This Is The Most Hospitable Town In Oklahoma
Claremore has earned a nomination as Oklahoma's most hospitable destination, thanks to generations of residents who embrace the philosophy of their most famous resident, Will Rogers, who famously declared that he never met a man he didn't like. The downtown district rings with activity as locals and visitors explore shops and participate in community gatherings that bring people together year-round. From its museums to its active festival calendar, Claremore demonstrates that hospitality flows naturally when a community embraces its identity and welcomes others to share in its treasures.
History and Identity
Claremore's history stretches back to the early 19th century, when the area served as home to the Cherokee Nation following the Trail of Tears. The arrival of the railroad in 1882 transformed Claremore into a thriving commercial center, and entrepreneurs established businesses that served farmers, ranchers, and travelers passing through the territory. This early emphasis on welcoming visitors and meeting their needs established patterns of hospitality that continue to define the community today.
The town's identity became inextricably linked with Will Rogers when the humorist, actor, and social commentator achieved fame during the early 20th century. Although Rogers was born in Oologah, he considered Claremore his home. Rogers carried Claremore's name around the world through his newspaper columns, radio broadcasts, and film appearances. The community honors Rogers' legacy through museums, monuments, and an enduring commitment to the welcoming spirit he embodied throughout his remarkable life.
The Will Rogers Memorial Museum
No visit to Claremore is complete without a visit to the Will Rogers Memorial Museum, which serves as a tribute to its most beloved citizen. The museum occupies a beautiful hilltop location overlooking the town, and visitors immediately sense the warmth and humor that characterized Rogers' approach to life. Exhibits chronicle his journey from Cherokee Territory ranch hand to vaudeville performer to Hollywood star to trusted voice of the American people during the challenging years of the Great Depression.
Downtown Shops
Claremore's historic downtown district offers an impressive collection of locally owned shops that reflect the community's entrepreneurial spirit. The revitalized business district centers on Will Rogers Boulevard and adjacent streets, where historic buildings house retail establishments serving a wide range of interests. Antique stores such as Sailor Antiques and Collectibles and A Place'n Time offer carefully curated collections of vintage objects, glassware, jewelry, and memorabilia that appeal to both serious collectors and casual browsers. What sets these places apart from outlets in big cities is the care and attention staff put into making your experience memorable.
The Pink House stands out as a beloved destination featuring an ever-changing inventory of handcrafted items and unique gifts. The place has cultivated a loyal following through its exceptional customer service and its talent for helping shoppers find items that perfectly complement their homes. The downtown also features local bookstores, such as The Same Page Bookstore, and gift shops selling Route 66 memorabilia. This diverse retail landscape keeps visitors engaged for hours and consistently exceeds expectations about what a small Oklahoma town can offer.
Community Events
Claremore hosts festivals and community gatherings that bring residents and visitors together to celebrate shared interests and values. The Will Rogers Birthday Celebration occurs each November, commemorating Rogers' birth with activities that honor his legacy while entertaining families from across the region. The event features live entertainment, educational programs, and opportunities to learn more about the humorist's life and philosophy.
The Tunes & Spoons Chili Fest & Music Festival in August attracts music fans and culinary competitors who transform the town into a lively celebration of acoustic music and hometown cooking. Bands perform on multiple stages while chili cooks compete for bragging rights and prizes. Visitors sample various entries and enjoy the festival atmosphere that encourages conversation and connection among strangers who quickly discover common interests. Even if you are just a temporary visitor to town, you will feel like a long-time resident embraced by the community.
During the holiday season, Claremore sparkles with decorations as residents gather for the annual Claremore Christmas Parade of Lights. The intimate scale of holiday celebrations creates warmth that larger events cannot replicate, and families establish traditions centered around annual visits to Claremore's holiday festivities. Summer months bring car shows, outdoor concerts, and community picnics that take advantage of Oklahoma's beautiful weather while strengthening bonds among residents and welcoming visitors into the community fold.
Nearby Towns Worth Exploring
Located approximately 55 minutes from Claremore, Tahlequah serves as the capital of the two federally recognized Cherokee tribes based in Oklahoma, the modern Cherokee Nation and the United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians. It offers visitors profound insights into Native American history and contemporary indigenous culture. Explore Cherokee history at several tribally-owned museums in the city.
Situated 1 hour away from Claremore, Bartlesville offers natural beauty and cultural attractions that merit a dedicated visit. Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve provides a compelling experience approximately 12 miles southwest of downtown Bartlesville. Oil pioneer Frank Phillips established this 3,700-acre retreat in 1925, and it now houses one of the finest collections of Western art and Native American artifacts. Bison, elk, longhorn cattle, and other animals roam freely across the preserve, and visitors frequently spot wildlife during the scenic drive leading to the museum.
Hospitality That Warms The Heart
Claremore is recognized as one of the most hospitable towns in the state for its celebration of a beloved local's welcoming philosophy and its commitment to creating meaningful experiences for every visitor. The town demonstrates that hospitality extends to quality offerings and a sincere interest in others' well-being. Travelers seeking hospitality, American history, and unforgettable experiences will discover everything they desire in this remarkable town, which carries Will Rogers' legacy forward while writing new chapters in Oklahoma's enduring story of warmth and welcome.
