Only in OKlahoma Show

Today, we're showing you why Roger Mills County is home to a "prairie masterpiece." We're diving deep into the Black Kettle National Grasslands, a sprawling 30,000-acre network of untouched beauty that's part of a massive 1.9-million-acre "sky island" system managed by the Cibola National Forest.

From the soul-stirring big skies of Western Oklahoma to the somber history of Peace Chief Black Kettle and the Washita Battlefield, this episode covers the ecological recovery of the "Dirty Thirties" and the best ways to enjoy the land today.

In the first half, we discuss:

• The "Sky Islands": How Oklahoma's grasslands connect to New Mexico's mountain ranges.

• Outdoor Adventure: Kayaking the "No Wake" zones of Dead Warrior, Skipout, and Spring Creek Lakes.

• Film History: Why the landscape near Sayre was the perfect backdrop for The Grapes of Wrath.

• Travel Tips: Why you should pair your visit with a classic Route 66 road trip.

After the break: We head to Norman, Oklahoma, for some "oceanfront" property news. For nearly 20 years, a 10,500-square-foot building has sat vacant on the water. We have the scoop on Uncle Julio's Mexican from Scratch finally moving into the infamous Wayne's Waterside Grill location. We dig into the foreclosure history, the $1.7 million sale, and what this means for the Norman dining scene in 2026.

Links Mentioned:

• Cibola National Forest & Grasslands

• Washita Battlefield National Historic Site

#OnlyInOK #OklahomaRoadTrip #BlackKettleGrasslands #ExploreOK #NormanOK #WesternOklahoma #OklahomaHistory #Route66 #TulsaToOKC #OutdoorOklahoma

From world-class culinary takeovers to the biggest retail news in decades, Oklahoma's food and shopping scenes are leveling up! In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're recapping our incredible dining experience with Chef Scott Conant and giving you the inside scoop on the next big event at Seven Ponies. Plus, the rumors are true—IKEA is finally coming to the 918!

Part 1: Culinary Stars at Choctaw Casino & Resort – Pocola

We take you inside the Celebrity Chef Takeover at Seven Ponies. We recap the sophisticated flavors of Chef Scott Conant's menu, from the Macaroni di Semolina to that legendary Chocolate Budino.

Don't miss the next big event: On Friday, March 27th, Food Network star Damaris Phillips brings her "Southern Sweetheart" style to Pocola. We break down the mouth-watering menu, including Beaten Biscuit Panzanella, Pork Confit with Smoky Grits, and Derby Pie Pots de Crème.

• Pro Tip: Tickets for the Damaris Phillips takeover are on sale now! Get tickets here .

Part 2: Stop the Car—IKEA is Coming to Tulsa!

Put down the Allen wrench and cancel your road trip to Frisco! We discuss the official announcement that IKEA is opening its first Oklahoma location in Tulsa Hills.

• The Details: We dive into the "City Store" format coming to the former Belk location (7309 S Olympia Ave).

• The Perks: Yes, the Swedish meatballs and cinnamon rolls are included!

• The Impact: What this means for Oklahoma's economy and why shoppers from three states will be flocking to Tulsa in Fall 2026.

#OnlyInOK #OklahomaFoodie #ChoctawPocola #DamarisPhillips #ScottConant #IKEATulsa #TulsaHills #ExploreOklahoma #OKCEvents #TulsaShopping #SouthernCooking #SevenPonies

Think pigeons are just "sky rats"? Think again. This week, we're heading to 2300 NE 63rd St to explore the American Pigeon Museum & Heritage Center, a world-class facility hidden on 10 beautiful acres in Oklahoma City.

From War Heroes like Cher Ami—the bird that saved a WWI battalion—to high-stakes Pigeon Racing athletes worth thousands of dollars, we're diving into the fascinating (and surprisingly zen) world of these feathered veterans. You'll learn about "Rolling" competitions, birds with bell-bottom feet, and why the pigeon was actually the first domesticated bird in history.

In the second half of the show: We're celebrating "Real American Heroes" right here in Norman. We highlight the heartwarming story of Lyz Farrar (owner of Donate-A-Miracle) and the group of local high school seniors who stepped up to support her thrift store and the community.

In This Episode:

• The World of Wings: Exploring the diversity of the African Owl and the Parlor Roller.

• Feathered Veterans: The emotional history of the Dickin Medal and pigeons in combat.

• The Sport of Kings: How pigeon racing works and the high stakes involved.

• Community Spotlight: Norman seniors Everett Lee, Skylar Lipscomb, and Trenam Verbick giving back to Donate-A-Miracle.

Plan Your Visit:

• Location: 2300 NE 63rd St, Oklahoma City, OK

• Hours: Friday & Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm

• Admission: Free (Suggested $5 donation)

• Website: theamericanpigeonmuseum.org

Support Our Sponsors:

Today's show is brought to you by Friends of Nicoma Park. Support local community initiatives at facebook.com/friendsofnicomapark.

#OklahomaCity #OnlyInOK #AmericanPigeonMuseum #OKCHistory #NormanOK #PigeonRacing #CherAmi #DonateAMiracle #OklahomaMuseums #VisitOKC #GoodNewsOklahoma #CommunityHeroes

The Wild West isn't just a theme—it's a survival story. In this episode of Only in OK, we are diving deep into the dusty, high-octane history of Frontier City. This Oklahoma City icon isn't just a theme park; it's a survivor that outlasted real estate developers, economic crashes, and even an F2 tornado.

We explore how a 1957 state birthday exhibit became the secret headquarters of the global Six Flags empire while the rest of us were just waiting in line for the Silver Bullet. Whether you're a rollercoaster nut or a fan of Oklahoma history, strap in—we're going back to the Old West, right off I-35.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• The "Boomtown" Origins: How Hollywood publicist James Burge saw Disneyland in '55 and decided OKC needed a slice of the action.

• The Park That Refused to Die: How the 1980s oil crunch accidentally saved Frontier City from being demolished for a real estate development.

• The Six Flags Birthplace: The "Only in OK" fact—the company that bought Six Flags (Premier Parks) started in a small office in the Frontier City parking lot.

• Frontier City on Film: From the gritty streets of Dillinger (1973) to the cult horror of The Fun Park and the neon nights of American Ninja Warrior.

• Ride Deep Dives: The resurrection of the Wildcat, the "hand-me-down" pedigree of the Silver Bullet, and the interactive history of Quick Draw.

• The 2021 "Water Hero": A look back at the guest who climbed the lift hill to save stuck passengers (and got a 5-year ban for it).

Frontier City Ride Guide Ride Name Type Backstory Silver Bullet Steel Looping A classic Schwarzkopf model with high G-force and only a lap bar. Wildcat Wooden Resurrected after sitting abandoned in KC for 13 years; named by Deer Creek 6th graders. Diamondback Steel Shuttle Originally part of "Lightnin' Loops" at Six Flags Great Adventure. Steel Lasso Suspended Built for the 50th Anniversary; the first "feet-dangling" ride in OK. Valentine's Day Survival Guide: Science Museum Oklahoma

Need a sitter for Valentine's weekend? Science Museum Oklahoma has you covered with Parents' Night Out on February 13, 2026.

• Who: Kids aged 6-12.

• What: After-hours museum access, science activities, pizza, and supervision.

• Cost: $60 for members / $70 for non-members.

• Deadline: Register by February 9th at sciencemuseumok.org.

Partner Spotlight: Enid SOS

Our partner for today's show is Enid Street Outreach Services (Enid SOS). They provide essential services—food, showers, medical advocacy, and shelter—to the unsheltered and low-income community in Enid, OK.

• How to help: Donate clothing (jeans/sleeping bags) or volunteer your time.

• Learn more: Visit enidsos.org .

#Frontier City #OklahomaCityHistory #OnlyInOK #SixFlagsHistory #OKCPodcast #SilverBullet #WildcatCoaster #OklahomaTravel #EnidSOS #ScienceMuseumOK #ParentsNightOut

Is it a National Park or a clerical error? In this episode of the Only in OK Show, Brett and Harley dive into the hilarious history of Guthrie's "smallest National Park" and explores the most charming small towns across the Sooner State.

The Typo That Made History: Guthrie's Tiny Landmark

Did you know Oklahoma is home to the smallest National Park landmark in the country? Well, technically. Located behind the Guthrie Post Office lies a 10x10 patch of land that exists solely because a city clerk in 1907 didn't double-check their math.

Instead of a "100-foot square" plot (10,000 sq. ft.), the paperwork officially designated it as "100 square feet." Today, this "park" is a cult-favorite roadside attraction complete with:

• An unofficial "Park Ranger" (Stacey Frazier).

• A wrought iron fence and the historic Beacon Hill monument.

• "Don't Feed the Bears" signs—despite the only bears being located in nearby antique shops.

Exploring the 10 Most Adorable Small Towns in Oklahoma

After we "hike" through Guthrie, we zoom out to look at the soul of the state. Based on recent rankings from World Atlas, we break down the must-visit spots for your next Oklahoma road trip:

• The Scenic Superstars: Broken Bow's towering pines and Eufaula's massive shoreline.

• Healing Waters: The Arbuckle duo of Sulphur and Davis (don't forget the Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies!).

• The Cobblestone Charm: Medicine Park, Oklahoma's first resort town.

• Star Power: Atoka (Reba's Place), Ada (Blake Shelton's stomping grounds), and Pawhuska (The Pioneer Woman & Osage Nation).

• Culture & History: Hands-on blacksmithing in Grove and the stunning fall foliage of Talihina.

Links & Resources Mentioned

• United States Smallest National Park Facebook Page

• World Atlas: 10 Most Adorable Small Towns in Oklahoma

• Follow us on Social Media: [Insert your links here]

Enjoyed the show? If you visit any of these spots, tell them the Only in OK Show sent you!

#OnlyInOK #OklahomaHistory #SoonerState #OklahomaRoadTrip #ExploreOklahoma #OKPodcasts #TravelOK #OklahomaLife #GuthrieOK #SmallestNationalPark #RoadsideAttractions #TravelOddities #OklahomaHistory #GuthrieGhostWalk #HistoricGuthrie #ClericalError #SmallTownOklahoma #MedicinePark #BrokenBow #ArbuckleMountains #Pawhuska #BeaversBend #TurnerFalls #TalimenaDrive #RebasPlace #ChickasawNation #OsageNation #ArbuckleFriedPies #FriedPies #OklahomaTravel #SmallTownCharm #HiddenGems #OklahomaOutdoors

Is Oklahoma hiding a massive desert adventure? 🦬🏜️

In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're skipping the 8-hour drive to Texas and heading straight to the Charon Gardens Wilderness Area in the Wichita Mountains. If you've been dreaming of Big Bend's rugged canyons and granite peaks, you won't believe what's waiting for you just west of Medicine Park. From "Crab Eyes" to scrambling up Elk Mountain, we break down why this 5,700-acre gem might actually be better than a National Park.

After the break, we get serious about safety on Oklahoma roads. 🚔 The Oklahoma Highway Patrol is facing a massive shortage, and they're asking the State Capitol for $25.8 million. We dive into the "Always On" problem, the rural coverage gap, and why nearly 200 missing troopers should matter to every driver in the Sooner State.

📍 In This Episode:

• The Big Bend Dupe: Why Charon Gardens is a climber's and hiker's paradise.

• Wildlife Showdown: Bison & Elk vs. Bears & Lions.

• The Parallel Forest: Oklahoma's creepiest (and coolest) tree grove.

• OHP's Big Ask: The $26 million plan to fix the trooper shortage.

• Rural Reality: What happens when help is hours away?

🥾 Resources Mentioned:

• Charon Gardens Permits: Recreation.gov

• Visit: Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

• Join the Force: OHP 76th Academy Recruitment

If you visit any of the spots mentioned in today's show, make sure to tell them the "Only in OK Show" sent you!

#Oklahoma #WichitaMountains #CharonGardens #OnlyInOK #HikingOklahoma #OklahomaHighway Patrol #OKStateParks #BigBend #Bison #ExploreOK #MedicinePark #OHP

In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're exploring the "public art gallery without walls" in Shawnee, Oklahoma. Discover the story behind the Painted Horses, a collection of nearly 40 life-sized fiberglass masterpieces scattered throughout the city. We talk about the project's origins with former Mayor Chuck Mills, the impact of the 2023 Shawnee tornado on the herd, and where you can find fan favorites like "Indian Blanket" and "Evening Star." It's the perfect DIY scavenger hunt for your next Oklahoma road trip!

After the break: We're shifting gears to road safety. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) is launching a major statewide crackdown on distracted driving for the remainder of January 2026. Learn about the new enforcement rules, the $100 fine for holding a phone, and why Col. Joe Williams says putting your phone down is a matter of life and death.

We're also highlighting the incredible work of Enid SOS (Street Outreach Services), a non-profit dedicated to providing food, shelter, and medical advocacy to the unsheltered community in Enid.

Resources Mentioned:

• Find the horse map at VisitShawnee.com

• Support local outreach at EnidSOS.org

• Pick up a physical map at the Visit Shawnee office: 2820 N Kickapoo.

#OnlyInOK #VisitShawnee #ShawneeOK #PaintedHorses #OklahomaRoadTrip #OHP #DriveSafeOK #EnidSOS #OklahomaPublicArt #ExploreOklahoma #Route66Safety

Is there a secret kingdom hidden in the heart of Oklahoma City? This week, Brett and Harley are tracking down the "Gnome on the Range" at the historic Will Rogers Gardens. We dive into the magical world of fairy houses and gnome homes handcrafted by Robert Trobaugh of the OKC Parks Department. From "turtle traffic jams" to Easter Island-style sculptures, discover why this 30-acre oasis is the ultimate "Oklahoma Disney movie."

In this episode, we discuss:

• The Fairy Kingdom of 405: How Robert Trobaugh uses salvaged materials to build a five-star resort for mythological creatures.

• Will Rogers Gardens Gems: The Ed Lycan Conservatory's massive cacti collection and the historic WPA-era red stone shelters.

• Garden Bouncers: Why the "gazillion" turtles and koi are the real bosses of the park.

• Family Magic: Tips for starting your own fairy garden (and how to save your bank account from "miniature furniture" debt).

Break: Think Ability Inc.

We spotlight Think Ability Inc., a Duncan-based non-profit providing independent living support for people with developmental disabilities.

• Visit: Think Ability Garden Cafe at 805 West Main, Duncan, OK.

Celebrity Chef Takeovers at Choctaw Casinos

After the break, we're talking high-end eats! Choctaw Casinos & Resorts is bringing the heat this winter with exclusive celebrity chef restaurant takeovers.

• Alex Guarnaschelli: Jan 23–24 (Grant, OK)

• Scott Conant: Feb 13–14 (Pocola, OK)

• Jet Tila: Feb 27–28 (Choctaw Landing)

Links Mentioned:

• Finding the Fairies at Will Rogers Gardens (MetroFamily Magazine)

• Choctaw Casino Events

#OnlyInOK #OklahomaCity #WillRogersGardens #OKCParks #FairyGarden #GnomeLife #ChoctawCasinos #AlexGuarnaschelli #ScottConant #JetTila #OklahomaFoodie #VisitOKC #ThinkAbility #ExploreOklahoma

Get your kicks! 🛣️ In 2026, the legendary Route 66 turns 100, and Oklahoma is the heart of the celebration. Join Brett and Harley as they break down everything you need to know to navigate the "Mother Road" during its historic centennial year.

Oklahoma boasts over 400 miles of driveable pavement—the longest stretch in the nation. From world-record car parades in Tulsa to the neon glow of OKC, we're covering the festivals, the vintage races, and the hidden gems you can't miss.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The Big Events: The National Kickoff, The Great Race, and Route 66 Bike Week.

• Oklahoma's "Big Three" Festivals: Massive celebrations in Tulsa, OKC, and Vinita.

• Must-See Museums: Diving deep into Clinton, Elk City, and Chandler.

• Hidden Gems: Darryl Starbird's Rod & Custom Show and small-town magic in Sayre.

• 2025 Year in Review: Celebrating our 20 million views and 60k new followers!

• 2026 Sneak Peek: Pizza tours, Black Mesa road trips, and more.

Special Shoutout: Today's show is brought to you by Friends of Nicoma Park. Support their mission to build a 60-acre community hub with soccer fields, splash pads, and dog parks! 🔗 Follow them here: https://www.facebook.com/friendsofnicomapark

Resources Mentioned:

• Official Centennial Info: https://route66centennial.org/

• Get your Route 66 Supporter Pack: https://oklahomaroute66.com/news/centennial-supporter-pack

Timecodes: 0:00 - Intro: The Mother Road turns 100 2:15 - Why Oklahoma is the Heart of Route 66 5:30 - National Kickoff & The Great Race 9:45 - The Oklahoma Museum Trail 14:20 - Tulsa vs. OKC: The May 30th Showdown 18:10 - Small Town Magic: Sayre & Vinita 22:00 - Ad: Friends of Nicoma Park 25:30 - 2025 Year in Review: 20 Million Views! 28:45 - 2026 Preview: Pizza & Black Mesa 31:15 - The Feedbag: Mall Nostalgia

#Route66 #Oklahoma #Route66Centennial #MotherRoad #TravelOklahoma #OnlyInOK #ClassicCars #RoadTrip #ExploreOK #OKC #Tulsa #Route66Experience

Discover the "Gold Standard" of the Great Plains.

In this episode of the Only in OK Show, Brett and Harley take you to the furthest corner of the Panhandle to celebrate a historic milestone: Black Mesa State Park has officially become Oklahoma's first International Dark Sky Park.

We dive into what it took to achieve this prestigious designation from DarkSky International and why "nocturnal heritage" is the next big thing for Oklahoma tourism. From removing "islands of light" to protecting the biological rhythms of bighorn sheep and mountain lions, we explore why Black Mesa is now a premier global destination for astrotourism.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The 5-Year Transformation: How the park retrofitted lighting to eliminate light pollution.

• Where the Rockies Meet the Prairie: The unique geology of the 30-million-year-old black lava rock.

• The High Point Trail: Navigating the nature preserve and the famous Okie-Tex Star Party.

• Astrotourism's Economic Impact: How the village of Kenton and the OKC Astronomy Club put Oklahoma on the celestial map.

Stick around after the break: We're heading to Midwest City because Tinker Air Force Base is getting a "Glow Up." Learn about the latest developments and what it means for the community.

Plan your visit: https://www.travelok.com/state-parks/black-mesa-state-park-nature-preserve

Also discussed: Chickasha Christmas Lights, Yukon Christmas Lights, Ralphie's Restaurant, Tinker AFB and Midwest City

#OnlyInOK #BlackMesa #DarkSkyPark #Stargazing #OklahomaTravel #ExploreOK #Astrotourism #TinkerAFB #OklahomaStateParks #KeepTheDark