Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Camden, South Carolina, to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

On a road trip from Camden, South Carolina, to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, there are numerous exciting places to visit and things to do. The trip can take a total of 18 hours, and travelers will pass through a variety of cities, towns, natural sites, and other attractions. A fun highlight of the journey is the halfway point in New Albany, Mississippi, where visitors can stop and explore the quaint center and enjoy some Southern hospitality. Here are the top five best things to do on the road trip.

1. Experience Civil War History at the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park

The Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park preserves and tells the story of the bloody battles of Chickamauga and Chattanooga that took place during the Civil War. The park is located in Fort Oglethorpe, Georgia, and is accessible by car from the main highway. Visitors can explore the landmarks, memorials, and exhibits while learning more about the soldiers, leaders, and civilians who lived and died during the war. The park offers guided tours, hiking trails, and ranger programs. An interesting fact is that the Chickamauga battle was the second deadliest in the Civil War, with over 34,000 combined casualties.

2. Take a Scenic Drive on the Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway

The Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway is a 35-mile route that winds through the beautiful Ozark Mountains in Arkansas. The drive offers stunning vistas, unique rock formations, and diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can stop at several state parks, such as Devil's Den State Park, and go hiking, fishing, or camping. The byway also passes through historic towns and villages, such as Fayetteville, where travelers can enjoy local cuisine, music, and arts. An interesting fact is that the Ozark Mountains are home to several endangered species, such as the Indiana bat and the Ozark big-eared bat.

3. Visit the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

The Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is a world-class museum that showcases American art from the Colonial era to contemporary times. The museum is located in Bentonville, Arkansas, and features a stunning architecture designed by the renowned architect Moshe Safdie. Visitors can admire works by famous artists such as Norman Rockwell, Roy Lichtenstein, and Andy Warhol, as well as lesser-known artists and regional talents. The museum also offers educational programs, outdoor trails, and a food and wine program. An interesting fact is that the museum was founded by Walmart heiress Alice Walton and cost over $500 million to build and operate.

4. Explore the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum

The Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum honors and remembers the victims, survivors, and rescuers of the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. The memorial is located in downtown Oklahoma City, and features a serene outdoor space with bronze gates, reflecting pools, and a field of empty chairs representing the 168 lives lost. The museum offers interactive exhibits, videos, and artifacts that tell the story of the tragedy and its aftermath. Visitors can also participate in the Outdoor Symbolic Memorial Scavenger Hunt and the Survivor Tree Story. An interesting fact is that the bombing was the deadliest act of domestic terrorism in U.S. history until the September 11 attacks.

5. Taste the Local Flavors at the Farmers Market District

The Farmers Market District in Oklahoma City is a lively and colorful destination for foodies and shoppers alike. The district features several indoor and outdoor farmers markets, artisanal shops, and restaurants that offer fresh produce, meats, cheeses, bread, wine, and more. Visitors can browse the stalls, sample some treats, and chat with the vendors and locals. The district also hosts events and festivals, such as the Oklahoma Czech Festival and the OKC Live! outdoor concert series. An interesting fact is that the district used to be an actual farmers market established in the early 20th century and now covers over 40 acres of land.

In conclusion, a road trip from Camden, South Carolina, to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, offers a diverse range of sights, sounds, and tastes for travelers who are eager to explore and learn. The highlights of the trip include the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park, the Ozark Highlands Scenic Byway, the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, and the Farmers Market District in Oklahoma City. Each destination has its unique character, history, and charm that make it worth visiting and experiencing. The trip can take up to 18 hours, but the memories and stories gathered along the way will last a lifetime.