Fun Travels Across the United States
OKLAHOMA
News
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NEWS:
The Oklahoma Museum of Arts Has Numerous Events Scheduled.
The Route 66 Museum is Great
New Pro Shop and Golf Course Renovations Complete at Lake Murray State Park
Latest News
OKC's Revitalized Art Scene Provides Ample Opportunity
With the revitalized art scene in Oklahoma City, Istvan Gallery is celebrating its fourth anniversary as a gallery within Urban Art on Western with its 17th art installation
Revival of the Community Theater
The board of Kingfisher Creative!, Inc. is very pleased to report a revival of the Kingfisher Community Theater with the comedy "Lend Me a Tenor" directed by Tyler Mueggenborg and playing February 2-5 at the school auditorium...
BARTLESVILLE
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BRISTOW
My favorite Restaurant
Russ's Ribs
This small cafe isn't muc h to look at from the outside or, for that matter, inside. But, it had the best BBQ sliced steak I have ever tasted! In fact, while eating the BBQ, fantastic baked beans and sweet potato deep fries, I couldn't stop expressing my joy in devouring the best lunch I've ever had while on vacation! The manager obliged by telling me that the yummy steak I was eating was Tri Tip, and customers also love the Flat Iron steak that he lets sit in a secret recipe sauce. The place is unpretencious, but the food makes a huge statement - and is why anyone and everyone who drives along Route 66 should stop in. In addition to the BBQ ribs and steak, there's much more - including frogs legs and one of the best peach cobbler deserts anywhere. Before leaving, feel free to ask Russ for a marking pen to sign one of the walls. Signatures on the wall attest to the fact that visitors from all over the world loved this barbeque joint on historic Route 66.
Located at 223 S. Main Street, Bristow, OK; 918-367-5656 along Route 66
CLINTON
Route 66 Museum
The Route 66 Museum -- the state's official showcase of Route 66 and operated by the Oklahoma Historical Society -- offers a spirited tour of pure Americana -- including vintage cars, the world's largest curio cabinet (filled with treasures collected from along the route), neon sgns, a 50s diner, a drive-in theater, a graffiti-festooned VW Microbus, and much more. Route 66 is known as the Main Street of America and the Mother Road. Here, historian and acclaimed author Michael Wallis narrates a recorded journey through the rise and fall of Route 66, tracing the deep social and cultural changes of a nation along the way. Each exhibit room is flavored by the legendary music in keeping with its particular theme, including "Will Rogers Highway" by native son Woody Guthrie, and the Eagles "Hotel California." Along the way, as you see yesterday's vehicles and listen to musiuc while experiencing road constructi0on, transportation, and more, you can rest in the drive-in theater and watch the film Route 66: An American Odyssey.
Located off I-40 at Exit 65, 2229 Gary Boulevard, Clinton 73601; 580-323-RT66
Fee Charged. Summer hours (Memorial to Labor Day) are Mon-Sat. 9 am to 7 pm, and Sunday 1 to 6 pm. Winter hours (Labor Day to Memorial Day) Mon-Sat 9 am to 5 pm, and Sunday 1 pm to 5 pm. Closed on Sunday and Monday during December and January, State Holidays and the first week in January.
EDMOND
“A Cut and a Shave: The History of the Barbershop” Exhibit
Since settlers first arrived in the city of Edmond, people needed the basic essentials: food, water, and of course, a cut and a shave. The Land Run brought thousands of people to Oklahoma and Edmond from various backgrounds and professions. Some of these pioneers were even barbers.
FREDERICK
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GUTHRIE
GUTHRIE EVENTS & PLACES OF INTEREST
Oklahoma Sports Museum
Named the state's official sports museum in 1996, this museum recognizes professional and Olympic athletes who have Oklahoma ties and use their influence through varied activities to encourage youth to be "Drug Free" and live a positive lifestyle. It is the aim of the Museum to recognize those athletes and coaches who have succeeded in their fields and to work with the youth of this state in using these athletes and coaches as role models. The memorabilia and careers of many famous Oklahoma athletes are highlighted here, such as Jim Thorpe, Mickey Mantle, Troy Aikman and Shannon Miller. Each year the museum honors the best left-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball with the Warren Spahn Award.
The museum is located at 315 W. Oklahoma Avenue, Guthrie; 406-260-1342. Open Monday-saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. For more information check web site www.oklahomasportsmuseum.com. Donations are appreciated
Frontier Drug Store Museum
In the 1970s, an Oklahoma pharmacist who had devoted nearly 40 years of his life to the profession of pharmacy, realized that the heritage of pharmacy was changing. He then decided to create a vast collection of a vanishing heritage and spearheaded the collection and restoration of pharmacy memorabilia from pharmacists throughout the region. The site of the Oklahoma Frontier Durg Store Museum was purchased on July 1, 1992, and today it depicts the ld time flair and ambience of drug stores from the past.
Housed in the Gaffney Building, built in 1890 and located in the heart of Guthrie's restored Victorian downtown, the museum was placed here for several reasons -- the main one being that Foress B. Lillie was a participant in the land run, and set up for business as soon as shots were fired to indicate the starting time. Lillie was one of the men to have a part in the formation of the Oklahoma Pharmaceutical Association in 1895, and was the first secretary of the Oklahoma State Board of Pharmacy. In addition, he was issued the No. 1 certificate as practicing pharmacist in Oklahoma.
The museum is open Tuesday-Friday from 10 a.m.-5 pm.; Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m.-4 p.m. It is closed Mondays. Donation suggested.
Location: 214 West Oklahoma Street, Guthrie, Oklahoma 73044; 405-282-1895
Aunt Gertrude's House
This gallery is filled with American craft and fine art including jewelry, glass, wood, paintings, pottery, collage and sculpture. There's also a room filled with antique dolls and Steiff mohair animals. Sister's Doll Hospital, located within the shop, provides a fascinating and delightful glimpse into the art of doll restorations.
Located at 112 E. Oklahoma Avenue; 405-260-2345; www.auntgertrudeshouse.com
Guthrie Scottish Rite Masonic Center
Completed in 1929, the Temple sits on 10.6 acres originally platted as the Capital Park. The old legislative hall, which housed the State Legislature prior to 1910, was incorporated in the Temple building, creating more than 400,000 sq. ft. of floor space. The interior design and decor was inspired by the ancient Egyptian, Assyrian, Greek, and Roman civilizations, as well as Revival and Renaissance architecture. Each of the Temple's 16 major rooms is exquisitely furnished in period style, with marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and over 390 stained glass windows. The Temple also houses a museum and archives of historically significant artifacts pertaining to Freemasonry.
For more information check the Masonic Center at 900 E. Oklahoma Avenue, Guthrie; 405-282-1281 or go to web site www.guthriescottishrite.org. Guided tours are available Monday-Friday at 10 am and 2 pm. Admission charged.
Oklahoma Territorial Museum and Carnegie Library
Through artifacts, photographs, and paintings, the Oklahoma Territorial Museum tells the story of the determined people who laid the foundation for the future state of Oklahoma. On the museum grounds stands the Carnegie Library, where the first state governor was inaugurated. Preserved by the Oklahoma Historical Society, the building as well as the museum, serves as a visible link between Oklahoma's turbulent Territorial Period and the present. Conference space and educational programs are available.
For more information go to 406 E. Oklahoma Avenue; 405-282-1889. Hours are Tuesday-Saturday from 10 am-5 pm. Donation suggested.
Double Stop Fiddle Shop and Music Hall
Here you'll find a wide variety of guitars, banjos and mandolins, both new and vintage, for professionals, beginners, and collectors. The Shop also offers repair and rehairing services, and is the home of world champion fiddler Byron Berline who offers performances many Saturday nights in the Music Hall.
Location: 121 E. Oklahoma Avenue; 405-282-6646; www.doublestop.com
Kokopelli Trails
This shop specializes in Native American and Southwestern jewelry, gifts and collectibles. It has won various retail awards including the #1 Painted Pony retailer in the U.S. Inside is also the gallery of Aloma Wolfington, a self-taught artist specializing in horses and Native American subjects.
Location: 113 W. Oklahoma Avenue; 405-260-0600; www.kokopellitrails.com
Owen Fine Art Museum
This is organized exclusively for artistic, cultural, and educational purposes. The mission of the Owens Arts Place Museum Foundation is to secure, organize and exhibit fine art. They do a variety of cultural activities and work closely with the public schools and senior citizens.
Located at 1202 E. harrison Avenue. For more information, call 405-260-0204 or go to www.owensmuseum.com. Hours are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10 am to 4 pm, and Sunday from 1-4 pm.
The International Model Railroad Museum
The museum houses a collection of multi-gauge model railroad exhibits as well as railroad history. It also includes model automobile exhibits, both vintage and contemporary. The museum is located inside the Santa Fe Depot, which was completed in 1903 and housed passenger service, mail service, the "Harvey House," a news stand, employee living quarters and offices.
The museum is run by volunteers, so please call for hours. Donations requested. It is located at 409 W. Oklahoma Avenue; 405-260-0700. For more information check web site www.theoldsantafedepotofguthrie.com
State Capital Publishing Museum
This museum is home to a dynamic collection f territorial and early statehood printing presses, bindery equipment, newspapers and publishing history. Designed by Joseph Foucart and built in 1902 by Frank Hilton Greer, this building housed the first newspaper in Oklahoma Territory and the largest printing plant west of the Mississippi. Greer developed a politically powerful newspaper with the largest circulation in the Territory aided by installation of the first Linotype in Oklahoma. He also embarked on a campaign of scathing criticism of Governor Haskell, the first state governor, which contributed to the vote to remove the capital to Oklahoma City. Conference space and exciting educational programs are available.
The museum is located at 301 W. Harrison, Guthrie; 405-282-4123. Open Thursday to Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm. Suggested Donation is $2
GUTHRIE'S FESTIVALS
Guthrie Art Walk
This progressive celebration of the fine arts is held twice each year and showcases the unique shops and galleries and celebrates artists from across the region. The leisurely walkabout is a great way to meet the artists and brose Guthrie's Downtown Historic District. Held in March and November.
Admission is free. For more information call 405-293-4546
'89er Celebration
This festival commemorates and celebrates Oklahoma's 1889 Land Run, which made Guthrie an instant city of over 10,000 people. It offers an old-fashioned chuck wagon feed, entertainment, one of Oklahoma's largest parades, the '89er rodeo, arts, crafts, and a carnival for loads of family fun. Merchants also dress their windows to the annual '89er theme and compete for prizes and recognition.
Held in April and sponsored by the American legion Post. For information call 405-282-2589. Admission varies based on the activity.
Guthrie Road Show
With this one, you can cruise through Historic Guthrie and celebrate America's long time infatuation with the vintage automobile, and stroll among some classics.
Held in September and sponsored by the Flashbacks Car Club. For more information call 405-505-5640.
Apples and Quilts Festival
Guthrie's autumn festival celebrates the artistry of America's homemakers and the quilts that reflect their heritage and traditions. The fabrics of our lives, lovingly stitched to decorate a bed, cover a child or celebrate a marriage are on display throughout the Downtown Historic District. The festival includes numerous quilt exhibits and vendors line the streets showcasing anything ad everything related to apples and quilts.
Held in September and sponsored by the Guthrie Retailers Association. Admission is free. For more information call 405-282-1272 or check web site www.shpguthrie.com
Oklahoma's International Bluegrass Festival
This is Guthrie's largest three day festival, featuring top bluegrass bands from around the world. Visitors from all four corners of the globe flock to Guthrie to enjoy the entertainment, children's tent, music workshoips, and more. On Sunday there is the Annual Bluegrass Celebrity Golf Tournament to enjoy. There are campsites and RV sites available to camp out at the festival all weekend.
Held the first weekend in October and sponsored by the Oklahoma International Bluegras sFestival, Inc. For more information call 405-282-4446 or check website www.oibf.com
Guthrie Art and Wine Festival
The Annual Guthrie Art & Wine Festival is a juried fine art show set in the heart of Guthrie's downtown historical district on Oklahoma Avenue. Enjoy fine art while sipping Oklahoma wines and stroll the streets of this historic town. Learn from artist's demonstrations and talks.
Held the first Saturday and Sunday in October and sponsored by the Oklahoma AVenue Association. Admission is free. For more information call 405-563-1826 or check web site www.goartandwinefestival.com
Territorial Christmas Celebration
Take a step back in time and celebrate Christmas in grand Territorial style. The weekend after Thanksgiving, the festival is kicked off by a nigh time lighted parade and the presentation of the newly eleted Territorial Governor. Throughout the holiday season, the celebration continues. The Pollard theatre puts on "A Territorial Christmas Carol," which is based on the Dickens classic. There are also Candlelight Trolley Tours Wassail Nights, A Historic Homes Tour, and so much more. At the Double Stop Music Hall there is a variety of evenings filled with seasonal music. On the evenings of the Victorian Walks, live window displays depict the life in 19th century Guthrie, caroliers, peanut vendors, costumed visitors and lights fill the Historic District.
Held from the first weekend after Thanksgiving to Christmas and sponsored by the Guthrie Chamber of Commerce. For more information call 405-282-1947 or 800-299-1889 or check web site www.guthrieok.com.
LANGLEY
More soon!
LAWTON
Arts, Humanities the Focus of Meeting in Lawton
The Oklahoma Arts Council and the Oklahoma Humanities Council are partnering with Lawton's Museum of the Great Plains to host a town hall meeting focusing on the arts and humanities…
NORMAN
H2OK, Exhibition by Native Artists Responding to Oklahoma's Water Issues
Artists from across Oklahoma's diverse tribal landscape are participating in H2OK: Native Response to Water Issues in Oklahoma, a group art show opening in Norman, Oklahoma and traveling to Muskogee, Oklahoma. The show will open at MAINSITE Contemporary Art: Home of the Norman Arts Council, 122 E. Main Street, Norman, from February 10 - March 10, 2012. The exhibition will then travel to Bacone College's Art Gallery in the McCombs Hall Art Building, 2299 Old Bacone Road, Muskogee, and be on view from April 6 - May 13, 2012
Harmon's Career is "One to Watch"
The Skirvin Hotel & Park Avenue Grill
The Skirvin Hotel opened in 1911 and has been a hit ever since. I had a memorable breakfast here that was one to remember - and return to the next time I visit. It is only three miles from the capitol, and a steady stream of presidents and world figures have stayed here - in addition to oil barons, cattle kings, glamorous ladies and glittering stars. And, after being here, I can see why they kept coming!
The hotel was built by the legendary 'Big Bill' Skirvin, an original 89er, and one of the most prolific developers in the young state. He envisioned and created a world class hotel for the burgeoning city. 'Big Bill' is also famous for siring his oldest daughter, Perle Mesta, the famous 'hostess with the mostest.' Perle was a fixture in Washington, D.C. society in the 30s and 40s. An invitation to one of her soirees put one definitely on the "A" list of Washington movers and shakers. She was also the inspiration for the Irving Berlin musical, Call Me Madam, starring Ethel Merman, both popular on Broadway and as a movie.
As was the case yesteryear, so are things here today in Oklahoma's grandest hotel -- for guests are enveloped in a world of luxury and stylish design. The Park Avenue Grill inside the hotel is great, as is the Red Piano Lounge, the pool, health club and modern amenities.
Restaurants (My favorites)
Zio's Zany Kitchen, Oklahoma City
With an open kitchen, comfortable seating, and a casual atmosphere, Zio's turns out great food at reasonable prices. Everything is made from scratch and brought at the right temperature from the open kitchen. I had the Chicken Parmagian, which was delicious, but the pasta was a bit overdone. Despite that, I'd go back again without hesitation. Tip: If there's a long wait, ask to be seated at the bar. The stools are comfortable, and the service is excellent. It's also entertaining to watch the bartender mix drinks. If you have children, don't hesitate to bring them here -- the Kid's Menu is $3.99 and includes a soft drink. Kid's choices run from macaroni and cheese, spagetti and meatballs, grilled chicken, to a grilled cheese sandwich, chicken tenders, cheese pizza, or cheese ravioli. They'll also receive a fun placemat to draw on or solve puzzles.
Abuelo's Mexican Restaurant, Oklahoma City
My partner and I were greeted the moment we stepped inside the Mexican courtyard-themed restaurant and were quickly seated. Our server showed up in about five minutes, with a bowl of thin, tasty chips and a tangy sauce. After perusing the huge variety of dishes offered, we decided to order our favorite - Fajitas. I ordered the Fajita Trio consisting of steak, chicken and shrimp, while my partner ordered the Fajita Marinated Steak. If you're a vegetarian, there's also a Vegetable Fajita. We weren't disappointed. The presentation was lovely, the food came sizzling hot, and the huge portion, delicious. We immediately understood why locals had steered us to Abuelo's and we regretted trying the Mexican restaurant opposite Abuelo's adjoining the canal where I had to return my order and still wasn't happy with the replacement. After this delicious dinner, we walked along nearby the canal to complete a great evening. Abuelo's rices were reasonable, and we'd definitely return.
Location: In the heart of Bricktown at 17 East Sheridan/Bricktown, Oklahoma City, OK 73104; 405-235-1422.
Places to Visit
Oklahoma City Museum of Art - 415 Couch Drive
American Banjo Museum - 9 E Sheridan Ave.
Hours of operation are 1pm-6pm on scheduled days.
Admission: FREE to the public.
MUSEUM CAFE
Considering attending one of the many events at the Civic Center Music Hall? Park early, eat a great dinner in the Museum Cafe, then walk to the event!
Call (405) 235-6262.
MUSEUM STORE
See the Museum Store's new look!
SAVE THE DATE
NEXT FUNDRAISER
Omelette Party
Saturday, February 4, 2012
7pm-Midnight
Bricktown Events Center
DONALD W. REYNOLDS VISUAL ARTS CENTER
415 Couch Drive
Oklahoma City, OK 73102
(405) 236-3100
Museum Cafe
(405) 235-6262
Museum Store
(405) 236-3100, ext. 233
HOURS
Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm
Sunday, noon-5pm
Closed Monday & Thanksgiving
MUSEUM CAFE HOURS
Monday, 10am-3pm
Tuesday-Saturday, 11am-10pm
Sunday, 10:30am-3pm
Location: Oklahoma City Museum of Art | 415 Couch Drive | Oklahoma City | OK | 73102
Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma Announces its 2012 Season
Lyric, Oklahoma's leading professional theatre company, announces its 2012 Season, including XANADU (January 25- February 11); SPRING AWAKENING (March 28- April 14); BYE BYE BIRDIE (June 26-30); SWEET CHARITY (July 10-14); A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD (July 13-28), Irving Berlin's CALL ME MADAM (July 24-28); CHITA RIVERA: MY BROADWAY (August 7-11); THE MYSTERY OF IRMA VEP (October 10-27) and LYRIC'S A CHRISTMAS CAROL, presented by Devon Energy (November 30- December 29). Season subscriptions to this spectacular 2012 Season are now available for purchase...
Oklahoma City Zoo & Botanical Garden
This is the oldest zoo in the Southwest and features diverse ad fascinating animal and plant collections spread out over 110 acres. The Zoo is home to about 1,900 of the world's most exotic animals, including 54 endangered or threatened species. Fully accredited as both a living museum and a botanical garden, the zoo features Oklahoma Trails, a new 7.7-acre exhibit with over 800 animals and thousands of plants native to Oklahoma. Representing the natural terrain of the state, the Trails feature 11 distinct life zones with each containing beautiful naturalistic habitats. It also has the Centennial Choo Choo -- an 1863 replica locomotive driven train allowing tours for guests through the southwest portion of the Zoo.
Flowers In Flight: The Butterfly Experience, covers a 1,440 square foot walk-through butterfly house featuring butterflies from around the U.S. Visitors can view the butterflies up close while learning fascinating facs about these amazing creatures.
Paddle in Zoo Lake in one of the two person Swan Paddleboats or go to Jungle Gym, the ultimate playground. And don't forget ZooKeys, an interactive opportunity to learn fun and fascinating facts about the animal kingdom. There's more, too -- the Herpetarium showcasing reptiles and amphibians from around the world; Island Life, an exhibit featuring island fauna from islands around the world. Here you'll find flamingos, Galapagos tortoises and Madagascan hissing cockroaches along with other exotic species.
Hungry? No problem. Food is available as well as gifts, Safari Tram rides, the Endangered Species Carousel, a rock climbin wall, and strollers, wheelchairs, electronic convenience vehicles, lockers, pet hotel and picnic areas make this trip very worthwhile.
For more information on special events, hours, directions, etc., go online to web site www.okczoo.com. The Zoo is located at 2101 N.E. 50th, Oklahoma City; 405-424-3344.
Science Museum Oklahoma (Previously known as Omniplex)
Established in 1958 as the Oklahoma Science and Arts Foundatiuon with a mission to improve the cultural and educational standards of Oklahoma City, through the years, the museum's mission has continued to evolve and the focus has sharpened, now emphasizing science and technology. Here, you'll find more than 350 hands-on science exhibits and inquiry-based educational programs, planetarium, and dome theater -- perfect for visitors of all ages.
Located at 2100 NE 52nd Street, Oklahoma City, OK 73111; 405-602-6664
Hours: Sunday 11 am-6 pm; Monday-Friday 9 am-5 pm; Saturday 9 am - 6 pm
For more information, check web site www.ScienceMuseumOK.org.
Oklahoma City’s Adventure District
Some of Oklahoma’s finest vacation spots are located in northeast Oklahoma City. With seven outstanding tourist attractions in one central location, the Adventure District features a variety of entertainment options that appeal to those of all ages and on a tight budget
World War Two Submarine to be Given Second Chance
Efforts are underway to protect, renovate, and restore a rare World War II submarine and its Memorial facility in Muskogee, Oklahoma. After 35 years of resting in the soil of a former bean field along the shores of the Arkansas River, USS Batfish volunteers, veterans, and previous members of her crew are now striving to save this one-of-a kind historical relic…
Firefighters Museum Adds Audio Tour, Playground
Firefighters Museum adds audio tour, playground OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma State Firefighters Museum and Memorial recently installed modern technology and a children’s playground to enhance guests’ visits while learning about firefighting. Mike Billingsley, museum manager, said the museum added a new audio tour in July. The tour, professionally done with background music lasting about 35 minutes, educates visitors on the history of firefighting
TULSA
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