The One Oklahoma Town Everyone Should Visit At Least Once
From its stunning landscapes to its rich culture, it is no wonder Oklahoma is a popular travel destination. Oklahoma's rich history makes it an incredibly interesting place with attractions like the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. There are also numerous opportunities for outdoor lovers. You can fish on lakes and hike in the mountains. Whatever you do, do not forget your cowboy boots when visiting Oklahoma; the vibrant Western culture is at the heart of the state's spirit.
The town everyone should visit at least once in Oklahoma is Medicine Park. Nowhere else in Oklahoma will you experience the combination of picturesque cobblestone streets, outdoor activities, and vibrant culture. Here we explore more about what makes the town so special.
Unique Cobblestone Community
Nestled in the Wichita Mountains, Medicine Park is one of Oklahoma's coziest mountain towns. The charming small town has a rich history and culture, which is evident when you first step onto the town's cobblestone streets. Medicine Park is known as "America's First Cobblestone Community," and looking around town, it is easy to see how the town earned this title. Walking around town, you will see many buildings made from red granite cobblestones, which are abundant around the nearby Wichita Mountains. The distinctive architecture gives the town a unique charm. Some of the key buildings to see around town that showcase this iconic architecture include The Old Plantation Restaurant, which dates back to 1910 and features cobblestone archways. The Outside Inn is another building featuring the distinctive red granite cobblestones. This building is unique since it was one of the first inns in town. The style of architecture seen throughout Medicine Park is called Cannonball Architecture. This is because the granite stones used were naturally rounded since they were quarried from local rivers. These stones give a rustic appearance to many buildings and make Medicine Park a unique town to visit.
Outdoor Activities
Beyond its unique architecture, Medicine Park is also a haven for nature lovers. Surrounded by the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, visitors can enjoy stunning landscapes and wildlife viewing opportunities. There are also 15 lakes near the town, including Bath Lake, a popular spot for swimming and fishing. Bath Lake is surrounded by the town’s signature red cobblestones and even has a small cascading waterfall, making it a scenic picnic spot. Medicine Creek also runs right through the heart of the town and is a favorite spot for fishing for rainbow trout. Those who enjoy outdoor adventure will be happy with the hiking opportunities throughout the area. Mount Scott is just a short drive from downtown Medicine Park and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. You can hike, bike, or even drive up the mountain. Those hiking or biking should know that the path to the summit is a bit challenging. Another good hike is the Black Trail to Bear Mountain. While the path is a bit more challenging, the stunning views are worth the trek. Wildlife is also commonly spotted on the trail.
Festivals and Culture
Medicine Park also has a rich history and culture. Learn about the history and traditions of the Apache people at the Fort Sill Apache Tribal Cultural Center. Some exhibits show the heritage, culture, and stories of the Apache Nation. Throughout the year, the center also hosts events that show the Apache traditions firsthand. Celebrations and festivities happen in the town throughout the year, offering entertainment for all ages. There are music festivals such as ParkStomp, which celebrates bluegrass music. There are also festivals that celebrate outdoor recreation, such as the April Fools Mountain Bike Festival. During the holiday season, the town's Christmas parade lights up the streets, spreading Christmas cheer.
Dining and Shopping
Keeping the spirit of Medicine Park's community alive is the town's local businesses. Walking through downtown, there is a unique blend of shops. Stop into the Medicine Park General Store for souvenirs. There are also several dining options to choose from! The Riverside Café is a local favorite spot known for its bison burgers. Visiting Mrs. Chadwick’s Bakery for a sweet treat is a must in Medicine Park. The local gem is like stepping into a cozy, vintage kitchen full of baked goodies and the smell of chocolate and sugar. One of the bakery's most beloved treats is the slurry, a blend of espresso and ice cream. The Old Plantation Restaurant is another iconic local spot. Housed in a historic cobblestone building, here you can enjoy southern comfort food like fried chicken, country-fried steak, and tender steaks.
Nearby Towns
Another great thing about Medicine Park is its location in Oklahoma. The town is only a few miles from other towns, cities, and cultural centers, making it easy to explore more of Oklahoma. Lawton is only 14 miles from Medicine Park. This small city is home to Fort Sill and is a hub for shopping. For more outdoor exploration, head to Cache. Only 15 miles from Medicine Park, Cache has scenic views and lots of opportunities for outdoor activities. Comanche is another (slightly farther) town for nature lovers. The town is home to Comanche Lake, perfect for an afternoon of boating or fishing. The Chisholm Trail Flea Market in town also offers a unique shopping experience.
What Sets it Apart
Overall, if you visit one town in Oklahoma, it should be Medicine Park. The town's unique red granite cobblestone architecture, scenic natural views, local events, and quaint restaurants make it a great travel destination. From exploring the cobblestone buildings to eating southern comfort food and enjoying a music festival, there is something for everyone to enjoy in Medicine Park. Being close to other towns such as Lawton and Cache also makes it a great home base for exploring more of Oklahoma. Considering its vibrant culture and unique scenery, Medicine Park is a town everyone should visit at least once in their life. Make sure to bring your camera when you visit; the beautiful landscapes here are something you will want to capture and remember from your travels.
