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In 1889, settlers raced into Oklahoma before it was officially open to claim parcels of land for themselves, earning the state its nickname —the Sooner State. It’s easy to see why these early residents were in such a hurry. Encompassing ten different geographical regions, Oklahoma has something for everyone. Mountain ranges, grassy plains, and rolling red hills provide a scenic backdrop to the Sooner State’s picturesque small towns. Heavily influenced by their unique history, these towns are where the Old West meets the new º£½ÇÉçÇø, without forgetting the state’s rich Indigenous history.

In 2024, discover the magic of Oklahoma in its historic main streets and jaw-dropping scenery, by visiting its cutest small towns.

Guthrie

Oklahoma’s first state capital, Guthrie, is one of the most historic towns in the state. The Guthrie Historic District contains over 2,000 National Historic Landmarks. One of the best ways to see the sights is to take the First Capital Historic Trolley tour, which glides past landmarks, including the Old US Courthouse and the State Capital Publishing Company Building. Don’t forget to check out the Oklahoma Territorial Museum and Carnegie Library for more information on Guthrie’s fascinating past.

Guthrie is also home to the Oklahoma's International Bluegrass Festival, which you can catch in October 2024.

Sulphur

A former mining town, Sulphur is now a tourist hotspot thanks to its charming historic district and proximity to the stunning Chickasaw National Recreation Area. This park is packed with gorgeous water features, from the huge expanse of the Lake of the Arbuckles to Oklahoma’s largest artesian spring — found along the Travertine Creek Trail. See buffalo in their natural habitat on the Buffalo Pasture Loop and don’t miss the rushing cascades at Little Niagara Falls.

In town, the Chickasaw Cultural Center provides fascinating insights into Chickasaw history and culture. The grounds of the center are an attraction in themselves with 184 acres of hills, woodland, a traditional village, and sky terrace.

Tahlequah

Voted Best Small Town in the Southern States 2024 by readers of Southern Living, Tahlequah is a quaint small town on the Illinois River. The town is the Cherokee Nation capital and a must for history-lovers. Stop by the Cherokee National Supreme Court Museum for fascinating exhibits that tell the story of the Cherokee language, judicial system, and the Cherokee Advocate and Phoenix newspapers. The Cherokee National History Museum offers even more historical artifacts alongside rotating galleries. The building itself is a listed National Landmark.

If museums aren’t your thing, take the two mile Tahlequah History Trail, a self-guided tour around town with markers that keep you informed along the way. Tahlequah has plenty of natural attractions too. Take a float down the gentle Illinois River to see the town from the water, or drive the Cherokee Hills scenic byway to enjoy incredible views of the Ozark mountain foothills.

Poteau

Visit Poteau in October and you’ll experience the unforgettable sight of dozens of brightly colored hot air balloons drifting over the small mountain town. The annual Poteau Balloon Fest is a must-see spectacle, and there is plenty of fun on the ground, too, with arts and crafts booths, a mud pit race, and carnival rides. If you want a good view without climbing into a balloon, hike 1,999 foot Cavanal Hill, a beautiful viewpoint just outside of town which overlooks the Talimena National Scenic Byway.

On a clear day you can see all the way to Arkansas! There is lots to keep you busy in town, too; check out the LeFlore County Museum, which housed the historic Hotel Lowry, constructed in the 1920s.

Eufaula

On the shores of Oklahoma’s largest lake, Eufaula is a charming lakeshore town with a historic downtown that is packed with beautiful buildings, charming antique shops, and cute cafes. You will find the perfect souvenir at Our Favorite Place, a "made-in-Oklahoma" crafts store and art gallery that showcases products from local artists and vendors.

Lake Eufaula State Park is the perfect place for nature-lovers, with sheltered swimming spots, boating ramps, fishing piers, picturesque hiking trails, and sprawling campgrounds. If you are visiting in July, be sure to catch Eufaula’s vibrant summer festival, Whole Hawg Days. Now in its 40th year, this annual carnival features a poker run on the lake, car show, and BBQ cook off.

Duncan

Founded in 1892, Duncan is one of Oklahoma’s oldest towns. Visiting the town is like stepping back in town to the Old West. Unleash your inner cowboy (or cowgirl!) at the Chisholm Trail Heritage Center where you can test your roping skills in an interactive game. Stop in at the restored Duncan General Store, and view American Western art. Kids will have a blast at Kiddieland Park, a recreation area that includes classic fairground rides such as a merry-go-round, tilt-a-whirl, and miniature train.

Get to know Duncan at your own pace with downtown’s Historic Stepping Stone Trail, a self-guided tour along Main Street with signage explaining key points of interest. You will find more lovely walks around Duncan’s four lakes, Duncan Lake, Lake Humphreys, Lake Fuqua, and Clear Creek Lake.

Chickasha

Visit Chickasha during the holidays and you will see the town light up with a dazzling display. Over 3 million lights are strung around the town’s Shannon Springs Park for the Festival of Lights, drawing visitors from all over the state. If you can’t make it in winter, don’t worry, Chickasha is a great destination year-round. Situated near Lake Chickasha, it offers plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. Visit the Grady County Museum which contains artifacts from the foundation of the state of Oklahoma and don’t miss the Verden Separate School, an early 1900s African American schoolhouse. The 100 year old building has retained many of its original features and is on the National Register of Historic Places.

America’s Heartland

From balloons to buffalos, and from scenic byways to historic trails, Oklahoma’s small towns are anything but boring. These quaint settlements tell the story of the state, introducing millions of visitors each year to Oklahoma’s intriguing past and exciting present. It is no wonder enterprising travelers continually flock to the state via the iconic Route 66. Create your own Route 66-style road trip in 2024 by plotting a course through Oklahoma’s charming small towns and enjoying an unforgettable vacation in the heartland of America.