Most Scenic Road Trips in Oklahoma City, United States
1. Talimena National Scenic Byway
A breathtaking drive through the Ouachita and Winding Stair Mountains, offering panoramic views and picturesque towns.
- Mountain Views: Experience stunning vistas of the Ouachita and Winding Stair Mountains.
- Historic Towns: Visit charming towns like Mena and Talihina, rich in history and local charm.
- Scenic Overlooks: Take a break at scenic overlooks to capture the beauty of the landscape.
2. Skyline Drive and Trails
A winding road through Lake Hefner offering views of Oklahoma City's skyline and various outdoor activities.
- Urban Skyline: Admire the modern and iconic skyline of Oklahoma City.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, or picnicking along Skyline Drive.
- Lake Hefner: Explore Lake Hefner's tranquil waters and various recreational opportunities.
3. Turner Falls Park
A scenic drive to Turner Falls Park, featuring a beautiful waterfall and natural swimming hole.
- Waterfall: Experience the natural beauty of a 77-foot tall waterfall.
- Swimming Hole: Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear swimming hole.
- Cave Exploration: Explore the Arbuckle Caverns and marvel at their unique geological formations.
4. Salt Plains National Natural Landmark
A drive through a vast expanse of white salt flats, with the possibility of finding selenite crystals.
- Selenite Crystals: Collect rare selenite crystals formed in the salt flats.
- Scenic Drive: Enjoy a picturesque drive through Oklahoma's unique salt plains landscape.
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot native wildlife such as antelope, bison, and birds of prey.
5. Route 66 Scenic Byway
Drive along historic Route 66, passing through towns steeped in Americana history and charm.
- Americana History: Discover the rich history of America's iconic Route 66.
- Charming Towns: Explore quirky and charming towns along the byway, such as Clinton and Chandler.
- Iconic Landmarks: Visit famous Route 66 landmarks like the Round Barn and Blue Whale.
6. Honey Creek Bridge Scenic Area
A scenic drive offering views of the Arkansas River Valley, with a historic covered bridge and hiking trails.
- Covered Bridge: Cross the historic Honey Creek Covered Bridge built in 1904.
- Hiking Trails: Explore the various hiking trails in the scenic area.
- Arkansas River Valley: Take in breathtaking views of the Arkansas River Valley.
7. Two Rivers Park
A scenic drive along the Canadian and Arkansas rivers, featuring a variety of outdoor activities.
- River Views: Enjoy scenic views of the Canadian and Arkansas Rivers.
- Outdoor Activities: Partake in activities such as fishing, boating, or picnicking.
- Wildlife Observation: Spot local wildlife along the riverside.
8. Beavers Bend State Park
A scenic drive through Broken Bow Lake, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking.
- Broken Bow Lake: Explore the beautiful Broken Bow Lake and its surrounding forest.
- Hiking Trails: Hike the park's scenic trails, including the popular McCurtain Trail.
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot wildlife such as black bears, deer, and a variety of birds.
9. Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge
A scenic drive through a nature reserve offering opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.
- Birdwatching: Spot various species of birds, including bald eagles and ospreys.
- Wildlife Viewing: View wildlife such as alligators, otters, and black bears.
- Scenic Drive: Enjoy a scenic drive through the beautiful wetlands of the refuge.
10. Mount Pisgah Arboretum
A scenic drive up Mount Pisgah offering panoramic views of Oklahoma City and the surrounding area.
- Panoramic Views: Take in breathtaking views of Oklahoma City and the surrounding countryside.
- Nature Trails: Explore nature trails through diverse ecosystems.
- Wildflower Fields: Visit the fields of wildflowers during their blooming season.
11. Chickasaw National Recreation Area
A scenic drive through the Chickasaw National Recreation Area offering opportunities for camping, fishing, and hiking.
- Camping: Camp under the stars in a picturesque setting.
- Fishing: Cast your line in one of the many fishing spots in the area.
- Hiking Trails: Explore the numerous hiking trails, including the Tali Koosa Trail.
12. Chickasaw Cultural Center
A scenic drive to the Chickasaw Cultural Center, offering insights into the history and culture of the Chickasaw Nation.
- Historical Insights: Gain a deeper understanding of the Chickasaw Nation's rich history.
- Cultural Activities: Participate in cultural activities such as traditional dance performances and storytelling.
- Art Gallery: Visit the art gallery showcasing contemporary Chickasaw artwork.
13. Oklahoma City Bombing National Memorial
A scenic drive to the Oklahoma City Bombing National Memorial, honoring the victims and survivors of the 1995 bombing.
- Historical Significance: Honor the memory of those who lost their lives in the Oklahoma City Bombing.
- Memorial Gardens: Stroll through the reflective memorial gardens.
- Survivor Tree: Visit the Survivor Tree, a symbol of resilience and hope.
14. Bricktown Entertainment District
A scenic drive through the revitalized Bricktown Entertainment District, offering a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
- Dining Options: Indulge in local cuisine at one of the district's many restaurants.
- Shopping Opportunities: Discover unique shops and boutiques offering Oklahoma-made products.
- Entertainment Venues: Experience live music, comedy shows, or sports events at one of the district's venues.
15. Myriad Botanical Gardens
A scenic drive to the Myriad Botanical Gardens, featuring a Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory and various themed gardens.
- Crystal Bridge: Walk through the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory and marvel at exotic plants.
- Themed Gardens: Explore themed gardens such as the Children's Garden, Japanese Garden, and Rose Garden.
- Concerts and Events: Attend concerts, events, or educational programs at the gardens.