Guthrie Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and local culture of Guthrie, Oklahoma in this ultimate travel guide. From must-see attractions to safety tips and transportation options, plan your trip with our insider tips.


Introduction to Guthrie

Deep in the heart of Frontier Country, Guthrie, Oklahoma is a small, historic city with a rich cultural heritage. As the first capital of the state, the town is filled with stunning late 19th-century architecture, charming boutiques, and a vibrant arts scene. No matter if you are a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or foodie, Guthrie is one of the best-kept secrets in the Great Plains.

List of Places to Visit in Guthrie

Whether you’re interested in exploring culturally significant landmarks or outdoor activities, Guthrie has a variety of interesting attractions:

Culturally-Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Oklahoma Territorial Museum: Trace the town’s early history and discover its pioneer past at this impressive museum, which features exhibits that focus on the town’s territorial heritage.
  • Pollard Theatre Company: This iconic theatre was first built in the 1900s and is home to a number of critically acclaimed performances and musicals throughout the year.
  • Scottish Rite Temple: If you are interested in beautiful architecture, the Scottish Rite Temple is a can’t-miss attraction. Built-in 1923, this historic building features colorful designs and intricate details on the facade, making it a signature landmark in Guthrie.

Natural Attractions of Guthrie: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cedar Valley Nature Trail: For a scenic and serene day out, head to Cedar Valley Nature Trail. This trail in the eastern part of Guthrie is surrounded by beautiful trees and offers a chance to spot native birds and wildlife.
  • Liberty Lake: A popular pick for fishing, Liberty Lake is a serene spot that offers beautiful views and a chance to relax in the great outdoors.
  • Cottonwood Flats: This area located on the western edge of the city has lush foliage and beautiful trees that allow for picturesque walks. Plus, it’s a popular spot to bird-watch as over 200 species stop there during migration time.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Guthrie

For outdoor adventure seekers, check out one of these hiking or biking routes in Guthrie:

  • Sooner Lake Trail: This 10-mile-long trail is perfect for fans of hiking, running, and cycling. Trail maps are available online or at the trailhead.
  • Raccoon Creek Trail: Excellent for hiking, this beautiful trail winds through lush vegetation and scenic areas all the way to Lake Carl Blackwell.

Best Things to Do in Guthrie: Activities and Tours

  • Oklahoma International Bluegrass Festival: If you’re a music lover, don’t miss the annual Oklahoma International Bluegrass Festival, a four-day event that showcases some of the best bluegrass musicians in the world.
  • 89er Day Celebration: The festival is a commemoration of the famous April 22, 1889 Land Run to Guthrie, which was the first time residents of the territory were able to claim land titles.
  • Horseback Riding Tours: Experience the scenic views of Oklahoma as you travel by horseback, a fantastic way to experience the landscapes of Guthrie and the surrounding countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Guthrie

Guthrie is a fantastic place to visit for a weekend break, but if you are planning a week-long trip, consider this itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Take a walking tour of downtown Guthrie
2 Explore local history at the Oklahoma Territorial Museum
3 Enjoy a day of outdoor activities like hiking or horseback riding
4 Take a scenic drive to nearby Stillwater and visit the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum
5 Take in a show at the historic Pollard Theatre Company
6 Visit the Scottish Rite Temple and its magnificent architecture
7 Take a day trip to Oklahoma City and explore some local attractions like the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum or the Moth Museum of Oklahoma History

Food and Drink Scene of Guthrie

Guthrie has a thriving culinary scene with many local restaurants and bars that are definitely worth trying:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Catfish: A classic Southern dish that’s popular in Guthrie. The fish is coated in a seasoned batter and fried until crispy on the outside.
  • Chicken Fried Steak: A regional dish that is a staple in Oklahoma, chicken fried steak is a breaded and fried steak covered in creamy gravy and served with mashed potatoes and green beans.
  • Sweet Potato Pie: A delicious dessert with a light, flaky crust, and a fluffy, creamy filling made from sweet potatoes and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Prairie Wolf Gin: This small-batch gin is produced in Guthrie and is known for its smooth and refreshing taste.
  • COOP Ale Works: A well-known brewery in Oklahoma that produces a range of beers, including American-style pale ales, saisons, and stouts.
  • Eskimo Joe’s Stillwater: Visit Eskimo Joe’s in nearby Stillwater for their famous frozen drinks, like their orange cream sipper or the Eskimo joe.

Where to Stay in Guthrie: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Stone Lion Inn Bed and Breakfast: This charming inn is an 1890s mansion converted to an elegant bed and breakfast.
  • Pollard Bed & Breakfast: One of the oldest buildings in Guthrie is famous for being the site of one of the most famous shootouts in the Territory. It’s been beautifully restored into a classic bed and breakfast.
  • Sleep Inn & Suites: The Sleep Inn & Suites is a popular, budget-friendly hotel that offers spacious clean rooms and quality amenities.

What to Buy in Guthrie: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Bluegrass Music CDs: The Oklahoma International Bluegrass Festival is held annually in Guthrie, so be sure to pick up a CD of local musicians’ top bluegrass tracks.
  • Leather Goods: A tradition going back to the days of the wild west, Guthrie has many shops that make high-quality boots, hats, belts, and saddles.
  • Handmade Quilts: Known as one of the Quilt Capitals of America, Guthrie offers a wide variety of high-quality and intricately designed handmade quilts to brighten up any home.

Local Culture and Customs of Guthrie

Guthrie’s local culture is a mix of Southern charm, pioneer history, and a love for the outdoors. Visitors can expect friendly locals, an appreciation for music, arts, and traditional celebrations. As a cultural hub for the state, Guthrie hosts many unique festivals and events throughout the year, which are worth checking out.

Best Time to Visit Guthrie

The best time to visit Guthrie is from March to May and September to November. The weather is pleasant in the spring and fall, perfect for exploring the town’s many outdoor attractions, without the summer heat.

Do’s and Don’ts of Guthrie

Do:

  • Respect the buildings and architecture. Guthrie’s downtown has over 80 historical buildings that are registered with the US National Register of Historic Places.
  • Take photos, but be sure to ask for permission before taking portraits of people or private properties.
  • Stay hydrated, especially if you are walking or hiking during the hotter months!

Don’t:

  • Litter in Guthrie. Keep the streets and nature clean for everyone to enjoy.
  • Ignore proper dress codes at historic buildings or attractions. Respect their guidelines on proper attire.
  • Swim in the city’s ponds and lakes. No swimming areas are designated because of safety reasons.

Safety and Health

Safety in Guthrie

Guthrie is generally a safe place to visit. Still, travelers should always take necessary precautions to keep themselves and their belongings safe, like not leaving valuables in the car and locking doors and windows when leaving the room.

Health in Guthrie

Guthrie has several medical facilities available for emergencies, such as Mercy Hospital and Crescent Valley Hospital.

Getting to Guthrie: Transportation Options and Logistics

Guthrie is reachable through multiple options of transportation, both through Oklahoma City and the surrounding regions.

Airports Near Guthrie

  • Will Rogers World Airport (OKC)
  • Tulsa International Airport (TUL)

Bus Stations Near Guthrie

  • Greyhound Bus Station (Oklahoma City)

Other Options

  • Driving: Guthrie is accessible by car through Route 77 from Oklahoma City.
  • Cycling: It’s also possible to bike to Guthrie. There are many scenic bike paths near the town.

How to Get Around in Guthrie

For getting around in Guthrie, visitors have several options, such as:

  • Walking: The town’s compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets make walking the best option.
  • Car Rental: Rental car services are available from the nearest airports.
  • Biking: The town has a few cycling routes for those who enjoy a magnificent ride.

Where to Go Next from Guthrie: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more destinations near Guthrie, these places are definitely worth visiting:

  • Stillwater (40 minutes from Guthrie): Explore the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum or visit Joe’s Finger Lickin’ Bar-B-Q for delicious Texan-style barbeque.
  • Oklahoma City (30 minutes from Guthrie): Visit the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum or the Oklahoma City Zoo, and experience Oklahoma’s vibrant capital city.

Conclusion

Guthrie Oklahoma offers visitors a memorable experience with its unique combination of Western charm, pioneer history, and southern hospitality. Whether you’re interested in trying out local dishes, exploring historic landmarks or hiking the scenic trails of the Great Plains, Guthrie has something for everyone. Follow our insider tips to plan your trip to this hidden gem and discover all that it has to offer.