 15 miles east of Eufaula.

Belle made her home in this region from 1873 to 1888. Here also was also the hideout of her gang, and at times of the Youngers and Jessie and Frank James.

Belle’s grave is located in a bend of the Canadian River, just downstream and northeast of the Eufaula Dam. A cave, a canyon, and other historical sites are named for her around the area.

Lake Eufaula is the largest lake located entirely within the state of Oklahoma. With over 600 miles of shoreline and 102,000 surface acres, Eufaula offers a variety of recreational opportunities for everyone. The shoreline ranges from vast expanses of sandy beaches to rocky bluffs.

The city is situated around beautiful Eufaula Cove, and is the gateway to many outdoor activities such as camping, boating, water skiing, and of course fishing. The lake is full of large-mouth bass, sand bass, crappie, and catfish and is host to many fishing tournaments throughout the year. If you are looking for wildlife and scenery,

look no further. The area has an abundance of whitetail deer and wild turkey, and is a bird watcher’s paradise.

As the county seat of Sequoyah County, Sallisaw is located between the famed Cookson Hills to the north and the navigational channel of the Arkansas River to the South. Its name comes from the French “salaisau” meaning “salt provision,” as Indians, early settlers, explorers and trappers were familiar with the natural salt deposits found in many nearby streams.

In 1820, members of the Cherokee tribe emigrated here from Georgia, and in 1838-39 the remainder of the tribe was forced to march along the infamous “Trail of Tears” to what is now Oklahoma. The southernmost land assigned to them is now the presentday Sequoyah County.

When Oklahoma was granted statehood in 1907, the county was named Sequoyah in honor of the famous Cherokee educator and author of the Cherokee alphabet. Sequoyah is the only single person in the entire history of the world known to have invented a simple, working alphabet. His log cabin home, located in Sallisaw, is open to visitors.

“The Grapes of Wrath” author John Steinbeck used Sallisaw as the starting point for “Okies” fleeing to California to escape the Dust Bowl. In reality, the eastern part of Oklahoma has always been wooded and picturesque, with many nearby lakes!

Charles “Pretty Boy” Floyd and other notorious outlaws who used the rugged and inaccessible Cookson Hills as a hideout in the 1930’s would surely marvel at the interstate highway, railroads, and

Day Trips barge traffic on the Arkansas River that now connect Sallisaw with the world.

Present day Sallisaw is an expanding center for commerce and tourism.

Lakes for fishing and water sports, drives to historic landmarks, horse racing at Blue Ribbon Downs, Oklahoma’s first parimutuel track, state parks for camping and hiking, golf, tennis, (or just relaxing) all begin and end in Sallisaw.

One of the most historically significant cities west of the Mississippi River, Tahlequah was the end of the Trail of Tears for the eastern Cherokees and has been the capital of the Cherokee Nation since 1841. This northeastern community has also been named the 55th Best Small Town in America. But don’t let the words ‘small town’ fool you. This college town of 20,000 is rich in history, historic sites and outdoor recreation.

The Illinois River is generally considered to be the best canoe stream in the state, as it winds by high bluffs, rocky islands and giant sycamore. Several camps and resorts are located along the river to accommodate visitors.

Fishing enthusiasts will find smallmouth bass in the upper river and yearround trout fishing in the lower section.

Tsa-La-Gi, an ancient village depicting Cherokee living can be viewed at the Cherokee Heritage Center, along with Indian art, crafts and books. During summer months, don’t miss the River City Players Music Show where NSU students perform in a fastmoving, family-style entertainment show.

Source: www.travelok.com

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Claremore & Oologah Home of Will Rogers

CLAREMORE PROGRESS/Randy Cowling

The bronze statue of Will Rogers shows off a festive side with a green suit of tempura paint during St. Patrick's Day events in Claremore.

Nestled in the heart of Oklahoma’s Green Country on nostalgic Route 66, Claremore is known near and far for its classic museums and classy antiques. Also home to Rogers State University, Claremore offers a cornucopia of things to do sightseeing, shopping, dining, and recreation.

The Will Rogers Memorial Museum, alive with mini-theaters and engaging art, recounts the incredible life of perhaps the most compelling figure of Oklahoma history and American lore. On display at The J. M. Davis Arms and Historical Museum is the world’s largest collection of privately owned historic firearms spanning over six centuries. The Lynn Riggs Memorial showcases memorabilia from the playwright’s life, including the original “surrey with the fringe on top” from the movie musical “Oklahoma!”

Oologah is the hometown of legendary humorist Will Rogers,

whose birthplace lies three miles north and east from this small, unique town. Founded in 1890 when the railroad established an office here, the town is still best known for attractions relating to its famous native son.

Will Rogers’ birthplace, part of the Dog Iron Ranch, contains the log-walled, two-story home where Rogers was born in 1879. The 400acre ranch also boasts a reconstructed barn and has a substantial collection of Rogers memorabilia and movies. Longhorn cattle and native fowl wander the grounds.

The town pump and two early 1900’s buildings, the restored Bank of Oologah and the I.W.W. Beck building, are all listed on the National Register of Historic places. Other attractions in town include the Oologah Historical Museum, which contains local antiques, historical memorabilia and Will Rogers photographs.

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KIAMICHI COUNTRY Located in McCurtain County, Broken Bow is an old sawmill town surrounded by pine forests and home to some of the most scenic terrain in Oklahoma. In addition to rolling green hills, rocky canyons, and beautiful bluffs, Broken Bow also offers waterscapes that aren't soon forgotten.

Broken Bow Lake, a scuba diver's heaven, and the Mountain Fork River, popular among floaters and trout anglers, offer the water sport enthusiast everything they could possibly wish for.

Beavers Bend Resort Park, a major Broken Bow attraction offers a resort lodge, cabins,

campgrounds, miles of park trails, an excursion train, trail rides, pristine waters, and the Forest Heritage Center. The Gardner Mansion, home of Choctaw Chief Jefferson Gardner is another Broken Bow attraction which you'll want to experience. The area is also home to the world's most complete Acrocanthosaurus fossil find.

Broken Bow also offers several canoe rental companies for float trips, a scuba diving service, trout fishing guides and outfitters, and a large selection of cabin operators.

Whether you are adventurous and active or laid back and relaxed,

Gore has something for everyone.

With the Oklahoma Wildlife Department stocking three sites with 100,000 rainbow trout, it’s no wonder Gore is called “The Trout Capital of Oklahoma.”

Located close to the Lower Illinois River along with Tenkiller and Greenleaf lakes, Gore offers a wealth of opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts: fishing, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and more.

Nearby marinas offer you everything you need for a great day on the lake. Gore is home to numerous fishing events, a wonderful fall festival, and an incredi-

ble 4th of July celebration.

Located in far southeastern Oklahoma, the Idabel community of 7,000 enjoys year-round visitors from nearby Beavers Bend Resort Park. Other attractions include the newly expanded Museum of the Red River with one of the finest Native American collections in the United States, and the historic Barnes-Stevenson House, shown by appointment only. Visitors can also view Albert Frazier's private collection of Gene Autry and Roy Rogers memorabilia, also shown by appointment only, tour the historic Wheelock

Academy in nearby Millerton, or try their hand at high stakes bingo at the Choctaw Gaming Center.

Located 90 miles south of Tulsa and 120 miles southeast of Oklahoma City, McAlester is one of the state's oldest communities. Abundant coal deposits discovered in the late 1800s brought an influx of immigrants, particularly Italians, to work the deep mines. As a result, nearby Krebs is known

today as Oklahoma's Little Italy and is famous for its great cuisine.

The state penitentiary is located in McAlester, and hosts the annual State Prison Rodeo every Labor Day weekend where inmates and professional cowboys compete in events. Some unusual attractions in the area worth a stop include the Oklahoma Prison Historical Museum, Tannebill Museum (open by appointment only) and the Scottish

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Saturday, May 30, 2009 Bed and Breakfast that adds special touches to your stay, or one of the motels in town.

Restaurants offer a large assortment of choices from Indian tacos to catfish and Americas favorite food burgers and fries. Several unique gift shops and an old-fashioned working soda fountain make up the downtown area.

Wilburton is nestled in a valley in the San Bois Mountains, just 5 miles south of Robbers Cave State Park. It is a destination worth the drive, whether your interest is in shopping in our historic downtown shopping district or finding fun and safe activities for the kids.

Wilburton and the surrounding area offer everything from hiking to horseback riding, festivals to art shows, museums to wildflowers, birdwatching to golf.

The Robbers Cave Fall Festival, held the third weekend in October, features three days of crafts booths, musical entertainment, and on Saturday, one of the largest car shows in the country.

On the third weekend in April, the Green Frog Festival is all about frogs and the history of the town.

Based on The Green Frog Cafe, the place downtown to eat and be in the 1930's, 40's, 50's, and 60's, the festival is a celebration of the past and present, with things to do for everyone from 3 to 93.

Source: www.travelok.com

Talimena Scenic Drive

Photo provided by Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department

Rite Masonic Temple.

Poteau is home to Cavanal Hill, "the world's highest hill" and is a mountain gateway to the Ouachita National Forest and the breathtaking Talimena Scenic Drive. More than 300 motel rooms and 23 restaurants await visitors, along with the Kerr Historical Museum, antique shops, art galleries and the friendliest people around!

Recreation opportunities include boating, skiing, lake and stream fishing, in season hunting, backpacking, hiking, horseback riding and 4 x 4 trails.

Poteau is located just minutes from Spiro Mounds (Oklahoma's only archeological park), Heavener Runestone (The Vikings were here!), Lake Wister State Park (year round camping, eagle watching, Christmas light display!), Cedar Lake and one of the last existing drive-in movie theaters.

Talihina is a thriving community located in the heart of the Choctaw Nation and is the gateway to the Talimena Scenic Drive, Oklahoma’s only National Scenic Byway, and the Ouachita National Forest.

Dazzling spring and fall foliage, abundant wildflowers and the abundance of lakes, rivers and streams, camping facilities, equestrian camps and hiking trails make Talihina a year-round destination.

Special events held during the year add to the excitement of your visit. Choose from a variety of accommodations, including luxurious private cabins in the area,

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ARBUCKLE COUNTRY The county seat for Pontotoc County, Ada is located approximately 80 miles southeast of Oklahoma City and 180 miles north of Dallas. Ada is the center of an area well balanced between industry and agriculture, the heart of a strong retail trade area and a center of high education, medical care and research. It is also the hub of some of Oklahoma's richest oil productions.

East Central University, offers conventional four year undergraduate programs and a master's degree in education. It also has a department of environmental science, which has established state and national stature.

The Robert S. Kerr Water

Research Laboratory, a regional laboratory of the Environmental Protection Agency, is also located in Ada. The area is noted for its high quality water which comes from a huge spring south of Ada, originating in the Arbuckle Uplift.

The Chickasaw Nation Housing Authority, which serves 13 counties, is based in Ada along with other Indian services. In addition, the Chickasaw Nation-Carl Albert Indian Health Facility, a 75-bed, solar powered general medical and surgical hospital, serves eligible Indian residents in southcentral Oklahoma.

Ada is blessed with a variety of recreational activities which include a

strong tennis program, four softball fields, two golf courses and a skeet range. The Ada area is nationally recognized as a coon hunters' paradise with several different hunts scheduled here.

Wintersmith Park offers something for every member of the family--walking trails, fishing, games, rides, zoo, flowers, wildlife and picnic areas. The city is also a natural center for rock hounds far and wide, as it is within driving distance of rose rocks, trilobiles, braachipods, crincio bulbs, and the largest example of Callixylon, or primitive wood, known to exist.

Ardmore, located on the Sunny Side of the Arbuckle Mountains, is

home to Lake Murray, the state's largest man-made lake. Founded in1887 by Santa Fe railway workers in the area then known as Pickens County, Chickasaw Nation, Indian Territory, Ardmore has grown from the greatest inland cotton exporter in the world to a city on the move. Thanks to an active and progressive development authority, Ardmore is leading the way to growth and prosperity.

There's never a shortage of something to do in Ardmore. Lake Murray on the south offers boating, camping and fishing, plus golf, hiking and equestrian trails, bicycling, cottages, a 54-room resort and Tucker Tower Nature Center. To the north, check out picturesque Turner Falls and the Arbuckle Wilderness, a drive-through nature preserve. In town, the Charles B. Goddard Center offers changing exhibits of modern art and ongoing programs. Ardmore also is home to the Southwest Historical Museum, featuring exhibits and artifacts from the 1500s to pioneer settlement, and the Military Memorial Museum, containing military artifacts from the American Revolution to Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Numerous antique shops, the Eliza Cruce Doll Museum at the new public library, and the many events going on at the Hardy Murphy Coliseum and the Ardmore Convention Center keep both tourists and locals entertained.

Durant, "The Magnolia Capital of Oklahoma",

is a great place to live, work and raise a family.

This community of 14,000 residents is located at the intersection of U.S. Highway 70 and U.S. Highways 69/75. Durant also is located less than 1.5 hours north of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex.

Durant is home to many great attractions, such as beautiful Lake Texoma with its camping and fishing opportunities, plus historic Fort Washita, dating from 1842, the Three Valley Museum, featuring Choctaw artifacts, and historic downtown Durant. The city also plays host each year to the Magnolia Festival and the Oklahoma Shakespearean Festival. While you're in town, don't forget to visit Southeastern Oklahoma State University, a picturesque institution known as the "Campus Of A Thousand Magnolias."

In addition, Durant serves as home to the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, whose membership totals more than 100,000. Since 1978, the tribal government has grown from 75 employees to more than 1,500. Under the leadership of Chief Gregory E. Pyle, the tribe continues to place an emphasis on education and currently graduates more college students than any other Indian tribe in the nation.

The Choctaw Nation is also involved in economic development, owns Choctaw Gaming Center

in Durant, and two large Travel Plazas south of town on U.S. Highways 69/75.

In the heart of south central Oklahoma, Sulphur is located just off I35 between Oklahoma City and the Dallas-Ft. Worth metroplex. Sulphur is home of Chickasaw National Recreation Area, formerly known as Platt National Park, a 10,000 acre playground suitable for camping, hunting, fishing, water sports, bird watching, wildlife viewing, hiking, and much more!

Take a dip in the cool waters of Travertine Creek, explore the fresh water and mineral springs, visit Travertine Nature Center, or just sit under a tree and relax!

The two lakes inside the boundaries of Chickasaw National Recreation Area, Veteran’s Lake and Arbuckle Lake are stocked with a variety of fish. Arbuckle Lake is quickly becoming a favorite of fishermen to catch trophy fish, especially large mouth bass.

There are many lodging options in and near Sulphur. Ranging from rustic cabins to luxury B&B’s you’re sure to find the amenities you desire.

Horseback riding, boat rentals, art galleries, museums, and shopping are favorite activities of our guests. With Turner Falls and Arbuckle Wilderness just minutes away, there is plenty to keep you occupied during

Saturday, May 30, 2009

Source: www.travelok.com

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Turner Falls

Photo provided by Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department

your stay.

Johnston County was created at statehood and named for Doughlas H. Johnston, governor of the Chickasaw Nation. The County seat, Tishomingo, is the historic Capitol of the Chickasaw Nation.

Johnston County is rich in history, having had two governors from Tishomingo. Those being the only father-son governors from this fine state. They were William H. "Alfalfa Bill" Murray, 1931-1935 and his son, Johnston Murray, 1951-1955. Alfalfa Bill is known for being the father of our Oklahoma Constitution and Johnston Murray is the only recorded Native American to have served as governor of Oklahoma. Both are buried at the Tishomingo City Cemetery.

The Great Chickasaw Nation has restored the two-story granite building which was the last council house of the Chickasaw at the time of statehood. That building constructed in 1898 became the Johnston County Courthouse following statehood. The Capitol Building is now one of the finest cultural centers of the area, housing early artifacts and the history of the Chickasaw Nation. The Bank of the Chickasaw Nation Building, named for Robert Maxwell Harris, former Governor of the Chickasaw was built in 1902, has been restored and now contains the Johnston County Historical Society Museum and Chickasaw Bank Museum.

Both buildings are open to the public and welcome tours.

Day Trips

Davis is nestled in the Arbuckle Mountains along I-35, 75 miles north of Dallas and 70 miles south of Oklahoma City. This scenic community is proud to be home to two of the states most famous tourist attractions, Turner Falls Park and Arbuckle Wilderness. Turner Falls Park, located in the Arbuckle Mountains, is a nature lovers paradise. Its 77 ft. waterfall and "Blue Hole" offer natural swimming areas with diving boards and a slide into the beautiful blue water. The smaller falls located throughout

the creek area provide floating for relaxation.

Arbuckle Wilderness, voted Oklahoma's Outstanding Tourist Attraction for 2005, is an exotic animal theme park. Enjoy the fun of feeding free roaming wild animals right out of your car window!

Cross-Bar Ranch, quickly becoming known around the country, is a 6,500 acre adventure area which offers opportunities for ATV and motorcycle off-roading, primitive camping, hiking, photography, and wildlife watching.

Arbuckle Mountain

Bluegrass Park holds four Bluegrass Festivals or Jams throughout the year in a beautiful outdoor setting with scenic RV parking.

If you are looking for indoor entertainment, visit Treasure Valley Casino for gaming activities.

The Arbuckle Museum is located in the old train depot where you will learn about this Native American Indian Territory and its history. We invite you to stroll along our smalltown main street with its period lighting, flower boxes, and unique store

fronts. You will find one-ofa-kind antiques and gifts, home-made baked goods, an old-fashioned soda fountain, a relaxing coffee house, great food, and friendly, individual service!

Visit Fullerton Park and enjoy the naturalistic walking trail, playground equipment for the children, and covered picnic area.

Year round, Davis is the place to be for swimming, hiking, fishing, camping, horseback riding, bird watching, antiquing, honey mooning, shopping, ATV off-roading, biking, or just relaxing.

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GREAT PLAINS COUNTRY Altus was founded in 1886 in a settlement about 2.5 miles west of the present city, and originally named Frazer.

After the town was almost washed away by a flood, the citizens moved their belongings, started over in the present site and changed the name to Altus, which means "altitude" or "high place" in Latin.

With a population of over 22,000, Altus is home to Altus AFB and world class companies including Bar-S Foods Co, Altus Athletic Manufacturing and Republic Gypsum.

Nature provided a head start in making Altus one of the most pleasant places to live in

this part of the country.

Warm, sunny days provide a great opportunity for you to enjoy the activities such as shopping, visiting our museums, golfing, baseball, basketball, swimming, hiking and exploring the mountains, or just relaxing at the area parks, including nearby Quartz Mountain. For the stock car enthusiast we also have two of the finest tracks in the state.

Altus Air Force Base is home to the 97th Air Mobility Wing, whose mission is to operate the Air Education and Training Command's strategic airlift and aerial refueling flying training schools.

Altus AFB is home to the

C-17 Globemaster III, C5 Galaxy (the largest US military plane), KC-135 Stratotanker and simulator museum.

Anadarko is the county seat of Caddo County, located in the beautiful Washita River Valley in southwest Oklahoma. It was founded in 1901 and has a population of approximately 6,500 people.

Rich in Native American heritage, Anadarko has been billed as the Indian Capital of the Nation. With seven tribes in a 30-mile radius, dancing, arts and crafts exhibits and pow-wow celebrations are dynamic parts of the area's cultural life. The American Indian Exposition is a

week-long tradition held in August.

Art galleries in Anadarko feature works by nationally known Oklahoma artists and document the area's Native American heritage through their lasting creativity. Don't miss a stop at the Southern Plains Indian Museum and Oklahoma Indian Arts and Crafts Cooperative during your visit.

History buffs will enjoy the National Hall of Fame for Famous American Indians.

The Anadarko Post Office features sixteen murals that depict scenes of nineteenth century activities of the Southern Plains Indians.

The murals are by internationally known artist Stephen Mopope, one of the "Kiowa Five".

Enjoy regional antiques and an early day physician's office and parlor at the Anadarko Philomathic Pioneer Museum. Located in the old Rock Island Depot, the museum preserves railroad memorabilia and Indian artifacts plus the history of our citizen's lives.

The holiday season offers an outstanding light display in Randlett Park. Drive along the river and enjoy Holiday Celebration.

Historic downtown has over 100 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. Sidewalk pavers display an Indian mosaic design of teepee, fire and arrows, representing home, warmth and protection of the home respectively.

At high noon on April 19, 1892, one of the premier jewels in Western Oklahoma's crown was created. Named for the Cheyenne Indians, whose reservation was opened for settlement on this date, Cheyenne quickly established itself as one the most exciting little towns in Western Oklahoma, and today serves as the county seat for Roger Mills County.

Chyenne’s claim to fame is the Washita Battlefield National Historic Site, located just two miles west of town. On Nov. 27, 1868, Lt. Col. George A. Custer and the 7th Cavalry attacked the Washita River camp of Cheyenne Chief Black Kettle. This was the beginning of the "Winter Campaign" of 1868-69, designed to bring an end to hostilities perpetrated by the Cheyenne and Arapaho Indians.

The town of Cheyenne rests in the heart of the Red Hills country. For an "Old West" adventure visit Coyote Hills Guest Ranch where you can saddle up and ride the hills. For a quiet and relaxing stay check out the Ivy Rose Cottage Bed and Breakfast, B & H Motel, or the Cheyenne Motel. For good Western Oklahoma food we have the #1 Okie Restaurant featuring barbecue in the evenings, Las Casuales for the Tex-Mex in all of

us, or the B & H Restaurant.

The spirit that turned cowboys into legends, cattlemen into men of fortune and oilmen into industry giants lives on in Duncan. Museums, antique and collectible shops and special retreat programs all share Duncan's rich and colorful heritage with visitors.

The Chisholm Trail Heritage Center, a modern multi-million dollar facility, offers a look back into the life, hardships and historical significance of one of Oklahoma's most intriguing eras, the Chisholm Trail.

The center puts visitors on the old trail through its artifacts, interactive displays, videos and tours. This is the only location along the famous Trail where visitors can learn its complete story and actually stand on its visible remains. The museum offers guided and selfguided tours to Trail sites and other nearby historical sites.

An exquisite 35-foot bronze statue entitled "On the Chisholm Trail" by artist Paul Moore flanks the Heritage Center. Three years in the making, this incredible bronze captures the severity of the trail in the life-sized longhorn cattle, the horses carrying the trail hands who drove the herds, and more.

The Chuck wagon and

Saturday, May 30, 2009 the trail dog trotting alongside are followed by a sea of longhorn cattle trailing off into the horizon.

The Stephens County Historical Society Museum features displays and artifacts illustrating early land-run and settlement life in Oklahoma together with early 20th century memorabilia. Still other displays illustrate the rise and growth of internationally-know Halliburton Energy Services founded in Duncan.

Duncan is known as the "Antique Capital of Southwest Oklahoma".

Duncan's historic downtown Main Street and outlying shops all boast one of the highest per capita concentrations of antique dealers in Oklahoma. When visitors see the broad selections and low prices, they appreciate how Duncan has earned this reputation.

Marlow has an interesting history to tell, from the Marlow brothers who spawned the movie "The Sons of Katie Elder," to the exciting historical activities of the present day community.

The Chisholm Trail follows the bank of Wildhorse Creek through Redbud Park in downtown Marlow. While in the Park, close to the Marlow brothers' "hideout" you find the Marlow Outlaw Centennial granite Monument dedicated to Marlow's past, present, and future pioneers, which tells the saga of the Marlow family and their struggle to survive in the 1880's. Walk The Creekwalk and explore the contents of the four exhibit huts, named for four of the five Marlow

brothers.

Tracing the chronicles of oil tycoons, "capitalists," miracles, mysteries, outlaws and gangsters of Marlow from its inception as a town to the thirties, the Heritage & Historic homes Tour is a mustsee for visitors. The Marlow Area Museum features local pioneers, history and color. A special area holds many artifacts of the Marlow brothers' family. Included is the original tombstone of Alfred, Boone, and Lewellyn from the Finis, Texas cemetery.

Displays depict the history, growth, and contributions to the community of local churches, the newspaper, local schools, local banks, a drug store, a funeral home, the fire department, the hospital and clinic, the telephone company, a military exhibit with displays from the Mexican War of 1848 through Desert Storm, as well as various pioneer families from the area.

The Marlow Area Museum and the Heritage & Historic Homes Tour as a package provide the visitor with a vivid look back in time to Territory and its development as Oklahoma.

"Marlow Grove" had its first area-wide Independence Day celebration on July 4, 1892, and continues the annual 4th of July celebration to this day. Outlaw Days Annual Ambush is scheduled in September each year. Historical Redbud Park features arts and crafts, food and game booths, and entertainment from Yesteryear - country and west-

Day Trips ern, blue grass, and gospel music, along with reenactments of the ambush of the Marlow brothers.

With prior arrangement, entertainment will be provided in The Opera House. The Marlow Gunfighters and Snake River Gang are always more than happy to pounce upon unsuspecting buses of visitors!

Oklahoma was not yet a state when the City of Sayre was founded in 1901. Robert Heysham Sayre, a wealthy railroad tycoon from Pennsylvania was very generous to the newly-formed town and provided donations to assist in building Sayre’s Presbyterian Church. Old newspaper accounts indicate the first passenger train arrived in Sayre on September 25, 1901. The train carried 300-400 passengers anxious to settle the new territory. The town now has a population of approximately 3500.

Sayre, the county seat of Beckham County, experienced growth as a result of the railroad in the early decades. The prosperity continued via the “Mother Road” – Historic Route 66, which runs through the heart of Sayre. And then came Interstate 40.

Famous for its appearance in the movie, “Grapes of Wrath”, the Beckham County Courthouse was built as a symmetrical blend of neo-classical and second renaissance revival styles. Sayre is a Main Street community with several buildings placed on the National Historic Registry.

Source: www.travelok.com

11

Lawton/Fort Sill Mt. Scott & Geronimo

Shelby Rasor stand atop Mt. Scott on a recent day trip.

Photo by Rob Rasor

Recognized nationally as one of the most culturally diversified communities in the United States, Lawton-Fort Sill is the home of several museums and countless cultural, arts and humanities organizations.

Fort Sill, established in 1869, is still a working Army base today and popular destination for visitors. The Fort Sill Museum has 26 historic buildings with exhibits on the Frontier Army, Native Americans and Field Artillery. The Fort is also famous as the holding facility for the great Apache warrior, Geronimo, who is buried on site, along with other famous Native American leaders. The Fort Sill National Historic Landmark is also located at the Museum.

Other attractions in the area include the Museum of the Great Plains and Red River Trading Post, a replica of the trading posts that existed in the early 1800s, and the Percussive Arts Society Museum.

And for outdoor recreation and just

awe-inspiring sights, don't miss the rugged splendor of the Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge.

While a driving tour will likely offer views of buffalo, elk and deer, some of the most incredible, scenic views can only be seen by hikers and backpackers. A drive to the summit of Mount Scott is a great photo op, and a visitors center on the refuge grounds provides exhibits, maps and general information.

Medicine Park, a tiny cobblestone community in the Wichita Mountains was Oklahoma's first resort area during the 1920s and 30s, attracting politicians, journalists, celebrities and gangsters.

Today the town is making a comeback and offers travelers unique dining, cottage stays, art galleries and entertainment.

The town's spirit combines the early Native American healing powers from the area and family resort characteristics from its founding days.

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Day Trips

Saturday, May 30, 2009

RED CARPET COUNTRY Alva is also the home of three museums. The Cherokee Strip Museum contains 40 rooms of displays including a drug store, kitchen, firearms, model railroad, military items and an old-fashioned schoolroom.

The Alva Municipal Airport Museum contains a section on the World War II prisoner of war camp formerly located in Alva and other Alva-related history.

Finally, the Stevens-Carter Museum of Natural History, housed at the NOSU campus, contains fossils, geological and archaeological materials and other natural history specimens, including an endangered species collection.

There are plenty of other attractions for visitors to

enjoy. Visitors also can enjoy a variety of shops, boutiques and restaurants on the Downtown Square and throughout the city.

Nearby are three outstanding Oklahoma state parks, including the Great Salt Plains State Park, Alabaster Caverns State Park, and Little Sahara State Park. The latter comes complete with sand dunes--a real surprise for many tourists!

On September 16, 1893, at high noon, a shot was fired starting the largest land run race in history. By nightfall thousands had staked their claims and the town of Blackwell had come to life! Over 100 years later, Blackwell still has a lot to offer for the visitor seeking a claim to

adventure.

While in Blackwell you will want to visit the Top of Oklahoma Museum capturing the history of the area and housed in the historic Electric Park Pavilion.

This magnificent structure was constructed in 19121913 as a tribute to the advent of electricity in the city. The building was designed by architect W.L. McAtee after the styles exhibited at the great "White City" of the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago.

Blackwell also invites you to see the sights and sounds of the Derailed Railroad Station. You will have an opportunity to relive history as you walk through the spacious 1920 Blackwell "Oil Boom" Homes. You will also walk

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back in time as you visit the 1909, working, police and fire department building.

Visitors to Boise City in Cimarron County marvel at the visible ruts of the historic Santa Fe Trail, explore the Dinosaur Quarry from which tons of dinosaur fossils have been excavated, wonder at the many kinds of minerals, gems and seashells found around the Black Mesa, and stare in disbelief at the Old Maid, Wedding Party and other strange rock formations.

The county is a hunter's and bird watcher's paradise with quail, pheasant, duck, wild turkey, dove, deer, antelope and over 200 native bird species and 150 migratory varieties.

Black Mesa is the highest point in Oklahoma, with its highest elevation at 4,973 feet above sea level.

Up to eight miles wide in places, the top of the mesa is relatively smooth and grassy and looks down on the beautiful Cimarron River. Black Mesa State Park features Lake Carl Etling, with 159 surface acres and nearly five miles of shoreline. Stocked from November to April, the lake offers excellent year-round opportunities for anglers.

As the trade center for NW Oklahoma, Enid offers many fine shopping experiences such as the Oakwood Mall and a Main Street award-winning downtown square full of interesting and unique stores. Sunset Plaza, Heritage Hills, Indian Hills, Northgate, Westgate, Sycamore Square, Neilson Square, South Van Buren Square, Varsity Square and

La Mesa West shopping centers are located throughout the city.

Fun things to see and do include the new Enid Symphony Center, the Chisholm Trail Expo Center, Gaslight Theatre, Bartunek's Winery, Midgley Museum, Railroad Museum of Oklahoma, Museum of the Cherokee Strip and Humphrey Heritage Village. Additional popular destinations for visitors are the Gallery of Fine Arts featuring the work of more than 25 Oklahoma artists, Leonardo's Discovery Warehouse and Adventure Quest, Splash Zone Waterpark, Putt-Putt Golf, Kiwanis Train, Comet Go-Carts and Meadowlake Miniature Golf.

Kingfisher has always been an exciting place.

Located on a natural track between the hills and less watered lands, it was a trail for nomadic tribes, military supply routes, stagecoaches and the Pony Express.

The site of King Fisher's Stage Station is still within city limits today.

Millions of Texas longhorn cattle traversed through what is now Kingfisher on their way along the fabled Chisholm Trail.

They were headed to Kansas railheads, to feed a hungry post-Civil War nation. Prior to statehood, Kingfisher's founding fathers did not have to travel far to stake their claims-the site of the town was located along the starting

line of the famous Oklahoma 1889 Land Run. Like many of Oklahoma's towns, it grew from a bald prairie to a bustling city literally overnight. Today the town's Centennial Brick Wall near the county courthouse honors those settlers who made the run of 1889.

Often referred to as the "Buckle of the Wheat Belt," Kingfisher remains a primarily agricultural and oil-based town. It is home to the Chisholm Trail Museum, and ruts of the old Trail can still be seen at various points on many of the original homesteads.

Kingfisher also is home to the mansion of former Oklahoma Governor A.J. Seay, now a museum open to the public.

Tonkawa: The Little Town with a BIG Heart!

A unique past, an intriguing present and an exciting future – that’s Tonkawa! Native Americans, hardy pioneers, visionary educators, legendary oilmen, German prisoners of war and creative citizens have all left their marks.

The Heart in the Park labyrinth with its time line of Tonkawa history and the Grand Heart Walk of panels are the latest additions to Centennial Park. A number of historical monuments and three museums – the McCarter Museum of Tonkawa History, the Tonkawa Tribal Museum and the A.D. Buck

Museum of Science and History – give glimpses into the history of the area.

The town takes its name from the Tonkawa Tribe, which was removed to the area in 1885.

Because of abundant wheat production in the area, Tonkawa styles itself “Wheatheart of Oklahoma.”

With the discovery of oil in the Tonkawa (Three Sands) Field in 1921, the town briefly was known as “The Billion Dollar Spot.”

Several beautiful homes and churches built during this time still stand. German prisoners of war were housed here in a POW camp during World War II, and the site is identified by a stone marker engraved with a map of the original compound.

Northern Oklahoma College is the home of the Eleanor Hayes Art Gallery, which hosts outstanding exhibits by Oklahoma artists. Its landscaped grounds delight the eye with individual memorial gardens and sculptures.

Numerous cultural events are open to the public.

Founded in 1892, Watonga is named for the Arapaho Chief (Watonga), or Black Coyote.

Agriculture and ranching are big business, along with gypsum mining and manufacturing.

Watonga is a popular spot for antique shopping, browsing through museums and fine dining, and few people leave town without shopping at the Watonga Cheese Factory, a major attraction. Many of the historic buildings and homes in Watonga have been restored and it is a Certified City and Oklahoma Main Street community.

Roman Nose Resort is located six miles north of Watonga on state highway 8. Long a retreat for the Cheyenne Indians, the park offers golf, horseback riding, camping, swimming, fishing, hiking, paddleboats, canoes, miniature golf and many other recreation types of recreation.

On the second Friday and Saturday in October, each year, thousands converge on Watonga for the annual Cheese Festival.

Visitors enjoy crafts, arts, antiques, a flea market, cheese tasting, food contest, parade, living history, quilt show, great rat race, carnival, good food and entertainment.

T.B. Ferguson, the 6th Territorial Governor of Oklahoma, made his home in Watonga. His residence, located at 621 N. Weigle, was restored in the 1970's and is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday. The Ferguson Chapel, a 1902 Prebyterian Church, has been restored and is available for tours, weddings, funerals, and programs. Watonga has three quality motels, plus rustic Roman Nose Resort, and two bed and breakfasts, the Redbud Manor and Kennedy Kottage. Watonga also was the boyhood home of Clarence Nash, the voice of Walt Disney's cartoon character, Donald Duck.

If your taste runs to rattlesnakes, Waynoka hosts the annual Rattlesnake Hunt on the weekend after Easter.

Also, visit Centennial Park.

The Little Sahara State Park (1800 acres of rolling sand dunes) is three miles south. Early explorers called the huge dunes, "walking hills." There's camping, dune buggy and

Day Trips 4-wheeler riding and a nature trail for hiking it's the most unusual and exciting park in the Midwest and it's open all year.

In 1876 the first Texas cattle herd came through the Woodward area — the new route became known as the Great Western Cattle Trail and soon carried the bulk of cattle headed north for railheads in Kansas.

For history buffs, the Plains Indians and Pioneers Museum is a visitor’s must see. The Museum’s permanent collection includes the personal affects of the frontier town’s most famous son, lawyer and gunfighter Temple Houston. Houston’s famous courtroom plea, “The Soiled Dove Plea,” given in defense of a “fallen woman,” has been upheld by the Harvard Law Review and other legal publications as the perfect closing argument.

The museum recently added to the Temple Houston Collection with the gun Houston used in a notorious shoot-out with Ed Jennings. Just up the road from Woodward visit historic Camp Fort Supply which served as a United States Army post established in Indian Territory in 1868 to protect the Southern Plains against the Plains Indians.

Located fourteen miles northwest of Woodward is Fort Supply Lake, a popular fishing, hunting, and boating spot. Within a short drive of Woodward, experience five of the most diverse State Parks in Oklahoma – Alabaster Caverns, Little Sahara, Roman Nose, Gloss Mountains, and Boiling Springs.

Source: www.travelok.com

13

Ponca City Pioneers & Oil

Photo provided by Oklahoma Tourism & Recreation Department

Saturday, May 30, 2009

Wild, exuberant, fabulous - a journey through Ponca City is a journey through time. Explore the city launched by lottery. Relish the splendors from the great oil boom, or take an adventure into Native America. Touch the magnificence. Come to Ponca City.

The Legacies Live On. Nestled in the fabled Cherokee Strip, Ponca City exploded into being in the 1890's. Its first legacy is the history of the natural West, a land which was home to vast tribal cultures, pioneers and the famed 101 Ranch.

The land remembers.

Long before European explorers, the many peoples native to this land lived in communion with the earth. Standing Bear Statue and Park honors the six Native American tribes who call the lands around Ponca City home.

The Pioneer Woman Statue and Museum honors the vanishing American who "Saw No Boundaries." Commissioned by former Oklahoma Governor E.W. Marland in 1928, the statue is a towering memorial to the courage of thousands of women who helped settle this land.

The discovery of oil fields brought a new legacy. Wildcatters and oil barons took Ponca City roaring into the 1920's. Gov. Marland--also an oilman, legislator and philanthropist - lived hard, worked hard, and played hard.

Today you can tour the two exquisite mansions left behind with part of the Marland legacy.

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Day Trips

Saturday, May 30, 2009

FRONTIER COUNTRY Cushing's Barbecue and Blues Festival is known for the most unique, if not the world's largest, smoker. Festivities include games, top notch blues music from throughout the state and barbecue by Cushing's Pipeline Companies. This is a KCBS sanctioned event and is proclaimed by the Governor of Oklahoma to be a State Sanctioned Championship Cook-Off. Mark your calendars for the first Saturday in June for some of the state's best blues and barbecue!

Take a trip back in time with a visit to the Cimarron Valley Railroad Museum and see many various railroad artifacts and

memorabilia. Visit our historic Downtown; it's an Antique Shopper's delight!

Cushing Community Theatre, the "star" of Downtown, provides several entertaining productions throughout the year. The Cimarron Valley Cruisers Rod Run showcases more than 200 automobiles every year. The awardwinning PRCA Cushing Community Rodeo draws hundreds of onlookers to watch action-packed bull riding, roping, barrel racing, and other exciting events.

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian River Valley, El Reno is located at the intersection of two historic highways, nostalgic Route 66 and the Chisholm Trail

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(U.S. Highway 81). The city is home to an assortment of outstanding attractions, including an authentic rail trolley, as well as specialty shopping, dining, festivals and historic sites.

Four miles west of El Reno on Route 66 you will find Fort Reno. These historic grounds were established in 1875 as an Indian Territory military fort. The cavalry and infantry units stationed at Fort Reno played a critical role in the transition of Oklahoma from territorial status to statehood. In October, the Tombstone Tales event brings the fort's history alive as buffalo soldiers, Indian scouts, cavalrymen, settlers, and even WWII

German POWs appear to tell their stories.

Guthrie stands on the gentle rolling prairie of Oklahoma once occupied

by Native Americans and herds of grazing buffalo.

After the dust settled from the Great Land Run of April 22, 1889, the rolling prairie was transformed into a sprawling array of crude tents, wagons, and rough wooden buildings overnight.

From that first day of chaos, Guthrie emerged as an elegant Victorian city with beautiful architecture, bustling businesses, cultural events and enterprising citizens.

Guthrie's beauty and grace befit the optimism as the first state capitol of the new 46th state of Oklahoma.

Ongoing restoration since the 1980's has preserved Guthrie's rich architectural legacy and all its grandeur. Almost all of the original 19th century buildings remain and most of the commercial structures have been restored. Today, Guthrie is the largest contiguous urban historic district on the National Register, extending 1,400 acres and 400 city blocks. A living museum of late 19th century architecture, Guthrie was designated a National Landmark Community in 1999.

Nestled along the banks of Wewoka ("Barking Water") Creek in south central Oklahoma, the city of Wewoka is a natural bridge from the 19th to the 21st centuries. Long before city lots went on sale in 1855, Wewoka served as a trading post for the Seminole

Nation, a member of the Five Civilized Tribes in what was then known as "Indian Territory."

Shortly after the Civil War in 1866, the U.S. Post Office recognized the incorporated town of Wewoka. With the coming of the railroad, Wewoka gained further recognition as the switching station of the Santa Fe, Rock Island and MKT Railroads.

"Wewoka Switch" was known all along the railroad lines; if shipments were lost or delayed, they were reportedly "caught in the Wewoka Switch."

Wewoka became one of the most important cities in Oklahoma during the "oil boom" days of the 1920s-40s. With six theaters, numerous restaurants, the elegant Aldridge Hotel and uncounted oil companies, the streets of Wewoka busted. When the oil business dwindled, the pioneer spirit of Wewoka kept the town alive while many of its counterparts became virtual "ghost towns."

Visitors to Wewoka today will want to check out its three chief attractions: the Whipping Tree, the Seminole Nation Museum and the annual Sorghum Day Festival.

The Whipping Tree stands vigil on the southwest corner of the Seminole County Courthouse grounds. During the days of Seminole Tribal Law,

anyone found guilty of a crime was sentenced either to sit at the foot of the "Execution Tree" and be shot or to be whipped at the Whipping Tree.

Punishment was meted out by Lighthorsemen, the official law enforcement officers of the Seminole Nation. The Execution Tree now stands in the State Historical Society in Oklahoma City.

The Seminole Nation Museum offers a wide variety of displays depicting the history of the area from the "Trail of Tears" through the space age.

With displays of memorabilia, coupled with works of native artists, the Seminole Nation Museum is a "mustsee" tourist attraction.

Nearly 40,000 people from around the world visit Wewoka on the fourth Saturday in October to join in the annual Sorghum Day Festival.

Sorghum Day started in 1976 as a celebration of Wewoka's 110th anniversary. Over the years, the festival has grown and gained national recognition. Using 19th century equipment and a horsedrawn grinding mill, workers actually grind and cook homegrown sorghum cane to make a dark, sweet syrup. With Native American craftsmen, vendors, showmen and exhibits going on throughout the day, the Sorghum Festival offers something for all ages.

Source: www.travelok.com

Saturday, May 30, 2009

Day Trips Photos by Marc Jones

Once upon a day trip. . .

By Julianna Parker Jones Transcript Staff Writer

You don’t have to take an exotic cruise or fly halfway across the world to have a nice vacation.

And in this economy, that’s not feasible for most people anyway.

Trips closer to home are a less expensive option for summer travel, and will still leave you with good memories for years to come. A fun trip can be right here in Oklahoma.

A recent weekend getaway for my husband and I began with an electronic request for promotional materials from travelok.com. The pamphlets and magazines arrived in the mail about a week later.

We didn’t really know for sure when or where we wanted to go, but the materials gave us some good ideas, and even sparked a trip May 2-3.

“You know, I’ve always wanted to go to the Renaissance Faire in Muskogee,” my husband said. Me too!

And with that, we began planning our trip.

We also found out the Kolache Festival in Prague was the same day we planned to go to the fair, so we incorporated that into our trip. A Saturday night stay at the Courtyard Tulsa Central.

When May 2 rolled around, it wasn’t ideal weather for a vacation — rainy and chilly — but we braved the elements because we’d already booked our hotel.

In Prague, the Kolache Festival was crowded despite the foreboding clouds. Many churches had stands selling packages of a dozen kolaches, as well as a sausage in a hot dog bun, called kielbasa. The usual Oklahoma festival staples were also evident: small-scale fair rides and fair food.

The kolaches, which tasted like a frozen dinner roll with a dollop of jam, weren’t nearly as good as the sauerkraut-and-mustard-smothered kielbasa.

But Prague was but a pit-stop on the way to the glorious festival that was: The Renaissance Faire.

The festival was open every weekend in May, but May 2 was its opening day. The rain that began early and flipped off and on throughout the day, however, kept many of the guests away.

“Opening with a squish instead of a bang,” fair vendor Byron Miller said as he was surrounded by his wares of handmade brooms and walking sticks. “But it just happens. It’s one of the dangers of outdoor festivals.”

Miller knows his opening days, too. He’s owned and operated Broomhilde with his wife Arleen for the past three years. They sell their wares at Renaissance and Medieval Fairs around the country.

Before starting Broomhilde, Miller played a didjeridoo in an Irish band at festivals for about 11 years.

“It’s the only way we’ve found that we’ve actually been able to make a living with art,” he said.

Shortly after the conversation with Miller, the rain started up again and drove many Faire visitors into the castle.

15

Yes, that’s right, the castle.

I, too, had no idea how well-established was the Renaissance Faire. This is no Norman Medieval Fair.

The vendors have actual wooden stands and the games (knife and ax throwing, or tests of strength) all look like they could withstand a storm.

There’s even a castle complete with air-conditioning, a restaurant, pub and dungeon.

There are far more Renaissance costumes running around, too. At the Medieval Fair in Norman, there are some Medieval costumes, but there are far more outfits that I would just label “bazaar.” Perhaps it was because the rain drove all but the very hard-core Faire enthusiasts away, but my husband and I in street clothes were far outnumbered by costumed people.

Many of those costumed people also were in character, complete with British accent. It can be confusing to know how to respond to someone who

is trying to sell you their wares while maintaining a character long dead. The important thing to remember is just to go with the flow.

But May 2, the rain kept flowing, so after buying some delicious kettle corn and home-made rootbeer, this reporter was quickly on her way to Tulsa.

For those who haven’t been overexposed to Tulsa (if, for example, you grew up there, this wouldn’t apply to you), Tulsa is a great mini-vacation destination. It’s only about two hours away, so it’s definitely feasible for a one-night or even day trip.

It’s also far enough away from Norman, and into Oklahoma’s Green Country, that it feels like a “destination.”

There are a multitude of options for shopping and dining as well.

On the recommendation of a friend, I tried Mary’s Italian Trattoria, 1313 E. 15th St. #B, for dinner. I was not disappointed. The cozy Italian restaurant was decorated with homey Italian pieces

that gave it an eclectic, Tulsa-y vibe.

The main course pasta dishes my husband and I tried were excellent, but what was really exceptional was the house salad.

The dressing was the perfect tangy Caesar/dill flavor of which I could not get enough.

After dinner, it was back to the hotel. We found the Tulsa Courtyard online and picked it for it’s many amenities, as well as an Internet special that offered two breakfasts for the price of one.

Staying in the hotel away from home was just what we needed, and definitely pushed the trip into “extra special” (whereas it would have been just “special” if we’d headed back to Norman after the Renaissance Faire).

Everyone needs a night away from home now and then. And when it comes right down to it, that brief vacation can be just as special taken here in Oklahoma or across the world.

Julianna Parker Jones 366-3541 jparker@normantranscript.com