11 Adorable Small Towns In Oklahoma

Oklahoma is the American heartland typified. The flatlands and arid plains portrayed in John Steinbeck’s Grapes of Wrath are well known, but the Sooner State has long since left the dust bowl era behind. Today’s Oklahoma has lush subtropical forests, mountain ranges, and major riverways to its credit. Perhaps most importantly, the state’s small towns are another prized feature, bastions of vintage American life that are becoming hard to find in places like urban centers and along the coasts. Trust us; these small Oklahoma towns are not to be missed.

Medicine Park

This charming town in Comanche County is known as America’s cobblestone community. Quaint streets of red and gray brick wind through the town, just as Medicine Park’s history is woven into Oklahoma’s. Medicine Park was the state’s first resort town, attracting everyone from celebrities to gangsters. Enjoy the trails nearby or swim at Bath Lake. Hike through Wichita Mountains or explore Cobblestone Row, a charming street in town lined with brightly colored cabins. Make sure to rent a bike to explore the area and try the local food; the catfish, in particular, is excellent.

Perry

The town of Perry originated from the historic Oklahoma land run of 1893. At noon, an official fired a pistol, and 100,000 participants raced to claim their piece of the 6,000,000 acres of former Cherokee grazing land. By evening, Perry was established. Today, the town’s history is still very much alive. From its impressive antiquing district to the local museums, Perry keeps its past vivid. It’s also a great place to learn about Native American history. Nature enthusiasts should visit Perry Lake, a popular camping destination. You can go boating, fishing, and swimming in the calm waters of this well-loved spot.

Bartlesville

With over 35,000 residents, Bartlesville strikes a balance between popular amenities and its small-town charm. The city boasts impressive architecture, where modern high-rises sit alongside a historic downtown, giving it a look that is progressive yet connected to its heritage. Visitors should explore the Frank Phillips Home, a historic homestead, as well as a skyscraper designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Families with children can enjoy the local amusement park during the summer, while the numerous museums remain open year-round. 

Tishomingo

The town of Tishomingo is very laid-back, and that’s exactly how the locals prefer it. If there were a place for sitting on a wraparound porch with a glass of sun tea, it would be Tishomingo. Brick bridges cross over wooded streams nearby, and the Blue River is a popular fishing spot that non-fishers still enjoy visiting. The town features a restaurant owned by country music star Blake Shelton, and there’s plenty for food lovers to explore. Tishomingo also has a quirky side, with stores like Junk Stars, a local thrift shop, offering a fun alternative to usual shopping spots and worth a peek inside.

Claremore

This charming Oklahoma town along Route 66 is definitely worth stopping at. The rich history of Oklahoma’s past, combined with the enthusiasm for its future, is perfectly captured by Claremore. The Will Rogers Memorial Museum honors two of Oklahoma’s most beloved sons and should not be missed. Visit the nearby raceway for some good-ol’ fashioned horse racing. Of course, a visit to Claremore wouldn't be complete without a day at the beautiful Claremore Lake.

Broken Bow

During the warmer months, the town of Broken Bow is hard to beat. This nature lover’s paradise has a population of about 5,000 people and boasts the best lake in the state. Uncrowded and charming, Broken Bow is also home to the Mountain Fork River and numerous hiking trails. The Ouachita Mountains are enchanting, and cabin rentals are available. Broken Bow Lake is perfect for boat tours, fishing, and swimming. Guided horseback trail rides through the scenic surroundings are also popular. Visitors can explore local vineyards or try ziplining. There’s plenty to do in Broken Bow.

Alva

Small is beautiful, as they say, and Alva is certainly beautiful. This northwest Oklahoma town is a true gem with plenty to admire. Start at the lovely town square and explore the many murals around town that depict life in the heartland. The town golf course features manicured fairways and makes for a perfect afternoon activity. Alva’s Graceful Arts Center showcases local artwork, and the local spa is an ideal spot to enjoy some pampering. Animal lovers should visit The Menagerie to see its collection of donkeys, llamas, and a mini zebu.

Poteau

The town of Poteau is home to both the world’s largest hill and a healthy dose of small-town Oklahoma charm. Cavanal Hill rises to 1,999 feet and is just one foot shy of qualifying as a mountain. Take a relaxing drive to the top for a breathtaking view of the Sooner State during the day and the stars at night. The town has two parks where visitors can swim, play soccer and tennis, or skateboard. The frontier spirit remains strong here. Lake Wister State Park is nearby, and after visiting the lake, you can stop by Poteau’s drive-in theater or roller skating rink.

Grove

Travelers with green thumbs are going to want to visit Grove: The town’s name literally means a small group of trees. It should come as no surprise that the town is home to the beautiful Lendonwood Gardens, with its eight unique sections featuring exquisitely curated harborage for your viewing pleasure. Grove sits on the shores of Grand Lake of the Cherokees, Oklahoma’s second biggest. Visit any of the five state parks nearby or tour the six-acre Har-Ber Village Museum for an enjoyable, educational excursion. 

Davis

Visitors to Davis probably won't leave without visiting Turner Falls Park. The park is stunning and features Turner Falls, a 77-foot waterfall that plunges into a scenic swimming hole below. Hike through the Arbuckle Mountains and the surrounding pastoral hills, where fields of goldenrod stretch toward the horizon. Hillsides roll out in vastness that the eye cannot fully take in, with a majesty that words cannot quite capture. In autumn, the falls are especially breathtaking because of the trees that surround the small pool below. For a less demanding adventure, try horseback riding and embrace the cowboy spirit of small-town Oklahoma.

Sulphur

The town of Sulphur is the gateway to the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, an Oklahoma Oasis in the foothills of the Arbuckle Mountains. There are nearly 10,000 acres to explore, and nearly a quarter of Chickasaw is water. Visit the Lake of the Arbuckles for premier fishing on the placid lake’s surface. The Artesian is a charming hotel at the heart of Sulphur’s quaint downtown area. Play the slots or hunker down at the blackjack table at the casino, or stop by The Rustic Nail Winery. This rustic Oklahoma town has an amazing old-world feel which needs to be experienced firsthand. 

Carlton Landing

One of Oklahoma’s newest towns, Carlton Landing is also one of the best. The town was built on the verdant hills which overlook Lake Eufaula and its 600 miles of shoreline. It is not surprising that Carlton Landing has a distinct seaside vibe. Fish for Kentucky bass and stripers or simply head out onto the lake for some peace and quiet. Watch the sunset in this storybook town or swing by the local farmer’s market.

There is plenty to do in this heartland state. Oklahoma’s rich history is visible nearly everywhere you look and nowhere more so than in the small towns where the frontier remains etched into every signpost and switchback. Go horseback riding through the mountainside like the cowboys of old or hike the tallest hill in the world. Swim beneath a waterfall and walk the streets of charming towns to find the beating heart of America alive and well.