Marietta OklahomaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Marietta, Oklahoma.
1. Love County Historical Society Pioneer Museum
LOCAL HISTORY AND HERITAGE
The Love County Historical Society Pioneer Museum offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into pioneer life through its wealth of local history exhibits and collections. The museum preserves the rich heritage of Love County with authentic artifacts and informative displays that tell the story of the region's early settlers. Visitors can explore various aspects of pioneer living while gaining appreciation for the challenges and triumphs of those who shaped the area's development.
2. Norton's Indian Territory Museum
VINTAGE BOTTLE COLLECTION
Norton's Indian Territory Museum, housed in a building dating from 1890, features an impressive collection of more than 500 old soda bottles from throughout Oklahoma and Indian Territory. The unique museum also displays hundreds of antique items from Marietta and surrounding areas, including historical pictures, checks, letterheads, national currency, and medicine bottles. Thousands of arrowheads are included in the collection, and guided tours are available upon request.
3. McGehee's Catfish Restaurant
FAMOUS LOCAL DINING
McGehee's Catfish Restaurant is an ever-popular dining establishment known for its all-you-can-eat catfish dinners. The restaurant pairs its signature catfish with generous helpings of homemade hushpuppies and fries, creating a satisfying meal that keeps patrons coming back. Visitors to Marietta often make McGehee's a must-visit destination for authentic Southern cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.
4. Love County Military Museum
HONORING MILITARY SERVICE
The Love County Military Museum pays tribute to local veterans and military history through thoughtfully curated exhibits and memorabilia. Visitors can explore artifacts, uniforms, photographs, and personal stories that highlight the sacrifices and contributions of Love County residents who served in various conflicts. The museum offers an educational experience that connects guests with the region's proud military heritage and honors those who served.
5. Love County Frontier Days
ANNUAL COMMUNITY CELEBRATION
Love County Frontier Days is a cherished annual event that celebrates the area's pioneer heritage and community spirit. The festival features live entertainment on the Frontier Days Stage, along with various activities that highlight local traditions and history. Visitors and residents alike enjoy this opportunity to connect with Marietta's past while creating new memories through food, music, and cultural experiences.
6. Marietta Train Depot
HISTORIC RAILWAY STATION
The Marietta Train Depot stands as a well-preserved reminder of the town's important connection to railway history and development. The historic structure offers visitors a glimpse into the era when train travel was vital to the region's growth and commerce. Architecture enthusiasts and history buffs appreciate the depot's period details and its significance to Marietta's transportation heritage.
7. Lake Murray State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Lake Murray State Park, located near Marietta, is Oklahoma's oldest and largest state park, offering 12,500 acres of natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can enjoy the crystal-clear waters of Lake Murray for swimming, boating, fishing, and water sports, or explore miles of hiking trails through diverse landscapes. The park also features golf, ATV riding areas, cabins, campgrounds, and the historic Tucker Tower Nature Center, making it a complete destination for nature enthusiasts.
8. WinStar World Casino and Resort
WORLD-CLASS GAMING EXPERIENCE
WinStar World Casino and Resort, located just minutes from Marietta, is one of the largest casinos in the world, offering an extensive gaming floor with thousands of electronic games and table options. The resort features luxury accommodations, a spa, golf course, and multiple dining venues ranging from casual to fine dining experiences. Entertainment seekers will find world-class concerts and shows at the Global Event Center, making WinStar a complete entertainment destination.
9. Turner Falls Park
NATURAL WATERFALL WONDER
Turner Falls Park showcases Oklahoma's tallest waterfall, creating a stunning 77-foot cascade that flows into natural swimming areas surrounded by Arbuckle Mountain scenery. Visitors can explore natural caves, hike scenic trails, or enjoy swimming and wading in the clear, cool waters below the falls. The park's castle-like stone structures add historical interest to this natural playground that's perfect for photography, picnicking, and outdoor recreation.
10. Chickasaw Cultural Center
NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE
The Chickasaw Cultural Center offers an immersive journey into the history, culture, and traditions of the Chickasaw Nation through interactive exhibits and demonstrations. The expansive campus includes the Chikasha Poya Exhibit Center, Traditional Village, and beautiful gardens where visitors can experience traditional dances, storytelling, and authentic cuisine. State-of-the-art presentations and hands-on activities connect guests with the living heritage of the Chickasaw people in a meaningful and educational environment.
11. Red River Valley Museum
REGIONAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Red River Valley Museum, located in nearby Vernon, Texas, houses extensive collections that tell the story of the region's natural history, agriculture, and cultural development. Exhibits include prehistoric fossils, Native American artifacts, pioneer life displays, and military history related to the Red River Valley area. The museum's Waggoner Ranch exhibit particularly highlights the legacy of one of Texas' most historic ranches, offering insight into the cattle industry that shaped the region.
12. Toy and Action Figure Museum
NOSTALGIC POP CULTURE
The Toy and Action Figure Museum houses an impressive collection of over 13,000 action figures, toys, and pop culture memorabilia that delights visitors of all ages. The museum's centerpiece is the diorama room, featuring elaborate displays of action figures in creative scenes that showcase the artistry and imagination behind toy collecting. Rotating exhibits, a dedicated Oklahoma cartoonist section, and a hands-on play area make this unique attraction a nostalgic journey for adults and an interactive adventure for children.
13. Ardmore Regional Park
FAMILY RECREATION CENTER
Ardmore Regional Park offers extensive recreational facilities centered around the beautiful Lake Murray, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and sports fields for families to enjoy. The park features a splash pad, playgrounds, and fishing opportunities that make it perfect for visitors seeking outdoor activities in a well-maintained setting. Special events throughout the year, including festivals and outdoor concerts, add to the park's appeal as a community gathering place.
14. Santa's Snack Shack
QUIRKY ROADSIDE STOP
Santa's Snack Shack is a charming roadside attraction in Marietta offering homemade ice cream, snacks, and unique gift items year-round. The whimsical Christmas-themed shop creates a festive atmosphere regardless of season, with holiday decorations and Santa memorabilia throughout. Travelers along I-35 often make this a must-stop destination for its friendly service, sweet treats, and memorable photo opportunities.
15. Hardy Murphy Coliseum
HISTORIC EVENT VENUE
Hardy Murphy Coliseum, built in 1937 as a WPA project, hosts numerous equestrian events, rodeos, and community gatherings throughout the year. The historic venue features a distinctive art deco architectural style and continues to serve as an important cultural hub for the region. Visitors can attend various scheduled events or appreciate the building's historical significance and craftsmanship that represents an important era in Oklahoma's development.