Only in OKlahoma Show

Looking for incredible mountain views, quiet trails, and total solitude in Oklahoma? In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we are taking you deep into the Ouachita National Forest to explore a true hidden treasure: The Robert S. Kerr Arboretum, Memorial Nature Center, and Botanical Area. Tucked inside a massive 8,026-acre preserve, this tranquil spot is the perfect alternative to busier Oklahoma state parks. Located right off the famous Talimena National Scenic Byway (State Highway 1), just east of U.S. Highway 259 near Heavener and Talihina, the breathtaking ridge-line vistas start before you even arrive. Whether you are a casual hiker, a bird watcher, a trail runner, or a photographer, the Kerr Nature Center offers a perfect day trip into wild, raw Oklahoma nature. What We Cover in This Episode: The 3-Mile Interpretive Loop: We break down the easy-to-moderate, 1-hour walk that gives you a snapshot of an entire mountain ecosystem. Trail 1: The Plant Identifier: Spot unique native flora like dwarf white oaks, yellow buckeye, and the rare Ouachita indigo. Trail 2: The Struggle for Survival: Learn the fascinating story of how forest trees compete against nature to survive. Trail 3: The Foundation: Discover the soil science that drives the life cycle of the entire Ouachita forest. Nearby Must-Sees: How to pair your hike with stops at the Castle Rock Vista and the State Line Monument. Know Before You Go: Tips on amenities (flush toilets are available, but it's largely undeveloped), regulations (no mountain bikes, hang gliders, or motorized vehicles), and why it's worth visiting all 365 days a year. Have you ever driven the Talimena Scenic Byway and stopped at the Kerr Nature Center? We want to hear about your experience! Leave a comment on our website or reach out on social media. Also discussed: Think Ability Inc. - Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department - OKC - Route 66 Love the show? Don't forget to hit Subscribe or Follow so you never miss another deep dive into Oklahoma's best-hidden treasures!

Stroud, Oklahoma is experiencing a massive neon renaissance! Thanks to the town's "Neon on Main" project, over 45 custom vintage signs are lighting up the corridor. In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we dive into the crown jewel of this glowing history: the spectacular revival of the historic Skyliner Motel. Originally opened in the late 1950s by Jack and Lorene Tarter, this quintessential Route 66 motor court eventually went dark. Enter new owners Charles Palmer and Cody Paige. In 2025, they took the property down to the studs, fully upgrading the infrastructure while completely restoring the iconic, original turquoise-and-red neon sign. If you love Mother Road history but hate outdated, musty rooms, the Skyliner Motel gives you the best of both worlds. Tune in to find out what it's like to stay there today, what travelers are saying, and where to explore in Stroud! Inside the Episode: The Neon Renaissance: How Stroud is bringing back the classic glow of Route 66. Modern Retro Stay: What to expect inside this 10-room boutique motor court (including contactless 24-hour entry, killer showers, and crisp AC). Perks & Accommodation Details: Room setups (Comfort Single, Deluxe Single, Comfort Double), free Wi-Fi, and morning coffee. (Note: Leave the furry friends at home—this property is not dog-friendly). Where to Eat & Explore: We map out your walking-distance itinerary, featuring a pro-tip for saving money at a historic local diner! Listener Pro-Tip! 🍽️ The Skyliner Motel is just a 0.4-mile walk from the historic 1939 Rock Cafe. Show your Skyliner Motel receipt at the Rock Cafe to get 10% off your meal! You can also grab breakfast right across the street at the local donut shop or stroll over to Gathering Grounds Coffee. Local Attractions Mentioned: Route 66 Spirit of America Museum (0.5 miles away) Ed Smalley Centennial Park & the Route 66 Centennial Monument Plan Your Stay: Location: 717 W. Main Street, Stroud, OK Phone: (918) 290-0637 Book Direct: skylinermotel.com Also discussed: Enid Street Outreach Services - Agape House Berry Farm – KOCO - Blue Whale Park - RENDEZVOUS PIZZA - Missy's Donuts & Bakery #Route66 #OnlyInOK #SkylinerMotel #StroudOK #NeonOnMain #OklahomaTourism #TravelOK #ExploreOklahoma #VintageNeon #MotorCourt #Route66Centennial #HistoricPreservation #OkieTravels #RoadTripUSA

Discover a world of childhood wonder and Route 66 nostalgia right in the heart of Oklahoma! In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're pulling over at a true hidden gem: The Bristow Vintage Toy Museum (located at 118 N Main St, Bristow, OK). This isn't your average corporate exhibit—it's a 50-year dream brought to life by owner Bret Fadely, featuring a massive, jaw-dropping collection where 99% of the items come straight from Bret's personal lifelong archive. Whether you're planning the ultimate Route 66 road trip or just looking for a nostalgic Sunday drive, this passion project is a must-visit. Following Bret's retirement, the museum is now his full-time gig, and it operates entirely on a donation basis with one simple mission: to share joy and make people happy. Episode Highlights: Meet "Howdy": Keep an eye out for the museum's official face—a beloved character Bret has been drawing for 45 years! Bells Amusement Park Relics: A massive hit for Tulsa locals, featuring an original airplane, pedal cars, and a classic bumper car with a hilarious backstory. TG&Y Nostalgia: A deep-cut Oklahoma throwback featuring a vintage TG&Y truck that every local gravitates toward. Photo Ops & Rare Finds: From a giant dragster kids can climb inside for the perfect Instagram moment, to 100-year-old tin cars, classic action figures, and vintage dolls. Plan Your Visit: Address: 118 N Main St, Bristow, OK 74010 Admission: By Donation (Labor of love!) Phone: 918-633-8209 Website: bristowtoymuseum.com Note: Be sure to check their Facebook page or website for the most up-to-date hours as Bret scales up operations! Also discussed: Friends of Nicoma Park - SIDS Diner - Southern Living Magazine - Heavy D's Pizzeria - Dicintio's - Misfit Pit BBQ #OnlyInOK #Route66 #BristowOK #VintageToyMuseum #OklahomaRoadTrip #BellsAmusement Park #TGYNostalgia #MotherRoad #ExploreOklahoma #TravelOK #HiddenGemOK #VintageToys

While Route 66 stretches from Chicago to LA, the soul of the Mother Road lives in the hearts of those who preserved it. In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're heading to Clinton, Oklahoma, to go inside the Oklahoma Route 66 Hall of Fame. As we look toward the massive 2026 Centennial, we explore the museum that serves as the ultimate shrine to the Will Rogers Highway and the icons who kept the neon buzzing. Inside the Episode The Hall of Fame: Honoring the Legends Every two years, the Oklahoma Route 66 Association inducts individuals who have dedicated their lives to the road. We dive into the stories of the legends whose plaques line the museum walls: Cyrus Avery: The visionary known as "The Father of Route 66." Lucille Hamons: The "Mother of the Mother Road" and her legacy in Hydro. The Russells: Harley and Annabelle of Erick—true Oklahoma "characters" who define the road's quirky spirit. Doc Mason: The 2003 Hall of Famer, owner of the Tradewinds Motel, and key consultant for Pixar's Cars. Save the Date: The 2026 Centennial Induction The upcoming Hall of Fame ceremony isn't just a local event—it's a national milestone. 2026 marks the 100th Anniversary of Route 66, and the induction ceremony will be the heart of the celebration. When: Saturday, July 25, 2026 Time: 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. The Event: Two new Oklahomans will be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Join history buffs and preservationists as we honor the newest guardians of the road. The Oklahoma Route 66 Museum Experience The Hall of Fame is housed within a chronological journey of the highway. Before the ceremony, take time to explore: The Dust Bowl Era: Real stories of the "land of promise" during the drought years. The 1950s Diner: A fully immersive exhibit where you can sit in a booth and soak in the neon-soaked family vacation era. The Gift Shop: Support the mission! Proceeds from admission and the shop go directly toward the daily operations and preservation programs of the museum. Plan Your Trip to Clinton If you are attending the July 25th induction, plan to arrive early at the museum located at 2229 West Gary Boulevard. This is a landmark year and the building fills up fast! Website: okhistory.org/route66 Phone: 580-323-7866 Follow for Updates: Check the Oklahoma Route 66 Association for announcements on the 2026 inductees. Subscribe to the Only in OK Show to stay updated on all things Oklahoma history, travel, and the upcoming Route 66 Centennial celebrations! #OnlyInOKShow #Route66HallOfFame #OklahomaRoute66 #MotherRoadLegends #ClintonOK #Route66Centennial #WillRogersHighway #OklahomaHistory #Route66Museum #ExploreOklahoma

The Wild West isn't just a theme—it's a survival story. In this episode of Only in OK, we are diving deep into the dusty, high-octane history of Frontier City. This Oklahoma City icon isn't just a theme park; it's a survivor that outlasted real estate developers, economic crashes, and even an F2 tornado. We explore how a 1957 state birthday exhibit became the secret headquarters of the global Six Flags empire while the rest of us were just waiting in line for the Silver Bullet. Whether you're a rollercoaster nut or a fan of Oklahoma history, strap in—we're going back to the Old West, right off I-35. In This Episode, We Discuss: The "Boomtown" Origins: How Hollywood publicist James Burge saw Disneyland in '55 and decided OKC needed a slice of the action. The Park That Refused to Die: How the 1980s oil crunch accidentally saved Frontier City from being demolished for a real estate development. The Six Flags Birthplace: The "Only in OK" fact—the company that bought Six Flags (Premier Parks) started in a small office in the Frontier City parking lot. Frontier City on Film: From the gritty streets of Dillinger (1973) to the cult horror of The Fun Park and the neon nights of American Ninja Warrior. Ride Deep Dives: The resurrection of the Wildcat, the "hand-me-down" pedigree of the Silver Bullet, and the interactive history of Quick Draw. The 2021 "Water Hero": A look back at the guest who climbed the lift hill to save stuck passengers (and got a 5-year ban for it). Frontier City Ride Guide Ride Name Type Backstory Silver Bullet Steel Looping A classic Schwarzkopf model with high G-force and only a lap bar. Wildcat Wooden Resurrected after sitting abandoned in KC for 13 years; named by Deer Creek 6th graders. Diamondback Steel Shuttle Originally part of "Lightnin' Loops" at Six Flags Great Adventure. Steel Lasso Suspended Built for the 50th Anniversary; the first "feet-dangling" ride in OK. Valentine's Day Survival Guide: Science Museum Oklahoma Need a sitter for Valentine's weekend? Science Museum Oklahoma has you covered with Parents' Night Out on February 13, 2026. Who: Kids aged 6-12. What: After-hours museum access, science activities, pizza, and supervision. Cost: $60 for members / $70 for non-members. Deadline: Register by February 9th at sciencemuseumok.org. Partner Spotlight: Enid SOS Our partner for today's show is Enid Street Outreach Services (Enid SOS). They provide essential services—food, showers, medical advocacy, and shelter—to the unsheltered and low-income community in Enid, OK. How to help: Donate clothing (jeans/sleeping bags) or volunteer your time. Learn more: Visit enidsos.org . #Frontier City #OklahomaCityHistory #OnlyInOK #SixFlagsHistory #OKCPodcast #SilverBullet #WildcatCoaster #OklahomaTravel #EnidSOS #ScienceMuseumOK #ParentsNightOut

Is Oklahoma hiding a massive desert adventure? 🦬🏜️ In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're skipping the 8-hour drive to Texas and heading straight to the Charon Gardens Wilderness Area in the Wichita Mountains. If you've been dreaming of Big Bend's rugged canyons and granite peaks, you won't believe what's waiting for you just west of Medicine Park. From "Crab Eyes" to scrambling up Elk Mountain, we break down why this 5,700-acre gem might actually be better than a National Park. After the break, we get serious about safety on Oklahoma roads. 🚔 The Oklahoma Highway Patrol is facing a massive shortage, and they're asking the State Capitol for $25.8 million. We dive into the "Always On" problem, the rural coverage gap, and why nearly 200 missing troopers should matter to every driver in the Sooner State. 📍 In This Episode: The Big Bend Dupe: Why Charon Gardens is a climber's and hiker's paradise. Wildlife Showdown: Bison & Elk vs. Bears & Lions. The Parallel Forest: Oklahoma's creepiest (and coolest) tree grove. OHP's Big Ask: The $26 million plan to fix the trooper shortage. Rural Reality: What happens when help is hours away? 🥾 Resources Mentioned: Charon Gardens Permits: Recreation.gov Visit: Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge Join the Force: OHP 76th Academy Recruitment If you visit any of the spots mentioned in today's show, make sure to tell them the "Only in OK Show" sent you! #Oklahoma #WichitaMountains #CharonGardens #OnlyInOK #HikingOklahoma #OklahomaHighway Patrol #OKStateParks #BigBend #Bison #ExploreOK #MedicinePark #OHP

Is there a secret kingdom hidden in the heart of Oklahoma City? This week, Brett and Harley are tracking down the "Gnome on the Range" at the historic Will Rogers Gardens. We dive into the magical world of fairy houses and gnome homes handcrafted by Robert Trobaugh of the OKC Parks Department. From "turtle traffic jams" to Easter Island-style sculptures, discover why this 30-acre oasis is the ultimate "Oklahoma Disney movie." In this episode, we discuss: The Fairy Kingdom of 405: How Robert Trobaugh uses salvaged materials to build a five-star resort for mythological creatures. Will Rogers Gardens Gems: The Ed Lycan Conservatory's massive cacti collection and the historic WPA-era red stone shelters. Garden Bouncers: Why the "gazillion" turtles and koi are the real bosses of the park. Family Magic: Tips for starting your own fairy garden (and how to save your bank account from "miniature furniture" debt). Break: Think Ability Inc. We spotlight Think Ability Inc., a Duncan-based non-profit providing independent living support for people with developmental disabilities. Visit: Think Ability Garden Cafe at 805 West Main, Duncan, OK. Celebrity Chef Takeovers at Choctaw Casinos After the break, we're talking high-end eats! Choctaw Casinos & Resorts is bringing the heat this winter with exclusive celebrity chef restaurant takeovers. Alex Guarnaschelli: Jan 23–24 (Grant, OK) Scott Conant: Feb 13–14 (Pocola, OK) Jet Tila: Feb 27–28 (Choctaw Landing) Links Mentioned: Finding the Fairies at Will Rogers Gardens (MetroFamily Magazine) Choctaw Casino Events #OnlyInOK #OklahomaCity #WillRogersGardens #OKCParks #FairyGarden #GnomeLife #ChoctawCasinos #AlexGuarnaschelli #ScottConant #JetTila #OklahomaFoodie #VisitOKC #ThinkAbility #ExploreOklahoma

Discover the "Gold Standard" of the Great Plains. In this episode of the Only in OK Show, Brett and Harley take you to the furthest corner of the Panhandle to celebrate a historic milestone: Black Mesa State Park has officially become Oklahoma's first International Dark Sky Park. We dive into what it took to achieve this prestigious designation from DarkSky International and why "nocturnal heritage" is the next big thing for Oklahoma tourism. From removing "islands of light" to protecting the biological rhythms of bighorn sheep and mountain lions, we explore why Black Mesa is now a premier global destination for astrotourism. In this episode, we discuss: The 5-Year Transformation: How the park retrofitted lighting to eliminate light pollution. Where the Rockies Meet the Prairie: The unique geology of the 30-million-year-old black lava rock. The High Point Trail: Navigating the nature preserve and the famous Okie-Tex Star Party. Astrotourism's Economic Impact: How the village of Kenton and the OKC Astronomy Club put Oklahoma on the celestial map. Stick around after the break: We're heading to Midwest City because Tinker Air Force Base is getting a "Glow Up." Learn about the latest developments and what it means for the community. Plan your visit: https://www.travelok.com/state-parks/black-mesa-state-park-nature-preserve Also discussed: Chickasha Christmas Lights, Yukon Christmas Lights, Ralphie's Restaurant, Tinker AFB and Midwest City #OnlyInOK #BlackMesa #DarkSkyPark #Stargazing #OklahomaTravel #ExploreOK #Astrotourism #TinkerAFB #OklahomaStateParks #KeepTheDark