Amorita OklahomaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Amorita, Oklahoma.
1. Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge
CRYSTAL DIGGING PARADISE
Salt Plains National Wildlife Refuge offers visitors the unique opportunity to dig for selenite crystals, the only place in the world where these hourglass-shaped crystals can be found. The refuge spans over 32,000 acres and serves as an important habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife. Visitors can enjoy crystal digging from April through October, as well as wildlife viewing, photography, and hiking throughout the year.
2. Salt Plains State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION HAVEN
Salt Plains State Park provides excellent opportunities for camping, fishing, and boating on the Salt Plains Lake. The park features modern amenities including RV hookups, tent sites, picnic areas, and a swimming beach for visitors to enjoy. Anglers can catch catfish, sand bass, and hybrid striped bass while nature enthusiasts can explore the surrounding trails and observe diverse wildlife.
3. Twister The Movie Museum
STORM CHASER MEMORABILIA
Twister The Movie Museum celebrates the 1996 blockbuster film that was partially filmed in Wakita, Oklahoma. The museum houses original props, photographs, and memorabilia from the movie production that brought tornado science to mainstream audiences. Visitors can experience a piece of Hollywood history while learning about severe weather phenomena that regularly affect the region.
4. Cherokee Strip Museum
PIONEER HISTORY PRESERVED
Cherokee Strip Museum preserves the rich history of the 1893 Cherokee Strip Land Run and early pioneer life in Oklahoma. The museum features historical artifacts, photographs, and exhibits detailing the settlement of north-central Oklahoma. Visitors can explore the museum's grounds which include a one-room schoolhouse and other restored historical buildings that offer glimpses into pioneer living.
5. Great Salt Plains Lake
PRISTINE WATERFRONT RECREATION
Great Salt Plains Lake offers 9,300 acres of water recreation opportunities surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. The shallow saltwater lake is popular for boating, fishing, and swimming, with several access points and boat ramps available for visitors. The unique shoreline features a salt flat that creates an otherworldly appearance, especially when viewed from scenic overlooks.
6. Alfalfa County Crystal Caves
UNDERGROUND NATURAL WONDER
Alfalfa County Crystal Caves feature striking crystal formations that draw tourists from across the region. The caves showcase nature's artistic abilities with colorful mineral deposits that have formed over thousands of years. Guided tours allow visitors to learn about the geological processes while admiring these natural underground treasures.
7. Gloss Mountain State Park
SHIMMERING MESA VIEWS
Gloss Mountain State Park features unique selenite-capped mesas that shimmer in the sunlight, creating a stunning visual spectacle. Visitors can climb Cathedral Mountain via a staircase and hiking trail to experience panoramic views of the surrounding plains. The park offers picnic areas, informational kiosks, and hiking opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy while exploring this geological wonder.
8. Great Plains Trail
SCENIC DRIVING ROUTE
Great Plains Trail offers a scenic driving route through northwestern Oklahoma's diverse landscapes and historical sites. The trail connects various attractions including wildlife refuges, state parks, and small towns with rich cultural heritage. Travelers can experience the natural beauty of the plains while discovering the region's ecological diversity and historical significance.
9. Cafe on Main
HOMESTYLE LOCAL DINING
Cafe on Main serves hearty, homestyle meals that reflect the culinary traditions of Oklahoma's farming communities. The restaurant specializes in comfort food classics like chicken fried steak, mashed potatoes with gravy, and freshly baked pies. Visitors appreciate the friendly service and authentic small-town atmosphere that makes dining here a genuine local experience.
10. Jigg's Smokehouse
LEGENDARY BBQ DESTINATION
Jigg's Smokehouse has been serving authentic Oklahoma barbecue to hungry travelers and locals since 1976. The restaurant is famous for its massive sandwiches, including the "Wooly Burger" that weighs nearly two pounds and features multiple types of smoked meats. Visitors from across the country make pilgrimages to this unassuming roadside eatery to experience its award-winning barbecue and unique atmosphere.
11. Alfalfa County Farmers Market
FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE
Alfalfa County Farmers Market brings together local farmers and artisans to offer fresh produce, homemade goods, and handcrafted items. The market operates seasonally and showcases the agricultural bounty of north-central Oklahoma's fertile farmland. Visitors can purchase farm-fresh vegetables, fruits, baked goods, and unique crafts while connecting with the local farming community.
12. Antique Alley
VINTAGE TREASURE HUNTING
Antique Alley features a collection of shops offering vintage treasures, collectibles, and unique home décor items. The shopping district attracts collectors and casual browsers looking for one-of-a-kind items with historical significance. Visitors can spend hours exploring the various stores, each with its own specialty and character.
13. Alabaster Caverns State Park
UNDERGROUND GYPSUM WONDERS
Alabaster Caverns State Park features one of the largest natural gypsum caves in the world open to the public. The three-quarter-mile cavern showcases rare black alabaster and includes unique formations created over millions of years. Guided tours lead visitors through the stunning underground landscape while educating them about the geological processes that created these natural wonders.
14. Chisholm Trail Museum
CATTLE DRIVE HERITAGE
Chisholm Trail Museum preserves the history of the famous cattle drive route that helped shape the American West. The museum features exhibits on pioneer life, Native American history, and the economic impact of the cattle industry on Oklahoma's development. Visitors can explore the Governor Seay Mansion and other historical buildings on the museum grounds to experience life in territorial Oklahoma.
15. Red Rock Country General Store
NOSTALGIC RURAL SHOPPING
Red Rock Country General Store offers a nostalgic shopping experience reminiscent of early 20th century rural Oklahoma. The store carries a unique selection of locally made foods, handcrafted gifts, and practical items for both locals and tourists. Visitors appreciate the old-fashioned atmosphere and friendly service that captures the essence of small-town Oklahoma hospitality.