Grove Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Grove, Oklahoma with this helpful travel guide. From outdoor adventures to local cuisine and culture, we've got you covered.


Grove, located in Green Country, Oklahoma, is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural history. Home to numerous museums and historical sites, this charming city has something to offer for every kind of traveler.

Introduction to Grove

Grove is a small city with a population of around 7,000 people. It was founded in 1895 and has since grown into a vibrant community that’s full of life and energy. Located in the heart of the Green Country region, Grove is surrounded by rolling hills, picturesque lakes, and lush forests, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

List of Places to Visit in Grove

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Har-Ber Village Museum: This open-air museum is a tribute to the early pioneer days in Oklahoma and features over 100 buildings and artifacts from the 1800s.

  • Lendonwood Gardens: A unique and beautiful botanical garden that showcases a wide variety of plants and flowers.

  • Cherokee Queen Riverboat: Take a trip down Grand Lake on this authentic riverboat and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Grove Historical Museum: This museum showcases the rich history of the city, from its early days as an agricultural community to its present-day status as a center of commerce and culture.

Natural Attractions of Grove: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees: With over 1,300 miles of shoreline and crystal-clear waters, this lake is a paradise for boating enthusiasts, fishermen, and water sports enthusiasts.

  • Honey Creek State Park: This beautiful park offers some of the best hiking, biking, and camping opportunities in the region, and boasts stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Har-Ber Village Nature Trail: A short and easy hike that takes you through some of the most beautiful and peaceful areas in Grove, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.

  • Elk River Trail: One of the most popular hiking trails in the area, this 15-mile trail offers breathtaking views of the Elk River and the surrounding countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Grove

  • Honey Creek State Park Trail: This 8-mile trail offers some of the best hiking and biking opportunities in the region, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Har-Ber Village Nature Trail: A short and easy hike that takes you through some of the most beautiful and peaceful areas in Grove, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.

  • Elk River Trail: One of the most popular hiking trails in the area, this 15-mile trail offers breathtaking views of the Elk River and the surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Grove: Activities and Tours

  • Grand Lake Casino: This popular casino offers a wide range of slot machines, table games, and other entertainment options for visitors.

  • Har-Ber Village Museum: This open-air museum is a tribute to the early pioneer days in Oklahoma and features over 100 buildings and artifacts from the 1800s.

  • Cherokee Queen Riverboat: Take a trip down Grand Lake on this authentic riverboat and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Lendonwood Gardens: A unique and beautiful botanical garden that showcases a wide variety of plants and flowers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Grove

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Har-Ber Village Museum and walk the nature trail.
Day 2 Go hiking or biking on the Honey Creek State Park Trail.
Day 3 Take a tour of the Cherokee Queen Riverboat.
Day 4 Explore the Grove Historical Museum.
Day 5 Spend the day at Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees, swimming and boating.
Day 6 Enjoy the beauty of Lendonwood Gardens.
Day 7 Take a leisurely stroll through downtown Grove and try some local cuisine.

Food and Drink Scene of Grove

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Okra: A classic Southern staple that’s a must-try when visiting Grove.

  • Chicken Fried Steak: Another Southern favorite, this hearty dish is served in many of the local restaurants.

  • Biscuits and Gravy: A filling and delicious breakfast option that’s perfect for starting your day off right.

  • Cherokee Fry Bread: This traditional Native American dish is a local delicacy that’s often served at powwows and other cultural events.

Local Beverages

  • Grand Lake Beer: A locally brewed beer that’s made with water from Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees.

  • Sweet Tea: A Southern classic that’s often served at local restaurants and cafes.

  • Tulsa Grapefruit Soda: A refreshing soda that’s made with real grapefruit juice.

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

  • Best Western TimberRidge Inn: A comfortable and affordable hotel located just minutes from downtown Grove.

  • Stonebrook Inn: A cozy and welcoming bed and breakfast that’s perfect for couples and families.

  • Candlewyck Cove Resort: A luxury resort that offers stunning lake views and a wide range of amenities.

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

  • Handmade Native American Crafts: Grove is home to a large and vibrant Native American community, and you’ll find plenty of beautiful and unique crafts for sale in local shops and markets.

  • Grand Lake Honey: Made with pure and natural honey from the bees that live along Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees.

  • Local Artwork: From paintings and sculptures to pottery and jewelry, there’s no shortage of beautiful and unique artwork to be found in Grove.

Local Culture and Customs of Grove

Grove has a rich and diverse cultural heritage that’s reflected in its art, music, and cuisine. The Native American community has played a particularly important role in shaping the city’s cultural identity, and you’ll find numerous opportunities to learn about their history and traditions while visiting Grove.

Best Time to Visit Grove

The best time to visit Grove is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the foliage is at its most vibrant. The winter months can be quite cold and snowy, while the summer months can be hot and humid, so plan accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Grove

Do:

  • Take time to explore the natural beauty of the area, including Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees and Honey Creek State Park.

  • Learn about the city’s rich cultural history by visiting its museums and historical sites.

  • Try some of the delicious local cuisine, including fried okra, chicken fried steak, and Cherokee fry bread.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the environment while visiting Grove’s natural attractions.

  • Don’t disrespect the local Native American community or its traditions.

  • Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the city’s unique cultural heritage.

Safety and Health

Safety in Grove

Grove is generally a safe and welcoming city, but visitors should take the same precautions they would in any unfamiliar area. Be aware of your surroundings, keep valuables secure, and stay in well-lit, populated areas after dark.

Health in Grove

Grove has a number of medical facilities and pharmacies, but visitors should bring any necessary medications with them for the duration of their stay. It’s also a good idea to carry a basic first aid kit, especially if you plan to spend time hiking or exploring the outdoors.

Getting to Grove: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Grove

  • Tulsa International Airport: Located about 85 miles from Grove, this airport is the closest major airport to the city.

  • Joplin Regional Airport: Located about 50 miles from Grove, this smaller airport offers limited service to a few regional destinations.

Bus Stations Near Grove

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: The closest Greyhound station is located in Vinita, about 25 miles north of Grove.

  • Jefferson Lines: The closest Jefferson Lines station is located in Joplin, about 50 miles from Grove.

Other Options

  • Rental Cars: Rental cars are available at both Tulsa International Airport and Joplin Regional Airport, as well as in nearby cities like Vinita and Joplin.

  • Taxis and Rideshare Services: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available in the area, but may be limited outside of major population centers.

How to Get Around in Grove

The easiest way to get around Grove is by car, as public transportation options are limited. Rental cars are available at both Tulsa International Airport and Joplin Regional Airport, as well as in nearby cities like Vinita and Joplin.

Where to Go Next from Grove: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Tulsa, Oklahoma: Just under an hour and a half’s drive from Grove, Tulsa is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that boasts a rich cultural heritage, a thriving arts scene, and plenty of outdoor activities.

  • Branson, Missouri: Located about an hour and a half’s drive from Grove, Branson is a popular tourist destination that’s known for its live entertainment and family-friendly attractions.

  • Eureka Springs, Arkansas: Just over an hour’s drive from Grove, Eureka Springs is a charming and picturesque town that’s full of historic architecture, shops, and restaurants.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to explore the state’s rich cultural heritage, enjoy the great outdoors, or simply relax and unwind in a welcoming and friendly community, Grove, Oklahoma has something to offer for everyone. Plan your visit today and discover the best that Green Country has to offer.