The picturesque journey through the rolling Osage Hills from Stillwater to Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve has been named the 51st most sought-after family road trip for 2024, according to a recent poll conducted by Gunther Mitsubishi.
The survey, which included responses from 3,000 families, highlights the most coveted road trips for families to embark on this summer.
Three routes in Oklahoma made the list, showcasing the state’s rich cultural and natural attractions. Following the Stillwater to Woolaroc route, the Oklahoma City to Tulsa trip ranked 87th, and the journey from Norman to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge secured the 102nd spot.
Oklahoma’s top road trips
#51 Stillwater to Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve: Starting in Stillwater, families can visit the National Wrestling Hall of Fame or enjoy outdoor activities at Lake McMurtry. A quick stop in Bartlesville offers a chance to explore the Price Tower Arts Center, the Frank Phillips Home and the town’s excellent dining options. The final destination, Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve, provides an enriching experience with Western art exhibits and a wildlife preserve housing bison, elk, and longhorn cattle.
Maira Gus, Executive Director of Visit Bartlesville, noted Bartlesville is a great stop for families taking road trips, with its rich history, architectural history, great food and wonderful hotels.
“Woolaroc is a place where families can spend a whole afternoon and never see all there is to see,” Gus said. ” We love any opportunity to remind people of everything we have to offer in Bartlesville.”
#87 Oklahoma City to Tulsa: While the drive won’t be the highlight, the destinations are. This route blends urban attractions with historical sites. Begin in Oklahoma City with a visit to the Oklahoma City Zoo, Science Museum Oklahoma, or the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. A detour to Pawnee introduces families to the Pawnee Bill Ranch and Museum. Tulsa highlights include the Tulsa Zoo, Gathering Place, Oklahoma Aquarium, Discovery Lab children’s museum, and the scenic Philbrook Museum of Art.
#102 Norman to Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge Families start in Norman, exploring the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, or Lake Thunderbird State Park. En route to the Wichita Mountains, a stop in Lawton offers the Museum of the Great Plains and the Comanche National Museum and Cultural Center. The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and enjoying landmarks like Mount Scott and the Holy City of the Wichitas.
Top 5 Family Road Trips Nationwide
Additionally, the survey highlighted the top five road trips families are most eager to experience at least once in their lifetimes across the United States.
- Flagstaff to Grand Canyon, Arizona: This route, featuring attractions like Lowell Observatory and the Grand Canyon Railway, tops the list with its blend of educational stops, exciting attractions and breathtaking natural scenery.
- Colorado Springs to Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado: Known for the Garden of the Gods and thrilling activities at the Royal Gorge Bridge and Park, this trip offers excitement and natural beauty.
- Hilo to Kailua-Kona, Hawaii: This Hawaiian route is a family favorite because it combines rainforest zoos, historical sites, and the dramatic landscapes of Volcanoes National Park.
- Boston to Cape Cod, Massachusetts: This coastal journey includes stops at the Boston Children’s Museum, Plymouth Rock, and the Cape Cod National Seashore, making it ideal for history and beach lovers.
- Buffalo to Niagara Falls, New York – Families enjoy cultural attractions in Buffalo, such as a tour of the Erie Canal locks and the iconic Niagara Falls, complete with boat rides and scenic views.