Ponca City OklahomaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Ponca City, Oklahoma.
1. Marland Mansion and Estate
HISTORIC OIL BARON HOME
Marland Mansion and Estate is an opulent 55-room palace built in the 1920s by oil tycoon E.W. Marland, reflecting Italian Renaissance architecture and lavish interiors. Visitors can tour the grand halls, landscaped grounds, and learn about the fascinating history of Marland and the city's oil boom. The estate is often called the 'Palace on the Prairie' and remains Ponca City's most iconic landmark.
2. The Poncan Theater
RESTORED VAUDEVILLE VENUE
The Poncan Theater is a beautifully restored 1927 Art Deco movie palace that hosts live performances, movies, and community events. Its ornate interiors feature hand-painted movie posters and vintage architectural details, delighting visitors with a step back in time. The theater continues to serve as a cultural hub for Ponca City's performing arts.
3. Marland's Grand Home
FIRST MARLAND RESIDENCE
Marland's Grand Home is the original residence of E.W. Marland, showcasing early 20th-century design along with exhibits on local history and the Marland family. The mansion includes period furnishings, Native American artifacts, and changing displays. Its guided tours reveal insights into Ponca City's rise during the oil boom.
4. Conoco Museum
OIL INDUSTRY HISTORY
The Conoco Museum offers a comprehensive look into the history and impact of Conoco, one of America's most influential oil companies, founded in Ponca City. Interactive exhibits and rare artifacts highlight the evolution of energy and its role in shaping the region. The museum provides educational experiences for both adults and children.
5. Pioneer Woman Museum
TRIBUTE TO WOMEN'S SPIRIT
The Pioneer Woman Museum celebrates the legacy and achievements of women who shaped the American West, especially in Oklahoma. Its exhibits feature artifacts, artwork, and interactive displays about settlers and pioneers. Outside, the iconic Pioneer Woman Statue stands as a symbol of courage and resilience.
6. Standing Bear Park and Museum
NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE
Standing Bear Park and Museum honors Native American cultures, especially the six local tribes, with a blend of outdoor sculptures, walking trails, and a modern museum. The centerpiece, a 22-foot bronze statue of Chief Standing Bear, symbolizes peace and justice. Visitors can enjoy cultural exhibits, a peaceful park setting, and annual powwows.
7. Lake Ponca
RECREATIONAL LAKE ESCAPE
Lake Ponca is a popular outdoor recreation area offering boating, fishing, camping, and water sports for visitors of all ages. The lake is surrounded by parkland with picnic areas, hiking trails, and a well-maintained swimming beach during summer months. Its scenic setting provides a relaxing retreat just minutes from downtown Ponca City.
8. Lew Wentz Golf Course
SCENIC PUBLIC GOLF
Lew Wentz Golf Course is an 18-hole public golf facility located on the banks of Lake Ponca, renowned for its challenging layout and spectacular views. The course caters to all skill levels and includes a driving range and practice greens. Golf enthusiasts appreciate its blend of natural beauty and affordable rates.
9. Silvertop Farms & Vineyards
WORKING FARM & WINERY
Silvertop Farms & Vineyards is a 4,000-acre operational farm offering tours, tastings, and a selection of locally produced wines. The venue hosts special events and provides a unique agritourism experience just outside Ponca City. Visitors can sample products, enjoy rural scenery, and learn about Oklahoma agriculture.
10. Ice on the Plaza
SEASONAL SKATING RINK
Ice on the Plaza is a synthetic ice skating rink set up each winter in downtown Ponca City's Veteran's Plaza. This festive attraction offers skating and special nightly events, drawing locals and visitors for holiday fun. It serves as a centerpiece for seasonal gatherings and community celebrations.
11. Ponca City Art Center
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
Ponca City Art Center exhibits a wide variety of visual art created by regional and national artists in a historic mansion setting. The center also offers art classes, workshops, and regular community events. It is a key destination for creative inspiration and cultural enrichment in Ponca City.
12. Rusty Barrell Supper Club
CLASSIC STEAKHOUSE DINING
Rusty Barrell Supper Club is a long-standing local favorite, known for its prime steaks, seafood, and classic supper club atmosphere. The restaurant features a unique speakeasy-style entrance and a cozy lounge for cocktails. Its quality food and friendly service make it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.
13. Farmer's Market at Pioneer Woman Museum
FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE
The Farmer's Market at Pioneer Woman Museum features vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and artisan products from the region. Held weekly, it provides a lively spot for locals and guests to shop directly from Oklahoma farmers and makers. The market offers a true taste of local flavor and community spirit.
14. Ponca Playhouse
COMMUNITY THEATER PERFORMANCES
Ponca Playhouse has been entertaining audiences since 1959 with a diverse lineup of community theater productions. The venue stages comedies, dramas, musicals, and family-friendly shows in an intimate setting. Its productions are a testament to Ponca City's lively arts scene and community involvement.
15. Kaw Lake
NATURE AND WATER ACTIVITIES
Kaw Lake, located a short drive from Ponca City, is a major destination for fishing, boating, camping, and wildlife observation. Its expansive shoreline and surrounding parklands offer hiking, birdwatching, and opportunities for water recreation. The lake is a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking scenic vistas and tranquility.