Putnam OklahomaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Putnam, Oklahoma.
1. Old Caldwell Trail Stables
HORSEBACK RIDING ADVENTURES
Old Caldwell Trail Stables offers exceptional horseback riding tours in Putnam, Oklahoma. Visitors can explore the scenic Oklahoma landscape on guided trail rides through varied terrain. The stables have earned a stellar 4.9 rating from visitors who appreciate the well-maintained horses and knowledgeable guides.
2. Washita National Wildlife Refuge
NATURE AND WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Washita National Wildlife Refuge provides a protected habitat for diverse wildlife near Putnam, Oklahoma. The refuge features extensive wetlands, grasslands, and waterways that attract numerous bird species, especially during migration seasons. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing, photography, and hiking throughout this natural sanctuary.
3. Mohawk Lodge Indian Store
NATIVE AMERICAN ARTS
Mohawk Lodge Indian Store showcases authentic Native American arts, crafts, and cultural items in Putnam. The store features handcrafted jewelry, pottery, textiles, and artwork created by local Native American artisans. Visitors appreciate the store's commitment to preserving and sharing indigenous culture through its carefully curated collection.
4. Centennial Land Run Monument
HISTORIC COMMEMORATION SCULPTURE
The Centennial Land Run Monument commemorates the historic Oklahoma Land Run of 1889 with dramatic bronze sculptures. The outdoor installation features 45 larger-than-life figures of land run participants, including horses, covered wagons, and settlers racing to claim land. This impressive monument stretches across 365 feet, making it one of the largest bronze sculptures in the world.
5. The Cave House
QUIRKY HISTORIC LANDMARK
The Cave House is a unique architectural oddity that began as a 1920s restaurant built to resemble a natural cave. The distinctive structure later became a private residence and now operates as an unusual tourist attraction with guided tours available. Visitors are fascinated by the building's whimsical design, complete with rounded edges, grottos, and cave-like features throughout.
6. Center Of The Universe
ACOUSTIC PHENOMENON SPOT
The Center Of The Universe in Tulsa features a mysterious acoustic phenomenon where someone standing in the center of a concrete circle hears their voice echoed back amplified. This strange acoustic anomaly draws curious visitors who want to experience the effect firsthand and test various sounds. The site is located on a pedestrian bridge near downtown Tulsa and is free to visit at any time.
7. BOK Center
PREMIER ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The BOK Center is a state-of-the-art arena hosting major concerts, sporting events, and entertainment performances near Putnam. The distinctive building, designed by renowned architect César Pelli, features a striking exterior with a swirling stainless steel façade inspired by Native American basket weaving. Since opening in 2008, this 19,199-seat venue has become one of Oklahoma's premier entertainment destinations.
8. Putnam Heights
HISTORIC RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOOD
Putnam Heights is a charming historic neighborhood in Oklahoma City known for its tree-lined streets and architectural diversity. The area features spacious parks and fosters a strong sense of community among residents. Visitors can enjoy walking tours to admire the well-preserved homes representing various architectural styles from the early 20th century.
9. Clanton's Café
HISTORIC FAMILY RESTAURANT
Clanton's Café holds the distinction of being the oldest continually owned family restaurant on Route 66 in Oklahoma. This fourth-generation establishment has been serving homestyle comfort food to travelers and locals for decades. Diners can enjoy classic Oklahoma dishes while surrounded by the restaurant's Route 66 memorabilia and historic photographs.
10. Eastern Trails Museum
REGIONAL HISTORY COLLECTION
The Eastern Trails Museum in Vinita offers free admission to explore artifacts showcasing the region's rich history. Exhibits highlight pioneer life, Native American culture, and the development of northeastern Oklahoma communities. Visitors can view historical photographs, tools, clothing, and other artifacts that tell the story of life along the eastern trails of Oklahoma.
11. Totem Pole Park
FOLK ART INSTALLATION
Totem Pole Park was created by folk artist Ed Galloway in the early 1940s as a unique outdoor art installation. The centerpiece is a 90-foot concrete totem pole decorated with hundreds of colorful carved images representing Native American symbols and folklore. Located about 4 miles east of Vinita on State Highway 28A, this folk art landmark is considered one of the most important examples of American outsider art.
12. Historic Texaco Filling Station
ROUTE 66 LANDMARK
The Historic Texaco Filling Station in Vinita was established in the 1930s along the original alignment of Route 66. This vintage gas station is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is currently being restored to its former glory. The restoration project aims to preserve this piece of Americana that represents the golden age of highway travel.
13. Andy Payne Boulevard
ORIGINAL ROUTE 66 CONCRETE
Andy Payne Boulevard represents the first stretch of original Portland Cement Concrete paving of Route 66 that westbound travelers encounter in Oklahoma. This historic roadway, renamed to honor Olympic runner Andy Payne, runs through the western half of Vinita. A commemorative statue of Andy Payne stands at the western end of this historic roadbed, celebrating his achievement as winner of the 1928 Trans-American Footrace.
14. Will Rogers Memorial Rodeo
HISTORIC ANNUAL CELEBRATION
The Will Rogers Memorial Rodeo has been a staple of Vinita's cultural heritage since 1935. This annual event celebrates Oklahoma's cowboy traditions with competitions including bull riding, barrel racing, and roping. Named after Oklahoma's favorite son, Will Rogers, the rodeo attracts participants and spectators from across the region each year.
15. World's Largest Calf Fry Festival
UNIQUE CULINARY EVENT
The World's Largest Calf Fry Festival has been a unique culinary celebration in Vinita since 1979. This distinctive event centers around calf fries (also known as Rocky Mountain oysters), a regional delicacy made from bull testicles. Beyond the signature dish, the festival features live music, craft vendors, and family activities that draw visitors from across the state.