Oklahoma

2024's 11 Most Adorable Small Towns in Oklahoma

Published

2 years ago

July 14, 2024

2024's 11 Most Adorable Small Towns in Oklahoma

Oklahoma’s beautiful natural landscapes, flanked by the Wichita and Ozark Mountains and a rich tapestry of Native American heritage, are some of the main reasons the Sooner State has garnered attention on many 2024 travel itineraries. However, Oklahoma has much more charm to uncover in its countless small towns scattered across the plains, prairies, and woodlands. They boast well-preserved main streets lined with historic architecture, locally-owned shops and restaurants, and a genuine hospitality you won’t find anywhere else. These exciting small towns in Oklahoma exemplify small-town Americana at its finest. Their appeal lies not just in their aesthetic beauty but in the meaningful connections visitors can form within these tight-knit communities.

Medicine Park

View of a river in Medicine Park, Oklahoma.

Nicknamed “America’s First Cobblestone Community,” Medicine Park stands out for the dramatic red rock formations prominent in its surroundings. The stunning outdoor scenery beckons tourists to explore the open spaces, which harbor natural gems like Bath Lake Medicine Park. This cozy oasis offers a relaxed environment for day walkers and the opportunity to fish or swim in its calm waters. Visiting families will find the ideal activity inside Medicine Park Aquarium and Natural Sciences Center, which provides a wholesome learning experience where visitors encounter local species.

Cute little shops and storefronts promise a casual yet fun shopping experience. Tourists can stop by White Buffalo Trading Post to check out a fine selection of souvenir items, from local crafts to Native American art. Also, Mrs. Chadwick’s Bakery serves tasty pastries, such as strawberry cheesecake muffins, for those with a sweet tooth.

Stillwater

Home to Oklahoma State University, Stillwater is a bustling college town with an array of world-class tourist attractions. This town famously hosts the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum, which displays interactive exhibits honoring the biggest to have come of the national wrestling scene. Stillwater boasts a buzzing art and culture scene that draws enthusiasts across the state. At the OSU Museum of Art, guests can explore an ever-changing collection of creative pieces. The same applies to the Hazel Modella Art Gallery, known for fine art displays.

Sports is a big part of the Stillwater community, and townsfolk constantly meet at the different arenas to rally behind their home teams. If you’ve ever watched a college football game, you’ll have an idea of the electric atmosphere to expect when attending a game at Boone Pickens Stadium. Finally, Boomer Lake Park ensures outdoorsy travelers have a haven to explore when they come to Stillwater.

Duncan

This small town of Stephens County stands out for its rich Western vibes and beautiful outdoors, dominated by sprawling prairies and farmlands. Duncan hosts the well-attended Chisholm Trail Roundup Rodeo celebration every year in September, which pays tribute to its Western heritage with exciting cowboy performances. But if you don’t make it to the festival, you can get the idea when visiting the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center & Garis Gallery of the American West. More rich history about the town is preserved and presented by the Stephens County Historical Museum through a comprehensive selection of archives and artifacts.

For outdoor exploration, Haliburton Park and Recreation offers an excellent space to spend time with friends or family. It has shaded picnic spots, quiet walking trails, and varied sports amenities to ensure a wholesome recreation experience.

Guthrie

Visitors to this gem in Logan County can expect an immersive cultural and historical experience. Guthrie boasts a site-rich historic district whose over 2,000 preserved buildings from the 19th and 20th centuries earned it a National Historic Landmark certification. This leaves you with a treasure trove of sites to discover, including the Oklahoma Territorial Museum. Housed inside a 1900s Renaissance Revival structure, the museum has interesting exhibits tracing local history and heritage. The town also has the Oklahoma Frontier Drug Store Museum, a historic building packed full of rare pharmacy-related artifacts.

Meanwhile, culture vultures can stop by Pollard Theater to catch an enthralling stage performance. This popular venue showcases different live shows throughout the year, headlined by Broadway-level musicals.

Chickasha

Chickasha exudes a strong Native American heritage right from its name, a Choctaw word for “Chickasaw.” Plenty of nature spaces encourage tourists to embrace the outdoor lifestyle. Shannon Springs Park presents one of the most visited spots in Chickasha, offering a relaxed scenery with manicured gardens and beautiful trails. The park is especially famous for hosting the Chickasha Festival of Light in December, which unites visitors and locals during a family-friendly extravaganza featuring an awesome light show and other fun activities.

Silver Screen lovers are in for a fun experience in Chickasha, with the opportunity to indulge in their favorite pastime at the Chief Drive-in Theater or Heritage Park Theater. When hungry, don’t forget to pop into the Interurban of Chickasha for some delicious American dishes with an urban twist.

Miami

Miami was established in 1891, making it one of the oldest towns in Oklahoma. This town is a former mining boomtown that once formed part of Indian territory and boasts a colorful heritage that you can learn more about at the Shawnee Tribe Cultural Center. This must-visit venue immerses guests into the past and present of the Shawnee tribe in Miami through rare cultural exhibits. Also, you can embark on an exciting journey back in time at the Dobson Museum & Home. The historic home delights with a collection of American Indian and mining artifacts.

Miami is also known for its lively casino scene, which provides exciting opportunities for gambling enthusiasts. Several venues, such as Quapaw Casino and High Winds Casino, offer slots and multiple table games for the complete casino experience.

Idabel

This quaint village takes you to the state’s southeast corner, promising a charming mix of family-friendly attractions. One of the top tourist draws in Idabel is the Museum of the Red River. Inside, you’ll find an exquisite collection of exhibits, ranging from Indian artifacts and handmade baskets to a pow-wow drum. Those traveling with kids can enjoy a fun time with family at Tomahawk’s. This indoor recreation area helps you work on your axe-throwing skills with friendly staff to help guide you through the technique.

When it’s time to venture outdoors, Idabel Country Club welcomes tourists to enjoy its beautiful natural areas and various recreations. Guests can access peaceful walking trails, relaxed fishing spots, and a picturesque golf course.

Broken Bow

Another southern gem, this tiny village’s claim to fame is the gateway to Beavers Bend State Park and Nature Center, a natural oasis with numerous outdoor opportunities. Adventurers assemble in this town in order to hike, fish, camp, and kayak. While exploring the beautiful park grounds, you will run into Beavers Bend State Park Forest Heritage Center. Touring the facility provides eye-opening information about the park and the community around it. Souvenir enthusiasts can also find cute traditional crafts to add to their collection at Broknbo Vintage Market.

After a long day exploring and discovering the town, FishTales Winery & Bistro offers the perfect hangout to relax and rejuvenate. It has a welcoming atmosphere and serves delicious food that you can eat with tasty local wines.

Bartlesville

Bartlesville is a popular destination for tourists who want to escape the hustle and bustle of neighboring Tulsa, which is about 50 miles away. This town offers a charming small-town feel with access to urban facilities. Its rich historical heritage is well preserved at several museums and landmarks, starting with Bartlesville Area Historical Society. Visitors can browse a comprehensive library of old photographs, Indian art, artifacts, videos, and other relics documenting local heritage. Additionally, Frank Phillips Home offers a look into Victorian-era Bartlesville through a range of period furnishings in the historic man of oil magnate Frank Phillips.

Art lovers with fancy touring the Price Tower Arts Center to engage the local arts community. Celebrated architect Frank Lloyd Wright designed this picturesque 19-story building, which showcases related exhibits by area creatives.

Sulphur

Nicknamed the “City of Springs,” this Murray County village is known for its mineral water springs, which are believed to have healing properties. Sulphur offers all the reasons tourists should be outside, led by the Chickasaw National Recreation Area. This eco-friendly nature with impressive diversity presents cozy natural swimming holes and an opportunity to encounter local wildlife like bison. Elsewhere, the Chickasaw Cultural Center immerses guests in the colorful heritage of the native Chickasaw Nation with interesting stories and artifacts.

You can continue your cultural journey by visiting the ARTesian Gallery and Studios. The facility houses diverse Chickasaw art and crafts that are worth admiring. It also has a cute gift shop for those interested in Indian souvenirs.

Tishomingo

If you like laid-back getaways with few people to run into, it doesn’t get better than this adorable village in Johnston County. Tishomingo is a small community of about 3,000 that delights vacationers with a mix of Indian culture and Southern hospitality. Tourists can have a quaint experience discovering local culture inside the Chickasaw Council House and Museum by perusing rare jewelry, pottery, beadwork, and other traditional crafts. Outdoors, low-key golfing on the lovely greens at Tishomingo Golf Course is a go-to activity for many visitors to the town.

Alternatively, you can visit the Tishomingo National Wildlife Refuge for amazing encounters with local wildlife species. The reserve provides a habitat for migratory birds, snakes, and small mammals across its sprawling farmlands and thickets.

Final Thought

While Oklahoma is perhaps mainly known for its vast prairies and Native American culture, these modest destinations offer a glimpse into another side of the diverse Sooner State. Each community proudly honors its unique history and heritage while cultivating thriving downtown districts, celebration-filled festivals, and an unmistakable charm only found in towns where neighbors truly know each other. Whether looking for scenic natural beauty, museums highlighting a town’s roots, or simply stepping back in time, these adorable towns in Oklahoma provide memorable experiences off the beaten path in 2024.

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Oklahoma

What could happen if Oklahoma State Superintendent becomes an appointed position

Published

11 hours ago

February 27, 2026

Press Room

What could happen if Oklahoma State Superintendent becomes an appointed position

Governor Kevin Stitt has said he wants the State Superintendent of Education to be a governor-elected position instead of an elected one. Political analyst Scott Mitchell examines what this would mean for the state.

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt is urging lawmakers to send a state question to voters that would make the state superintendent an appointed position, as he named Lindel Fields of Tulsa to the role and announced a turnaround team to help implement his education agenda.

October 2, 2025 12:54 PM

1 min read

Is the State Superintendent an elected role?

Yes, the State Superintendent of Education is still an elected role. Elections are scheduled for Nov. 3, 2026.

Cons of making the superintendent an appointed position

Mitchell said making this position appointed could cause distrust among some Oklahomans

“Over the years, we’ve seen that capture of regulatory sort of is easy to do when you have term limits, then lobbies become more powerful, and they have all the history. It’s very complicated.

He also said if the position were to be elected, they would likely have the same agenda as the governor.

“Yes, and I think the governor would be absolutely saying, ‘Yes, they’re going to do what I want them to do.’”

Changing how the superintendent is chosen changes what the founding fathers set.

“Voters are going to have to say yay or nay if it gets to them, is whether or not we want to change the way that the founding fathers set up the way that we make sure that power is not concentrated in Oklahoma,” he said.

Is Ryan Walters’ term the reason Stitt wants to make this position appointed?

Mitchell said he believes the former State Superintendent played a role in the government wanting to appoint this position.

During his time as superintendent, Walters was known to have multiple controversies. He resigned in 2025, allowing Stitt to appoint Lindel Fields.

“His impact on this, even though he’s gone, is certainly evident,” said Mitchell. “Walters left midstream, right? And so the governor had a chance to appoint someone. Well, it wasn’t just an appointment; it was chaos before and relative calm and competency after. And that has given the governor an opening for people to see with their own eyes. Yeah, you can put somebody in, we’re talking about Lindel Fields, that appears to get up every day, not trying to find some, get a click on social media, but rather to do his job. And across the board, for the most part, this guy’s getting thumbs up.

Stitt said electing Fields has already given him some leverage since he has been well perceived so far.

“That allows a governor to say, Look, I’ve got some standing, some leverage to go to the voters and say, let’s put expertise as the main reason that a person’s there, not because they were able to win an election because they had some sort of populist or dramatic ideas.”

Who is running for Oklahoma State Superintendent?

Republican Ballot

Sen. Adam Pugh
John Cox
Rep. Toni Hasenbeck
Ana Landsaw

Democrat Ballot

Craig Mcvay
Jennettie Marshall

Independent

To learn more about each candidate, click here.

A full breakdown of candidates in the 2026 Oklahoma State Superintendent race, including party affiliation, background and key education priorities.

February 26, 2026 06:37 PM

2 min read

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Oklahoma

Oklahoma lawmakers propose “Toby Keith Expressway” to honor late country star

Published

23 hours ago

February 26, 2026

Press Room

Oklahoma lawmakers propose “Toby Keith Expressway” to honor late country star

OKLAHOMA CITY –

An Oklahoma highway could soon be named after the late country superstar, Toby Keith, pending new legislation.

House Concurrent Resolution 1019 would rename a proposed turnpike project the “Toby Keith Expressway.” This roadway is set to be built from Interstate 44 East to Interstate-35, continuing East and North to Interstate 40. This road is a part of the ACCESS Oklahoma Long-Range Plan, which is meant to update and expand the state’s turnpike system.

This resolution was adopted by the House on Wednesday.

“Toby Keith was more than a country music star. He was a proud Oklahoman who never forgot where he came from,” said Rep. Jason Blair, R-Moore. “Naming this turnpike in his honor is a fitting way to recognize a man who represented our state with ultimate patriotism and generosity.”

Keith was born in Clinton, Oklahoma, raised in Moore and resided in Norman. He died on February 5, 2024, in a battle with cancer.

“Over the course of his legendary career, Toby Keith never forgot where he came from or what he stood for,” said Sen. Lisa Standridge, R-Norman. “His Oklahoma roots shaped him, and his love of America defined him. He was a country music superstar and a true patriot. I can think of no better way to honor his memory than by naming this future stretch of Norman turnpike in his honor, creating a lasting tribute to the legacy he leaves behind.”

February 13, 2024 12:16 PM

During his career, Keith sold over 40 million records and more than 20 number-one singles

Legislation authors believe this would commemorate the life and legacy of Toby Keith.

The bill will now head to the Senate.

To read the full House Resolution, click here.

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Oklahoma

Oklahoma congressional delegation offer praise to Trump speech

Published

1 day ago

February 26, 2026

Press Room

Oklahoma congressional delegation offer praise to Trump speech

WASHINGTON, D.C. –

President Donald Trump delivered a 108-minute State of the Union address to a joint session of Congress Tuesday night. The speech celebrated what Trump called a “turnaround for the ages,” highlighting what he says have been broad economic gains over the past year, as well as historic achievements in border security, immigration enforcement and foreign policy. Democrats, in their rebuttal, painted a very different picture, insisting economic conditions have worsened under Trump and that his administration shows little respect for the rule of law while striving to enrich themselves.

The members of the Oklahoma delegation, all Republicans, offered praise for the president and his message:

Sen. James Lankford (interview with Griffin Media):

“Yeah, the President spoke for just less than two hours, but he walked through some key issues that I’ve had a lot of Oklahomans ask about. Where are we on illegal immigration? How are we handling enforcement? Where’s the economy? He spent a tremendous amount of time at the beginning talking about, ‘Here are the change in prices we’ve seen in eggs, in vehicles, in mortgages and inflation rate, and the significant change that that has come down.’ He spent a lot of time talking about international issues at the end, and a lot of time talking about crime and things that Americans really talk about, and I’ve had a lot of Oklahomans ask about at the beginning. So, he spent the first half talking through, I think, the Americans—the kitchen table issues there: crime, economy, where are we going as a country? Starting more jobs, having more opportunities, the tax cut changes that are really affecting a lot of Oklahomans. And then towards the end, spend a lot of time talking about international issues, including Iran. I think he needed to spend a little more time talking about the issues with Iran, since we have such a military build-up there to explain to the American people. This is why this is such a big issue, and he spent the time doing that.”

Rep. Stephanie Bice (interview with Griffin Media):

“Well, I thought it was really an opportunity for the president to talk about what he’s done over the last year and also highlight the wins. You know, we’ve seen so many people impacted by things like border security, the Big Beautiful Bill, you know, economic reform, and so he was really highlighting that tonight…There were some really amazing stories, and it was a feel-good evening. I feel like he really—I think he connected with the American people tonight.”

Rep. Tom Cole (statement)
“Throughout the first year of President Trump’s term as the 47^th President of the United States, the President has delivered on the mandate of the American people and truly ushered in the golden age. Tonight, President Trump delivered a powerful speech that illustrated just that.

“At the border, we have seen a complete one-eighty, as illegal “getaways” are down by 95 percent and migrant crossings are down by 99.99 percent. Rampant crime and disorder are turning into safer communities. We have made national security a priority again, making generational investments in America’s defense through the One Big Beautiful Bill and utilizing decisive leadership to make bold but necessary decisions like air striking Iran last year and capturing Venezuelan President Maduro earlier this year.

“I would be remiss not to mention the significant economic strides. The One Big Beautiful Bill provided the largest tax cuts in history and will bring long-lasting financial relief to families, workers, and small businesses. Years of inflation and stagnation are being replaced with renewed growth and a resurgent economy. Measurable progress has been made on cost-of-living pressures, drug costs have been lowered on the consumer, and red tape has been cut for small businesses.

“In just one year, President Trump has turned this country around. Under the previous Administration, our country had turned a blind eye to illegal immigration, we had lost respect on the world stage, and inflation was skyrocketing. Now, the American Dream is back. The United States is strong, prosperous, and respected – and, as President Trump said, the state of our union is strong.”

Rep. Kevin Hern (statement)
“Tonight, President Trump reaffirmed that when we put America first, America wins. At an unprecedented pace, he’s reversed the damage caused by four years of reckless Biden-era policies that sent our nation down the wrong path. Families are now seeing historic tax relief, lower inflation, a secure border, and peace around the world – this is only the beginning. I’m proud to stand alongside President Trump as we continue our work to lower costs, put more money in Americans’ pockets, and strengthen the American Dream for families across the country.”

Rep. Josh Brecheen (statement)
“It was an honor to attend President Trump’s State of the Union address tonight. Congress, alongside President Trump, has fought hard to restore conservative values within our great nation. While there’s still lots of work to be done, I am encouraged by the direction our nation is headed and look forward to the year ahead! The American Dream is possible once again!!!”

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