Exploring Southern Oklahoma: A Travel Guide to Natural Wonders and Delicious Eats

Southern Oklahoma is a hidden gem filled with natural wonders and delightful dining options. From stunning mountains and forests to serene lakes and delicious restaurants, this region offers something for everyone. Here is a guide to some of the top places to visit and eat in Southern Oklahoma:

Places to Visit:

 

Medicine Park - This charming town is nestled in the Wichita Mountains and is known for its unique cobblestone architecture. Enjoy a stroll along Bath Lake or explore the quaint shops and restaurants in town.

 

Mt. Scott - This towering peak offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Hiking trails and picnic areas are available for visitors to enjoy.

 

The Holy City - This religious landmark features a replica of ancient Jerusalem and hosts annual Easter pageants. Visitors can explore the various biblical scenes and learn about the history of the site.

 

Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge - This wildlife refuge offers visitors the opportunity to see a variety of animals in their natural habitat, including bison, elk, and longhorn cattle. Hiking trails, camping sites, and scenic drives are available.

 

The Parallel Forest - This unique forest features rows of parallel trees that create an otherworldly atmosphere. Visitors can hike or bike through the forest and marvel at its beauty.

 

Lake Jed Johnson - This peaceful lake is perfect for fishing, boating, and swimming. Picnic areas and camping sites are available for visitors.

 

Lake Lawtonka - This large lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and water sports. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails and scenic drives around the lake.

 

Lake Elmer Thomas - This lake is a favorite among anglers for its abundant fish population. Visitors can also enjoy camping, picnicking, and hiking around the lake.

Places to Eat:

 

The Old Plantation Restaurant - This historic restaurant in Medicine Park serves up classic Southern cuisine in a charming setting. Do not miss the fried chicken and homemade biscuits.

 

Small Mountain Street Tacos - This food truck in Lawton serves up delicious and authentic street tacos. Be sure to try the barbacoa and carnitas.

 

Mrs. Chadwick's Bakery and Coffee Bar - This cozy bakery in Lawton offers a variety of baked goods and coffee drinks. Try the cinnamon rolls or the quiche of the day.

 

Meers Store and Restaurant - This iconic restaurant in Meers is known for its mouthwatering burgers made with locally-raised longhorn beef. Be sure to save room for the famous Meers peach cobbler.

Southern Oklahoma is a treasure trove of natural beauty and delicious eats. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, this region has something to offer. Plan your visit today and discover all that Southern Oklahoma has to offer!

Happy exploring!

       Sherri

    

Exploring the Majestic Turner Falls in Oklahoma

Turner Falls is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the Arbuckle Mountains in Oklahoma. The majestic waterfall is the centerpiece of the park and draws visitors from all over the country. From hiking and swimming to camping and fishing, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Turner Falls.

Hiking Trails

 

The park offers several hiking trails of varying difficulty levels that take visitors through the stunning natural beauty of the Arbuckle Mountains. The most popular trail is the Collings Castle Trail, which leads to the ruins of an old castle. The trail offers spectacular views of the waterfall and the surrounding mountains.

Swimming

 

One of the main attractions of Turner Falls is the natural swimming hole at the base of the waterfall. The cool, clear water is perfect for swimming and the picturesque surroundings make for a memorable experience. Visitors can also relax on the sandy beach or take a dip in one of the park's swimming pools.

Camping

 

Turner Falls offers several camping options, from primitive campsites to RV hookups. The park has over 300 campsites, some of which are located near the waterfall and offer breathtaking views. There are also cabins available for rent for those who prefer a more comfortable camping experience.

Fishing

 

The park's streams and lakes are stocked with a variety of fish, including catfish, bass, and trout. Visitors can fish from the shore or rent a paddleboat to fish from the water. The park also offers a fishing dock for those who prefer to fish from a stationary location.

Exploring the Park

 

In addition to the main attractions, Turner Falls offers several other activities for visitors to enjoy. There is a nature center that provides educational exhibits and programs, as well as a picnic area and playground for families to enjoy. The park also offers a zip line for those seeking an adrenaline rush.

Tips for Visiting

 

Bring plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent.

Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and swimming.

Bring snacks and plenty of water.

Check the weather forecast before visiting, as the park may close due to inclement weather.

Be respectful of the natural environment and follow all park rules.

Turner Falls is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Oklahoma. With its stunning waterfall, beautiful hiking trails, and fun activities, it's the perfect place to escape into nature and make lasting memories. Plan your visit today and experience the beauty of Turner Falls for yourself.

Address: I-35 &, US-77, Davis, OK 73030

Enjoy Your Visit!

       Sherri

Exploring the Holy City in Oklahoma: A Spiritual and Cultural Landmark

 

The Holy City in Oklahoma is a unique and breathtaking attraction that offers visitors a chance to experience the holy sites of Jerusalem without ever leaving the United States. The city is a replica of the ancient Jerusalem and is situated in the heart of the Wichita Mountains. It is a place of pilgrimage for Christians and a must-see destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and religion.

History of the Holy City

 The Holy City was first established in 1926 by Reverend Anthony Mark Wallock. Reverend Wallock was a Baptist minister who had visited the original holy sites in Jerusalem and was inspired to recreate them in Oklahoma. He believed that by creating a replica of Jerusalem, he could give people a chance to experience the stories of the Bible in a tangible and immersive way.

 The city was built by hand using stone, concrete, and other materials, and it took over 50 years to complete. Today, the Holy City covers over 200 acres and features over 80 structures, including a replica of the Western Wall, the Garden of Gethsemane, the Tomb of Jesus, and the Stations of the Cross.

What to Expect at the Holy City

 The Holy City is open to visitors year-round and offers a variety of activities and attractions. Visitors can take a guided tour of the city and learn about the history and significance of each site. There are also live reenactments of biblical stories, such as the Last Supper, the Crucifixion, and the Resurrection.

 The city also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including religious festivals, concerts, and theatrical productions. 

Tips for Visiting

 Dress appropriately for the weather, as most of the Holy City is outdoors.

Wear comfortable shoes for walking and climbing stairs.

Bring water and snacks, as there are limited food options available.

Be respectful of the religious significance of the sites and follow all posted rules.

Consider attending one of the city's special events to get the full experience.

Address: 

262 Holy City Rd, Cache, OK 73527

Hours: 

Monday - Saturday     8am - 5pm

Sunday    1pm - 5pm

Entry:

Free, but take donations

The Holy City in Oklahoma is a unique and inspiring attraction that offers visitors a chance to connect with history and spirituality. Whether you are a religious pilgrim or just interested in exploring a unique cultural landmark, the Holy City is a must-see destination. Plan your visit today and experience the wonder of this incredible replica of ancient Jerusalem.

Happy Travels!

 Sherri

Discovering the Best Activities in Destin, Florida: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to the traveler's guide for Destin, Florida! Known as the "World's Luckiest Fishing Village," this small city on the Emerald Coast is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. With its crystal-clear waters, sugar-white sand beaches, and a plethora of outdoor activities, it's no wonder that travelers flock to Destin year-round. Whether you're planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo trip, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your visit to this beautiful Gulf Coast city.

The guide will provide suggestions on various aspects such as:

• Accommodation options

• Indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy

• Snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, fishing, and guided tours

• Dining recommendations for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and desserts

• Access to public beaches

• Transportation options

• Tips for saving money and other useful information

• Price guides to plan your budget

• Top spots for collecting seashells

• Safety precautions to ensure a secure experience.

This guide caters to different budgets with options ranging from budget-friendly to mid-range and high-end.

Outdoor Activities 

Crab Island, a sought-after destination in Destin, is a sandbar accessible solely by boat. You can take the Crab Island Shuttle Boat, which starts at $45, by calling 850-733-7434. Alternatively, you can rent a boat starting at $300 by calling 850-650-2628. Several boat tour packages are also available, featuring stops at the sandbar.

Village of Baytowne Wharf is situated within a gated community. Visitors can obtain a free pass at the gate. Since parking can be challenging, it's recommended to use the parking garage.

Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park is located in Fort Walton Beach and requires a General Adult admission fee of $25.95. It's just a brief 7-minute drive from the Harbor Boardwalk.

Big Kahuna's Water & Adventure Park offers General Admission tickets for $53.99.

Gilligan's Watersports provides rentals for boats, wave runners, dolphin tours by wave runner, cruises, and parasailing. Prices start at $10, and you can contact them at 850-424-5125.

Mobile Sports Banana Boat Experience is available starting at $55, and you can reach them at 850-687-1626.

Cruisin Tikis offers Tiki Cruises aboard a vintage-inspired tiki boat, and it's BYOB. Prices start at $59, and you can contact them at 850-200-0573.

Indoor Activities for a Rainy Day

Here are some notable attractions in Destin:

Uncle Buck's Fish Bowl: A restaurant that features underwater-themed bowling lanes.

Thrills Laser Tag & Arcade: A venue that offers laser tag and an arcade.

Rock Out Climbing Gym: A climbing gym for enthusiasts of all levels.

Urban Air Trampoline & Adventure Park: A trampoline park with various attractions.

Mr. E's Escape Rooms: An escape room experience located in the Escape Zone 60 complex in Sandestin.

The MAXIMUM MAGIC Show: A family-friendly magic show that is sure to entertain all ages.

AMC Destin Commons 14: A movie theater showing the latest blockbusters.

Boulevard 10 at Grand Boulevard: A movie theater with luxurious amenities.

Wild Willy's: An indoor arcade featuring two mini-golf courses, a movie theater, and more.

Rainforest Black Light Mini-Golf & Arcade: A fun-filled miniature golf course and arcade with a rainforest theme.

Destin History & Fishing Museum: A museum that showcases the rich history and culture of Destin, with a focus on fishing.

Emerald Coast Science Center: A science center that offers interactive exhibits and educational programs.

Indian Temple Mound: A historic site that features a Native American temple mound and museum.

Fired Up Paint Your Own Pottery Studio: A pottery studio where visitors can paint their own ceramic pieces.

Mary Hong's Shard Shop: A unique art studio that offers classes and supplies for making artwork out of recycled glass shards.

Snorkeling in Destin and Surrounding Areas: Exploring from the Coastline

 East Pass, Destin East Jetty, Destin West Jetty, and Norriego Point: These locations are all near the Destin U.S. 98 Bridge and are popular for beach snorkeling.

Reefs at Henderson Beach State Park: You can find reefs at both the east and west ends of the park, as well as at John C. Beasley Park, located east of the pavilion and close to the shore.

Okaloosa Island Beach Access Four: This beach access point is also located close to the shore and is a great spot for snorkeling.

Dolphin Reef: This newly installed reef is located 685 feet from the shore near Miramar Beach Access.

Sea Turtle Reef at Grayton Beach State Park: This reef is 783 feet from the shore and is a great place to spot sea turtles.

Seahorse Snorkel Reef at Topsail Hill Preserve State Park: This reef is 715 feet from the shore and is a must-visit for seahorse enthusiasts.

If you prefer to go on a guided snorkeling trip, there are several options to choose from:

Destin Snorkel: This tour starts at $50 and can be reached at 845-269-2329.

Cattywampus Snorkel Tour: This tour costs $50 for adults and offers cheaper prices for children. You can book it by calling 850-586-0450.

Flippers Snorkel Adventure Destin: This tour is $40 for ages 3 and up and can be reserved by calling 850-837-0113.

Snorkeling & Shelling Destin: This tour starts at $59 and can be booked by calling 850-650-3802.

If you're interested in a guided fishing trip, here are a few options to consider:

Flowing Water Charters: Prices for this trip start at $600, and you can call 850-344-7838 to make a reservation.

L4K Charters: Prices for this trip start at $390, and you can book by calling 850-895-1224.

Saltwater Charters: Prices for this trip start at $880, and you can make a reservation by calling 833-850-3474.

Paddleboarding

If you're looking to rent a paddleboard in Destin, here are a few options:

Destin Paddle Company (starting at $20) can be reached at 850-797-2335.

Beach Weekend (starting at $45) can be reached at 850-362-6020.

RUN/SUP® RENTALS (starting at $35) can be reached at 850-419-6188.

Kayak Rentals

Destin Clear Kayak Rental (starting at $59) - Phone: (850) 837-3000, located at 12 Miracle Strip Parkway Southwest, Fort Walton Beach, Florida 32548.

The Kayak Experience - Phone: (850) 837-1577, located at 3906 Us Hwy 98 W Bx 2242, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32459.

STATE PARKS 

Here are some State Parks in the area along with their contact details:

• Henderson Beach - Located at 17000 Emerald Coast Parkway, Destin, FL 32541. Phone: 850.837.7550.
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• Topsail Hill Preserve - Located at 7525 W. Scenic Highway 30A, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32549. Phone: 850.267.0299.
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• Grayton Beach - Located at 357 Main Park Road, Grayton Beach, FL 32549. Phone: 850.231.4210.
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• John Beasley Park - Located at 1550 Miracle Strip Parkway, Fort Walton Beach, FL 32548. Phone: 850.689.5772.
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• Eden Gardens - Located at 181 Eden Garden Road, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32549. Phone: 850.231.4214.
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• Deer Lake - Located at 357 Main Park Road, Santa Rosa Beach, FL 32549. Phone: 850.231.4210.

Discovering Seashells in Destin: Top Spots to Search

For the best shelling experience, head west of Destin toward Ft Walton Beach. You will find a few areas with limited roadside parking. One of the spots requires prior online permission, which can be obtained easily on the spot. Keep in mind that parking rules may change frequently, so it's best to explore and discover new spots.

Dining Destinations: Where to Eat

For Breakfast, you can try the following options:

Destination Little Donuts

Donut Hole

Krispy Kreme

The Pancakery

Capriccio Café

First Watch

Crackings

 

Lunch and Dinner:

Merlin's Pizza

Marco's Pizza

Mimmo's Ristorante Italiano – offers great Italian cuisine and friendly service.

LuLu's - offers waterfront dining, a sand beach, colorful seating, and shopping.

The Harbor Tavern

Pompano Joe's - Caribbean-influenced seafood restaurant located directly on the beach.

East Pass Seafood & Oyster House - serves fresh local seafood.

Boshamps Seafood and Oyster House

Coffee:

Bad Ass Coffee - Offers Hawaiian coffee roasts.

Capriccio Café

Roast'd Café

East Pass Coffee Company

Desserts 

 

• Curly Cream Rolled Ice Cream
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• Wave Ice Cream & Coffee
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• Ice Cream Shoppe Destin East
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• Shake's Frozen Custard
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• Bruster's Real Ice Cream
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• Cups and Cones Destin
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• Ice Cream Shoppe of Destin
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• Smallcakes of Destin - Gourmet Cupcakes
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• The Macaron Chef Destin
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• Nothing Bundt Cakes
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• Kilwins Destin Commons - They offer old-fashioned chocolate fudge, candies, and ice cream.

Accessing the Beach in Destin and Nearby Areas: Public Entry Points

Alamo Street Beach Access: located at 899-675 Scenic Hwy 98, Miramar Beach, FL 32550

Barracuda Street Beach Access: located at 3016-3080 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, FL 32541
Crystal Beach Beach Access

Eglin Matterhorn Beach Access

Geronimo Street Beach Access: located at 735 Scenic Hwy 98, Miramar Beach, FL 32550

Miramar Regional Beach Access: located at 2396 Scenic Hwy 98, Miramar Beach, FL 32550

Norriego Point Beach Access: located at 1 Gulf Shore Dr, Destin, FL 32541

O'Steen Beach Access: located at 320 Gulf Shore Dr, Destin, FL 32541

Pompano Street Beach Access - located at the south end of Pompano Street - 32-2 Pompano St, Destin, FL 32541

Princess Beach Access - exact location unknown

Redneck Beach Access - located at the west end of the Destin Bridge

Shirah Street Beach Access - located at the intersection of Shirah Street and Hwy 98 in Destin, FL 32541

Shores at Crystal Beach Park Access - 2964 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, FL 32541

Tarpon Street Beach Access - 3300 Scenic Hwy 98, Destin, FL 32541

Shop 'til You Drop: Exploring Destin's Retail Scene

Looking for some retail therapy? Check out these shopping destinations:

Destin Commons: With over 90 stores and dining options, Destin Commons is a shopping village that caters to a wide variety of tastes. It's located at 4100 Legendary Dr, Destin, FL 32541.

Silver Sands Premium Outlets: This shopping center boasts over 110 designer and name brand outlet shops, making it a great destination for bargain hunters. You can find it at 10562 Emerald Coast Pkwy W, Miramar Beach, FL 32550.

Grand Boulevard at Sandestin: For a more upscale shopping experience, head to Grand Boulevard at Sandestin. In addition to fine dining options and a movie theater, this shopping center is home to stores like Vineyard Vines and Lilly Pulitzer. Its address is 495 Grand Blvd, Miramar Beach, FL 32550.

HOTELS AND RESORTS 

Make sure to book your stay in advance to secure your spot!

Hotel Effie Sandestin: Rates start at $149 during the off-season.

Henderson Beach Resort: Rates start at $400 during the off-season. This resort is pet and kid friendly and features a lazy river and a private beach.

Henderson Park Inn: Rates start at $295 during the off-season and can go up to $749.

Hyatt Place Sandestin/at Grand Boulevard: Rates range from $150 to $250.

The Palms of Destin Resort & Conference Center.

Best Western Sugar Sands Inn & Suites: Rates range from $116 to $180.

Seascape Beach Access: Located at 1272-1386 Scenic Hwy 98, Miramar Beach, FL 32550.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Destin E: Rates range from $198 to $227.

Hampton Inn & Suites Destin: Rates start at $147.

Home2 Suites by Hilton Destin: Rates start at $175.

Airbnb: Rent a house for a similar price to a hotel room and enjoy more privacy. Check out https://www.airbnb.com for options.

Airport 

The airport closest to Destin is the Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport located at 1701 State Road 85 N, Eglin AFB, FL 32542-1498. You can reach them at (850) 651-7160 and the airlines that operate there include Allegiant, American Airlines, Delta, and Southwest.

For rental cars, several companies operate at the airport and nearby:

• ALAMO RENT A CAR: www.alamo.com, 800-462-5266 or 850-678-0223
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• BUDGET RENT A CAR: www.budget.com, 800-527-0700 or 850-651-0819
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• ENTERPRISE RENT A CAR: www.enterprise.com, 800-736-8222 or 850-609-8006
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• NATIONAL CAR RENTAL: www.national.com, 800-227-7368 or 850-678-0223
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• AVIS CAR RENTAL: www.avis.com, 800-331-1212 or 850-651-0819
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• DOLLAR RENT A CAR: www.dollar.com, 866-434-2226 or 850-609-0154
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• HERTZ: www.hertz.com, 800-654-3131 or 850-651-0612
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• Destin Jeep Rentals: www.DestinJeepRentals.com, 850-687-9262.

Safety

Destin is generally considered a safe place to visit, but it's always a good idea to take common safety precautions like locking car doors and securing valuables. It's also important to protect your skin from sunburn by applying sunscreen frequently and staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Additionally, it's recommended that you familiarize yourself with the beach flag system to stay safe while swimming in the ocean.

Here are some tips and extra information to help you plan your trip to Destin:

• September and October have the highest chance of hurricanes, so be aware and prepared.
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• Traffic can be heavy all year round, so plan accordingly and allow extra time for getting around.
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• Winter months can offer cheaper accommodations, but be aware that some businesses on the Boardwalk may be closed during the off season.
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• The average low temperature in Destin during winter is around 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
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• Consider staying at a place that is not beachfront and using public beach access points to save money.
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• Keep in mind that hotels and condos book up quickly, often months in advance.

In conclusion, Destin, Florida is a beautiful vacation destination with stunning beaches, great shopping, and a variety of hotels and resorts to choose from. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly beach vacation or a romantic getaway, Destin has something for everyone. Visitors should take note of safety precautions such as staying hydrated and familiarizing themselves with the beach flag system. With its warm weather year-round and numerous attractions, Destin is a great place to visit any time of the year, although travelers should be aware of the busy traffic and booking accommodations well in advance.

Enjoy Your Visit!

       Sherri