The winter season has cozily settled in and has stretched its familiar grip across the Oklahoma prairie, ushering in time with family over the holidays, festive activities for young and old, and perhaps a healthy dose of cabin fever. Break out of the traditional winter routine and discover that there’s no reason to be stuck in the house when the mercury takes a dip. Gather up the car keys, wrap yourself in a deliciously snug scarf and venture out into Oklahoma’s lively winter terrain for these fabulously free activities.
Eagle Watches
Oklahoma plays gracious host to a flurry of eagles that choose the Sooner State as their winter home. Travel to Quartz Mountain State Park, Arcadia Lake or the Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge to catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures soaring freely overhead. Bundle up against the seasonal chill and join other nature-lovers on a caravan to roosting areas and scenic viewing locations. Many of the state’s eagle watches also include educational presentations, so bring the entire family and don’t forget your binoculars as you witness noble eagles riding the thermals above the Oklahoma landscape.
Oklahoma City National Memorial & State Capitol
Whether entertaining out-of-town relatives or looking to revisit historically important locations nestled in the heart of Oklahoma City, the Oklahoma City National Memorial and State Capitol are sure bets this winter. Wander the grounds of the Memorial and reflect upon the Field of Empty Chairs, the Gates of Time and other symbolic elements at one of the state’s most-visited attractions. The outdoor symbolic Memorial grounds are free of charge and open 24 hours a day with National Parks Service staff on hand during the day. Head over to the State Capitol and join a free guided tour exploring the capitol’s impressive artwork and Greco-Roman architecture.
Downtown in December
Embrace the festive holiday spirit during Oklahoma City’s much-anticipated Downtown in December, a month-long celebration of holiday lights, family activities and Christmas cheer. Visitors to Downtown in December will delight in oodles of free things-to-do, all against the backdrop of Oklahoma City’s magnificent downtown skyline. Make your way to Downtown in December to enjoy water taxi rides along the beautifully-lit downtown canal, Christmas lights and many other thrilling, wintry activities.
Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge & Mount Scott
Strap the kids into the backseat, bundle up with blankets and take a drive through the southwest Oklahoma prairie at the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. Home to some of the most breathtaking landscape in the state, this area is a haven for wildlife photographers. Drive to the top of Mount Scott for an awe-inspiring view of the rolling hills below, or escape the car and stretch your legs on over 15 miles of winter hiking trails.
Museum of the Red River
A surprising gem of southeast Oklahoma, the Museum of the Red River in Idabel not only offers visitors free admission, but also an up-close-and-personal view of the museum’s reconstructed Acrocanthosaurus atokensis dinosaur, excavated only 12 miles from the museum. Escape the winter cold on a trip through the scenic southeast region by heading indoors for archaeological collections, American Indian artifacts and ethnographic art at this fascinating museum.
Arts Districts
Through the cooler months of winter, Oklahoma’s emerging and established arts districts remain open and continue to thrive. Hop from one gallery to the next during monthly art events and escape the outside chill while gazing at endless displays of original art. Top events include the First Friday Gallery Walk in the Paseo Arts District, the 2nd Friday Circuit of Art in Norman and Live on the Plaza in Oklahoma City’s Plaza District.
Historic Downtown Guthrie
Home to the largest Historic Preservation District in the nation and bathed in merry lights throughout the holidays, Guthrie is the perfect winter destination for those looking to surround themselves with Victorian architecture, quaint boutiques and enough charm to last a lifetime. This enchanting city also hosts the annual Territorial Christmas Celebration during the holidays. Make your way to Guthrie for costumed performers, free hot chocolate, carolers and decorated window displays during this special season, or enjoy antique shopping and delicious family restaurants throughout the year.
Chickasaw National Recreation Area
Embrace the temperatures and get back to nature this winter with a trip to the Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Sulphur. Offering a multitude of activities year-round, this outdoor paradise is a prime destination for mountain biking and winter hiking on uncrowded trails that weave throughout this renowned recreational hot spot. Enjoy the serenity of the park while indulging in magnificent wildlife photo-ops on the banks of the area’s pristine lakes, creeks and waterfalls.
Martin Park Nature Center
Find a series of easy walking trails and experience the beauty of an Oklahoma winter firsthand, when you head to the Martin Park Nature Center in Oklahoma City. Nestled within the state’s central woodlands, this free outdoor haven features winding trails, an on-site nature museum and a rippling creek. Known for its stunning landscapes bathed in snow, visitors will enjoy walking along clear paths while keeping an eye out for ruby-colored cardinals and a variety of woodland creatures.
Holiday Light Displays
From Elk City to Yukon, Muskogee to Midwest City, Oklahoma’s month-long holiday displays are lighting up the plains with festive activities and winter merriment. Celebrate the season with a trip to Chickasha’s Festival of Light, considered one of the top ten holiday light displays in the nation, or head to Woodward’s Crystal Christmas for over 40 animated displays. Discover more of Oklahoma's top light displays.
State Parks
One of the best values in the state, Oklahoma’s state parks offer outdoor fun and activities year round. Enjoy free admission to Alabaster Caverns State Park, Black Mesa State Park, the Bernice Area, Cherokee Area, Spavinaw Area, Little Sahara State Park, McGee Creek State Park, Roman Nose State Park and Sequoyah Bay State Park. Take part in a solo nature getaway or participate in a myriad of holiday park activities.
