Okemah Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and food to eat in Okemah, Oklahoma. Explore the culture and customs, safety and health, and transportation options in this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Okemah

Located in Frontier Country, in Oklahoma, in Great Plains, in the United States of America, Okemah is a small charming town with a rich history and culture. It is known for being the birthplace of the folk legend Woody Guthrie, and it has many historic sites, museums, and monuments dedicated to him. Besides being a popular destination for music lovers, Okemah is surrounded by natural beauty and offers a variety of outdoor activities. In this travel guide, we will explore the best things to do, places to visit, and food to eat in Okemah.

List of Places to Visit in Okemah

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Woody Guthrie Folk Music Center: A museum dedicated to the life and musical career of Woody Guthrie, the iconic folk singer and songwriter who composed “This Land Is Your Land.” The museum features his personal artifacts, photographs, and recordings.
  • Okfuskee County History Center: A historical museum that presents the history and culture of Okemah and Okfuskee County, including Native American artifacts, fossils, and vintage exhibits.
  • Okemah Creek Nation Museum and Cultural Center: A museum showcasing the history and culture of the Creek Nation tribe, including their cultural heritage, traditions, and art.
  • Okemah Veterans Memorial Park: A memorial park honoring the fallen soldiers of Okemah who served in various wars.

Natural Attractions of Okemah: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Okemah Lake: A scenic lake offering recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and water skiing.
  • Okemah Wildlife Management Area: A nature reserve that is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including whitetail deer, wild turkey, and waterfowl.
  • Okemah Golf Course: A public golf course that offers an enjoyable experience for golf lovers. It is beautifully landscaped and surrounded by scenic views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Okemah

  • Okemah Lake Trail: A 3-mile hiking and biking trail around Okemah Lake that offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscapes.
  • Okemah Nature Trail: A 1-mile nature trail that takes visitors through the Okemah Wildlife Management Area, offering a glimpse into the natural beauty of Okemah.

Best Things to Do in Okemah: Activities and Tours

  • Attend the Woody Guthrie Folk Festival: A music festival that celebrates the life and legacy of Woody Guthrie, featuring live performances from various musicians, artists, and storytellers.
  • Visit the Okemah Pioneer Woman Statue and Museum: A museum dedicated to the pioneer women of Okemah who contributed to the development and progress of the town and the region.
  • Take a guided tour to the hometown of Woody Guthrie: Visitors can take a guided tour around the town to see the places where Woody Guthrie lived, played, and worked.
  • Go fishing: Okemah Lake offers an excellent fishing experience, with a wide range of fish species including largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and sunfish.

Week-Long Itinerary for Okemah

Day Activities
1 Visit the Woody Guthrie Folk Music Center and take a walking tour of the town
2 Explore the Okfuskee County History Center and Okemah Creek Nation Museum and Cultural Center
3 Enjoy the scenic views and recreational activities at Okemah Lake
4 Take a guided tour to the hometown of Woody Guthrie and Okemah Veterans Memorial Park
5 Hike or bike the Okemah Lake Trail and the Okemah Nature Trail
6 Attend the Woody Guthrie Folk Festival and enjoy the live performances
7 Relax and shop for souvenirs at the local shops and markets

Food and Drink Scene of Okemah

Must-Try Dishes

  • Hot Hamburger: A classic American dish that includes an open-faced beef patty served on a slice of bread and topped with gravy and mashed potatoes.
  • Chicken Fried Steak: A Southern dish that features a tenderized steak coated in flour and fried. It is served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and green beans.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea: A Southern favorite that is made by brewing tea with sugar and served over ice. It is a refreshing drink during hot summer days.
  • Oklahoma Craft Beer: Oklahoma is known for producing some excellent craft beers, and Okemah has several local breweries that visitors can visit, including Bricktown Brewery and Black Mesa Brewing Company.

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

  • Best Western Plus Hotel: A modern hotel that offers comfortable rooms and amenities such as a fitness center, outdoor pool, and free breakfast.
  • Executive Inn: An affordable accommodation option with clean and comfortable rooms and free WiFi.
  • Park Plaza Motel: A budget-friendly motel located in the heart of Okemah, offering straightforward and comfortable accommodation for travelers on a tight budget.

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

  • Woody Guthrie Merchandise: Visitors can find a variety of Woody Guthrie memorabilia, including t-shirts, posters, books, and records.
  • Native American Crafts: Okemah is surrounded by several Native American tribes, and visitors can find a variety of handcrafted items such as jewelry, pottery, and baskets.

Local Culture and Customs of Okemah

Okemah has a rich history and a distinct culture that is influenced by the Native American, cowboy, and pioneer heritage. Visitors are expected to show respect for the local culture and customs, including folk music, Native American traditions, and cowboy culture. Additionally, smoking is not allowed in public places, and littering is strictly prohibited.

Best Time to Visit Okemah

The best time to visit Okemah is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is warm and ideal for outdoor activities. However, visitors can also enjoy the town during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild and comfortable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Okemah

Do:

  • Take a guided tour to the hometown of Woody Guthrie.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local dishes and beverages.
  • Explore the natural beauty of Okemah.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public places.
  • Litter and pollute the environment.
  • Disrespect Native American traditions and cowboy culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Okemah

Okemah is a safe destination for travelers, as the crime rate is relatively low. However, visitors are advised to take necessary precautions such as locking their cars and not leaving valuable items in plain sight.

Health in Okemah

Okemah has several healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics, that offer quality medical care to the residents and visitors. Visitors are advised to carry travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies.

Getting to Okemah: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Okemah

  • Tulsa International Airport: Located 80 miles away from Okemah, Tulsa International Airport is the closest major airport to Okemah, offering domestic and international flights.
  • Will Rogers World Airport: Located 80 miles away from Okemah, Will Rogers World Airport is another major airport with connections to major cities in the US.

Bus Stations Near Okemah

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in Tulsa, 80 miles away from Okemah, the Greyhound Bus Station offers bus services to various cities in the US.
  • Jefferson Lines Bus Station: Located in Oklahoma City, 70 miles away from Okemah, the Jefferson Lines Bus Station offers bus services to several cities in the Midwest and Western regions of the US.

Other Options

Driving is the most convenient way to get to Okemah, as it is easily accessible from major highways such as I-40 and US-75. Visitors can also rent a car or take a taxi from nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Okemah

Most of the attractions in Okemah are located within walking or biking distance. Visitors can also rent a car to explore the town and the surrounding areas. Additionally, there are several local taxi services available for visitors who prefer not to drive.

Where to Go Next from Okemah: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Tulsa: A vibrant city located 80 miles away from Okemah, offering a variety of attractions such as museums, galleries, restaurants, and nightlife.
  • Oklahoma City: The capital city of Oklahoma, located 70 miles away from Okemah, offering many attractions such as the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, Bricktown Entertainment District, and the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.

Conclusion

Okemah is a unique destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, nature, and outdoor activities. With its rich heritage, scenic beauty, and friendly locals, it is a must-visit spot for travelers who want to experience the best of Oklahoma.