Sights to See in Southern Oklahoma

The communities along the Interstate 35 corridor between Oklahoma City and the state’s southern boundary are full of attractions that warrant a trip in their own right. Get to know your state as you explore these southern points!

Norman
With its close ties to the University of Oklahoma, this town is a quick escape from Oklahoma City with attractions for every age. You would be remiss if you missed Norman’s museums and educational attractions, including the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History. This museum gives new meaning to the prehistoric age as it walks you through four billion years of the earth’s history. If you prefer post-impressionism to Pentaceratops, visit the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art. Learn more about current exhibitions at the museum.

Pauls Valley
Calling all kids and kids at heart! The Toy and Action Figure Museum was ranked as one of Time Magazine’s “Top 50 Most Authentic American Experiences” and offers more than 13,000 classic pop culture figures for you to enjoy. The museum walks you through the toy-making process from concept through manufacturing and has an interactive area if you feel the urge to play. The museum is also home to the Oklahoma Cartoonists Collection, which features Oklahoma cartoonists like Chester Gould (of Dick Tracy) and Jack and Carole Bender (from Alley Oop).

Sulphur and Davis
Just east of I-35, the towns of Sulphur and Davis are in the heart of the Chickasaw Nation and are an easy distance to the Chickasaw National Recreation Area and the Lake of the Arbuckles. The Chickasaw National Recreation Area  is Oklahoma’s oldest national park and offers campsites and opportunities for biking, boating, water sports and hiking, to name a few. Nearby is the Chickasaw Cultural Center, a can’t-miss glimpse into the history, heritage and way of life of the Chickasaws.  While in Davis, indulge your sweet tooth by paying a visit to Bedré Fine Chocolate Factory, which provides a behind the scenes look that could only be topped by Willy Wonka himself. Delectable chocolates are produced Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and don’t worry – you can buy these tasty chocolates on site (chocolate covered chips, anyone?).