This Is The Friendliest Small Town in Oklahoma
Friendly shows up fast in Guthrie, where Victorian storefronts frame the sidewalks and locals turn every errand into a quick conversation. Downtown, Oklahoma Avenue and Harrison Avenue carry you past red brick blocks packed with antique shops, galleries, and cafés, so a simple stroll easily turns into an afternoon. Once you have the lay of the land, the town’s arts scene gives you a reason to linger, with bluegrass nights at The Double Stop and showtime at the Pollard, followed by crowds drifting to dinner nearby.
This article maps out exactly how to experience Guthrie at its friendliest, from breakfast at Katie’s Diner and barbecue at Stables Café to a fresh roast at Hoboken Coffee Roasters, plus the landmark buildings and locally owned stores worth your time and a historic stay at the Dominion House!
The Christmas Capital of Oklahoma
The holiday season may be over for this year, but it is never too early to start planning for the next! As the Christmas Capital of Oklahoma, Guthrie offers some of the state’s biggest and most vibrant holiday events, attracting countless visitors. At the end of November, the town kicks off the season with a massive parade in its historic district. A glittering parade of cars, trucks, and marchers make their way down Oklahoma Avenue, followed by a tree lighting at the Guthrie Post office to conclude the event.
About a week later, Guthrie warmly celebrates its rich historic architecture during the charming Distinctive Homes Tour. Visitors are invited to explore various beautiful houses around town, each lovingly decorated for the holiday season. The Victorian Walks, happening from December 6th to the 13th, are also a wonderful experience. Imagine stepping back in time as you enjoy cozy horse-drawn carriage rides through the heritage area, all while sipping on a warm beverage. You can also wander through the Victorian shopping district, perfect for finding a special Christmas gift, or enjoy the sights and sounds of actors bringing the Victorian Industrial Block to life with costumes, music, and talented artisans.
Looking to enjoy a beautiful light display? Be sure to visit the Cottonwood Flats Drive Thru, where you can experience “A Very Merry Guthrie Christmas” every year. As you drive through the seven blocks, you'll be amazed by over 100,000 lights, 70 decorated trees, and 40 festive frame displays. The event runs throughout most of December, so there's plenty of time to enjoy this magical experience!
Music & Theater
Guthrie’s community has a strong value for the arts and is home to several notable venues and theater companies. For fans of musicals and plays, the Pollard Theatre Company offers an excellent lineup with five mainstage productions each year. Upcoming performances include SpongeBob the Musical in March and April, followed by The Shark is Broken from June 13th to July 5th.
Regarding music, The Double Stop Music Hall hosts world-class bluegrass music, with owner Byron Berline having performed alongside legends like the Rolling Stones and Bill Monroe. Today, visitors can attend one of his regular concerts on the second floor, witnessing his remarkable musical talent firsthand. Magnolia Moon is an intimate venue that hosts monthly “Music at the Moon” concerts, where guests can savor dinner and enjoy an elegant live performance.
The town comes alive with excitement during its annual music events! From May to September, you can join the fun at Red Brick Nights, a vibrant block party right in the heart of Guthrie's downtown, where some of the state’s top musicians perform. In October, Guthrie proudly hosts Oklahoma's International Bluegrass Festival, which has welcomed legendary artists like Willie Nelson, Ricky Skaggs, and Vince Gill. The festival also shines a spotlight on talented emerging regional and local bands, making each year’s event special and memorable.
Restaurants
Guthrie is charming for its southern-style eateries, where visitors can enjoy delicious dishes paired with warm hospitality. Katie’s Diner is a wonderful spot for breakfast or lunch, serving comforting country breakfasts, chili, cheeseburgers, and tender sirloins. For a hearty barbecue or a classic chicken-fried steak, check out Stables Café, which also has a taproom with a great variety of craft beers and ciders. Looking to start your day energized? Hoboken Coffee Roasters, a cozy, locally-owned downtown coffee shop that roasts its own beans, is perfect for a morning pick-me-up.
Local Accommodations
Guthrie provides various lodging choices, but for an authentic experience of its warm community spirit, consider staying at one of its boutique hotels or inns, many of which are historically significant. The Dominion House Boutique Hotel exemplifies this, occupying a building from 1923 with 14 elegant rooms, some featuring fireplaces and clawfoot tubs. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast prepared by the hotel’s chefs each morning. Another option is The Judge’s Chamber, a luxury bed and breakfast set in a neoclassical mansion from 1902, offering gourmet breakfasts in its historic dining room.
Why Guthrie is Oklahoma's Most Welcoming Town
Being part of the southern United States, Oklahoma is filled with towns that radiate friendliness and southern hospitality. Guthrie, in particular, shines with its cozy music venues, charming 20th-century bed and breakfasts, and delicious barbecue spots, making it one of the warmest places in the state. Its lively annual events and music festivals only add to its charm, drawing visitors from all around. No matter when you visit, you'll always feel a warm welcome in the lovely small town of Guthrie, Oklahoma.
