Oklahoma: Where the Wind Comes Sweeping Down the Plain
- Kaitlen Daigle
- Jun 13, 2024
- 3 min read
We flew into Tulsa, OK, to start our roadtrip that went from Oklahoma to North Dakota. After getting off the plane, we drove to Pawhuska. Why Pawhuska? Let me me tell you some backstory on this town. In 2016, Ree Drummond and her husband, Ladd, opened The Pioneer Woman Mercantile, a bustling restaurant, bakery, and retail store in downtown Pawhuska. The Mercantile quickly became a popular destination for fans of Ree's cooking and her TV show. So, being fans of Ree, we wanted to explore the town. We stayed in the Historic Whiting Bed and Bath, which was unique. Being in a small town kinda freaked us out. Almost everything was closed when we got there and it wasn't even that late, so the only food that was open was McDonald's. There were almost no cars to be found when we were there and it was so quiet. It kinda felt like being in a horror movie at night. The next morning was completely different. It was so pleasant and people were walking around and everyone was super friendly. We went to the mercantile, which was very nice, and we got some pastries from the bakery. Then we set on our way back to Tulsa.
We were on a mission to visit Black Wall Street. Black Wall Street, also known as the Greenwood District in Tulsa, Oklahoma, was a thriving African American community in the early 20th century. It was home to numerous successful black-owned businesses, including banks, shops, and restaurants, making it one of the most prosperous black communities in the United States at the time. Tragically, it was destroyed during the 1921 Tulsa Massacre, dealing a devastating blow to the economic and social fabric of the community. This historic town was very well laid out. On the sidewalk were plaques of the businesses that were there before they were destroyed and who owned those businesses. Being here was very eye opening and educational.
We stopped at Wanda J's Next Generation to get some amazing food. I got fried chicken, mac and cheese and collard greens, which is my favorite meal. Then we left to go to the next leg of the journey, Kansas.
If you want to visit Oklahoma, here's a list of possible things to see and do:
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum: Located in Oklahoma City, this museum celebrates the history and culture of the American West through exhibits, art, and artifacts.
The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum: This memorial honors the victims, survivors, and rescuers of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing. It's a somber yet powerful experience.
Chickasaw Cultural Center: Learn about the history, heritage, and culture of the Chickasaw Nation through interactive exhibits, demonstrations, and cultural events.
Tulsa's Art Deco Architecture: Take a walking or driving tour of Tulsa to admire its stunning Art Deco architecture, including iconic buildings like the Boston Avenue Methodist Church and the Philtower Building.
Outdoor Recreation: Oklahoma boasts beautiful natural landscapes, including the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, where you can hike, bike, and spot wildlife. Be sure to also check out the scenic beauty of the Ozark Mountains in the northeastern part of the state.
Route 66: Drive along the historic Route 66, which passes through Oklahoma and offers a nostalgic journey through small towns, roadside attractions, and Americana.
Tribal Heritage Centers: Explore the rich heritage of Oklahoma's Native American tribes by visiting tribal heritage centers and museums such as the Cherokee Heritage Center and the Chickasaw Cultural Center.
Gilcrease Museum: Located in Tulsa, this museum is known for its extensive collection of American Western art, artifacts, and Native American exhibits.
Oklahoma Aquarium: Located in Jenks, near Tulsa, this aquarium features thousands of aquatic creatures, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles.
Music and Festivals: Oklahoma has a vibrant music scene with venues hosting live performances ranging from country and blues to rock and jazz. Check out local festivals and events celebrating music, food, and culture throughout the year.
If you want more suggestions on what to do in Oklahoma, I suggest you check out their tourism website.
Comments