Top 10 Most Interesting Facts About Oklahoma

1. State Motto: "Labor Omnia Vincit" (Labor Conquers All Things).
2. State Bird: Scissor-tailed Flycatcher.
3. State Flower: Oklahoma Rose.
4. Oklahoma has the largest number of Native American tribes in the U.S., with 39 federally recognized tribes.
5. Route 66 covers more miles in Oklahoma than any other state.
6. The state is home to more man-made lakes than any other U.S. state, with over 200 reservoirs.
7. The Tulsa Art Deco District is world-renowned for its stunning architecture from the 1920s and 1930s.
8. Oklahoma is one of the top oil and natural gas producers in the country.
9. The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is one of the oldest managed wildlife facilities in the U.S.
10. Oklahoma is part of Tornado Alley, experiencing more tornadoes annually than most states.

Geography of Oklahoma

Oklahoma’s geography ranges from rolling plains to mountain ranges and prairies. Key features include:

• Highest Point: Black Mesa (4,973 feet).
• Lowest Point: Little River (289 feet).
• Major Rivers: Arkansas River, Red River, and Canadian River.

A Brief History of Oklahoma

Oklahoma’s history is deeply tied to its Native American heritage and its role in the American frontier:

• Originally home to Native American tribes, including the Osage, Cherokee, and Choctaw nations.
• In the 1830s, Native Americans were forcibly relocated to Oklahoma along the Trail of Tears.
• Oklahoma became a state on November 16, 1907, as the 46th state.
• The 1920s oil boom brought rapid growth and prosperity to the state.
• The Oklahoma City bombing in 1995 remains one of the most devastating events in U.S. history, commemorated by the Oklahoma City National Memorial.

Top 10 Things to Do in Oklahoma

1. Drive along Route 66 and visit iconic landmarks like the Blue Whale of Catoosa.
2. Explore the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge for hiking, bison spotting, and scenic views.
3. Visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial for a moving tribute to resilience and hope.
4. Discover the Art Deco District in Tulsa and its stunning architecture.
5. Hike through the Tallgrass Prairie Preserve and see the bison roam.
6. Tour the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum in Oklahoma City.
7. Attend a live rodeo to experience true cowboy culture.
8. Relax at one of the state’s many man-made lakes, like Lake Texoma or Grand Lake.
9. Explore the Chickasaw Cultural Center to learn about Native American history and traditions.
10. Enjoy a concert or event at the BOK Center in Tulsa.

Top 10 Destinations in Oklahoma

1. Oklahoma City
2. Tulsa
3. Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
4. Route 66
5. Tallgrass Prairie Preserve
6. Lake Texoma
7. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
8. Chickasaw Cultural Center
9. Black Mesa
10. Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees

Spotlight: Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, located in southwestern Oklahoma, spans over 59,000 acres of breathtaking natural beauty. It’s one of the oldest managed wildlife refuges in the United States and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to hike, camp, or simply enjoy the tranquility of nature, the Wichita Mountains have something for everyone.

Top Things to Do in the Wichita Mountains

• Hike Mount Scott: Drive or hike to the summit of Mount Scott for panoramic views of the refuge and surrounding plains.
• Visit Prairie Dog Town: Watch the adorable prairie dogs as they scurry around their burrows.
• Spot Wildlife: Keep an eye out for bison, elk, longhorn cattle, and over 240 species of birds.
• Explore the Trails: Popular trails include the Elk Mountain Trail and the Charon’s Garden Trail, which lead to stunning rock formations and secluded spots.
• Relax at Lake Jed Johnson: Enjoy fishing, kayaking, or a peaceful picnic by the water.

With its rugged granite mountains, open prairies, and abundant wildlife, the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Oklahoma.

Learn more about the refuge on the official website.

Plan Your Visit

For more information about Oklahoma, visit the state’s official tourism site: Travel Oklahoma