Nearby towns to Oklahoma City offer new adventures

While Oklahoma City serves as the center of the state, both as the state capital and by physical location, towns near the city offer their own types of adventure.

To the north, the state’s original capital city of Guthrie is a historic gem. Guthrie is known nationwide for its preservation of late 19th and early 20th -century architecture, mostly in the Guthrie Historic District, which is registered as a National Historic Landmark. The town is also home to the Scottish Rite Temple, one of the world’s largest Masonic Centers; the annual ‘89er Parade and Celebration, which commemorates the town’s establishment during the Land Run of 1889 and has been credited as the oldest and largest parade in Oklahoma; and a variety of other events and attractions.

West of Oklahoma City sits El Reno. Established in 1889 as Reno City, the town serves as an intersection for Interstate-40, Route 66 and the Chisholm Trail – a series of cattle trade trails that led from ranches in southern Texas to areas of Kansas. Today, travelers trail off into the city for the famous onion burgers of the Hamburger Inn. Lucky Star Casino provides more than enough excitement to digest after, with over 1,000 games across 40,000 square feet, in addition to an outdoor music venue that can compete with any within the state.

Head south to Purcell, or “The Heart of Oklahoma,” and the attractions won’t skip a beat. Home to an Amtrak Heartland Flyer stop, this town is a quick trip from Oklahoma City or Dallas, while holding on to their small- town, old-country charm. Purcell Lake provides an array of outdoor activities and The Grand Canadian Theater is the perfect place to gather with friends.

East of Oklahoma City is the oldest chartered town in Oklahoma Territory, Choctaw. The Bouse Sports Complex incorporates eight turf fields for baseball or softball, as well as a standout splash pad and playground for kids. You can find Irish food and whiskey at The Black Raven Pub. Ten Acre Lake is a perfect place for outdoorsmen, and Barrel Springs Splash Pad presents kids with even more possibilities.

Our state’s possibilities appear endless, whether within the city or in one of the historic communities surrounding, you are sure to secure an adventure.

This article originally appeared on The Better Life blog.