2 2011 Destination Oklahoma GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out a letter to tour operators: There’s more to do and see in Oklahoma than you can imagine. And you’ll be greeted TABLEof by some of the friendliest people in the country! Come on, “Play Your Heart Out.” Enjoy Oklahoma hospitality and experience sights and events you won’t find anywhere CONTENTS else! Oklahoma Tourism 2 New to Destination Oklahoma this year: Oklahoma Map 4–5 • Itineraries for your ease in planning, special events listings and a new Rewards Program. Travel across Oklahoma, enter our drawing and win up to $1,000. Details Mileage Charts 5 on page 38. Green Country 6–15 • Enhance your tours by including some exciting events in your planning (see page 36–37) and check out the included websites for even more events (page 36–37). Frontier Country 16–17 We welcome you and your groups…Come on…Play your heart out with us! Great Plains Country 18–20 Kiamichi Country 21 Kaw Lake 22–24 Association GreatPlainsCountry.com Red Carpet Country 25–27 GreenCountryOK.com Arbuckle Country 28–29 Itineraries 30–35 Special Events 36–37 Produced in cooperation with the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department. Produced in cooperation with the Oklahoma Tourism KiamichiCountry.com Rewards Program 38 KawLake.com RedCarpetCountry.com Arbuckles.com
GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out 2011 Destination Oklahoma 3 Oklahoma: Great Destinations
22 4 9 23 1 25 12 26 3 7 24 13 8 27 5 2 28 10 GreenCountryOK.com 11 17 19 21 15 14 6 39 16 Publisher Green Country Marketing Association 34 29 2805 E. Skelly Dr., Suite 805 Tulsa, OK 74105 20 38 918.744.0588 • 918.744.0580 FAX 18 31 35 GreenCountryOK.com 32 Designed by 30 36 PDG+creative 33 319 S. Dewey, Suite 200 Bartlesville, OK 74003 37 918.337.0414 • 918.337.9275 FAX PDGcreative.com
4 2011 Destination Oklahoma GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out OKLAHOMA: city legend Green Country Kaw Lake Area mileage 1 Bartlesville 22 Blackwell Tulsa to: Oklahoma City to: 2 Broken Arrow 23 Kaw Lake Bartlesville...... 47 mi Ardmore...... 97 mi 3 Claremore 24 Perry Claremore...... 30 mi Duncan...... 81 mi McAlester...... 91 mi El Reno...... 27 mi 4 Dewey 25 Ponca City Miami...... 90 mi Enid...... 101 mi 5 Drumright 26 Tonkawa Muskogee...... 49 mi Lawton...... 84 mi 6 Eufaula Red Carpet Country Okmulgee...... 38 mi McAlester...... 135 mi 7 Grand Lake 27 Enid Ponca City...... 94 mi Norman...... 19 mi Pryor...... 44 mi Ponca City...... 102 mi 28 Kingfisher 8 Jenks Tahlequah...... 69 mi Stillwater...... 73 mi 9 Miami Arbuckle Country Oklahoma City...... 105 mi Tulsa...... 105 mi 29 10 Muskogee Ada 30 Tulsa OKC 11 Okmulgee Ardmore 12 Pawhuska 31 Davis Kansas City, MO...... 249 mi ����������������353 mi 39 13 Tulsa 32 Gene Autry Dallas, TX...... 263 mi ����������������205 mi Frontier Country 33 Madill Wichita, KS...... 176 mi ����������������161 mi 14 Choctaw 34 Pauls Valley Little Rock, AR...... 276 mi ����������������340 mi 15 Midwest City 35 Sulphur Amarillo, TX...... 364 mi ����������������258 mi 16 Norman 36 Tishomingo Joplin, MO...... 114 mi ����������������219 mi 17 Oklahoma City 37 Thackerville Des Moines, IA...... 462 mi ����������������546 mi Great Plains Country 38 Wynnewood 18 Duncan Kiamichi Country 19 Elk City 39 Poteau 20 Lawton/Ft. Sill 21 Weatherford 3,000 Copies of the Destinations Guide were produced at a cost of $1.83 each.
GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out 2011 Destination Oklahoma 5 green COUNTRY What To See and Do While In…Green Country lay your heart out! in towns, you’ll appreciate the warm welcomes and perhaps come Northeast Oklahoma’s away with a fuller understanding of the words of Native Oklahoman P Will Rogers, “I never met a man I didn’t like.” amazing Green Country! Route 66, known as the “Mother Road,” meanders through the Whether you crave an heart of Green Country allowing you to visit museums, neon diners, exciting, activity focused one-of-a-kind art deco structures, totem poles, flowing rivers, trip or a more relaxed, small-town treasures and big city excitement. Tribal dance at Woolaroc, bartlesville contemplative vacation, Gilcrease Museum in Tulsa, houses the world’s largest, most Oklahoma’s Green Country comprehensive collection of art and artifacts of the American West! there’s more! Be sure to visit Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife is your heart’s desire. Preserve, a western art-lovers treasure; Tulsa’s Philbrook Museum Here you’ll discover year- of Art, blending European influenced collections and American round opportunities for the finest Indian art; the Five Civilized Tribes Museum in Muskogee and the entertainment, dining, natural Will Rogers Memorial Museums in Claremore and Oologah. Also, beauty, attractions and events. Phillips Petroleum Company museum in Bartlesville, Dewey’s Tom as you travel through this Mix Museum and Victorian Hotel, Tulsa’s Air & Space Museum beautiful region of Oklahoma, and Planetarium, the Oklahoma Aquarium and other museums enjoying the rolling hills, waving throughout the region. prairie grasses and many if your interest is Native American heritage—you’ve come to gorgeous lakes and rivers, the right place! Bartlesville is home to the Delaware’s, Tahlequah you’ll notice a special bonus… is home to the Cherokee Nation and offers an historical site, the friendliness of the people. museums, art exhibits, educational demonstrations and pow- From cosmopolitan Tulsans to wows. The Osage Tribe is headquartered in Pawhuska where you’ll Performing arts center, tulsa residents of charming small find the Osage Tribal Museum near the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve,
6 2011 Destination Oklahoma GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out green COUNTRY
complete with roaming bison and native wildflowers. Okmulgee is home to the Creeks, and their museum is a must see. Native American events and festivals abound here. Green Country boasts several fine wineries with special events, chef-prepared meals and a vast choice of wines for your tasting and dining pleasure. Garden tours and festivals are numerous. There are garden tours in Muskogee, Tulsa, Shidler and Grove, and the grounds of Philbrook, Gilcrease and Woolaroc also Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, Pawhuska azalea festival, muskogee provide a tour of beautiful gardens. as far as festivals go, Green Country has it covered from Tulsa’s Dewey and Pryor. Mayfest to Muskogee’s Azalea Festival to Pryor’s Rocklahoma and With so many attractions, Bartlesville’s renowned OK Mozart Festival. There are also German special events, shopping festivals, fishing-based festivals and even a Whole Hawg Festival. districts, museums, lakes, All are listed on the website. resorts, casinos and much in addition, a wide array of performing arts are scheduled more in Green Country’s 18 throughout the year including Broadway shows in Bartlesville and counties, there’s something Tulsa. Rodeos, outdoor theater, car shows, fly-ins and fishing to fulfill everyone’s heart’s tournaments fill spring, summer and fall days and nights. desire. You’ll love the fine casino gaming and horse racing available in So come play! Come Green Country. Many casinos offer luxury accommodations and stay in Oklahoma’s Green fine dining. Country! tulsa skyline Visitors to Green Country enjoy an amazing variety of opportunities to shop—from neighborhood shops and boutiques to major malls and national retailers. You’ll find antique malls and flea
markets when you visit towns such as Jenks, Claremore, Wagoner, GreenCountryOK.com
GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out 2011 Destination Oklahoma 7 green COUNTRY
8 2011 Destination Oklahoma GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out green COUNTRY
Experience Frank Lloyd Wright’s Only Skyscraper
Enjoy a catered dinner, breathtaking views and an overnight stay with Frank Phillips Home: Preserved by the Oklahoma Historical Society, luxurious accommodations in historic the National Register Historic site reflects the lifestyle of Frank Phillips, one of Bartlesville, OK. Oklahoma’s greatest oil barons. Don’t miss this historical treasure. 918.336.2491 • FrankPhillipsHome.org Tour includes Price Tower Arts Center, WINDLE’S JEWELRY, Bartlesville: Welcome to a world of natural wonder. Woolaroc, and Frank Phillips Home. Rocks, minerals, jewelry made with gemstones or supplies to make your own. We also stock Frankoma Pottery, Native American artwork and so much more. Driver and guide stay free. 918.333.2814 • WindlesJewelry.com
Keepsake Candle Factory and Country Store: Enjoy the aroma of over 500 styles of hand-made candles. These beautiful “Antiques in Wax” have been made in Bartlesville since 1970—a business that began on the Call 918.336.4949 for info kitchen stove. 510 Dewey Ave., Bartlesville, OK 918.336.0351 • KeepsakeCandles.com pricetower.org
GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out 2011 Destination Oklahoma 9 green COUNTRY
10 2011 Destination Oklahoma GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out green COUNTRY Spend some time...
in Muskogee www.muskogeechamber.org
GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out 2011 Destination Oklahoma 11 green COUNTRY
Broken Arrow: Located south and east of Tulsa and close to an array of attractions. Home to Bass Pro Shops, great shopping and dining. Annual events include Rooster Days, Tuesdays in the Park and Rockets Over Rhema. 866.503.7081 • VisitBrokenArrowOK.com
Oklahoma Aquarium, Jenks: Largest bull sharks in captivity seen through a walk-through tunnel plus seahorses, jellyfish and more. Don’t forget the playful river otters, raccoons and beavers in the Hayes Family Ozark Stream. Daily 10–6, Tues ‘til 9. 918.296.FISH • OKAquarium.org
vinita, OK: In the heart of Green Country lies Vinita, Oklahoma on historic Route 66. With it’s small town charm and unique shopping adventures it’s definitely a place to hang your hat, even if it’s just long enough to experience the awesome events Vinita has to offer! 918.256.7133 • Vinita.com
12 2011 Destination Oklahoma GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out green COUNTRY OSAGE COUNTY Scenic Byways • State Parks • Casinos • Museums Blue Lakes • Bison & Wild Horses • Wineries Outdoor Adventure • Proud Osages Unique Shopping & Much More • National Indian Taco Championship— Pawhuska—May • Big Heart Day—Barnsdall—May • Skiatook Bluegrass Festival—June • OK Mozart—Woolaroc—June World’s • Ben Johnson Memorial Steer Roping— J.M. Davis Arms and Historical Museum, Claremore: Pawhuska—June largest private collection of firearms. 50,000+ items including Native American & Western items, WWI posters, antique musical instruments, cowboy • Internat’l Round-Up Clubs Cavalcade—Pawhuska—July memorabilia and more. M–F 8:30–5p, Sat 10–5p, Sun 1–5p. Free. Donations • Kihekah-Steh Pow-Wow—Skiatook— accepted. July 918.341.5707 • TheGunMuseum.com • Shidler Car Show—August WILL ROGERS MEMORIAL MUSEUMS, Claremore/Oologah: 12-gallery • Osage County Free Fair—Pawhuska Fairgrounds—September museum depicting life of cowboy-humorist Will Rogers; 400-acre birthplace ranch located 12 miles north of Claremore. 8–5, 365 days. • Osage Nation Film & Art Festival & Rendezvous—September 800.324.9455 • WillRogers.com • Pioneer Day & Rodeo—Skiatook— September WorldMark by Wyndham: Relax at one of our spacious condos. Unit amenities include private balcony, gas fireplace, living room and full kitchen. 888.887.7580 World-Renowned Attractions! Monday through Friday 9–5 EST. VisitTheOsage.com Gilcrease Museum • Woolaroc • Tallgrass Prairie 800.867.2095 • www.greatpricedcondos.com/gl GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out 2011 Destination Oklahoma 13 green COUNTRY
lodging at Grand Lake Enjoy exceptionally priced condo rentals situated on the Shangri La golf course. Units include fully equipped kitchen, washer and dryer, gas fireplace, and a private balcony. For reservations call 800-867-2095 or for more information visit www.greatpricedcondos.com/gl. Mention promo code DEST OK and MIAMI, OK: Home of nine Native American Tribes, historic theatres, museums save 15% on your stay! and the Ribbon Road (the last original stretch of Route 66). With plenty of hotel rooms, casinos and concerts, you will love this unique town. Resort at Grand Lake 57020 East Highway 918.542.4435 • VisitMiamiOK.com 125 Monkey Island, OK 74331 THE COLEMAN THEATRE, Miami: 1929 vaudeville theatre/movie palace is on the National Register of Historic Places. The 1600 seat theatre with the original Mighty Wurlitzer Pipe Organ is the highlight of any trip. Tours free with donation. 918.540.2425 • ColemanTheatre.org
Dobson Museum: Located near historic Route 66, the Dobson Museum hosts more than 5,000 historical items. Indian artifacts, china, glassware, an extensive jug collection, area mining display, early day and foreign woodworking tools, displays of furniture and toys used by first settlers and much more! 110 A. Street SW. Hours Sun, Wed & Fri 1pm–4pm. 918.540.1404
14 2011 Destination Oklahoma GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out green COUNTRY
Only in “Oklahoma’s Largest” WINERY Okmulgee Free Tours • Free Tastings discover the fun! Perfect place for your next event! • Weddings • Meetings 1 6 • Receptions • Luncheons 7 4 0 3
• Birthdays • Dinners i n e y a r d s V O K H i g h w a y h o u r s a s t i n g • Reunions • Parties T Tidal School e s t & W f o r • Corp. Events • Anniversaries S c h o l Vineyards F R E C a l i d a l o u r s T 5 4 6 0 D r u m i g h t , T n 1 6 .
mpress your guests with a wedding or 1 6 . u r t w o e x i t . T o u g h o n t y - f o u r g o other special event in Oklahoma’s most h o u r t h r 3 ) H w y f o r e x i t . t o o n e a n d I m i l e s romantic celebration venue; Tidal School Vineyards. 3 9 x . t e s . ( H w y o o u d ) o n i g h t t w o o n t r ( l e f t ) p r g o ( S t h Enjoy the beautiful and historic Tidal School i g h t m i n u u m r A r . e i g h t ) 9 y o u t h n o r D a n d u m r ( r
building which features outdoor areas cut into the S r g o 1 6 . m i n u t e s . D t y - f i v H w y
vineyard, four-acre grounds and two large decks w i n e r o u g h i g h t ) E a s t i g h t . f o r ( r t h e a n d t o e n t y t h r H w y n t h e
overlooking the vineyard. The large banquet facility x . t o o u m r t w u r r 3 t o o n T o u t h
includes a theatrical stage and catering kitchen D m i l e s S p r r a g u e ) o n 1 6 a n d e 3 A n m i l e s i n ( P . enveloped in stunning grounds and architecture 3 . y o n t u r 1 6 i g h t ) t y - f i v h o u r H w y that will take your breath away. Catering is available e x i t ( r f i t e n H w y f o r w i n e r o f i g h t ) 9 T h e n o n e ( r to meet every need. H w y e s t t o E a s t t h e x . e a s t w t o 1 6 . o o s o u t h H w y t o G 9 s o u t h 3 p r I - 4 I - 4 1 6 A t h e
Visit the web site www.tidalschool.com or call toll H w y 3 . o n . o n m i l e s y t o a k e a k e m i l e s free 866-258-1903 for more information. a k e T T H w y
T Drumright, Oklahoma w o H w y ( l e f t ) i g h t ) T i g h t C : w i n e r t w o o n t o ( r u l s a : t h www.tidalschool.com I - 4 0 : O K T u m r t h e e s t r o r D N t o m i l e s T h e n m i l e s W o m o m o m r r r Toll Free: 866-258-1903 F L o c a t i n : F F Discover the indoor fun of native culture and art of the Tidal School Vineyards, Drumright: A true California-style wine Creek Council House Museum country experience at OK’s largest winery. Live music, great food, gift shop, Discover outdoor fun free guided tours of the historic Tidal School, AND free wine tastings! Enjoy the at Okmulgee Lake and decks overlooking the vineyard. Dripping Springs State Park 866.258.1903 • TidalSchool.com Discover retail fun with great shops CREEK COUNCIL HOUSE, Okmulgee: Experience the history and culture of Discover dining fun the Muscogee (Creek) tribe. Tuesday–Saturday, 10–4:30. with all our great 918.756.2324 • OkmulgeeOnline.com restaurants and cafes. Osage County Tourism: The Spirit of the West lives on in Osage County! Discover Okmulgee Visitors will enjoy pow wows, rodeos, wooded state parks, lake activities, world- and discover the fun! class museums, thrilling casinos, & wild horses and bison roaming our wide Okmulgee Tourism Program open spaces! Home of the Osage Nation & the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, with a 112 N Morton, Okmulgee, OK 74447 rich history steeped in oil and ranching. Come roam our scenic byways! 918.756.6172 888.887.7580 • VisitTheOsage.com OkmulgeeOnline.com GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out 2011 Destination Oklahoma 15 FRONTIER COUNTRY What To See and Do While In…frontier Country orld-class attractions, Route 66 sights, fun- • Town Center Plaza shopping district Wfilled communities, exciting sporting events and • Midwest City Holiday Lights Spectacular (November– specialty shopping and restaurants, Central Oklahoma’s December) • Tinker Inter-Tribal Council Pow Wow (June) Frontier Country has it all for groups! Frontier Country consists of the 12 central counties of Shawnee Oklahoma. Enjoy an oasis of cultural events, grand museums, • Mabee-Gerrer Museum extraordinary attractions and unique places to stay. of Art Centrally located at the crossroads of I-35, I-40 and I-44, • Santa Fe Depot Museum Frontier Country is easily accessible from anywhere in the nation. • Parsons Vineyard & Winery • International Finals Youth Rodeo El Reno (July) • Heritage Express Trolley • Canadian County Historical For more information, a complete Museum calendar of events and to help plan • Historic Fort Reno your trip, visit oktourism.com or call • Ghosts of Fort Reno Tours 800-FUN-OKLA. (March–November) Cowboy Museum • Annual Fried Onion Burger Day Festival (May)
Midwest City • Joe B. Barnes Regional Park • Rose State College Performing OKC National memorial Arts Theater
16 2011 Destination Oklahoma GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out FRONTIER COUNTRY
#3
405-390-8647
Dec 31, 2009.
^ N
Go south on Sooner Rd. to I-40 W, Choctaw Rd. exit, north on Choctaw Rd., right on S.E. 29th St.
Old Germany Restaurant: Family owned and operated since 1976. Original German Cuisine. Tour Groups Welcome! Wine Dinners for Groups. The Wine Cellar Banquet Room seats 50. Large selection of German Beers and International Wines. Senior and children’s menu available. 405.390.8647 • OldGermany.com
Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, OU, Norman: An adventure for all ages featuring the world’s largest Apatosaurus, archaeological exhibits and realistic nature dioramas, a hands-on Discovery THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA Room for kids, plus museum store and café.
405.325.4712 • snomnh.ou.edu 2401 Chautauqua Ave., Norman (405) 325-4712 central oklahoma’s frontier country: Frontier Country’s 12 www.snomnh.ou.edu counties have it all! Located at the crossroads of I-35, I-40 and I-44, We’re easily accessible from anywhere in the nation. For calendar of events or help in The University of Oklahoma is an equal opportunity Institution planning your trip, call or visit us on the web. 800.FUN.OKLA 800.386.6552 • OKTourism.com
GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out 2011 Destination Oklahoma 17 great plains country What To See and Do While In…great plains Country
ourteen counties of scenic parks, mountain ranges, • Anadarko—the Indian Fplains and prairies, wildlife management areas, Capitol of the Nation, Western and Native American heritage, arts and culture, Anadarko is home to Indian City USA, the National shopping, fairs and festivals, museums, historic sites, Hall of Fame for Famous water sports, camping, fishing, hunting and outdoor American Indians and the recreation. There’s something for everyone! Get ready Southern Plains Indian for great times in Great Plains Country! Museum
there’s so much to do in Southwest Oklahoma—surrounded by • Frederick—the ‘jumping off western heritage statue so much beauty—that your toughest decision will be what to do point’ for the adventurous next! Abernathy Boys, who rode alone on horseback to New York From wide open plains to peaceful lakes, Great Plains Country City in 1910—at the tender ages of 6 and 10 has everything to make your vacation memorable. • Historic Route 66—in addition to having lots of drivable miles • Quartz Mountain Resort & Lodge—set deep in the ancient of Rt. 66, there are two museums dedicated to the Mother hills of the Wichita Mountains, this multi-million dollar resort is Road; the National Route 66 Museum & Old Town Complex in perfect for your group stay Elk City, and the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum in Clinton • Western Prairie Museum—housing period stagecoaches and And that’s just a small sample of all there is to see and do in other remnants of our western heritage Southwest Oklahoma’s Great Plains Country! Take your time and • Medicine Park—tucked away in the shadow of Quartz wander through our website, order some brochures, then load up Mountain, this picture-perfect resort town is unique in that ‘57 Chevy and pay us a visit! architecture and personality • Chisholm Trail Heritage Center—home of the largest monument in America dedicated to the Chisholm Trail and the longest Chisholm Trail Walkway in the world GreatPlainsCountry.com
18 2011 Destination Oklahoma GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out great plains country
GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out 2011 Destination Oklahoma 19 great plains country
Lawton/Fort Sill: The spirit of adventure awaits you in Lawton/Fort Sill. Navigate the picturesque terrain of our nation’s oldest wildlife refuge. Feed your mind with national museums and historic landmarks. Enjoy great hotels, restaurants, events and casinos. 800.872.4540 • LawtonFortSillChamber.com
20 2011 Destination Oklahoma GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out kiamichi country What To See and Do While In…kiamichi country klahoma’s beautiful Kiamichi OCountry is “A Paradise at Your Fingertips!” Just a short drive from any of the regions’ major metropolitan areas, Kiamichi Country offers spectacular beauty, Red Carpet Receptions 1702 North Broadway scenic vistas and attractions for all. Tour Bus Certified Poteau, OK 74953 Kiamichi Country is made up of No Group Too Small or Big 918.647.3510 ten unique counties located in the lake eufaula Two Conference Rooms [email protected] Southeast corner of Oklahoma, showcasing our unique history, culture and natural beauty that makes Southeast Oklahoma one of Oklahoma’s most visited tourism regions. in the northwest corner of Kiamichi Country you will find Lake Eufaula, the largest lake located entirely in the state of Oklahoma. With more than 600 miles of shoreline, Eufaula offers a variety of recreational opportunities.
KiamichiCountry.com GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out 2011 Destination Oklahoma 21 kaw lake association What To See and Do While In…the kaw lake area he Kaw Lake Area is south of Blackwell is Tonkawa, which hosts a growing Tpositioned within Green agritourism program, the McCarter Museum, the A.D. Buck Country and Red Carpet Museum on the Northern Oklahoma College campus and Heart in the Park, a heart-shaped labyrinth with a unique timeline of Country. Tonkawa’s history in Centennial Park. View downtown from the In Ponca City, tour Oil Baron upstairs of the Tonkawa Bed and Breakfast located in the historic E.W. Marland’s (and Oklahoma’s 1926 Tonkawa Funeral Home. 10th governor) Grand Home which Looking for casinos? Visit the Tonkawa Casino just east of town houses the 101 Ranch Museum and the Native Lights Casino at the north end of the lake. Heart in the park and several other exhibits. at the south end of the Kaw Lake area, Perry serves as the Marland’s second home, the Marland Mansion, is a virtual “Palace gateway to the Cherokee Strip area. Learn about its history at on the Prairie.” Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Cherokee Strip Museum, a five-acre complex that includes it also includes the Bryant Baker Art Studio, Marland Oil Museum, indoor and outdoor exhibits, an implement building, one-room and chauffeur’s house, known today as “Lydie’s Cottage.” Tours schoolhouse and shaded picnic areas. View sculptor Jim Franklin start daily at 1:30 pm. To schedule other tours, call 580.767.0420. at work in his location on the square. other Ponca City attractions include the Pioneer Woman to assist you as you plan: Kaw Lake Association, Museum, Standing Bear Park, Ponca City Art Center, Poncan 877.671.6985 or 580.762.9494. Theatre, Conoco Museum and more. Six casinos dot the Kaw Lake area. KawLake.com • PoncaCityTourism.com if you’re into genealogy or antiques, Blackwell is the stop for you. BlackwellChamber.org • PerryChamber.com The Top of Oklahoma Museum in the Electric Park Pavilion holds TonkawaChamber.org KawLake.com artifacts including antique lace, old farm equipment, vital records TonkawaCasino.com and historic photos of the area. Numerous annual events bring NativeLightsCasino.com people back again and again. MarlandMansion.com
22 2011 Destination Oklahoma GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out kaw lake association
E
M E I B T E O F T I E L T AC A F HE PL O OR R A DAY
• Custom Itineraries
• Step-on Guides
• Performing Arts
• Factory Tours Marland Mansion • Visual Arts
• Museums
• Shopping
Blackwell, OK: Top of Oklahoma Historical • Agritourism Museum; Downtown Antique Shops—Take a break from • Festivals hectic busy life; area restaurants, parks, hunting and fishing, hometown fun & events, friendly shops, great • Outdoor Recreation hospitality; Museum must see M–S 10–5, Sun 1–5 Free • History Abounding! 580.363.4195 • BlackwellChamber.org
Perry Chamber of Commerce 580-336-4684 · perryokchamber.com
GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out 2011 Destination Oklahoma 23 kaw lake association
Tonkawa Tribe of Oklahoma Perry Tulsa Stillwater
OKC 40
35 A Perry, Oklahoma is centrally located off I-35, 60 miles north of Oklahoma City, 83 miles west M of Tulsa and 100 miles south of Wichita for easy access to interstate highways, airports, railroad, education centers O and major attractions. O A H The Place to Be Health Care K L Perry Memorial Hospital provides high quality full-service In health care with a personal touch. The local YMCA offers 1893! activities for children, adults and seniors. Schools Five modern schools ranging from Pre-K to grade 12. Perry, Oklahoma was born on September 16, 1893 Small teacher to student ratio, excellent curriculum, sports and extra-curricular activities. Oklahoma State A single gunshot boom just before noon began the University is located in nearby Stillwater. Other universities largest land run in the United States and the largest and technical training centers are easily accessed. event of its kind in the world… the Cherokee Strip Land Run. Housing Exceptional value in rural land, new and existing homes, More than 100,000 “Boomers”…men, women and rentals. children came by wagon, carriage, horseback, or ran on foot to stake their claim to a 160 acre tract of some of Finance the richest land ever opened to settlement. Those who Community banks provide businesses and individuals managed to make it over the line before the official time with today’s financial services in an atmosphere of were nicknamed “Sooners.” neighborly flexibility and personal attention. Internet Access/Cable Television/Daily Newspaper In one day, a sea of canvas tents became home to a population of more than 40,000 people from all walks of life. Hard-working, honest homesteaders and pioneers shared the original town of Perry with villains and thieves, all contributing their own destinies to the town’s CHAMBER The Place to Be colorful past. At one point, Perry contained 110 saloons OF COMMERCE and gambling houses and was home to the notorious Bill Perry Chamber of CommerceThe P protectslace to and B promotese Since Doolin Gang. business opportunities by creating networking opportunities, 1893! new business support, relocation assistance, event sponsorship and a monthly newsletter.
Historic photos are courtesy of the Cherokee Strip Museum 580-336-4684 www.nativelightscasino.com perryokchamber.com · [email protected] 327 North 7th · Perry · OK 73077 CHAMBER 12375 North Hwy 77 • Newkirk, OK 74647 OF COMMERCE The Place to Be (877) 468-3100
Slots • Live Table Games • Player’s Club Café • Smoke Shop • Open 24/7 THE MARLAND MANSION ESTATES, Ponca City: The Estates of former Gov. E.W. Marland feature exhibits of the 101 Ranch Collection & Native American artifacts. Estate: M–S 10–5, Sun 1–5; Grand Home T–S 10–5. 800.422.8347 • MarlandMansion.com 580.767.0420 • MarlandGrandHome.com
Perry Chamber of Commerce: Established by the Cherokee Strip Run of www.tonkawacasino.com 1893, Perry is centrally located off I-35 and is a thriving, tourist-friendly town proud of 10700 Allen Drive • Tonkawa, OK 74653 (877) 648-2624 its agricultural history, progressive businesses and hometown values. 580.336.4684 • PerryOKChamber.com Slots • Smoke Shop • Live Table Games Full Menu Café • Open Daily Tonkawa, OK: The only heart-shaped labyrinth in the world, museums and the Tonkawa Indian Casino are highlights in this historic community. Agritourism, performing arts events at Northern Oklahoma College and Christmas holiday tours complement tour options. Tonkawa Tribe of Oklahoma 580.628.2220 • TonkawaChamber.org
24 2011 Destination Oklahoma GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out
Tonkawa Chamber OK 1.8281 x 4.75.indd 1 6/22/10 10:30:23 AM kawred lakcarpete asso cocuiationntry What To See and Do While In…red carpet Country
ake tracks for northwest Oklahoma—land of the Cherokee Strip Stampede Rodeo in Enid, the nation’s fourth- Mmassive mesas, rugged buttes and gypsum sand largest PRCA rodeo, or try your hand at the world’s largest cow- dunes. The constantly changing landscape of Red chip throwing contest in Beaver. Walk in the dinosaur tracks, and then climb Black Mesa near Kenton, Oklahoma’s highest point, Carpet Country is the home of natural wonders found where stargazers camp out on sweeping plateaus to study the only in this part of the Sooner State. It is also home to stars. the Cheyenne Indians. With so many natural attractions to see, it is no wonder they call Red Carpet Country gets its name from the vast prehistoric sea Red Carpet Country “The Land of Natural Wonders.” that once covered Northwest Oklahoma. Experience towering sand dunes at Little Sahara State Park near Waynoka and Beaver Dunes State Park in Beaver. Visit the Marland Mansion in Ponca City, Oklahoma’s magnificent 55-room “Palace on the Prairie.” RedCarpetCountry.com Head for the Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge near Jet, the only place in the world where you can dig for hourglass selenite crystals. It’s also a major birding habitat. Go underground at Alabaster Caverns State Park with a tour of the world’s largest alabaster cavern open to the public. Don’t forget the many lakes that Red Carpet Country has as well. Get a taste of the Wild West at Alabaster caverns black mesa
GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out 2011 Destination Oklahoma 25 red carpet country
26 2011 Destination Oklahoma GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out red carpet country Kingfisher GLOSS MTN HIKING in DIGGING SELENITE CRYSTALS Lights Visit the Land of Natural Wonders in Wednesday before Northwest Oklahoma Thanksgiving–Dec 30 Sun–Thur 6–10 p.m., RED CARPET Fri–Sat 6–11 p.m. COUNTRY Oklahoma’s Best Bus Trips
Over 75 displays and 2 million lights. Located in Kingfisher Park, E of downtown at State Hwy 81 & 33. RIDING THE DUNES 405.375.4445 800.447.2698 KingfisherInLights.com REDCARPETCOUNTRY.COM GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out 2011 Destination Oklahoma 27 arbuckle COUNTRY Arbuckle Country Road Trip through the Arbuckles! Sulphur Ardmore Tishomingo • Chickasaw National Recreation • Greater Southwest Historical • Sipokni West Area Museum • National Fish Hatchery • Chickasaw Cultural Center • Lake Murray • National Wildlife Refuge • National Museum of Horse • Ardmore Convention Center • Chickasaw Capitol Museum/ Shoeing Tools & Hall of Honor • Charles B. Goddard Center Historical Society • The Arbuckle Historical Society for Arts • Pennington Creek Park • Goddard Children’s Museum • Historic Walking & Driving Tour • Blue River • Lake of the Arbuckles • Antique Shopping • Murray State College • Historic Main Street Davis Ada Pauls Valley • Turner Falls • Historic Downtown Ada • Toy and Action Figure Museum • Arbuckle Wilderness (Walking Tour) • Santa Fe Depot Museum • Arbuckle Historical Museum • Centennial Homes of Ada • Bedre Chocolate Factory • Treasure Valley Casino (Driving Tour) • Catfish Noodling • Antique Shopping • East Central University • Historic Downtown Brick • Old Bank Art Gallery Streets Gene Autry • Wintersmith Park • Local Winery and B&B’s • Gene Autry Museum • Ada Arts & Heritage Center
28 2011 Destination Oklahoma GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out arbuckle COUNTRY Oklahoma’s Natural Adventure Arbuckle Country Come Play. Come Stay.
Madill • Peanut Inn • J&I Manufacturing • Marshall County Historical Society • Chickasaw Point • Sand Bass Festival (1st weekend in June) 4000 W Highway 7 Wynnewood Sulphur, OK 73086 • Eskridge Hotel Museum • Downtown Shopping 866.843.6858 Arbuckles.com thackerville • WinStar World Casino
Mileage Amarillo 357 Houston 350 San Antonio 372 Austin 293 Kansas City 446 St. Louis 595 Dallas 111 Little Rock 369 Wichita 257
GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out 2011 Destination Oklahoma 29 oklahoma itineraries green Country Day One Day three Begin your tour in Miami, located on historic Route 66, at the fully restored Coleman Options: Drive to Pawhuska for a drive through the Tallgrass Prairie where Theatre. Built in 1929, the building’s most loved feature may be the original pipe organ hundreds of bison thrive in a prairie paradise (1 ½ hours). Visit the Osage Tribal Museum “The Mighty Wurlitzer.” Then visit the Dobson Museum which is part of the Dobson and the Catholic church with imported stained glass windows (2 hours); OR drive to Memorial Center Campus to include formal gardens and the Dobson Home (2 hours). Drumright and the Tidal School vineyards where you will see how wine is made and After lunch we will visit the beautiful resort WorldMark by Wyndham, on Grand Lake also do a little wine tasting (3 ½ hours). where you will overnight and you may want to try your luck at one of the many casinos in after lunch we travel to Jenks and the Oklahoma Aquarium where we find over 200 the area (2 hours). exhibits and more than 1 million gallons of water and ocean creatures. Walk under the shark tank and visit the coral reef exhibit where you can touch not only coral but stingrays Day Two as well (1 ½ hours). The RiverSpirit Casino is nearby so you may want to try your luck Drive to Bartlesville stopping at Windle’s Jewelry for a short shopping spree followed by at your game of choice. Or visit museums in Broken Arrow or shop at Bass Pro. Have a tour of the Price Tower, Frank Lloyd Wright’s only skyscraper (2 hours). After lunch tour dinner here and overnight in Broken Arrow. Keepsake Candles where you will find a variety of candles that are molded from antique glassware. Tours available (1 hour). Day four this afternoon we will learn about the life of oil baron Frank Phillips with a tour of the Tour Claremore’s J.M. Davis Arms & Historical Museum and see the largest Phillips Home built in 1908. Depart for Dewey and visit Prairie Song, an authentic privately owned gun collection in the world, along with antique music boxes, musical turn of the Century Old West Town Museum. See Texas Longhorn cattle, walk the streets of instruments, steins from around the world and more (1 hour). Next tour the Will Rogers Prairie Song, and enjoy country music entertainment (2 hours). Overnight in Bartlesville. Memorial which pays tribute to the life of Will Rogers, humorist and entertainer (1 hour). don’t miss Muskogee for a stop at the USS Batfish Submarine & Military Museum, an actual World War II sub that was highly decorated (1 hour). After lunch visit The Five Civilized Tribes Museum housing the art, history and culture of the Five Civilized Tribes; then on to the Three Rivers Museum boasting exhibits on local multi-ethnic history, then conclude at the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame (1 ½ hours). Depart for Okmulgee and tour the Creek Council House Museum or one of many festivals and next see Checotah for antique shopping before your overnight at Lake Eufaula, the largest lake in the state of Oklahoma with quaint shops, several festivals to enjoy and peaceful scenery.
30 2011 Destination Oklahoma GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out oklahoma itineraries frontier Country Day One Day two This morning tour Guthrie, the first capital of Oklahoma, to enjoy a narrated ride on This morning travel to Blanchard to tour Matador Processors often referred to as the the First Capital Trolley (1 hour). Spend some free time exploring historic downtown “Pepper Plant.” After a tour of the plant we will enjoy sampling some of their products Guthrie’s museums, antique, specialty shops, and galleries (2 hours). (1 ½ hours). In Norman, on the campus of OU, we tour the Sam Noble Museum Tour the Scottish Rite Temple, (1 hour). one of the largest Masonic centers After lunch, tour exhibits at the Oklahoma Museum of Natural History that in the world (1 hour). Next, we head presents the diverse eco system of Oklahoma dating back millions of years with fossils to Oklahoma City for a tour of Harn and recreations that depict pre-historic times (1 hour). Next, we tour the National Homestead situated on 10 acres of Weather Center for an overview of the operations as we see the School of Meteorology, original Land Run property. After a the observation deck, NOAA’s Storm Prediction Center, and National Weather Service tour of the house which presents life Forecast Office, and the National Severe Storms Laboratory (1 ½ hours / Passenger list as it was is the early 1900’s we will must be submitted in advance). visit the one-room school and barn This evening enjoy some free time for gaming and dinner on your own at Riverwind where our lunch is included (2 hours). Casino. (2–3 hours). This afternoon visit the Express Clydesdales Barn in Yukon where Day three we will get up close to some of the This morning depart Norman and head east on Highway 9 to Country Cottage most beautiful black Clydesdales Primitives where it is all about lavender. Nestled in a country setting we will enjoy in the world. As we walk through lavender lemonade and refreshments as we visit the lavender field and cottage shop the barn we will be able to see these (1 ¼ hour). On the campus of St. Gregory College, Shawnee, tour the Mabee Gerrer gentle giants who love visitors (45 minutes). Black Jack, the riderless ceremonial horse Museum of Art, noted for its Egyptian mummies and artifacts (1 hour). which was in the funeral processions of three presidents and one General was raised and Next, travel to Midwest City, the largest city in eastern Oklahoma County and proud trained at Fort Reno (1 ½ hour). Next, sit back and relax on a rail trolley as the Heritage neighbor of Tinker Air Force Base. Here find a golf course, million dollar water park, Express Trolley takes us on a tour of El Reno (45 minutes). baseball museum and Draper Lake with 34 miles of shoreline. Midwest City is an excellent choice for overnight accommodations. Just minutes away in Choctaw, dine on authentic German cuisine at Old Germany Restaurant.
GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out 2011 Destination Oklahoma 31 oklahoma itineraries great plains Country Day One and view 27 minute film “Destiny at Dawn” tells of At Duncan’s Chisholm Trail Heritage Center we’ll experience what the Chisholm Lt. Col. George A. Custer’s attack on the Cheyenne Trail was like as we smell the coffee and bacon from the chuck wagon, feel the blowing village of Chief Black Kettle in 1868 (1 ½ hours). At wind and see the lightening, and feel the chairs shake as the cattle stampede (1 hour). the Black Kettle Museum photos and a diorama The Great Plains Museum preserves the culture of the Great Plains with over 3,000 depicts the history of the battle and the Plains artifacts (allow 1 hour). And next we tour Fort Sill Historic Landmark & Museum’s Indians. A drive thru the area will give us a brief look historic homes and buildings on the Post Quadrangle and Geronimo’s Grave. Groups at the Black Kettle National Grasslands with can make special arrangements for a reenactor to present the life of a Buffalo Soldier that 30,000 acres of rolling hills and a variety of wildlife served during the late 1800’s at Fort Sill (2 hours). Overnight in Lawton. (30 minutes). In Elk City tour the National Route 66 & Day Two Transportation Museum which pays tribute to all Visit Medicine Park, the first resort area in Oklahoma and a quaint cobblestone eight states that the “Mother Road” passes thru with village that attracted celebrities, gangsters, and presidents for its serene picturesque artifacts, murals, and vintage automobiles that are setting along Medicine Creek in the early 1900’s (allow 1 hour). Medicine Park sits at the symbolic to those that traveled and those that worked entrance to Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, said to be the oldest range in the along Route 66 (2 hours). Overnight in Elk City. world and dates back 500 million years. A drive thru the refuge area offers scenery of the prairie ranges and lakes and an opportunity to see buffalo, longhorn, elk, prairie dogs, and Day four other wildlife. Rest at the Quanah Parker Nature and Visitor Center to browse the In Clinton the Oklahoma Route 66 Museum interpretive displays or visit with a ranger (2 hours). will take us on a journey thru six decades of Route 66 history with an audio tour that was Lunch at Quartz Mountain Resort at Lake Lugert before we tour the facility and written and narrated by Michael Wallis, author of Route 66 (1 hour). Travel to Weatherford Arts Center (2 hours), then travel north to Erick to tour the Roger Miller Museum with and see Wind Turbines lining the countryside. A stop at Weatherford City Hall we get memorabilia and personal items of Miller (45 minutes). close to a turbine blade for a better idea of the massive size of the turbines and learn about Overnight in Sayre located on Route 66. We’ll drive by the Beckham County the efficiency of wind energy (30 minutes). Courthouse which appeared briefly in the film “The Grapes of Wrath.” Weatherford is the birthplace and childhood home of astronaut General Thomas P. Stafford. Tour the Stafford Air & Space Center for an amazing collection of aircraft Day three and artifacts from space missions. This center houses one of the most comprehensive Head north to Cheyenne and the Washita Battlefield National Historic Site collections of rocket engines in the world (1 ½ hours).
32 2011 Destination Oklahoma GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out oklahoma itineraries kiamichi Country Day One See the reconstructed skeleton of a dinosaur which was found 12 miles from the museum. We begin our time in Kiamichi Country at Lake Eufaula, the largest lake located The Garner Museum and Mansion was the home of Chief of the Choctaws and holds entirely in the state of Oklahoma. With more than 600 miles of shoreline and 102,000 a large collection of Indian artifacts and fossils (1 hour). surface acres, Eufaula offers a variety of recreational opportunities (1 hour). After lunch in Broken Bow we will enjoy some wine tasting at Girls Gone Wine In Poteau, Lunch is included at the Kerr Conference Center which was the former and visit the gift shop, home of US Senator Robert S Kerr. The Kerr family donated the 11,000 square foot home (allow 45 minutes) before to the state in 1978. After lunch visit the Kerr Museum for more information about heading to Beavers Senator Kerr and eastern Oklahoma (2 ½ hours). While in Poteau, we will visit the Black Bend State Park. Sheep Winery for some wine tasting. The forests of southeast After dinner we will check into our rooms at the Days Inn and Suites in Poteau. Oklahoma are the number one industry in the area. Day Two We will visit the Forest This morning we depart for Robbers Cave State Park in the woodlands of the San Heritage Center where Bois Mountains. The park is famous for the cave but legend has it as being a hideout for 14 dioramas tell stories of outlaws including Belle Star and Jesse James (1 hour). Traveling on to McAlester to visit the forestry industry. The Fort Washita which was built in 1842 to protect the Chickasaw and Choctaw Tribes from center also gives honor to the Southern Plains Indians (45 minutes). forest firefighters with an Enjoy some free time for lunch and gaming at the Cherokee Casino (allow 2–3 hours) eight foot bronze of Jim Burnett, the first forest firefighter from Oklahoma to lose his life before heading east to Hugo which is the winter home of many circuses. The Hugo Depot fighting forest fires (1 hour). contains memorabilia from “Circus City, USA” and a miniature Circus display (allow Tonight is at Lakeview Lodge on Broken Bow Lake. 1 hour). We will visit the Showman’s Rest area of Mount Olivet Cemetery to see unique headstones and gravesites of circus performers and owners (1 hour). Day four Dinner and our overnight will be in Idabel. Today we travel to Talihina where we begin our drive across a National Scenic Byway, the Talimena Skyline Drive. Built specifically for its view that winds atop the ridges Day three of the Ouachita National Forest and known for its beauty in the fall as well as spectacular After breakfast at the hotel we depart for the Museum of the Red River. The scenery anytime of the year (2–3 hours for the byway drive with scenic stops). museum introduces us to the cultural heritage of the North, Central, and South Americans.
GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out 2011 Destination Oklahoma 33 oklahoma itineraries red carpet Country/Kaw Lake Day One summer 2010). The Center features 6,000 sq. ft. of new exhibit space with exhibits We begin our tour of northwest Oklahoma in Kingfisher at the Chisholm Trail interpreting pioneer life, the importance of agriculture, oil and transportation to the region. Museum located on the route of the famous cattle trail that ran from Texas to Kansas. A 2,000 sq. ft. temporary exhibit hall features art, history and cultural exhibits (1 hour). This frontier village contains a church, bank, one room schoolhouse and two log cabins We will enjoy dinner at Simpsons Mercantile before settling into our hotel for the along with pioneer artifacts (1 hour). Across the street tour the Seay Mansion built in night. Simpsons, once a dry goods store, now features a display of Western paraphernalia 1892 by Oklahoma’s second territorial Governor Abraham Seay (allow 45 minutes). For and antiques. See the jail, hotel lobby, and the saloon area where we will enjoy December tours, Kingfisher in Lights is a must do! entertainment and dinner which will be served with the saloon’s only beverage Sarsaparilla Drive to Perry for lunch and take a factory tour of Charles Machine Works (2 hours). which manufactures Ditch Witch equipment used worldwide (1 hour). Next, relax with pie and coffee at the Kumback Café who has been serving patrons since 1926 downtown Day three (30 minutes). Drive to the Great Salt Plains, the only spot in the world where hourglass selenite Then it is just a short drive to Blackwell to visit the Top of Oklahoma Museum, crystals are found. A ranger will meet us to explain how the crystals are formed and the which displays a full historical reference to life in northern Oklahoma from the earliest process of digging these rare and fragile selenite crystals (1 hour). Indian occupation to the current day. Housed in the historic Electric Park Pavilion, the Lunch in Cherokee before our next natural wonder, the Alabaster Caverns State exhibits cover the home and family life, reflecting a step back in time to the turn of the Park for a guided tour of the caverns. The ¾ mile cavern formed of alabaster is the largest century. Drive to Ponca City to overnight. natural gypsum cave in the world open to the public. Day Two (1 ½ hours). You can even The Marland Mansion, home of E.W. Marland, is known as the “Palace on the stay for the afternoon and Prairie”. Lunch is catered into the mansion for us today as we dine with notable characters dinner with many activities as E.W. Marland himself, Lew Wentz, and Lydie Marland and they tell us their story of life to do at the park including: in the early 1900’s. A mansion tour of its 55 rooms includes 10 bedrooms, 12 bathrooms, a horseshoe pit, volleyball seven fireplaces, and an elevator lined in buffalo skin. court, camping areas, Head west to Enid where we tour the Railroad Museum of Oklahoma with one picnic tables and shelters, of the largest collections of rolling stock in the area. See china and silver from passenger group shelters with trains of the past and a giant model train layout (1 hour). After lunch, drive to the newly electricity, water and grills renovated Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center. (Due to be completed are available at the park.
34 2011 Destination Oklahoma GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out oklahoma itineraries Arbuckle Country Day One array of artifacts and visit the village before enjoying lunch at the museum (allow Bedre Chocolate in Pauls Valley will satisfy your sweet tooth where we can 2 ½ hours). watch these gourmet chocolates being manufactured (weekdays) before sampling This afternoon we drive through Oklahoma’s oldest national park, the Chickasaw (allow 45 minutes)! Tour the Action Figure Museum, creation of Kevin Stark, National Recreation Area which began in 1902 to protect the mineral and action figure designer/artist. The museum houses Kevin’s life collection of action freshwater springs of the area. We visit the Gene Autry Oklahoma Museum figurines and is home to the Oklahoma Cartoonists Collection (allow 45 minutes). which dedicates itself to the legacy of not only Gene Autry but all the singing After lunch visit Santa Fe Depot, Pauls Valley, and also a stop on Amtrak’s cowboys of the 30’s, 40’s, and 50’s. We will see displays and exhibits on Gene Autry, Heartland Flyer that runs from Oklahoma City to Fort Worth daily. The museum Roy Rogers, Eddie, Dean and others from the “B” Western movies of this era (allow houses railroad memorabilia and exhibits on local history (allow 45 minutes). 1 hour). Outside, the park contains a 1902 Santa Fe steam engine and caboose. Travel to Our overnight and evening meal will be in Ardmore. the Arbuckle Wilderness where we will enjoy a drive thru this animal park to see wild, exotic and rare animals, mostly Day three roaming free in habitats similar to their Today tour the Great Southwest Historical Museum dating back to 1936 own (allow 1 ½ hours). and WPA projects and exhibits that range from pioneer life, to the railroad, and to We will enjoy dinner in Davis before the oil and gas industry in Oklahoma. The Military Memorial Museum honors all settling into our hotel for the evening. branches of military from the American Revolution to present (allow 1 hour). Just south of Ardmore is Lake Murray State Park the largest and first state park in Day Two Oklahoma and housing Tucker Tower Nature Center, originally intended to be This morning we will stop at the a summer home of Gov. Murray but due to lack of funds in the 1930’s was never Original Fried Pies where we find an completed (allow 45 minutes). Enjoy the magnificent view from the tower and the array of delicious fried pies of every flavor nature center’s exhibits. (allow 30 minutes). Next, the Chickasaw Lunch at Lake Murray’s Lodge before continuing on to WinStar World Casino, Cultural Center depicts our journey one of the largest casinos in the world with over 500,000 sq ft of gaming that take through the Chickasaw history and you to different parts of the world. Rome, Beijing, London, Paris, Cairo, Vienna, and culture. Experience a Stomp Dance with Madrid are featured through the art, décor, and fountains in these separate areas holograms and a glowing campfire that of the casino. Enjoy free time gaming or relax with a spa treatment at Spa Habitat. recreate this sacred ceremony. See an Overnight at WinStar World Casino Hotel.
GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out 2011 Destination Oklahoma 35 oklahoma itineraries Special Events
january, 2011 celebrates the book Where the Red Fern patriotism, share in honoring our restrooms and a shower house, a general Oklahoma City Boat Show Grows written by local author Wilson military, and remember loved ones who store for campers, VIP reserved seating, Oklahoma City, OK Rawls. Visitors enjoy food from many have been lost. Activities include: arts hospitality areas and much more. Featuring the largest display of vendors and taste the creations of The on the square, quilt show, softball and boats anywhere in Oklahoma City, Red Fern Chili Cook-off and Barbeque skeet tournaments, motorcycle poker June, 2011 the Oklahoma City Boat Show will Extravaganza. The festival features a quilt run, freedom fly-in, carnival, police OK Mozart International delight visitors to this annual event show, fern sale and display of movie and firefighters BBQ cook-off, fishing Festival with hundreds of boats. Visitors to the memorabilia. The Red Fern Parade is tournament and parade and a live Bartlesville, OK Oklahoma City Boat Show will also be a big attraction and bands will play concert as well. The annual nine-day festival able to peruse booths filled with ski bluegrass, rock and country music all celebrates the wonder of the musician, equipment, fishing tackle and boating day. Redbone hounds like those in the May, 2011 both vocal and instrumental, and of accessories of all kinds. Inspect the book compete in hound dog field trials Rocklahoma music, both classical and in many other latest models of boats and motors, or and the kids can catch live crawdads Pryor, OK genres. The festival features professional try your luck on the on-site fishing from the crawdad hole. It is family fun Fans rock out at the Rocklahoma orchestra musicians, concert artists simulator. Over 300 boats and watercraft and free to the public. Music Festival in Pryor. Over 100,000 and musical performances of artistic will be available and boating enthusiasts music lovers come together each year excellence for an event with international will also enjoy the exceptional display of May, 2011 to see the best hair bands of the 1980’s significance. In addition to the music accessories including skis, wakeboards, Celebration of Freedom perform again. Over 25 bands perform festivities, you can also make Civil War tubes, personal watercraft, miscellaneous Hobart, OK each year on three outdoor stages at this Era jewelry at the Frank Phillips Home, sporting items and sporting apparel. The City of Hobart, in conjunction camping and music festival. Rocklahoma participate in the Contra Dance! An with the General Tommy Franks is located just 45 minutes northeast Evening of Jigs and Reels at The Grande april, 2011 Leadership Institute and Museum of Tulsa, in Pryor, OK. The “Catch the Ballroom, and see two visual artist Red Fern Festival Grand Opening, sponsors the inaugural Fever” Festival Grounds is a premiere showcases in the Lyon Gallery of the Tahlequah, OK Celebration of Freedom. It will be destination for a multi-day festival, and Bartlesville Community Center. The annual Red Fern Festival an opportune time to promote your includes on-site camping with access to
36 2011 Destination Oklahoma GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out special events
June, 2011 and more. Events throughout the week Will Rogers Memorial Museum and november–December, 2011 Red Earth Native American include: musical instrument workshops, Birthplace Ranch in Oologah. Garden of Lights Cultural Festival a quilt drawing, a golf cart parade, coffee Muskogee, OK Cox Convention Center, Oklahoma City with area chamber of commerce, tours november–December, 2011 Nov 22–Dec 31 more than 1,200 American Indian and the annual and always interesting Kingfisher in Lights Experience animated displays and artists and dancers from throughout Bluegrass Queen Contest. Kingfisher, OK over 1,000,000 shimmering lights at North America will gather to celebrate Nov 23–Dec 30 Muskogee’s annual Garden of Lights. the richness and diversity of their october, 2011 millions of lights are setting historic Drive through Honor Heights Park and heritage with the world. Guests can Poteau Balloonfest Kingfisher Park ablaze in the city of view 120 acres of trees, bushes and sample the work of some of the Poteau, OK Kingfisher. This Christmas season, water areas decorated for the holiday nation’s most celebrated artists, with The Poteau Balloonfest is an annual drive the winding road that weaves in season. Visit Garden of Lights and opportunities to purchase contemporary hot air balloon festival featuring hot and out of over 75 animated lighted experience the natural beauty of the park and traditional examples of beadwork, air balloon races and glows, live displays. Many visitors to Kingfisher in filled with twinkling streams of light. basketry, jewelry, pottery, sculpture, entertainment, a 4x4 exhibition, Lights come to see the famous swinging View rose and azalea bushes illuminated paintings, graphics and cultural attire stagecoach rides, arts and crafts, games, bridge spanning Uncle John’s Creek. with color, imitating their natural state during the juried art show and market. food and an authentic chuck wagon. Children and adults alike delight in during the blooming of spring. This Red Earth dancers represent the elite Children will enjoy the candy drop from walking across the old-fashioned, 1903 Christmas-light display will also feature of Native American dance, some of a hovering helicopter, tethered balloon bridge while looking over the rails to lighted displays of deer, squirrels and the most gifted and accomplished in rides and monster truck rides. see thousands of lights reflecting off birds scattered amongst a wide variety the world. A grand parade features the water. Free admission, train rides of trees wrapped in lights. Admission representatives of more than 100 tribes, november, 2011 through the park and horse-drawn to Garden of Lights is free; however, in full tribal regalia. Will Rogers Days carriage rides bring thousands to donations are appreciated. Claremore, OK Kingfisher every year. september, 2011 Will Rogers Days celebrates that Arbuckle Mountain Annual November 4, 1879 birth of Will Rogers, Bluegrass Festival Oklahoma’s favorite son, in Indian Wynnewood, OK Territory. Festivities include a parade in Kicking off the music festival is a Claremore, a car show, Pony Express Devotional Service at 10 am. The festival rides, children’s activities and more. has many featured bands, music contests Festival events will be held at the
GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out 2011 Destination Oklahoma 37 rewards program Destination Oklahoma Rewards Entry Form Destination Oklahoma
Name Rewards Program
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Mail Entry Form and Receipts to: Green Country Marketing Association To enter the drawing: 2805 E. Skelly Drive, #805 • Book a minimum of 20 rooms on each tour Tulsa, OK 74105 • Keep your receipts • Complete the attached entry form and mail along with documentation to: Deadline for Entry: Green Country Marketing Association 10/31/2011 @ 5pm 2805 E Skelly Drive, # 805 Drawing Held: Tulsa, OK 74105 11/1/2011
38 2011 Destination Oklahoma GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out Local and national charter bus services for groups of all sizes redcarpetcharters.com GREEN COUNTRY Play Your Heart Out 2011 Destination Oklahoma 39 Green Country Marketing Association 2805 East Skelly Drive, Ste #805 Tulsa, OK 74105
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