What’s the best time to visit Oklahoma? (Best Things to do in 2023)

If you’ve been considering a trip to the Sooner State, Oklahoma can make an incredible vacation destination.

From the rolling grasslands and prairies of the west to its native forests and lakes in the east, it’s no wonder that this state has a lot to offer travelers.

But with harsh summers, freezing winters, and unpredictable spring tornadoes on top of everything else, it pays off to research when is actually a good time to visit.

Luckily for you, we’ve put together all the essential info about Oklahoma weather patterns so that you can plan your trip accordingly.

Keep reading if you want some insider tips on what time may be best for your travels.

What’s the best time to visit Oklahoma?

Considering the background context of late-March to early June and from September to November, Oklahoma can be a great destination for tourists seeking a memorable holiday. However, when it comes to choosing the best time to visit Oklahoma, several factors should be taken into consideration.

Late-March to early June is the perfect time to visit Oklahoma if you want to experience the best of its outdoor activities, scenic landscapes, and pleasant weather. During this time, the state experiences mild temperatures and high humidity levels, making it ideal for hiking, fishing or visiting the numerous state parks. Additionally, this period is also the time for the annual Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon, a fantastic event, especially for sports enthusiasts.

On the other hand, late September to November is another great time to visit Oklahoma for those who enjoy breathtaking autumn foliage scenes. During this period, the state undergoes a beautiful transformation, with colorful trees and a blend of flavors and fragrances filling the air. Moreover, visitors during this period will have the opportunity to attend the Oklahoma State Fair, a vibrant event filled with music, food, and numerous entertaining activities.

What are some of the best things to do in Oklahoma?

Oklahoma offers a diverse range of attractions and activities. Here are some of the best things to do in the state:

Explore the Natural Beauty:

• Visit the stunning Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge for hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife spotting.
• Discover the mesmerizing beauty of the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve, home to bison herds and diverse plant species.
• Marvel at the scenic wonders of the Ouachita National Forest, offering picturesque trails, waterfalls, and camping opportunities.

Discover Native American Heritage:

• Immerse yourself in Native American culture at the Chickasaw Cultural Center, featuring exhibits, art, and traditional performances.
• Explore the Cherokee Heritage Center, where you can learn about the history and traditions of the Cherokee Nation.
• Visit the Spiro Mounds Archaeological Center to see ancient Native American mounds and artifacts.

Enjoy Urban Attractions:

• Experience the vibrant city life in Oklahoma City, home to attractions like the Oklahoma City National Memorial, Bricktown Entertainment District, and the Oklahoma City Museum of Art.
• Explore the lively entertainment district of Tulsa, with its art deco architecture, music venues, and the Philbrook Museum of Art.
• Discover the unique shopping, dining, and entertainment options in the historic district of Guthrie.

Embrace Western Heritage:

• Step back in time at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City, featuring exhibits on cowboys, Native American culture, and Western art.
• Attend a rodeo event to witness thrilling bull riding, roping, and barrel racing, showcasing the state’s strong Western traditions.
• Visit the Will Rogers Memorial Museum in Claremore to learn about the life and legacy of the famous cowboy and entertainer.

Delve into American History:

• Explore the Oklahoma History Center in Oklahoma City, where interactive exhibits highlight the state’s rich history.
• Visit the Gilcrease Museum in Tulsa, known for its extensive collection of American art and artifacts.
• Learn about the Dust Bowl era at the Woody Guthrie Center in Tulsa, dedicated to the life and music of the folk singer.

Indulge in Outdoor Recreation:

• Enjoy water sports and fishing on one of Oklahoma’s beautiful lakes, such as Lake Tenkiller or Grand Lake.
• Go camping, horseback riding, or biking at one of the state parks, such as Beavers Bend State Park or Robbers Cave State Park.
• Take a scenic drive along the Talimena National Scenic Byway to admire breathtaking vistas and fall foliage.

Celebrate Festivals and Events:

• Attend the Oklahoma State Fair, held annually in Oklahoma City, featuring live music, carnival rides, and agricultural exhibits.
• Join the Red Earth Festival in Oklahoma City to experience Native American dancing, art, and culture.
• Celebrate the Tulsa Oktoberfest, one of the largest German festivals in the country, featuring beer gardens, live music, and traditional food.

Visit Historic Landmarks:

• Explore the Fort Sill Historic Landmark and Museum, an active military base with a rich history dating back to the 1800s.
• Step into the past at the Cherokee Strip Museum in Enid, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that depict the early days of settlement in the region.
• Discover the charm of the Marland Estate Mansion and Grounds in Ponca City, a historic mansion built by oil tycoon E.W. Marland, featuring beautiful architecture and gardens.

Enjoy Outdoor Music and Festivals:

• Experience the magic of the Medicine Stone Music Festival, held at the beautiful Diamondhead Resort in Tahlequah, featuring a lineup of talented artists in the Americana and Red Dirt music genres.
• Attend the Woody Guthrie Folk Festival in Okemah, celebrating the life and music of the legendary folk singer with live performances, workshops, and a songwriting contest.
• Join the Jazz in June festival in Norman, a three-day event showcasing local and national jazz musicians in outdoor concerts and jam sessions.

Explore Unique Geological Formations:

• Venture into the Alabaster Caverns State Park, home to the largest natural gypsum cave in the world, where visitors can take guided tours and admire the stunning underground formations.
• Discover the mesmerizing Gloss Mountain State Park in Major County, known for its colorful mesas and striking geological features, offering hiking trails and panoramic views.
• Visit the Great Salt Plains State Park, where you can dig for hourglass-shaped selenite crystals in the salt flats or go bird-watching in the designated wildlife refuge area.

What are some of the best places to eat in Oklahoma?

Below, are highly recommended places to eat in Oklahoma:

Cattlemen’s Steakhouse (Oklahoma City):

• Indulge in perfectly cooked steaks and prime rib, accompanied by delicious sides like loaded baked potatoes and mac ‘n’ cheese.
• Experience the classic Western ambiance and friendly service in this iconic Oklahoma City institution, which has been serving quality steaks since 1910.

Mahogany Prime Steakhouse (Tulsa):

• Enjoy USDA prime steaks and fresh seafood in an upscale setting with attentive service.
• Savor signature dishes like the bone-in ribeye or the Chilean sea bass, paired with an extensive wine list.

The Mule (Oklahoma City):

• Delight in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches with unique flavor combinations, such as the “The Figgy Piggy” with bacon, fig jam, and goat cheese.
• Pair your sandwich with a side of homemade pickles and a craft beer from their extensive selection.

Eskimo Joe’s (Stillwater):

• Feast on American comfort food favorites like burgers, loaded fries, and hearty sandwiches.
• Experience the lively atmosphere and don’t forget to pick up some merchandise featuring the famous Eskimo Joe’s logo.

Paseo Grill (Oklahoma City):

• Enjoy an upscale dining experience with a menu that offers a fusion of American and Mediterranean cuisine.
• Savor dishes like the filet mignon, Mediterranean chicken, or the mouthwatering pistachio-crusted salmon.

The Sushi Place (Tulsa):

• Relish fresh and expertly crafted sushi rolls, sashimi, and nigiri.
• Try their specialty rolls like the “Green Monster” or “Tulsa Hurricane” for a unique twist on traditional sushi.

Mickey Mantle’s Steakhouse (Oklahoma City):

• Indulge in prime steaks, seafood, and decadent desserts in an elegant and upscale setting.
• Enjoy classic dishes like the filet mignon or the Alaskan king crab legs, accompanied by top-notch service.

Charleston’s Restaurant (Various Locations):

• Delight in a diverse menu that offers a mix of American, Mexican, and Southern-inspired dishes.
• Try their famous chicken fried steak, baby back ribs, or the spinach and artichoke dip.

The Local (Norman):

• Experience farm-to-table dining with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and seasonal dishes.
• Enjoy creative and flavorful dishes like the braised short ribs or the roasted beet salad.

Hideaway Pizza (Various Locations):

• Satisfy your pizza cravings with delicious and generously topped pies, featuring a wide range of flavors and specialty combinations.
• Try their popular “Sooner” or “Boz” pizzas, and don’t forget to order some of their addictive garlic knots as a side.

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