Top Five Popular Attractions on Your Next Trip from Choctaw, OK to Hastings, OK

Are you planning a road trip from Choctaw to Hastings, Oklahoma anytime soon? This route spans over 100 miles - but don't worry, we've got you covered on the best places to stop and see along the way. Here are the top five popular attractions to visit on your next journey!

The Halfway Point: Chickasha, OK

Chickasha, Oklahoma is located at the halfway point between Choctaw and Hastings. It's a perfect place to stop for a break and explore the local area. Chickasha is home to the popular Chickasha Festival of Light which takes place during Christmas. During this festive time, the Shannon Springs Park in this city transforms into a wonderland of lights. However, Chickasha offers a lot of places to visit throughout the year. Its downtown has plenty of local shops and restaurants, and options for hiking. If you're a history buff, you may like the Grady County Museum which houses local history exhibits.

Top Five Places to See

1. The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum

The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum was created in memory of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing. It pays tribute to the victims, survivors, rescuers, and all who were affected by the tragic event. The Memorial Grounds and Museum are powerful and moving. The symbolic empty chairs represent the 168 people who lost their lives during the bombing. The museum has artifacts, photos, and videos that will give a complete understanding of what happened. It's a must-visit place to pay your respect and learn about this tragic incident in American history.

2. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma City

The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is a great place to stop and learn about the cowboy culture and the American West. It has many galleries filled with artwork, artifacts, and exhibits depicting the culture and history of the western United States. You can see some of the famous iconic cowboy memorabilia and get an insight into the western lifestyle. The museum houses over 28,000 pieces of western artwork. It also has a children's gallery, and various events and programs throughout the year.

3. Museum of Osteology, Oklahoma City

The Museum of Osteology is located in Oklahoma City and is the only osteology museum in America. It's a unique museum that showcases over 800 skulls and skeletons of animals from around the world. The museum specializes in the study of bones and skeletons, and you can learn a lot about the natural world. It's a great educational place for all ages and one of the most offbeat places to see during the trip. You might be surprised by the size of some creatures!

4. Shortgrass Prairie Preserve, Vinson

The Shortgrass Prairie Preserve is a serene place to stop and experience the beauty of nature. It's a protected area of 3200 acres of shortgrass prairie. You can enjoy a peaceful hike across the hills, wander through the fields or observe various species of birds and wildlife. The preserve has an interpretive center with information on the geography, history, and natural resources of the area. It's a secluded and peaceful location to enjoy the outdoors.

5. Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, Indiahoma

The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge is situated in southwest Oklahoma and is a scenic natural wildlife preserve. It's home to bison, the longhorn cattle, rocky hills, and sweeping vistas of nature. You can hike, bike, fish, and rock climb in the wilderness. The refuge has over 15 miles of hiking trails, and a visitor center that offers information on guided tours and programs. It’s a perfect place to experience the wilderness, breathe in fresh air and witness the wildlife.

Best Route

The best way to embark on this road trip is to take interstate I-44. It’s the fastest way to reach the top attractions along the way, providing ample opportunities to take in the breathtaking views along the road. This route will take you through a diverse array of landscapes, from rolling hills to open prairies. You can start from Choctaw, OK and plan your course to make sure you hit all the places mentioned in this article. So, rev up your engines and hit the road! Don't forget to take enough rest stops and enjoy the journey!