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Best Day Trips To Take Around Oklahoma City

Chickasaw Cultural Center

Oklahoma City is the capital of the state and home to several attractions, including the Oklahoma City Zoo and Hyriad Botanical Gardens. The city is known for its college sports, and its history with Route 66, which ran through the city and brought tourists and those just passing through. If you've seen everything there is to see in the city, or you're just looking for a way to take a short road trip, a day trip may be right for you. These are some of our picks for the best day trips to take near Oklahoma City.

Chickasaw Cultural Center

The Chickasaw Cultural Center is a cultural home for the Chickasaw people. It's a perfect day trip for the family that loves to learn and experience new cultures, and it's about an hour and a half trip by car. There are plenty of things to do at the center, including visiting the Chikasha Inchokka' Traditional Village, exploring the Chikasha Poya Exhibit Center, viewing the statues in the sculpture garden, walking through the Spirit Forest, and finding something to remember the trip by in the Aachompa' Gift Shop.

In the historical village, you can take part in activities like stickball demonstrations and stomp dancing. Cultural demonstrators also show elements of cooking, traditional art, and storytelling. In the exhibit hall, you can learn more about Chickasaw history, from first contact with Europeans to today's Chickasaw people. In the sculpture garden, you'll find various artworks depicting the Chickasaw people, including warriors and chiefs.

  • Location: 867 Cooper Memorial Road, Sulphur, OK 73086
  • Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday

Great Salt Plains State Park

If you're looking for somewhere to take a gorgeous picture, taking a day trip to Great Salt Plains State Park may be the right choice for you. The park is a little over a two-hour drive from the center of Oklahoma City, and it's worth the trek. It's one of Oklahoma's most unique natural landscapes, featuring vast, flat expanses of shimmering salt. The area is a remnant of the ocean that once covered Oklahoma in prehistoric times.

When you visit, you can wander through the visitor's center to get more information about the park. If you choose to hike through the park, be sure to keep your pets on a leash. Other activities at Great Salt Plains State Park include hunting, fishing, birdwatching, crystal digging, and wildlife watching. Bird-watching enthusiasts may enjoy seeing the many species of birds that frequent the park, including Sandhill Cranes, ducks, and shorebirds.

  • Location: 23280 S. Spillway Drive, Jet, OK 73749
  • Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday through Monday

Tulsa, OK

Tulsa may be famous for oil and tornadoes, but there are plenty of other things to do in the city. By car, the trip to Tulsa takes about an hour and a half from the center of Oklahoma City. A day trip to Tulsa starts off right with a cup of coffee and a pastry from Topeca Coffee Roasters. Music enthusiasts may head to the Woody Guthrie Center or over to the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame.

After immersing yourself in music, you can grab something to eat at the cute Cherry Street Kitchen. Check out one of their delicious burgers, go for a chicken pot pie or fish or chips, and finish the meal off with a lemon bar or chocolate chip cookie. Once your bellies are full, visit the Tulsa Arts District and the plethora of shops, clubs, restaurants, museums, and historic music venues within the area. If you visit on a Friday, consider taking part in the First Friday Art Crawl, an event that features the studios, galleries, and museums in the area.

Turner Falls

Nature lovers may love a day trip out to Turner's Falls, home of Oklahoma's largest waterfall. Turner Falls is about an hour's drive from the center of Oklahoma City. The oldest park in Oklahoma, Turner Falls is named after Mazeppa Thomas Turner, who discovered the waterfall. He was born in Virginia and moved to Oklahoma to settle along Honey Creek.

When you visit Turner Falls, you can explore the Arbuckle Mountains and walk along Honey Creek. The Arbuckle Mountains are the oldest known formations in the U.S., nestled between the Appalachian and Rocky Mountains. While exploring the falls, take amazing pictures with the waterfall in the background, or put your swimsuit on and go for a dip in the water at the base of the falls. Wildlife enthusiasts can watch for any of the many species that roam the area, including the whitetail deer and wild turkey.

Wichita, OK

Home to the seventh-largest zoo in the nation, Wichita is a city with plenty of activities for a day trip. Whether you want to head over to the Sedgwick County Zoo to see animals from Australia, South America, or the tropics, or catch a show at the Century II Performing Arts and Convention Center, there's something for you in Wichita. For beautiful pictures and a taste of the art, Wichita has to offer, head over to the Gallery Alley, an area that's full of art installations and vibrant colors.

Wichita is also home to several tasty restaurants, including Doo-Dah Diner and Monarch Gastro-Pub. For some family fun, try Botanica Wichita for garden-themed exhibits or All Star Adventures for attractions and amusement rides. If you're a sports fan, catch a Wichita Thunder hockey match, or watch the ICT Roller Girls roller derby.

These are our top picks for the most exciting day trips you can take around Oklahoma City. From state parks and natural wonders to beautiful downtown areas, there's a day trip for every kind of traveler. Did we forget about a great location near Oklahoma City? Contact us and let us know so we can add it to the list. A shiny new ride can make your next day trip even more fun, so check out our new vehicle inventory to find one that suits you best.

Leaving the Milford Sound by Geoff Byron is licensed with Unsplash License

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Best Bookstores in Guthrie, OK

Best Bookstores in Guthrie, OK

There is something especially fitting about book shopping around Guthrie. A town known for history, character, and slower-paced charm naturally pairs well with cozy bookstores, thoughtful recommendations, and shelves full of stories waiting to be discovered. Whether you are hunting for a new release, browsing for a thoughtful gift, looking for a children’s title, or simply wanting a peaceful afternoon outing, there are several standout bookstores within a short drive of Guthrie. Some feel warm and community-centered, some lean niche and specialized, and others turn book buying into a full experience with coffee, events, or carefully curated extras. If you love the idea of spending a day with a stack of books and no real rush to be anywhere else, these bookstores near Guthrie are well worth exploring. A Novel Idea Bookshop A Novel Idea Bookshop is the kind of place that feels made for readers who want more than a quick transaction. Located in downtown Guthrie, the shop positions itself as a welcoming literary space, and that comes through in the way it emphasizes book clubs, workshops, community wish lists, and events alongside its regular inventory. It has the charm of an independent bookstore, but it also feels active and current, with staff picks, bestseller collections, pre-orders, and fun promotions that make repeat visits feel worthwhile. If you like bookstores that double as gathering spaces, this one stands out immediately. It is easy to picture spending time here browsing the shelves, picking up a gift, and leaving with a few extra titles you did not plan on buying. For Guthrie residents who want a true hometown bookstore experience, A Novel Idea Bookshop is an easy first stop. Paper Pages Bookstore Paper Pages Bookstore in nearby Crescent is a wonderful option if you enjoy a small-town bookstore with a lot packed into it. The shop carries primarily new books with some used titles, and its specialties include children’s books, comics and graphic novels, mystery, science fiction and fantasy, and young adult reads. What makes it especially fun is that it goes beyond books, offering coffee, tea, gifts, puzzles, toys, pastries, and cozy seating that encourages you to linger a little longer. It also hosts book clubs, storytime, and author events, which gives the space a lively, community-driven feel. There is something very appealing about a bookstore where you can browse for your next read, grab a drink, and settle in for a while instead of rushing back out the door. For families, casual readers, and anyone who loves that classic indie bookstore energy, Paper Pages is absolutely worth the short drive from Guthrie. InSight Books InSight Books offers a very different kind of bookstore experience, which is part of what makes it interesting to include on this list. Based in Edmond, InSight focuses on resources tied to life transitions, including elder care, grief, funeral planning, and supportive materials for people walking through difficult seasons. Rather than being a broad, browse-for-anything bookstore, it serves a more intentional purpose and can be especially meaningful for readers looking for encouragement, guidance, or thoughtful resources they may not find easily elsewhere. The company also provides training and celebrant-related materials, so it has a strong service-oriented identity. While it notes that stock at the office is limited and pickup arrangements may need to be made in advance, it still stands out as a unique local book source with a specialized mission. If you appreciate bookstores that meet a specific community need, InSight Books brings something distinctive to the greater Guthrie area. EnTheos Books & Gifts EnTheos Books & Gifts brings a faith-centered, gift-friendly twist to the bookstore experience. Located in Oklahoma City and still within reach of Guthrie, the shop highlights books, bookmarks, encouragement cards, and handmade gift items with a strong inspirational focus. One of the most memorable parts of its messaging is that it aims to help fill your “gift closet” with items that shift attention away from everyday stress and back toward encouragement and faith. That makes it a nice stop not only for personal reading, but also for meaningful gifts for friends, family members, church events, or special occasions. Because the store blends books with cards and handcrafted items, it feels a little broader than a traditional bookstore while still appealing strongly to people who love printed, thoughtful goods. If you enjoy shops that feel personal, uplifting, and purpose-driven, EnTheos is a memorable addition to a Guthrie-area bookstore day. Bluebird Books Bluebird Books in downtown Edmond is a strong pick for readers who enjoy bookstores that feel active, social, and connected to the local literary scene. While the provided site itself was not fully accessible in the browser, current event listings and recent public posts show Bluebird hosting book circle gatherings and literary events in a brick-and-mortar location on South Broadway. That kind of programming gives the shop extra personality, because it suggests a bookstore that is not just about shelves and checkout counters, but about conversations, community, and shared reading experiences. For many readers, that is exactly what makes an independent bookstore memorable. You go in for a novel, and you end up finding a future event, a discussion group, or a new favorite place to return to. For Guthrie-area residents willing to make a short drive to Edmond, Bluebird Books looks like a lively and worthwhile stop. Why Bookstore Day Trips Around Guthrie Are So Fun One of the best things about bookstore shopping near Guthrie is the variety. You are not limited to one type of store or one kind of reading experience. You can spend one day visiting a charming downtown indie in Guthrie, then head to Crescent for coffee and shelves of fiction, then swing through Edmond for a more event-driven literary stop. That mix makes book shopping feel less like an errand and more like an outing. It is also a great reminder that local bookstores often offer much more personality than big-box alternatives, especially when they lean into community events, gift selections, and staff recommendations. Wrapping It Up Guthrie and the surrounding area offer a surprisingly fun lineup of bookstores for readers who want something a little more personal than the usual shopping trip. From the community-driven warmth of A Novel Idea Bookshop to the cozy small-town appeal of Paper Pages Bookstore, the niche resourcefulness of InSight Books, the uplifting gift-and-book blend at EnTheos Books & Gifts, and the event-friendly energy of Bluebird Books, there are plenty of places to browse within a short drive. Each one brings its own style, which means you can choose your stop based on your mood, your reading taste, or the kind of experience you want that day. For Guthrie residents, that makes it easy to turn an ordinary afternoon into something much more enjoyable. And when you are ready to head out for your next book haul, Eskridge Chevrolet can help make the drive just as comfortable as the reading time waiting for you at home.

Pet-Friendly Restaurants in Oklahoma City

Pet-Friendly Restaurants in Oklahoma City

In Oklahoma City, dining out doesn’t have to mean leaving your four-legged friend at home. The city has embraced a pet-friendly culture, with plenty of restaurants offering patios, welcoming staff, and even special touches just for dogs. Whether you’re grabbing a casual burger, enjoying a laid-back drink, or meeting friends for a weekend meal, there are great spots across OKC where your pup is just as welcome as you are. Best of all, these pet-friendly restaurants are all within a short drive, making it easy to turn any outing into a shared experience. If you love good food and great company—both human and canine—these are some of the best pet-friendly restaurants in Oklahoma City. Flatire Burgers Flatire Burgers is a go-to spot for burger lovers who don’t want to leave their pup behind. Known for its juicy, handcrafted burgers and relaxed atmosphere, Flatire offers outdoor seating that’s perfect for dining with dogs. The patio setup gives your furry friend space to relax while you dig into creative burger combinations and crispy fries. It’s a great place for casual lunches or laid-back dinners where the vibe is friendly and unpretentious. Many pet owners appreciate the welcoming attitude of the staff, who are often happy to accommodate dogs. If you’re craving a classic American meal with your pup by your side, Flatire Burgers is a solid pick. Louie’s Grill & Bar Louie’s Grill & Bar combines comfort food, great drinks, and a pet-friendly patio that makes it a local favorite. With multiple locations around OKC, it’s easy to find one nearby when you’re out with your dog. Their spacious outdoor seating areas are ideal for bringing pets along, especially during cooler evenings or weekend outings. The menu is packed with crowd-pleasers like burgers, sandwiches, and appetizers that pair perfectly with a cold drink. Louie’s has a lively but relaxed atmosphere, making it a great choice for groups, families, and pet owners alike. It’s one of those places where everyone—including your dog—can feel at home. The Garage The Garage is well-known in OKC for its bold burgers and fun, energetic vibe—and luckily, it’s also pet-friendly. Their patio areas make it easy to bring your dog along while you enjoy one of their signature burgers and a side of loaded fries. The Garage stands out for its creative menu, offering unique flavor combinations that keep things interesting. It’s a great spot to meet friends, grab a casual meal, and enjoy the city’s laid-back dining culture. Dogs are welcome to hang out while you relax, making it an easy choice for pet owners who don’t want to compromise on good food. If you’re looking for a lively, dog-friendly burger joint, The Garage delivers. Pub W (Pub Dub) Pub W, often called Pub Dub by locals, offers a slightly more upscale take on the classic pub experience while still being pet-friendly. Their patios are perfect for dining with your dog, providing a comfortable outdoor space where you can enjoy a full meal. The menu includes everything from elevated comfort food to craft cocktails, making it a great option for both casual outings and date nights. Pub W stands out for its attention to detail, both in its food and its atmosphere. Pet owners love that they can enjoy a higher-end dining experience without leaving their furry companion behind. It’s a great balance of relaxed and refined. Hopscotch OKC Hopscotch OKC brings a fun, modern vibe to the OKC dining scene, and its pet-friendly patio adds to the appeal. Known for its creative menu and social atmosphere, Hopscotch is a great place to hang out with friends—and your dog. The outdoor seating area is spacious enough to accommodate pets comfortably, making it easy to relax and enjoy your meal. Whether you’re stopping by for brunch, lunch, or dinner, there’s always something interesting to try on the menu. The lively setting makes it a popular choice for weekend outings or casual meetups. If you’re looking for a trendy spot that welcomes pets, Hopscotch is worth checking out. Tips for Dining Out with Your Dog in OKC Before heading out, it’s always a good idea to plan ahead when dining with your pet. Make sure your dog is comfortable in public spaces and can stay relaxed around other people and animals. Bring essentials like a leash, water bowl, and maybe a few treats to keep them happy during your meal. It’s also helpful to visit during off-peak hours if your dog is new to restaurant settings. Respecting restaurant rules and keeping your pet well-behaved ensures a positive experience for everyone. With a little preparation, dining out with your dog can be just as enjoyable as any other outing. Why OKC Is Great for Pet Owners Oklahoma City continues to grow as a pet-friendly destination, with more businesses embracing dog-friendly policies. Restaurants with patios make it easy for pet owners to include their dogs in everyday activities. This creates a more connected and inclusive community where pets are part of the lifestyle. From parks to patios, OKC offers plenty of opportunities to spend quality time with your furry companion. It’s one of the many reasons residents love calling this city home. Wrapping It Up Oklahoma City is full of pet-friendly restaurants that make it easy to enjoy great food without leaving your dog behind. From the casual comfort of Flatire Burgers and Louie’s Grill & Bar to the creative energy of The Garage, the elevated vibe of Pub W, and the modern atmosphere at Hopscotch OKC, there’s something for every taste and occasion. These spots prove that dining out can be just as enjoyable for your pet as it is for you. So grab a leash, pick a patio, and enjoy a meal with your best friend by your side. And when you’re heading out for your next pet-friendly adventure, Eskridge Chevrolet is there to help you get there comfortably and reliably.

Hoboken Coffee Roasters and Coffee Shop

Best Coffee Shops in Guthrie, OK

There’s something special about grabbing coffee in a town like Guthrie. Maybe it’s the historic streets, the slower pace, or the friendly “see you again tomorrow” vibe—but coffee just tastes better here. Whether you’re fueling up before work, meeting friends for a mid-morning chat, or carving out a quiet corner to read or work, there are plenty of great coffee shops within a short drive of Guthrie. From locally roasted blends to creative specialty drinks (and even cats!), these cafes bring personality and flavor to every cup. If you’re ready to explore the best coffee shops in and around Guthrie, here are some local favorites worth checking out. Hoboken Coffee Roasters Hoboken Coffee Roasters is a staple for many Guthrie locals who take their coffee seriously. Known for roasting their own beans, Hoboken focuses on quality and freshness in every cup. You’ll find classic espresso drinks alongside pour-overs and seasonal specialties that highlight the depth of their house-roasted blends. The atmosphere strikes a great balance between modern and comfortable, making it a popular stop for remote workers and weekend brunch-goers alike. Their commitment to craft coffee means you can taste the difference, whether you order a bold drip or a creamy latte. If you enjoy knowing where your beans come from and appreciate a thoughtfully brewed cup, Hoboken is an easy favorite. Maple & Honey Coffee Co. Maple & Honey Coffee Co. brings warmth and charm to the local coffee scene. This cozy café offers handcrafted drinks that range from traditional favorites to unique seasonal creations. It’s the kind of place where presentation matters just as much as flavor—expect beautifully layered lattes and carefully prepared beverages. The interior feels welcoming and comfortable, perfect for catching up with friends or enjoying a peaceful morning alone. Many visitors appreciate the inviting atmosphere that encourages you to slow down and savor your drink. If you’re looking for a spot that feels both stylish and homey, Maple & Honey is a great pick. Mocha House Coffee Mocha House Coffee is a wonderful choice if you’re craving a relaxed, small-town coffee experience with dependable flavor. Their menu features classic coffeehouse drinks, from cappuccinos and mochas to iced coffees and blended options. It’s a comfortable place to gather, whether you’re meeting a study group, having a casual business chat, or simply taking a break from the day. The laid-back setting makes it approachable for everyone, from serious espresso fans to those who prefer something sweeter. Mocha House also often pairs its drinks with light bites and pastries, making it a solid stop for breakfast or an afternoon treat. If you enjoy consistency and a friendly environment, this café fits the bill. Meow & Mocha Cat Café If you’re looking for a coffee shop experience that’s a little out of the ordinary, Meow & Mocha Cat Café offers something truly unique. This café combines quality coffee with the chance to spend time with adoptable cats in a comfortable indoor setting. You can sip your latte while relaxing in a cozy space designed for both humans and feline friends. It’s a fun outing for families, date nights, or anyone who needs a mood boost after a long week. Beyond the novelty factor, the coffee stands on its own with a variety of well-crafted drinks to choose from. For Guthrie residents willing to make the short drive, this spot offers a memorable experience that blends caffeine and cuddles. Beacon Coffee Stand Beacon Coffee Stand is perfect for those mornings when you need great coffee without a long sit-down experience. This drive-up coffee stand keeps things quick, convenient, and flavorful. The menu includes everything from straightforward drip coffee to creative specialty drinks that add a little excitement to your routine. Because it’s designed for efficiency, Beacon makes it easy to grab your favorite drink on the way to work or errands. Even with its grab-and-go style, the quality remains consistent, and the friendly service adds a personal touch. If your schedule is busy but your standards are high, Beacon Coffee Stand delivers. Finding Your Favorite Coffee Spot With so many options within a 30-minute drive of Guthrie, choosing a favorite can be part of the fun. Some days call for the craftsmanship and depth of a roastery like Hoboken. Other days, a cozy café like Maple & Honey or Mocha House feels just right. When you want something playful and different, Meow & Mocha offers a memorable twist. And when time is tight, Beacon Coffee Stand keeps your caffeine fix simple and efficient. Each shop brings something unique to the table, making it easy to match your coffee stop to your mood. Why Guthrie Residents Love Local Coffee There’s something meaningful about supporting local coffee shops. These businesses help build community, provide gathering spaces, and give residents places to connect beyond home and work. Whether you’re networking, relaxing, or simply starting your morning routine, coffee shops create opportunities for conversation and connection. In a town like Guthrie, that sense of community matters. And with several quality spots nearby, you don’t have to travel far for a great cup. Find a Great Coffee Shop in Guthrie From the expertly roasted beans at Hoboken Coffee Roasters to the cozy charm of Maple & Honey, the welcoming vibe of Mocha House, the unique experience at Meow & Mocha Cat Café, and the convenience of Beacon Coffee Stand, Guthrie residents have plenty of excellent coffee options close to home. Each café offers its own flavor, atmosphere, and personality, making it easy to find a spot that fits your style. So whether you’re planning a quiet morning or a social afternoon, there’s a cup waiting for you nearby. And when you’re ready to head out for your next coffee run, Eskridge Chevrolet is there to make the drive smooth, comfortable, and ready for wherever your day takes you.