Roadtrip from Atlanta to Oklahoma City, Top Places to See
Are you planning a road trip from Atlanta, Georgia, to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma? This trip will take you on a journey through the heart of America, with opportunities to explore quaint towns, gorgeous countryside, and historic sites. Make sure to pack your bags, fill the gas tank, and hit the road to explore some of the top places along the way.
In this article, we have rounded up our favorite destinations to stop on your road trip from Atlanta to Oklahoma City. From natural wonders to historic landmarks, there is something for everyone in this list of best places to visit. And without further ado, let’s hit the road and explore these hidden gems!
Stop 1: Nashville, Tennessee
The first stop on our road trip is Nashville, the capital city of Tennessee, located approximately three hours from Atlanta. Nashville is known for its country music scene, and it has something for everyone, from live music performances, historic landmarks, charming streets to shopping, and great food.
Start your visit in downtown Nashville, where you can stroll Music Row, a street packed with recording studios and songwriters, including the Country Music Hall of Fame. A must-see attraction in Nashville is the iconic Ryman Auditorium, known as the "Mother Church of Country Music," which has hosted some of the greatest names in music over the years.
Nashville is also home to some of the country's most famous hot chicken spots, so be sure to stop by Prince’s Hot Chicken or Hattie B’s for some spicy goodness.
Stop 2: Ozark National Forest, Arkansas
After leaving Nashville, it's time to head west towards the Ozark National Forest, located in northern Arkansas, only five hours from Nashville. This national forest covers over 1.2 million acres and offers fantastic opportunities for outdoor recreation and exploration.
The Ozark National Forest boasts stunning scenery, from towering limestone bluffs to cascading waterfalls. This forest is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts, with extensive hiking trails, fishing spots, and camping sites.
One of the highlights of the Ozark National Forest is the Blanchard Springs Caverns, an underground world filled with stalagmites, stalactites, and underground streams. The guided tours through the caverns are an unforgettable experience.
Stop 3: Route 66
Next on our list is a drive along a historic road, Route 66, also known as "The Main Street of America." The route stretches 2,448 miles, from Chicago to Los Angeles, with a section running through Oklahoma, making it a perfect road trip stop on your way to Oklahoma City.
Driving along Route 66 is an opportunity to experience a piece of history and see some of the most iconic roadside attractions, from diners to gas stations, motels, and historical markers. Don't miss the famous Round Barn on Route 66, built-in 1898, and located in Arcadia, Oklahoma.
Stop 4: Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, Oklahoma
As we approach our final destination, it's time to experience the breathtaking beauty of the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. Located in southwestern Oklahoma, the refuge covers over 59,000 acres and is one of the best places in the state to experience wildlife, hiking, and rock climbing.
The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is home to herds of buffalo, elk, and longhorn cattle, making it a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures. The refuge also boasts over 15 hiking trails, with varying difficulty levels, from easy nature walks to challenging hikes up to the top of Mount Scott.
The refuge's premier attraction is the Medicine Park, a cobble-stoned resort town that dates back to the early 1900s, with quaint shops, restaurants, and a 1920s-style hotel. This charming destination is a perfect place to relax after a day of trekking the trails and taking in the wildlife.
Stop 5: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Our final stop on the road trip is Oklahoma City, the state's capital city, located in the center of the state. Oklahoma City offers a wide range of cultural, historic, and outdoor attractions, making it a perfect place to end your journey.
For history buffs, Oklahoma City boasts numerous museums, including the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, which commemorates the victims of the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and the American Banjo Museum are also excellent places to explore the state's past and culture.
Oklahoma City is also home to Myriad Botanical Gardens, a 17-acre botanical park located in downtown Oklahoma City and home to a variety of gardens, fountains, and a lake, perfect for a relaxing afternoon stroll. And for adventure seekers, Oklahoma River offers a range of watersports activities, from kayaking to dragon boating.
Conclusion
There are so many places to explore on a road trip from Atlanta to Oklahoma City. From the charm of Nashville to the wildlife of Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, there are endless opportunities for adventures and memorable stops along the way. We hope this guide inspires you to take this incredible journey and discover some unforgettable destinations. So, pack your bags, start the engine, and hit the open road. Bon Voyage!