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On U.S. 64 in the quiet college town of Alva sits a 1932 blond-brick building with over 40 rooms of pioneer history, WWII artifacts, and spine-chilling hauntings. Originally operating for 40 years as the Alva General Hospital, what is now the Cherokee Strip Museum is considered one of Oklahoma's top 10 most haunted locations. In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we dive deep into the heavy history and active paranormal phenomena surrounding this Northwest Oklahoma gem. From phantom figures peering out of top-floor windows to objects flinging across empty rooms, player pianos sounding on their own, and phantom face reflections caught on camera near the vintage iron lung, this former hospital holds secrets that refuse to stay buried. In this episode, we cover: The Hospital Years (1932–1972): Decades of births, deaths, and tales of restless patient spirits in search of vindication. The Layout & Paranormal Epicenter: Exploring the top-floor former surgical suite, vintage embalming setups, main-floor military exhibits, and the lower-floor morgue. Trapper the German POW Spirit: The story of a resident ghost attached to a WWII POW camp artifact who once followed a student volunteer home. WWII & Local Heritage: The museum's connection to Alva's WWII German POW camp, including rare reel-to-reel footage, plus the award-winning "A Day at Rose Hill School" 1910 pioneer living history program. Whether you're visiting for the rich pioneer heritage or booking an after-hours paranormal investigation to test your courage, this is a must-see Oklahoma destination. If you go, keep your camera pointed at the iron lung—you never know who might be posing with you! Visitor Information: Cherokee Strip Museum 901 14th St, Alva, OK 73717 Also discussed:  FOX 25, Chickasha Soup Kitchen & Dawn Aerospace #Oklahoma #OnlyInOKShow #CherokeeStripMuseum #AlvaOK #HauntedOklahoma #Paranormal #GhostStories #OklahomaHistory #TravelOK #WWIIHistory #PioneerHistory

Imagine stepping into a bar where silent film star Tom Mix once poured drinks, where bullet holes pepper the ceiling, and where the spirits of 1889 might still be watching from the top of the stairs. This week on the Only in OK Show, we're heading to the heart of Guthrie's National Historic Landmark district to explore one of Oklahoma Territory's oldest and most notorious watering holes: the Blue Belle Saloon. Located at 224 W. Harrison Ave, the Blue Belle is a unique mix of territorial grit, Wild West scandal, and spine-chilling paranormal lore. Join us as we dive into its rich and wild past: Wild West Royalty & Bartenders: Founded during the 1889 Land Run by John Selstrom and Jack Tearney, the saloon hosted regular patrons like Temple Houston (son of Sam Houston) and once employed Hollywood cowboy legend Tom Mix behind the bar. Architectural Quirks: From its 1903 brick upgrade to the Fred Heim Brewing Co. "C-11" crest and dual beveled entryways, discover what makes this building a stand-out landmark. Scandals, Bordellos, & Tunnels: Explore the history of Madame "Miss Lizzie," the upper-floor 17-room bordello, the old iron sky-walk connecting to the Elks Hotel, and rumors of Prohibition-era underground tunnels. Hauntings & Urban Legends: From disembodied voices and flying glasses to the spirits of Miss Lizzie, Estelle, and the tragic legend of Claudia, we separate documented history from spooky local lore. Exploring Guthrie Today: How you can visit the exterior, spot surrounding historic markers (like the Same Old Moses Saloon), and check out local walking tours. Listener Questions: Would you spend a night alone upstairs in one of those 17 former bordello rooms? What do you think makes Guthrie such a massive hotspot for paranormal activity compared to other Oklahoma towns? Show Notes & Links: Learn more about local hauntings with Dust, Death, and Devils: Guthrie Ghost Tour: https://usghostadventures.com/guthrie-ghost-tour/  Also discussed: Think Ability Inc. & KFOR #OnlyInOKShow #OnlyInOklahoma #GuthrieOK #BlueBelleSaloon #OklahomaHistory #TerritorialOklahoma #GhostTours #HauntedOklahoma #TomMix #WildWestHistory #OkiePodcasts #ExploreOK

Downtown Oklahoma City is turning vibrant, colorful, and deeply meaningful! In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're diving into the details for the upcoming OKC Festival de Vida y Muerte (Día de los Muertos), presented by Supermercados Morelos at Scissortail Park. Día de los Muertos is not a spooky or somber holiday—it's a joyful multi-day celebration to honor, remember, and cherish loved ones who have passed through food, music, art, and community. With over 12,000 attendees last year, this has quickly become one of the largest and most vibrant cultural gatherings in Oklahoma! In this episode, we cover:  What is Día de los Muertos? Discover the rich history blending indigenous Mesoamerican/Aztec traditions with Spanish Catholic observances. Community Ofrendas (Altars): View the intricately designed altars decorated with marigolds, cherished photos, and traditional offerings. Catrina & Alebrije Pet Parade + Contest: Highlights of the elaborate La Catrina makeup, traditional costumes, and dressed-up pets! El Mercado & Art: Browse local artisan crafts, pottery, clothing, and live face-painting stations. Family & Food: Explore hands-on children's activities, 14 local food trucks serving authentic Latin cuisine, plus live Mariachi, traditional dance troupes, and acoustic folk music all day long! Event Logistics Quick Recap: 📍 Where: Scissortail Park (Great Lawn) – 415 S Robinson Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 🗓️ When: Sunday, November 1, 2026 | 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Market open until 9:00 PM) 🎟️️ Admission: FREE & open to all ages! 🔗 Check out the full event schedule online at ScissortailPark.org and follow along on social media! Also discussed: Enid SOS, KFOR, & Buc-EEs #OnlyInOK #OnlyInOKShow #OKCFestivalDeVidaYMuerte #DiaDeLosMuertosOKC #ScissortailPark #OKCEvents #DiscoverOKC #OklahomaCity #SupermercadosMorelos #VisitOKC #OKCCulture #DayOfTheDead #OKCFoodies #OklahomaPodcasts

Depew, Oklahoma may hold the quirky distinction of being the very first town bypassed on Route 66, but this small Creek County hamlet with "Strong Roots and a Bright Future" is anything but forgotten. In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we dive into Depew's rich history, from its origins on Muscogee (Creek) Nation land and its wild 1911 oil boom to the iconic 1920s concrete that road-trippers still travel on the historic "Depew Loop." Plus, we break down everything you need to know about the upcoming 3rd Annual Route 66 Fall Festival & Car Show! Organized by the all-volunteer Depew Ladies Auxiliary Club, this family-friendly event serves as a major fundraiser for the Depew Volunteer Fire Department. Event Details: Date & Time: Saturday, October 24, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM Location: Historic Main Street, Depew, OK Admission: FREE for families! Festival Highlights: Car, Truck & Motorcycle Show: $10 entry fee (includes goodie bag & trophy entry). Categories include Best in Show, Best Paint, People's Choice, and more! Kids' Wheels Division: FREE entry for Power Wheels, ATVs, and ride-ons—and every kid takes home a trophy! Family Fun: Arts & craft vendors, local food trucks, raffles, a rock-climbing wall, obstacle courses, bounce houses, and inflatable slides. Get Involved & Support: Car Show Registration: Call Destiny Parrick at (918) 698-6839 Updates & Information: Connect with the Depew Ladies Auxiliary Club on Facebook Pack up the family, drive the original 1926 alignment, support local firefighters, and experience authentic small-town Oklahoma hospitality! Also discussed:  OK State Fair, Medicine Park, KFOR, Fright Fest, Frontier City #OnlyInOK #Route66 #Route66Centennial #DepewOK #OklahomaHistory #Route66Oklahoma #MotherRoad #ExploreOklahoma #OklahomaEvents #CarShow #SmallTownOK #CreekCounty

Red Earth FallFest is making a huge move to Scissortail Park in downtown Oklahoma City! In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we break down everything you need to know about this free, family-friendly autumn festival celebrating Indigenous art, youth, and culture. Join us as we explore what's in store for Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We dive into the Red Earth Youth Powwow, featuring young Native dancers across categories from Fancy Shawl and Jingle to the crowd-favorite Tiny Tots (with Grand Entry at 12:00 PM!). Plus, get details on the expanded outdoor Native Art Market, featuring authentic beadwork, pottery, jewelry, fashion, and contemporary Indigenous art. We also map out the perfect "Make a Day of It" downtown itinerary, starting with the Scissortail Farmers Market, hitting the local food trucks, and wrapping up in time for a downtown dinner. What We Cover: Red Earth FallFest Details: Dates, dancer check-in info, and artist/vendor applications via RedEarth.org . The Main Event: Youth Powwow schedule, dance styles, and drum groups. Native Art Market: Shopping authentic, handmade Indigenous art and jewelry. Also Discussed: Enid Street Outreach Services, Oklahoma State Fair, the Toby Keith Expressway, and KFOR. Grab your lawn chairs, pack a blanket, and come celebrate Oklahoma culture with us! #OklahomaCity #OnlyInOKShow #RedEarthFallFest #ScissortailPark #YouthPowwow #NativeArtMarket #OKCEvents #ExploreOKC #IndigenousArt #OklahomaCulture #OklahomaPodcasts

We are diving into one of the biggest music events in Oklahoma City: Banjo Fest 2026! Hosted right in the heart of downtown OKC's Bricktown district at the world-renowned American Banjo Museum, this three-day celebration (October 8–10, 2026) highlights America's adopted native instrument with live jams, workshops, and Hall of Fame inductions. Housing over 400 instruments across a massive 21,000-square-foot facility, the American Banjo Museum features the largest collection of banjos on public display in the world, tracing the instrument's story from its roots in African history to minstrel, jazz, bluegrass, and modern acoustic styles. Banjo Fest 2026 Weekend Highlights: Thursday, Oct 8: Kickoff Welcome Reception & BBQ (6 PM–10 PM) followed by late-night "A Night at the Museum" jam sessions open to all skill levels. Friday, Oct 9: Daytime workshops (10 AM–3 PM) leading into the formal Hall of Fame Dinner & Induction Ceremony at the Skirvin Hilton Hotel Venetian Room. Saturday, Oct 10 (Main Event): Bricktown Banjo Bash from 12 PM–5 PM! This event is 100% FREE to the public across the museum and Bricktown venues, featuring pickers like Gary "Biscuit" Davis, Gavin Rice, Mark Johnson, Lucas Ross, and more. Wrap up the weekend with the Pizza Parlor Sing-Along Party (6 PM–9 PM) at the museum! 2026 Hall of Fame Inductees: Mark Johnson (Five-String Performance): Creator of "Clawgrass" and Steve Martin Award winner. Howard Alden (Four-String Performance): Renowned jazz guitarist elevating tenor banjo. Bill Dendle (Education & Innovation): Iconic jazz educator and performer. Banjomania (Promotion): Pioneer group blending 4-string and 5-string styles. David "Stringbean" Akeman (Historical): Early Bluegrass Boy and beloved Hee Haw star. Brent Hayes (Historical): Early 20th-century world-touring virtuoso. Visitor & Event Details: Address: 9 E Sheridan Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73104 Phone: (405) 604-2793 Website: https://americanbanjomuseum.com/banjofest2026/ Also discussed:   #BanjoFest2026 #OnlyInOKShow #AmericanBanjoMuseum #BricktownOKC #OklahomaCity #Banjo #DiscoverOKC #ExploreOklahoma #LiveMusicOKC #BluegrassMusic #JazzBanjo

If you're driving Route 66 through Catoosa, most folks stop for the famous Blue Whale—but just down the road sits one of the coolest, most surprisingly diverse hidden gems in the entire state: the D.W. Correll Museum! D.W. Correll was a prominent local businessman whose lifelong, passionate curiosity created a personal collection so expansive that it took a dedicated team three full years just to curate it for the public. Spread across two giant buildings, this incredible stop blends pure Americana, world-class geology, rare automotive history, and heavy machinery. In this episode, we explore: Building 1: Geological Wonders & Worldly Treasures – A deep dive into Oklahoma's Tri-State mining roots (galena, sphalerite, quartz crystals), massive global geode and fossil displays, Native American artifacts, antique decanters, and rotating exhibits like the Tulsa Ship Modelers Society's Port City Model Ship Exhibit. Bonus: You can even buy select rock and mineral specimens to take home! Building 2: Vintage Wheels & Heavy Machinery – Over 100 years of fully working, meticulously restored automotive history. Highlights include an 1898 steam-powered Locomobile, a 1902 Oldsmobile Runabout, a 1917 Twin 6 Packard, a 1926 Rolls-Royce, 1927 & 1929 Stutz 8s, a 1957 Chevy 210, horse-drawn buggies, vintage Texaco gas pumps, and antique toy tractors. Visitor Info & Programs – Budget-friendly admission ($5 Adults, $4 Seniors, $2 Youth, FREE for Military ID holders), car club cruise-in opportunities, and educational field trip programs where kids get hands-on Earth science lessons and real rocks/fossils to take home! Visitor & Booking Information: To schedule special tours or group visits, contact Director Eric Hamshar via the City of Catoosa. Official Website: https://www.cityofcatoosa.org/page/dw-correll-museum Also discussed: Think Ability Inc, KOCO, Oklahoma City's iconic Gold Dome & Precor Realty Advisors. Tune in to discover why this spot needs to be on your next Route 66 road trip itinerary! #OnlyInOKShow #Route66 #Route66Oklahoma #CatoosaOK #DWCorrellMuseum #ExploreOklahoma #OklahomaTravel #HiddenGemsOK #ClassicCars #VintageAutomobiles #GeologyLovers #OklahomaHistory #RoadTripOK #DiscoverOklahoma

Even if you aren't typically an outdoorsy type, Oklahoma has trails so stunning they'll tempt you right out of your air-conditioned comfort zone. In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we head to Comanche County (just two hours from OKC) to explore the Elk Mountain Trail, tucked inside the breathtaking Charon's Garden Wilderness within the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge. At roughly 2.2 miles round-trip with 583 feet of elevation gain, this easy-to-moderate hike features natural granite staircases, minor bouldering, and dog-friendly paths. You'll step across some of the oldest exposed granite in the continental United States, starting at the scenic Sunset Picnic Area and climbing to a massive, mesa-like summit plateau filled with hidden caves, rock crevices, and 360-degree views of the surrounding plains. Plus, we break down native wildlife sightings—from bison and longhorn cattle to unique desert flora—and cover essential trail safety tips to ensure you aren't "That Guy" on the mountain. Listener Question: What do you think is the single best outdoor adventure in Oklahoma? Reach out and let us know! Also discussed: David Payne - Enid SOS - Schwabs Meats #OnlyInOKShow #OklahomaHikes #WichitaMountains #ElkMountainTrail #CharonsGardenWilderness #DiscoverOklahoma #ExploreOK #OklahomaOutdoors #OKCHikes #HikeOklahoma

On this episode of the Only in OK Show, we head to Broken Arrow to explore the Ray Harral Nature Center! Tucked away off Tucson St (121st St) and west of Lynn Lane (behind Childers and Spring Creek schools), this 40-acre hidden gem offers shaded woods, diverse ecosystems, and quiet trails for Oklahomans wanting to escape the usual crowded hotspots—and best of all, entrance is 100% FREE! In this episode, we cover: The History: Who Ray Harral was and his lasting impact on Broken Arrow's park system. Outdoor Highlights: Walking across the iconic suspension bridge, splashing in the natural spring system, strolling through native flower gardens, and spotting the mystery abandoned water tank. The Trails: 3 miles of winding, heavily shaded paved and unpaved trails—perfect for escaping the Oklahoma summer heat! Inside the Nature Center: Getting up close with native wildlife (tarantulas, tree frogs, turtles!), checking out interactive exhibits, and budget-friendly room rentals for events. Pro-Tips for Visiting: Pet policies, park/center hours, and crucial navigation advice so you don't get lost on the 40-acre loop! Whether you're taking a quiet stroll, bringing the kids to splash in the creek, or bringing your pup for a walk, Ray Harral Nature Center is a must-visit Oklahoma destination. Learn More & Visit: Location: 7101 S 3rd St, Broken Arrow, OK 70011 Park Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Nature Center Hours: Mon–Sat, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Mar–Oct) | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Nov–Feb) Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RayHarralNatureCenter/ Also discussed KOCO & the OKC Zoo. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share the show with your fellow Oklahomans! #OnlyInOKShow #Oklahoma #BrokenArrowOK #BrokenArrow #RayHarralNatureCenter #ExploreOklahoma #OklahomaParks #DiscoverOklahoma #OklahomaTourism #NatureLovers #OklahomaOutdoors #FreeOklahoma #TravelOK

Agriculture, manufacturing, carnival rides, and games are great—but let's be real: we're here for the unapologetic, deep-fried culinary breakdown! On this episode of the Only in OK Show, we take a deep dive into the delicious, decadent, and downright wild eats coming to the 2026 Oklahoma State Fair running September 17–27 at Oklahoma State Fair Park in Oklahoma City. From classic golden staples to global street food fusion and insider budget tips, here is your ultimate guide to eating your way through the fairgrounds: Golden & Deep-Fried Cornerstones Brown's Corndogs & Cheese On a Stick: Jumbo, batter-dipped perfection. Wade Shows Funnel Cake: Crispy, golden, and smothered in powdered sugar. Salty & Savory Handhelds: Giant smoked turkey legs, roasted corn on the cob, bacon-wrapped treats from The Bacon Habit, and Swain's Pizza On-a-Stick. Sweet Indulgences: Deep-fried Oreos, Granny's Cheesecake, and Rodney & Lisa's Fancy Caramel Apples. Global & Specialty Eats African Flavors (Afrikan Delights): Egusi + Fufu plates (chicken, beef, goat, or vegan), smoky skewers, and jollof rice. Southwestern & Street Food Fusion: Birria street corn, Carne Asada street corn, and Dan's famous Indian Tacos. Cajun & Southern Comfort: Big G's Cajun shrimp, crawfish boils, and Eli's Soul Food. Wild Desserts & Drinks: Cobbler in a Cone, Mochi donuts, Turkish Delights, Waffle Chix, and cold refreshing Agua Fresca, Horchata, or Sunrise Boba. Insider Tips for Foodies on a Budget Taste of the Fair Tuesday (Sept 22): The absolute best day for food lovers! Gate admission drops to $4, and vendors across the fairgrounds offer select $4 menu items for sampling. The "Little Book of BIG DEAL$": Pick one up at the gate or the Made in Oklahoma Store (Bennett Event Center) for over 60 coupons and $250+ in food and fun savings. Pro-Tip Strategy: Use the fair's official online Food Finder tool beforehand to plot a strategic route across vendor rows so you don't miss key spots like Mac Me Crazy or Wondervan Pops. Event Logistics & Discount Days Location: Oklahoma State Fair Park (3001 General Pershing Blvd, OKC) Early Savings: Buy gate admission and carnival armbands before September 17 to lock in advance discount pricing. Thrifty Thursdays (Sept 17 & 24): $10 gate admission, $25 ride armbands. Military Monday (Sept 21): Free admission for active duty, veterans, and spouses. Senior Day (Sept 23): Free admission for 55+ with free shuttle access. College Day (Sept 24): $5 admission with college ID. Important Policies: Minors under 18 require an adult chaperone (25+) after 5:00 PM. Paid parking is cashless (credit/debit required). Links: Oklahoma State Fair Ticket Info & Advance Savings Interactive OK State Fair Food Finder Map Question for the listeners: If you could only eat ONE fair food for the rest of your life—are you picking a giant corn dog, an Indian taco, or a hot funnel cake? Let us know! Also discussed:  Misfit Pits BBQ, Enid SOS, HeyDey Entertainment, OTA, Visit Norman #OnlyInOKShow #OKStateFair #OklahomaStateFair #OKCFoodie #OKCFood #OklahomaCity #FairFood #DeepFried #TasteOfTheFair #ExploreOklahoma #OKEvents #OKC #IndianTacos #FunnelCake

The Muskogee Hot Air Balloon Festival (formerly the Oklahoma Festival of Ballooning) is back, and it's kicking off a whole new chapter! Join us as we break down everything you need to know about this action-packed weekend at Hatbox Event Park. Muskogee Tourism Director Justin O'Neal highlights a massive focus on live music this year—pairing top-tier concerts with all the classic, high-flying family favorites you love. Whether you're taking to the skies, running a 5K among the balloons, or rocking out to Oklahoma's own country star Kaitlin Butts, this is an August weekend you won't want to miss! 📍 Event Details At-A-Glance When: Friday, August 21 & Saturday, August 22, 2026 Where: Hatbox Event Park (4000 Border Ave / 640 S 40th St, Muskogee, OK) Gates Open: 5:00 PM nightly | Live Music: 7:00 PM nightly 🎈 Sky-High Attractions Nightly Balloon Glow & Fireworks: Watch the evening sky light up with colorful, glowing hot air balloons, followed by a grand finale fireworks display every single night! Tethered Balloon Rides: Take a mini-flight on-site during the festival for a bird's-eye view of the grounds (no reservations needed!). Chartered Rides: Want the ultimate adventure? Full-charter flights are available Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (call ahead to book). Up Up & Away 5K: Saturday morning (Aug 22) at 7:30 AM—run a scenic course surrounded by hot air balloons! 🎵 Live Music Lineup Friday Night (Aug 21): Oklahoma's own Kaitlin Butts headlining, with special guests The Red Dirt Rangers. Saturday Night (Aug 22): New Orleans legends Dirty Dozen Brass Band, with special guests The Full Flava Kings. 🍔 Family Fun & Admission Free Kid Zone: Loaded with activities to keep the little ones entertained. Food & Shopping: Local food trucks and artisan vendors packed throughout the park. Admission: FREE! General Parking: $20 per vehicle (cash/card at the gate). Premium Parking: $30 per night or $55 for a Weekend Combo Pass (purchase online or at the Muskogee Civic Center Box Office). 🔗 Connect & Learn More Website: VisitMuskogee.com Phone: 918-684-6302 #OnlyInOK #VisitMuskogee #MuskogeeOK #OklahomaEvents #HotAirBalloonFestival #HatboxEventPark #KaitlinButts #RedDirtRangers #DirtyDozenBrassBand #ExploreOklahoma #OKTourism #FamilyFunOK

Welcome back to the Only in OK Show! Today, we are taking a trip down a bumpy dirt road to New Eucha, Oklahoma (pronounced YOU-chee!), tucked right at the edge of the Ozarks in the heart of Green Country. We're exploring a Top 5% Airbnb guest favorite that sits on a breathtaking 1-acre, spring-fed pond where you can literally watch natural spring water gush right out of the hillside! Join us as we break down this incredible Oklahoma escape, including: The Bumpy Arrival: Why getting there is half the fun (and why you'll want a truck!). The Ultimate Water Setup: Free access to paddle boats, stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and stocked pond fishing. Cozy Cottage Vibes: The unique floor-bunk setup, rustic-meets-modern layout, and that famous step-up bathroom quirk. Pure Seclusion: Morning coffee on the deck, string-lit evenings, s'mores by the campfire, and why 166 reviews gave it a nearly perfect 4.99-star rating. Grab your fishing poles, turn up the volume, and find out why this hidden spring-fed oasis is a must-visit Oklahoma destination! Also discussed:  Lake Eucha Park, Natural Falls State Park, Grand Lake O' the Cherokees & Ruzycki Farms. https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/53540683?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=719d02c9-2b72-4b43-b8d0-0463bc9c7cfe https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/markets/oklahoma-named-doe-finalist-for-proposed-nuclear-innovation-campus #OnlyInOKShow #OklahomaTravel #DiscoverOklahoma #GreenCountryOK #EuchaOklahoma #OklahomaAirbnb #Ozarks #SpringFedPond #OKCabinRentals #VisitOK #OklahomaPodcasts #ExploreOklahoma #TravelOK

This week on the Only in OK Show, we're heading down to Sulphur, Oklahoma, to explore a true landmark: The Artesian Hotel, Spa & Casino! Originally built in 1906 as a hot spot for celebrities and politicians before a devastating fire in 1962, this historic jewel was reimagined in 2013 to blend vintage charm with high-end modern luxury. Sitting right across from the stunning Chickasaw National Recreation Area, The Artesian features 81 luxuriously appointed rooms, world-class amenities, and so much more. Here's a look at what we cover in this episode: Luxe Accommodations: From window-seat Standard Kings to the extravagant Art Deco Hollywood Suite and multi-room Governor's Suite—complete with plush linens and Bedré Fine Chocolates on your pillow. Elevated Dining & Treats: High-end comfort food and craft cocktails at The Fountain Club, fresh lunches at Bedré Café, sweet frozen yogurt at Sweet Swirlz & More, and custom tea blends from The Spice & Tea Exchange. Relaxation & Fun: Why Sole'renity Spa earned a Top 100 ranking in America (plus their BHG-recognized "Little Soles" kids spa!), unique boutique shopping, and late-night entertainment at The Artesian Casino. The Real Star of the Show & Local Finds: You know we run on caffeine and local love! We hit the jackpot on Broadway Avenue at Cup & Crumb (2002 West Broadway), where we sampled everything from Caramel White Mocha and Lotus Energy drinks to homemade Grandma's Thumbprint cookies and grilled Chicken Bacon Avocado Paninis. Plus, we took a stroll down historic Muskogee Street to check out Bromide Mountain Co. for outdoor gear, Patagonia apparel, and unique Arbuckle Mountain gifts. Whether you're looking for the ultimate southern Oklahoma weekend getaway or the best local coffee in town, Sulphur is definitely worth the drive! #OnlyInOKShow #OklahomaTravel #SulphurOK #ArtesianHotel #DiscoverOklahoma #OklahomaTourism #ChickasawNation #SoleRenitySpa #CupAndCrumb #BromideMountainCo #TravelOK #OklahomaCoffee #WeekendGetaway #ExploreOK

Think you have to be in OKC or Tulsa to find ultra-luxury lodging? Think again! This week, we are heading down to Tishomingo, Oklahoma—a charming small town hiding one of the most stunning, five-star boutique stays in the state: The Stay Golden Inn. Located in a historic late-1800s brick building that once housed the town's local newspaper, this stay seamlessly blends historical grit with modern glam. We're breaking down why this romantic, urban-loft experience in the heart of Johnston County deserves a spot at the top of your Oklahoma bucket list. Inside the Episode: The Suites: Whether you are booking a couples' getaway in the "Gold Digger" Suite (featuring a plush King bed and cozy fireplace) or a friends' trip in the "Gold Rush" Suite (equipped with two Queen beds), you are in for total comfort. The Spa Bathrooms: These bathrooms rival any major luxury hotel. We're talking freestanding soaking tubs, double vanities, and a massive glass walk-in shower with dual shower heads plus an overhead rainfall shower. The Private Patio: Step outside to a colorful outdoor oasis decked out with a vibrant mural, string lights, and your own private hot tub perfect for soaking under the Oklahoma stars. Show Insider Tip: Booking a group trip? If you book both suites together, the hot tub setup can accommodate up to 6 people! You can also ask the amazing host, Carrie, about adding in-room massages or kayak rentals. Walkable Tishomingo: You are literally just steps away from Blake Shelton's famous Ole Red restaurant and music venue. Plus, you can easily walk to downtown boutiques, a local wine bar, and a local five-star spa. Nature Breaks: If you want to get outside, the gorgeous Blue River is just a few miles away—famous for trout fishing, kayaking, and stunning scenery. With a 4.96 out of 5-star rating on Airbnb and over 200 reviews, guests consistently rave that this place rivals the best luxury hotels in the country. If you're looking for a luxurious weekend escape without leaving the state, look up the Stay Golden Inn in Tishomingo. Trust us, it's pure gold. Also discuss:  Ol' Red, Blake Shelton, Tishamingo, Love's, Enid SOS, KTUL, Redbud Tiny Home and RV Resort, Wild County Meats and Big Cabin OK. #OklahomaTourism #TravelOK #TishomingoOK #StayGoldenInn #OnlyInOK #BoutiqueHotel #LuxuryTravel #ExploreOklahoma #OleRed #Blue River #OklahomaGetaway

Oklahoma summers are legendary, but there is one tradition that makes the August heat entirely worth it. This week on the Only in OK Show, we are breaking down one of the state's most iconic, longest-running summer traditions: The Rush Springs Watermelon Festival! Drawing over 30,000 visitors annually and serving up tens of thousands of pounds of free, ice-cold watermelon, this massive community celebration is an absolute must-visit. We outline the entire August 2026 schedule, share essential insider tips for surviving the heat, and sit down for an exclusive interview with the newly crowned 2026 Watermelon Queen, Bailie Heston. 📅 The 2026 Festival Schedule: Mark Your Calendars! The main festival always takes over the town on the second Saturday of August, but the action kicks off early: Thursday, Aug 6 & Friday, Aug 7: The Pre-Festival Rodeo & Carnival – Local and regional competitors kick things off with classic, fast-paced rodeo action. Saturday, Aug 8: The Main Watermelon Festival Morning: Opening ceremonies get things started bright and early. All Day: Free Watermelon Tasting starts at 4 PM, live local entertainment, carnival rides, games, and an Arts & Crafts Fair featuring over 125 handmade vendor booths. Early Afternoon: The massive, fan-favorite Seed-Spitting Contest finals, the Largest Watermelon Contest, and the official crowning of the Watermelon Queen. 👑 Behind the Crown: Interview with Watermelon Queen Bailie Heston We sit down with Bailie Heston to discuss what it truly means to be the face of a festival that expands her hometown's population by 30,000 people in a single weekend. In this episode, Bailie shares: The Ultimate Debate: Her go-to defense for why Oklahoma legally considers watermelon a vegetable. What she learned about Rush Springs' rich agricultural heritage and the local farmers working through the brutal summer heat. Bonus: Her pro-tips for a winning strategy in the seed-spitting contest! ☀️ Insider Tips for Visiting Rush Springs Beat the Heat: August in Oklahoma is intense. Pack high-SPF sunscreen, wide-brimmed hats, and plenty of water. Beat the Traffic: Arrive early in the morning on Saturday for prime parking and to bypass peak afternoon congestion. Get the Gear: Don't miss out on the memorabilia—pre-order official festival T-shirts and tank tops online before your size sells out! Also discussed: Countrymen BBQ & Mustang OK. Official Rush Springs Watermelon Festival Website: Rush Springs Watermelon FB Page Be sure to subscribe, rate, and leave a review if you love exploring the best hidden gems and historic traditions across Oklahoma!