Green Country Travel Guide

Discover the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and exciting adventures that make Oklahoma's Green Country a must-visit destination.


Introduction to Green Country

Nestled in the Great Plains of the United States of America, Green Country is a charming region in Oklahoma that is bursting with natural beauty, rich culture, and exciting adventures. A prime location for those who crave outdoor escapades and wish to explore the rich cultural history of the area, Green Country is a must-visit destination. It’s time to pack your bags and experience the wonders of this beautiful region. Read on to discover what Green Country has to offer!

List of Places to Visit in Green Country

From museums and parks to historic landmarks and scenic trails, Green Country has a diverse range of attractions to suit every type of traveler. Below are some must-visit places that you should include in your travel itinerary.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Philbrook Museum of Art - This museum features a vast art collection with works of art from all over the world.

  • Woody Guthrie Center - This museum is dedicated to the famous folk singer and provides insightful exhibits on his life and work.

  • Cherokee Heritage Center - This center is a living history museum where you can learn about the history and culture of the Cherokee people.

Natural Attractions of Green Country: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve - This wildlife refuge features beautiful hiking trails and a museum with an extensive collection of Western art.

  • Tallgrass Prairie Preserve - This preserve is the largest protected mixed-grass prairie in the world, offering breathtaking views and wildlife sightings.

  • Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees - This lake is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy fishing, boating, and water sports.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Green Country

For those who enjoy hiking and biking, Green Country offers several beautiful trails. Here are some of the best routes that you should consider adding to your itinerary:

  • Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area - This park has a network of trails with varying difficulty levels, offering beautiful views of the city’s skyline.

  • Osage Hills State Park - This park features a 12-mile trail system that takes you through diverse ecosystems and provides scenic views.

  • River Parks Trail - This trail follows along the Arkansas River and is perfect for biking, walking, and running.

Best Things to Do in Green Country: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoors enthusiast, or prefer to relax and unwind, Green Country has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do when visiting this beautiful region:

  • Take a Scenic Drive - Green Country has several scenic drives, including the Talimena National Scenic Byway and the Cherokee Hills Byway, offering breathtaking views of the region.

  • Visit a Winery - Green Country has several award-winning wineries, including Pecan Creek Winery, which offers tastings and tours.

  • Go Fishing - Green Country is home to several fishing spots, including Grand Lake and Keystone Lake, which offer a variety of fish species.

Week-Long Itinerary for Green Country

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Green Country:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Philbrook Museum of Art and Tulsa Zoo
Day 2 Hiking at Osage Hills State Park and tour of Woolaroc Museum
Day 3 Visit Cherokee Heritage Center and attend a traditional dance performance
Day 4 Scenic drive along Talimena National Scenic Byway and stop at Queen Wilhelmina State Park
Day 5 Go fishing at Grand Lake and visit Har-Ber Village
Day 6 Biking at River Parks Trail and tour of Woody Guthrie Center
Day 7 Visit Tulsa Air and Space Museum and Jenks Aquarium

Food and Drink Scene of Green Country

Green Country offers a delicious culinary scene, with several local dishes and beverages that you must try.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Onion Burgers - This dish is a blend of onions and beef cooked together to make a patty, giving the burger a caramelized crispy onion flavor.

  • Chicken Fried Steak - An Oklahoma staple, this dish is a tenderized steak breaded and fried to perfection, usually served with gravy.

  • Braum’s Ice Cream - A beloved Oklahoma dairy store chain that offers delicious ice cream.

Local Beverages

  • Tallgrass Brewing Company - This brewery is known for its range of excellent beer, including the Oklahoma State beer, which is an American-style blonde ale.

  • Prairie Wolf Spirits - This distillery produces several spirits, including vodka and gin, made from locally sourced ingredients.

Where to Stay in Green Country: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Green Country offers a wide range of accommodation options, ranging from budget hostels to five-star hotels.

  • The Mayo Hotel - This luxury hotel in Downtown Tulsa is known for its Art Deco design and exceptional services.

  • The Campbell Hotel - A quaint boutique hotel in Tulsa, known for its comfortable rooms and unique décor.

  • American Host Inn - A budget-friendly option in Claremore, offering clean and spacious rooms at an affordable price.

What to Buy in Green Country: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Green Country, there are several great souvenirs and local items you can buy to take home. Here are a few options:

  • Native American Crafts - Green Country is home to numerous Native American tribes, and you can find several Native American crafts and artifacts here.

  • Oklahoma-themed T-shirts - Several shops offer T-shirts with quirky Oklahoma-themed puns and designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Green Country

Oklahoma has a rich Native American history and culture, and you will find several Native American tribes located in Green Country. The region also has significant cowboy culture, which is reflected in the cuisine and way of life.

Best Time to Visit Green Country

The best times to visit Green Country are from March to May and September to November, when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the crowds are lower.

Do’s and Don’ts of Green Country

Do:

  • Do respect the Native American culture and customs.

  • Do try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.

  • Don’t disrespect the local culture and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Green Country

Green Country has a low crime rate, and most areas are safe. It is always good to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions.

Health in Green Country

Green Country is home to some of the best hospitals in Oklahoma, and medical facilities are readily available. Be sure to bring necessary medications and follow safety guidelines for outdoor activities.

Getting to Green Country: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Green Country

  • Tulsa International Airport - The primary airport in Green Country, located in Tulsa.

  • Bartlesville Municipal Airport - A smaller airport located in Bartlesville, Oklahoma.

Bus Stations Near Green Country

  • Greyhound Bus Station - Located in Tulsa and Bartlesville

Other Options

  • Renting a Car - Renting a car is a popular option in Green Country, and several car rental companies are available.

How to Get Around in Green Country

Green Country is relatively easy to navigate, with various transportation options available, such as rental cars, taxis, and ride-sharing services.

Where to Go Next from Green Country: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Green Country, here are some nearby destinations and excursions that you must consider:

  • Oklahoma City - The state capital, offering several museums, landmarks, and entertainment options.

  • Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge - A stunning landscape with hiking and biking trails and wildlife sightings.

  • Eureka Springs, Arkansas - A charming town with beautiful Victorian architecture, offering excellent shopping and dining.

Conclusion

Green Country is a hidden gem in the Great Plains, offering pristine natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and exciting outdoor adventures. Explore the museums and landmarks, taste the local cuisine and beverages, and take in the scenic views while you’re here. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or friends, Green Country is a must-visit destination that you will never forget. Plan your trip today and experience the magic of Green Country!