6 Classic Americana Downtowns In Oklahoma
Oklahoma is about as Americana as it gets, from Native American heritage to the Mother Road, Route 66. Along the way are many small, hospitable towns that define the term, with old-school values and genuine Southern appeal. Each one of these six classic Americana destinations is packed with local lore and a nostalgic feel, and they're the top spots to visit in the state.
Museums, well-preserved historical sites, and modern entertainment, such as Ardmore's casino, make up the soul of these communities. This mix of old and new ways is matched by locals who welcome outsiders with a warmth that makes you feel like family. Here are six classic Americana towns in Oklahoma that should be experienced at least once.
Ardmore
Historic Ardmore has a revitalized downtown that feels like a throwback to another era, especially around the Santa Fe Depot. The 1917 depot features traditional stucco walls with brick accents, one of two remaining in the city. The Greater Southwest Historical Museum translates other regional history from the mid-19th century ot the present.
The small town is also progressive, as seen in modern venues such as Gold Mountain Casino, which offers over 8,500 square feet of electronic gaming. Dine at Two Frogs Grill, a local favorite with a live music scene, to grasp the closeness of the citizens. The walkable town has much to offer for history buffs and those looking for a relaxed, fun time, and is one of the best destinations in the region.
Guthrie
Known as Oklahoma's oldest town, Guthrie still has that cozy, historic personality. It was the state's first capital and boasts the largest contiguous National Historic Landmark district, filled with Victorian architecture. 19th-century attractions include the Oklahoma Territorial Museum and the fun Frontier Drug Store Museum for a look at what the town was like in the 9th century.
One of the most unique sites to see downtown is the Smallest National Park Landmark on 2nd Street. While some cities offer massive parks and designated areas, city founders in 1907 set aside a 100-foot-square plot of land to commemorate their land run office. After a day of checking out the sites, head to Guthrie Brewing Company on Harrison Avenue to unwind with the locals, another friendly aspect of this all-American town.
Claremore
Claremore is a classic Southern town with a historic district offering clean streetscapes, vintage brick storefronts, and a neighborly feel. The tight-knit community loves to celebrate with local events, including Dickens on the Boulevard and Taste of Claremore. The latter festival highlights the local culinary scene, which is on display daily at local favorites like Gibbys South in Your Mouth on Will Rogers Street.
History runs deep in Claremore, especially with the town's most favorite son, Will Rogers. You can see his legacy in the street names, although landmarks like the Old Rogers Courthouse were named before his celebrity. The 1930s structure is a stalwart downtown landmark with a unique backstory, being founded 34 years after Oklahoma's statehood. Claremore's downtown is the rare neighborhood that can hold onto its past while moving into the future with modern conveniences, and it is one of the best walkable areas in the state.
Sulphur
Sulphur is a hip town with a rich history and deep ties to the Chickasaw Nation, represented at the Chickasaw Cultural Center. The gallery uses modern technology and theatrical productions to keep this vital culture alive. Downtown restaurants reflect the area's history and modern hipness in elegant settings, such as The Springs at the Artesian, which is also a hotel, spa, and casino.
The sleek decor gives way to a curated menu and a comfortable atmosphere, providing a direct link to the locals' nature. A fun hangout for residents and visitors alike is The Rusty Nail Winery in the heart of the downtown area. The family-friendly winery has a laidback atmosphere where folks can mingle on the front patio and enjoy the hospitable service.
Eufaula
Eufaula's historic district has a great look, with brick buildings lining the roads, centered around the landmark Foley Building. The corner commercial building is instantly recognizable for its golden dome and status as the Foley Banking Company. It is a walkable area with a 20-block section listed on the National Register of Historic Places that is pure Americana.
Since the town sits on the banks of Lake Eufaula, there is a pleasant mix of history and outdoor fun, including Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park. The last week of July is a great time to visit during the annual "Whole Hawg Days and Rodeo." The annual bash includes a cook-off, a poker run, and family-friendly fun around the lake.
El Reno
El Reno feels like a snapshot of life on Route 66, America's Mother Road. It's got that vintage American vibe, complete with a retro trolley and fun, classic diners like Sid's Diner, serving up its famous onion burgers and great memories. The burger has become a community staple, being honored at the El Reno Fried Onion Burger Day downtown.
After discovering El Reno's charms, stop at the Canadian County Historical Society Museum Complex to see how the unique town has evolved into what it is today. The main museum is inside the Rock Island Depot from 1907, behind the 1924 Heritage Express Trolley. The antique wooden building housing the first US Red Cross canteen is another interesting site among many that make El Reno an amazing place to visit.
If you are looking for that classic Americana spirit, there is no better starting point than Route 66, which covers more ground in Oklahoma than anywhere else. It is a fitting honor for a state with so many towns that are reminders of simpler times and traditional values. El Reno is a prime example of a roadside town off the Mother Road, with diners like Sid's serving up onion burgers so popular that the town now hosts an annual festival for the culinary masterpiece.
Claremore and Eufaula feature stunning historical districts that showcase the community's efforts to preserve its distinctive past while still remaining relevant to today's discerning travelers. These six classic Americana towns feature landmark buildings and share signature qualities that define small-town America. Whether strolling the banks of Lake Eufaula or the streets Will Rogers called home, these towns happily whisk visitors away to the past.
