Ponca City • Stillwater • Pawnee Area

Was I pleasantly surprised by my recent visit to Ponca City. I’ve not been to this city since a friend’s wedding many years ago, but had I done my research earlier, this would have been on our family’s summer activity “must see and do” list when our kids were young. Ideally, an overnight stay is needed. But, only 90 miles from the Oklahoma City Metro makes Ponca City an easy destination to come back to for multiple visits.

Who doesn’t love a parade? As far as holidays go, Independence Day is right up there for me. Some of the best memories of my childhood revolve around July 4—summer is in full swing and we always had a barbecue to celebrate mom’s birthday (also on the 4th).

Getting the winter cabin fever blues? Consider a Stillwater getaway. Beyond Oklahoma State University-related events, most families are not aware of the many attractions offered in the town, an easy drive north on I-35 from the Oklahoma City Metro. Whether for a day trip or an extended weekend, you will find educational and family-friendly fun abounding here.

Here are links to other websites about Ponca City, Stillwater, and Pawnee.

When traveling and hungry, I like to try local diners instead of chain restaurants. I'm rarely disappointed with my choices. There are some really great Oklahoma landmark dining experiences to be had. If you are a native, you've at least heard of them, and shame on you if you haven't made the trip. If you're a transplant to the state, I highly recommend you get on the road and head to these unique Okie eateries. The following list runs roughly north to south don't even ask me to pick a favorite!

On a hot, windy, dusty day in September, 1893, more than 100,000 sturdy pioneers fought to stake a claim in Oklahoma's final land run-the Cherokee Strip. New land owners planned to grow crops, but the red dirt held greater treasure. Beneath the prairie grass lay an untapped supply of oil that would become their future.

As Oklahoma turns 100, we should celebrate all things Okie! I’ve compiled a list of activities to celebrate our proud Okie heritage. Many Centennial events are still in the early planning stages, so mark your calendars and check websites for details as plans are finalized.

A summer vacation is a wonderful time to introduce your children to the great outdoors through backpacking, rock climbing, horseback riding, ATV adventuring, motocross or go-kart racing, and mountain biking.

Where can you find a Wild West show, a cattle drive and wagon train, a rodeo, and a championship barbecue cook-off, all staged among native stone buildings and winding streets? Pawnee, Oklahoma. Founded in 1874 in Indian Territory, the City of Pawnee prides itself on remaining part of the Wild West and home to the Pawnee Nation.

I am sitting still. It is freezing cold, but I barely notice. My eyes, and binoculars, are glued to the sky as the largest bird I have ever seen circles overhead. When the bird lands, I have to quit watching because my husband is silently forcing me to give up the binoculars so he can get a closer view. I vow that next year I'll spend the $12.95 for my own set. I look over at the kids and point to a magnificent bald eagle that they are seeing in the wild for the first time. A caged bird doesn't do the species justice.