Points of Interest between Albuquerque, New Mexico to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

picture of Albuquerque, New Mexico

The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Are you planning a road trip from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma? This drive offers a unique opportunity to see the beauty and variety of the American Southwest. From stunning national parks to quirky roadside attractions and historic landmarks, there's no shortage of things to see and do along the way. So buckle up, roll down the windows, and get ready for an adventure. Here are the top places to see when driving from Albuquerque to Oklahoma City.

Explore the Great Outdoors

  1. Petrified Forest National Park - Located in northeastern Arizona, Petrified Forest National Park is a must-see stop on your road trip. The park features one of the largest and most colorful concentrations of petrified wood in the world, as well as stunning badlands scenery, hiking trails, and historic Route 66 artifacts. Don't miss the Crystal Forest Trail, which showcases some of the park's most spectacular petrified logs.
  2. Palo Duro Canyon State Park - One of Texas's best-kept secrets, Palo Duro Canyon State Park offers miles of hiking and biking trails, epic vistas, and fascinating geologic formations. Known as the "Grand Canyon of Texas," the park is also home to the outdoor musical drama TEXAS, which has been performed on summer evenings for over 50 years.
  3. Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge - Located in southwestern Oklahoma, the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is home to a rugged landscape of granite peaks, deep canyons, and wide-open prairies. The refuge is also home to herds of bison, elk, and longhorn cattle, as well as a variety of birds and other wildlife. Hiking, rock climbing, and wildlife watching are all popular activities in the park.

Discover Quirky Roadside Attractions

  1. Wigwam Village Motel #6 - Located in Holbrook, Arizona, Wigwam Village Motel #6 is a classic example of the mid-century roadside architecture that dotted the American landscape during the heyday of Route 66. The motel features 15 wigwam-style cabins that have been lovingly restored and decorated with vintage furniture and decor.
  2. Cadillac Ranch - Located just west of Amarillo, Texas, Cadillac Ranch is one of America's most iconic roadside attractions. Created in 1974 by a group of artists, the installation features 10 Cadillac cars buried nose-first in a field, with their tail fins sticking up in the air. Visitors are welcome to bring their own spray paint and leave their mark on the cars.
  3. The Blue Whale of Catoosa - A quirky landmark located just east of Tulsa, Oklahoma, the Blue Whale of Catoosa is a 80-foot long sculpture of a smiling blue whale that sits in a man-made pond. The sculpture was created in the 1970s as a surprise gift for the founder of a local swimming hole, and has since become a beloved local attraction.

Experience Unique History

  1. The Route 66 Museum - Located in Clinton, Oklahoma, the Route 66 Museum is a must-visit stop for anyone driving the Mother Road. The museum features exhibits and artifacts that highlight the history and culture of Route 66, including vintage cars, neon signs, and historical documents. Don't miss the recreated Main Street exhibit, which showcases what life was like in a typical Route 66 town.
  2. The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum - Located in Oklahoma City, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is a comprehensive museum dedicated to the American West. The museum features exhibits on everything from the history of the cowboy and Native American culture to art and literature related to the West. Visitors can also take a stroll through an authentic Western town and watch live demonstrations of cowboy skills like blacksmithing and roping.

Conclusion

From national parks to quirky roadside attractions and fascinating museums, there's no shortage of things to see and do when driving from Albuquerque, New Mexico to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. This road trip offers a unique opportunity to explore the beauty and diversity of the American Southwest. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an adventure you'll never forget. Who knows what hidden gems you may discover along the way?