Guymon Travel Guide

Explore the natural attractions, cultural landmarks, and delicious food of Guymon, Oklahoma with our comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the best things to do, where to stay, and how to get around in this fascinating Great Plains city.


Introduction to Guymon

Located in the heart of the Great Plains region of the United States, Guymon, Oklahoma is a charming city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and outdoor adventures. Known for its friendly locals, rich history, and vibrant arts scene, Guymon is the perfect destination for anyone looking to experience the best of the American heartland.

List of Places to Visit in Guymon

Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a foodie looking to try some of the local cuisine, Guymon has something to offer everyone. Here are some of the top places to visit in the city:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • No Man’s Land Museum: Located in nearby Goodwell, Oklahoma, this museum explores the fascinating history of the “No Man’s Land” region that once existed in the area.
  • Smithsonian-affiliated Museum of the Western Prairie: With exhibits showcasing the natural history and cultural heritage of the Great Plains region, this museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about the area’s past.
  • Santa Fe Trail Museum: Located just a short drive from Guymon in Liberal, Kansas, this museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the famous Santa Fe Trail.

Natural Attractions of Guymon: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Thielke Arboretum: This beautiful nature preserve is home to a variety of plant and animal species, as well as several hiking trails.
  • Lake Optima: Located just south of Guymon, this scenic lake offers excellent opportunities for fishing and boating.
  • Black Mesa State Park: Home to the highest point in Oklahoma, this park offers stunning views and hiking trails that wind through the spectacular natural landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Guymon

For visitors looking to explore the great outdoors, Guymon has several excellent hiking and biking trails to choose from. Some of the most popular options include:

  • Black Mesa Summit Trail: This challenging 8.4-mile hike leads to the summit of Black Mesa, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Optima Lake Trail: This 4-mile trail winds along the shore of Lake Optima and offers excellent opportunities for bird watching and wildlife viewing.
  • Thielke Arboretum Trail: This 2-mile trail winds through the beautiful Thielke Arboretum and is a great option for visitors looking for a more leisurely hike.

Best Things to Do in Guymon: Activities and Tours

No matter what your interests are, there are plenty of exciting things to see and do in Guymon. Here are just a few of the top activities and tours to consider:

  • Golfing at Sunset Hills Golf Course: This scenic 9-hole golf course offers stunning views of the Great Plains and is a great way to spend an afternoon in Guymon.
  • City Art Walk: Take a stroll through downtown Guymon and explore the city’s vibrant arts scene, which includes several galleries, murals, and public art installations.
  • Farm-to-Table Food Tour: Learn about the local agricultural industry and sample some of the region’s best farm-to-table cuisine on this guided food tour.

Week-Long Itinerary for Guymon

Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, Guymon has plenty to offer visitors of all ages. Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary to help you make the most of your time in the city:

Day 1 Arrival and Relaxation
Day 2 Visit the No Man’s Land Museum and explore downtown Guymon
Day 3 Hike the Black Mesa Summit trail and visit Black Mesa State Park
Day 4 Take a scenic drive to nearby Lake Optima for fishing and boating
Day 5 Explore the city’s arts scene and take a farm-to-table food tour
Day 6 Play a round of golf at Sunset Hills Golf Course and visit the Thielke Arboretum
Day 7 Departure and Travel Home

Food and Drink Scene of Guymon

Guymon is home to a vibrant food and drink scene that showcases the best of the region’s local cuisine. From farm-to-table restaurants to craft breweries, here are some of the top places to eat and drink in the city:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Barbecue: No trip to Oklahoma is complete without sampling some of the region’s world-famous barbecue. Check out places like Billy Sims BBQ or Dizzy B’s BBQ to try some of the best.

Local Beverages

  • Beer: Oklahoma is home to several excellent craft breweries, including the popular Iron Monk Brewing Company and Elk Valley Brewing Company.

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

Whether you’re looking for a cozy bed and breakfast or a luxurious hotel, Guymon has plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the top places to stay in the city:

  • Ambassador Inn: This charming hotel is located in the heart of downtown Guymon and offers comfortable rooms and excellent amenities.
  • Holiday Inn Express & Suites: With a heated indoor pool, free breakfast, and spacious rooms, this hotel is a great choice for families and groups traveling together.
  • Oak Tree Inn: This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms and easy access to the city’s top attractions.

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

If you’re looking for a unique souvenir or gift to bring home from Guymon, here are some of the top local products to consider:

  • Oklahoma-made crafts and jewelry: Visit local artisan markets and galleries to find handmade jewelry, pottery, and other locally made crafts.
  • Agricultural products: Oklahoma is a major producer of wheat, cotton, and other crops, so consider bringing home some locally grown produce or packaged foods.

Local Culture and Customs of Guymon

Guymon is home to a friendly and welcoming community that takes pride in its rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors to the city should be respectful of local customs and traditions, and are encouraged to take part in local celebrations like the annual Pioneer Days festival and the Guymon Rodeo.

Best Time to Visit Guymon

The best time to visit Guymon is during the spring and fall months, when temperatures are mild and the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities. However, the city offers plenty of year-round attractions, so visitors can plan a trip at any time of the year and still find plenty to see and do.

Do’s and Don’ts of Guymon

To ensure a safe and enjoyable trip to Guymon, here are some important do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Explore the outdoors: Guymon is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Oklahoma, so be sure to take a hike, go fishing, or explore one of the city’s many parks and preserves.
  • Try the local cuisine: From barbecue to craft beer, Guymon offers plenty of opportunities to sample the region’s delicious cuisine.
  • Respect local customs and traditions: Take the time to learn about the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, and be respectful of local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables in plain sight: As with any city, visitors to Guymon should be mindful of their belongings and avoid leaving valuables in plain sight.
  • Litter or damage natural areas: Help preserve the natural beauty of Guymon by avoiding littering or damaging the city’s parks and preserves.
  • Ignore safety precautions when hiking or enjoying outdoor activities: Always follow safety guidelines and precautions when participating in outdoor activities like hiking or boating.

Safety and Health

Like any destination, it’s important to take precautions to ensure your safety and health while visiting Guymon. Here are some important tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Guymon

  • Be aware of your surroundings: As with any city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid potentially dangerous situations.
  • Take precautions when participating in outdoor activities: Whether you’re hiking, fishing, or boating, always follow safety guidelines and precautions to minimize the risk of accidents or injuries.
  • Be mindful of weather conditions: Oklahoma is known for its severe weather, so be sure to keep an eye on local weather reports and take appropriate precautions if severe weather is expected.

Health in Guymon

  • Stay hydrated: Oklahoma’s hot and humid climate can be dehydrating, so be sure to drink plenty of water and avoid extended exposure to the sun.
  • Protect against insect bites: Oklahoma is home to several insect species that can carry diseases like West Nile virus, so be sure to wear insect repellent and long clothing when participating in outdoor activities.
  • Be prepared for emergencies: Make sure you have the necessary medical supplies and medications with you while traveling, and be familiar with local hospitals and medical facilities in case of an emergency.

Getting to Guymon: Transportation Options and Logistics

Guymon is easily accessible by several transportation options, including air, bus, and car. Here are some tips and logistics to keep in mind when planning your trip:

Airports Near Guymon

  • Guymon Municipal Airport: Located just outside of the city, this municipal airport offers daily flights to and from Oklahoma City and Denver.

Bus Stations Near Guymon

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Located in nearby Liberal, Kansas, Greyhound offers daily bus service to and from Guymon.
  • Jefferson Lines: Based in Amarillo, Texas, Jefferson Lines offers daily bus service to and from Guymon.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Guymon is easily accessible by car, and several car rental agencies offer services at local airports and bus stations.

How to Get Around in Guymon

The best way to get around Guymon is by car or taxi, as the city does not have a public transportation system. Visitors can rent a car at the airport or bus station, or arrange for a taxi through one of the local companies.

Where to Go Next from Guymon: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Guymon is located in the heart of the Great Plains region, making it a great jumping-off point for exploring nearby destinations and excursions. Here are some of the top options to consider:

  • Visit the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge: Located just a few hours south of Guymon, this pristine wilderness area is home to bison, elk, and other native wildlife.
  • Explore the mountains of New Mexico: Just a few hours to the west, visitors can explore the mountains and deserts of southern New Mexico, which offer stunning views and world-class hiking and biking trails.
  • Take a scenic drive along Route 66: Located just a few miles from Guymon, the old Route 66 offers a charming glimpse into the history and culture of the American Southwest.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural landmarks, or delicious local cuisine, Guymon, Oklahoma is a destination that offers something for everyone. With its friendly locals, rich history, and beautiful natural surroundings, Guymon is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of the Great Plains region.