Wyandotte Travel Guide

A comprehensive guide to Wyandotte, Oklahoma, including places to visit, things to do, where to stay, how to get there, and more.


Introduction to Wyandotte

Nestled in the heart of the Great Plains of Oklahoma, Wyandotte is a small town that offers big adventures for travelers. With its natural beauty, rich history, and friendly locals, Wyandotte is a hidden gem that is worth exploring.

From hiking trails to waterfalls, museums to festivals, there is something for everyone in Wyandotte. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous trip, Wyandotte has it all. In this travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more in Wyandotte.

List of Places to Visit in Wyandotte

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Eastern Shawnee Tribal Historic Preservation Office and Museum: a museum dedicated to the Eastern Shawnee tribe’s culture, history, and traditions.
  • George Washington School: a historical school building dating back to the early 1900s, now used as a community center and cultural hub.
  • Peoria Indian Center: a community center that celebrates the Peoria Indian culture and history.

Natural Attractions of Wyandotte: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Spavinaw Hills: a beautiful hiking area with rolling hills and scenic views.
  • Grand Lake: a popular destination for fishing and water sports, with numerous public access points for boating, swimming, and more.
  • Twin Bridges Area at Spring River: a scenic spot with access to the crystal-clear waters of Spring River, where visitors can swim, fish, kayak, and more.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Wyandotte

  • Jenkins Trail: a 2.5-mile trail featuring rolling hills, rocky terrain, and scenic views.
  • Spavinaw Loop Trail: a 6.2-mile trail that takes hikers through forests, along creeks, and across bridges.
  • Spring River Trail: a 2.6-mile trail that follows the Spring River and offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

Best Things to Do in Wyandotte: Activities and Tours

  • The Heritage Festival: an annual festival that features music, dancing, food, and crafts.
  • The Peoria Powwow: an annual event that celebrates the Peoria Indian culture with music, dancing, and food.
  • Grand Lake O’ the Cherokees: a popular destination for fishing, boating, and other water sports.

Week-Long Itinerary for Wyandotte

Day Activity
1 Explore the Eastern Shawnee Tribal Historic Preservation Office and Museum
2 Hike the Jenkins Trail and enjoy the Spavinaw Hills
3 Visit the Grand Lake, go fishing or rent a boat
4 Walk around the George Washington School, take a guided tour
5 Check out the Twin Bridges Area at Spring River
6 Attend The Heritage Festival or The Peoria Powwow
7 Relax and enjoy the Wyandotte’s local food scene

Food and Drink Scene of Wyandotte

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fry Bread: a traditional Native American dish made with fried dough.
  • Hominy: a staple of Native American cuisine, made from dried corn kernels.
  • Meat Pie: a savory pie filled with meat, vegetables, and gravy.

Local Beverages

  • Sassafras Tea: a tea made from the roots of the sassafras tree, which has a unique flavor.
  • Cherokee Grape Syrup: a sweet syrup made from Cherokee grapes, used in cooking and baking.

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

  • Royal Inn: a comfortable and affordable hotel located near the center of town.
  • Grand Lake Casino Hotel: a luxurious hotel with a casino, spa, and pool.
  • Airbnb: several unique and affordable options in the area, including cabins and cottages.

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

  • Handcrafted Jewelry: buy unique and beautiful jewelry crafted by local artisans.
  • Native American Artifacts: purchase authentic Native American artifacts from local museums or gift shops.
  • Homemade Preserves: bring home delicious homemade jams, jellies, and pickles from local farms and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Wyandotte

Wyandotte has a rich history and culture, with strong ties to the Eastern Shawnee and Peoria Indian tribes. Visitors should respect the local customs and traditions, including dress and behavior. The local language is primarily English, but many residents also speak Osage and Cherokee.

Best Time to Visit Wyandotte

The best time to visit Wyandotte is from spring to fall, when the weather is mild and outdoor activities abound. The annual Heritage Festival and Peoria Powwow take place in June and July, respectively, and offer a great opportunity to experience local culture.

Do’s and Don’ts of Wyandotte

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Take advantage of the outdoor recreation opportunities.
  • Try the local food and drink.

Don’t:

  • Engage in disrespectful or inappropriate behavior.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Ignore safety warnings or advice.

Safety and Health

Safety in Wyandotte

Wyandotte is generally a safe town, but visitors should take normal precautions, such as locking doors and windows at night and not leaving valuables in plain sight. Visitors should also be aware of local wildlife, including snakes and bears.

Health in Wyandotte

There are several medical facilities in the area, including hospitals and clinics. Visitors should ensure they have adequate health insurance coverage for their trip.

Getting to Wyandotte: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Wyandotte

  • Joplin Regional Airport (JLN) - located 25 miles from Wyandotte.
  • Tulsa International Airport (TUL) - located 90 miles from Wyandotte.

Bus Stations Near Wyandotte

  • Greyhound Bus Lines - serves Joplin, MO, and Tulsa, OK.

Other Options

  • Driving: Wyandotte is easily accessible by car, with major highways nearby.
  • Private shuttle services: several private shuttle services operate in the area, offering transportation to and from destinations throughout the region.

How to Get Around in Wyandotte

The best way to get around Wyandotte is by car, as the town is relatively spread out. Visitors can also rent bicycles or take guided tours of the area.

Where to Go Next from Wyandotte: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Tulsa, Oklahoma: a vibrant city with museums, art galleries, and a lively music scene.
  • Eureka Springs, Arkansas: a charming Victorian town with historic buildings, spas, and shops.
  • Joplin, Missouri: a city with shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, including the George A. Spiva Center for the Arts.

Conclusion

Wyandotte is a hidden gem in the heart of the Great Plains, offering visitors a unique blend of nature, history, and culture. Whether you’re looking to relax and unwind or explore the outdoors, Wyandotte has something for everyone. With its welcoming locals, rich traditions, and stunning natural beauty, Wyandotte is a destination that should not be missed.

Grand Lake O' The Cherokees Grand Lake O' The Cherokees