Oklahoma

1. Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum (Oklahoma City): This memorial honors the victims, survivors, and rescuers of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing. The outdoor memorial and museum offer a place for reflection, remembrance, and learning about one of the deadliest acts of domestic terrorism in U.S. history.
2. Philbrook Museum of Art (Tulsa): Housed in a former Italian Renaissance-style mansion, the Philbrook Museum of Art is famous for its extensive art collections, including works from the Renaissance, Native American art, and modern pieces. The surrounding gardens add to its appeal as one of the most beautiful museums in the U.S.
3. Route 66 (The Mother Road) (Various locations): Oklahoma is home to one of the longest stretches of the historic Route 66, also known as the “Mother Road.” Travelers come to see quirky roadside attractions, nostalgic diners, and vintage gas stations that capture the essence of this iconic American road.
4. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (Oklahoma City): This museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the history of the American West. It features exhibits on cowboys, Native American culture, and Western art, making it a must-see for history buffs and fans of the cowboy lifestyle.
5. Turner Falls Park (Davis): Turner Falls is the tallest waterfall in Oklahoma, cascading 77 feet into a natural swimming pool. The park surrounding the falls is popular for picnicking, swimming, and exploring caves and hiking trails.
6. Myriad Botanical Gardens (Oklahoma City): Located in downtown Oklahoma City, these gardens are famous for their tropical conservatory, walking paths, and seasonal events. The gardens offer a green oasis in the city and are a popular destination for nature lovers.
7. The Gathering Place (Tulsa): This award-winning riverfront park is a major attraction in Tulsa, offering playgrounds, sports courts, gardens, and trails. It’s a unique public space designed for families and community gatherings, with stunning architecture and landscape design.
8. Cherokee Heritage Center (Tahlequah): Dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Cherokee Nation, this center offers interactive exhibits, historical reenactments, and a replica of a 1710 Cherokee village. It’s a great place to learn about the Cherokee people’s contributions to American history.
9. Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve (Bartlesville): Originally the ranch retreat of oilman Frank Phillips, Woolaroc is now a museum and wildlife preserve. Visitors can explore Western art, Native American artifacts, and enjoy a safari-like experience with buffalo, elk, and longhorn cattle roaming the grounds.
10. Beavers Bend State Park (Broken Bow): Nestled in the Ouachita Mountains, Beavers Bend State Park is famous for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational activities. Visitors come for hiking, fishing, boating, and camping, all set in a lush forested landscape.

1. Oklahoma has more man-made lakes than any other state: With over 200 man-made lakes, Oklahoma has the most in the U.S. These lakes offer recreation, fishing, and boating opportunities across the state, but the fact that none are natural surprises many.
2. The parking meter was invented in Oklahoma: In 1935, the world’s first parking meter was installed in Oklahoma City. It was designed by Carl Magee to manage parking in the city’s busy downtown area, and now meters are used worldwide.
3. Oklahoma has a town named Slapout: Located in the panhandle, the tiny town of Slapout is known for its unusual name. It’s said to have come from a store owner who often told customers he was “slap out” of items.
4. Oklahoma is home to the largest population of Native Americans: Oklahoma is home to 39 federally recognized Native American tribes, and it has the largest population of Native Americans in the U.S. Many tribes were relocated to Oklahoma during the 1800s.
5. Tornadoes are very common in Oklahoma: Situated in Tornado Alley, Oklahoma experiences more tornadoes per square mile than almost any other place in the world.
6. Oklahoma’s panhandle almost became a separate state: Known as No Man’s Land in the 1800s, the Oklahoma Panhandle was once considered forming its own state called Cimarron. Although it never happened, the area’s unique history is still discussed.
7. Oklahoma is home to the world’s largest concrete totem pole: In Foyil, Oklahoma, you’ll find the world’s largest totem pole, standing 90 feet tall. This massive concrete structure was hand-built in the 1940s by artist Ed Galloway as a tribute to Native American culture.
8. You can visit a three-story underground bunker house: In Tulsa, there’s a massive underground home built during the Cold War. This three-story structure is buried 26 feet below ground and features luxury amenities, designed to survive nuclear fallout.
9. Oklahoma has official state “cartoons”: The state cartoon is Boomer and Sooner, the mascots of the University of Oklahoma. They are represented by two ponies that lead the Sooner Schooner, a covered wagon, during football games.
10. The Red River rivalry has a split personality: The annual football game between Oklahoma and Texas is known as the Red River Rivalry. The teams play at a neutral site in Dallas, but the intense rivalry makes the state line a symbolic battleground for fans.

Famous Men

1. Will Rogers (1879–1935): Born in Oologah, Oklahoma, Will Rogers was a beloved humorist, actor, and social commentator. He was famous for his wit and insightful observations on American society and politics.
2. Blake Shelton (1976–): Born in Ada, Oklahoma, Blake Shelton is a country music superstar and television personality. He gained fame with hits like “Austin” and as a coach on The Voice.
3. James Garner (1928–2014): Born in Norman, Oklahoma, James Garner was a celebrated actor known for his roles in Maverick and The Rockford Files. He became a beloved television and film star over his long career.
4. Garth Brooks (1962–): Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Garth Brooks is one of the best-selling musicians of all time. He revolutionized country music with hits like “Friends in Low Places” and is known for his energetic live performances.
5. Ron Howard (1954–): Born in Duncan, Oklahoma, Ron Howard is an award-winning actor and director. Known for his role as Opie on The Andy Griffith Show, he later became a top director, making films like Apollo 13 and A Beautiful Mind.

Famous Women

1. Reba McEntire (1955–): Born in McAlester, Oklahoma, Reba McEntire is a country music legend and actress. Known for hits like Fancy and The Night the Lights Went Out in Georgia, she also starred in her own sitcom, Reba.
2. Jeanne Tripplehorn (1963–): Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Jeanne Tripplehorn is an actress best known for her roles in Basic Instinct, The Firm, and the TV series Big Love.
3. Kristin Chenoweth (1968–): Born in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, Kristin Chenoweth is a Tony Award-winning actress and singer. She gained fame for her roles in Wicked and Glee, and is known for her powerful soprano voice.
4. Carrie Underwood (1983–): Raised in Checotah, Oklahoma, Carrie Underwood rose to fame as the winner of American Idol. She’s now a Grammy-winning country music star with hits like “Before He Cheats” and “Blown Away.”
5. Alfre Woodard (1952–): Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Alfre Woodard is an acclaimed actress known for her roles in films like 12 Years a Slave and TV shows like Luke Cage. She has won several awards for her performances.