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Named "The Sooner State" after the University of Oklahoma's football team, pretty Oklahoma is located in the South Central region of the country. The state is known for its wide, open spaces, tasty barbeque restaurants, quirky roadside attractions, cowboy culture, and Route 66 history, among many other things. Although Oklahoma has more than its fair share of thriving big cities, it's the state's small, charming towns that make it feel warm and welcoming to both residents and visitors alike.

Eufaula

Situated on the shores of scenic Lake Eufaula, Oklahoma's largest lake, the quaint town of Eufaula is an outdoor lover's dream destination. Not only does it offer endless opportunities for adventures on the lake, such as boating and swimming, the town is also known for its parks and other natural spaces. Eufaula is also ideal for history enthusiasts, as its charming 20-block downtown is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

One of Eufaula's top attractions is Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park, which offers day passes to enjoy activities such as miniature golf and lake sports, such as kayaking and canoeing. Another fun local spot to enjoy nature is Lake Eufaula State Park, a 2,853-acre nature preserve offering a swimming beach, multiple boat launches, picnic areas, and more. If you are visiting during the last week of July, check out the Whole Hawg Days festival, which features local cuisine, a car show, a carnival, and a rodeo.

Bartlesville

If you can't decide if you want to visit a place known more for its arts and culture or outdoor recreational opportunities, Bartlesville may be the perfect destination for you. The small town is about 50 miles north of Tulsa, and is situated on the scenic Caney River. Bartlesville has a rich Native American history, and it is the only town that boasts a fully realized Frank Lloyd Wright skyscraper. Start your visit with a stop at the Bartlesville Area History Museum, which features introspective exhibits, artifacts, and historic photographs.

Another place to learn more about Bartlesville's exciting past is the Frank Phillips Home, which was once owned by the founder of the Phillips Petroleum Company. The house has many of the original details, such as Waterford crystal chandeliers and unique family heirlooms, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. If you want to get outside, hit one of the town's hiking and biking trails, such as the one that runs along pretty Hudson Lake.

Guthrie

Although charming Guthrie is a part of the Oklahoma City Metroplex, it retains its small-town feel and welcoming atmosphere. Guthrie was Oklahoma's territorial capital, and its quaint downtown area is the country's largest Historic Preservation District. Visitors can sign up for a tour to learn all about the town's interesting history, view Victorian-era buildings, and discover the boutiques, antique shops, and local eateries.

If you are visiting during the summer months, check out the Guthrie Farmers Market, which features locally-grown produce, baked goods, artwork, and handmade items. The Oklahoma Territorial Museum and Carnegie Library tell the story of the town's past through artifacts, historic photographs, and artwork from 1889 to 1913. Head over to the Lazy E Arena to experience an authentic cowboy event, such as a rodeo.

Tahlequah

Nestled in the Ozark Mountain foothills in beautiful Cherokee County, Tahlequah is blessed with both the Illinois River and Tenkiller Lake, making it the perfect place for travelers who love water sports. Charming Tahlequa is home to Northeastern State University, which gives the town a vibrant, energetic feel. Both the lake and the river offer plenty of opportunities for fun on the water, including boating, swimming, and fishing, and you can rent a canoe or kayak from a local outfitter as needed.

The Cherokee National History Museum is located in the Cherokee National Capital building, and details the region's Cherokee Indian culture through the Trail of Tears gallery, authentic Native American arts and crafts, and interactive workshops. The J.T. Nickel Family Nature and Wildlife Preserve, along with the John Hair Cultural Center and Keetoowah Museum, are two other must-see attractions.

Stroud

Sweet Stroud is situated at the midpoint of Tulsa and Oklahoma City, on historic Route 66. The route's iconic Rock Cafe, which was built in 1939 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, draws in "Mother Road" enthusiasts from all over. The quaint town is also home to an abundance of outdoor recreational activities due to its location near Stroud Lake, as well as several arts and cultural attractions.

Start your visit with a trip to the unique Route 66 Spirit of America Museum, which showcases pop culture memorabilia and educational exhibits on topics such as space exploration. The Stable Ridge Winery offers tours and tastings and produces wine using only Oklahoma-grown grapes for a regional, one-of-a-kind flavor. When visiting Stroud, don't miss the Ozark Trail Obelisk, one of the state's only remaining pre-Route 66 roadside monuments.

Sulphur

Located in the heart of Oklahoma's cross-timber country, the small town of Sulphur is known as the gateway to the scenic Chickasaw National Recreation Area. The area was referred to as the "land of rippling waters" by Native Americans, as it is home to a variety of bodies of water, such as sparkling streams, lakes, and refreshing swimming holes perfect for taking a summer dip. Sulphur is the ideal retreat for those looking for a relaxing getaway, as it has both the Artesian Hotel, Casino, and Sole'renity Spa, as well as the Echo Canyon Spa Resort.

Wine lovers won't want to miss a visit to the Rusty Nail Winery, which is a boutique winery featuring a cozy tasting room, a gift shop, and a bistro. The Chickasaw Cultural Center, a 海角社区-class museum complex dedicated to regional history, is the ideal place to get acquainted with the area's interesting past.

Pauls Valley

Last but not least, Pauls Valley may be small in square miles and population, but it's big on history, cultural attractions, and natural beauty. Whether you are visiting the town for just a weekend, or for a longer family vacation, you will find no shortage of activities to keep you busy. One of Pauls Valley's biggest draws is the Santa Fe Depot Museum, a fully-restored depot dating back to 1905. The attraction showcases the area's dynamic railroad history via memorabilia, hundreds of photographs, and exhibits.

The Lakeview Lavender Farm is another one of the area's attractions, and is open to the public during the summer growing season. Wander through the blooming fields for a relaxing aromatherapy experience, and pick your own bouquet of flowers to take home. If you are traveling with kids, check out the Pauls Valley Waterpark during the warm summer months, and the Toy and Action Figure Museum all year long.

Whether you are traveling through Oklahoma on a family vacation and want to take a pit stop or are making the state your weekend getaway destination, take time to explore the welcoming small towns that make it feel like a home away from home. While the state's big cities have their charms, it's the quaint communities that embrace the region's unique history and celebrate all of its natural beauty and wild spaces.