Elmer OklahomaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Elmer, Oklahoma.
1. Elmer Thomas Park
SERENE NATURAL RETREAT
Elmer Thomas Park is a stunning 200-acre green space nestled in the heart of Lawton, offering an impressive array of amenities including tranquil lakes, walking trails, and landscaped gardens. Visitors can enjoy recreational activities such as fishing and picnicking while appreciating the vibrant wildlife including prairie dogs and various bird species. The park also features notable military monuments and memorials that pay tribute to the armed forces, making it both a recreational hub and a place of remembrance.
2. Oklahoma State Sign
ICONIC PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
The Oklahoma State Sign stands as a proud symbol of the state's welcoming spirit in the quaint town of Elmer. This picturesque landmark invites travelers to stop and capture memorable photos, with its vibrant colors and bold letters making it a standout feature against Oklahoma's expansive skies. The sign is accessible 24/7, allowing visitors to stop by at their convenience whether for sunrise photos or nighttime star-gazing.
3. Museum of the Great Plains
REGIONAL HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Museum of the Great Plains offers visitors an immersive experience into the rich history and cultural heritage of the Great Plains region. Exhibits feature archaeological artifacts, pioneer life displays, and interactive installations that bring the past to life for guests of all ages. The museum regularly hosts special events and educational programs that complement its permanent collection, making it a dynamic cultural institution in Lawton.
4. Comanche National Museum and Cultural Center
NATIVE HERITAGE EXPLORATION
The Comanche National Museum and Cultural Center preserves and celebrates the history, art, and traditions of the Comanche Nation. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring authentic artifacts, historical photographs, and contemporary Native American artwork that tell the story of this proud indigenous people. The center also offers cultural demonstrations, educational programs, and special events throughout the year to promote greater understanding of Comanche heritage.
5. Fort Sill
HISTORIC MILITARY INSTALLATION
Fort Sill is an active military installation with a rich history dating back to 1869, featuring both operational facilities and a National Historic Landmark district. Visitors can tour the Fort Sill Museum, which houses exhibits on military history, Native American affairs, and the development of artillery warfare in America. The grounds include historic buildings, cavalry barracks, and artillery displays that chronicle the fort's significant role in American history.
6. Museum of the Western Prairie
PIONEER LIFE EXHIBITS
The Museum of the Western Prairie chronicles the settlement and development of southwestern Oklahoma through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Visitors can explore displays that feature pioneer life, agricultural development, and the natural history of the region, offering insights into how this landscape shaped its inhabitants. The museum's thoughtfully curated collection provides an educational experience that connects present-day Oklahoma to its frontier past.
7. JD's Hideaway Axe Throwing & Golf Simulator
MODERN ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
JD's Hideaway Axe Throwing & Golf Simulator offers a unique combination of recreational activities for thrill-seekers and sports enthusiasts alike. Guests can test their aim with axe throwing in a safe, guided environment or practice their golf swing on state-of-the-art simulators featuring famous courses from around the world. This modern entertainment venue provides a perfect outing for friends, families, or corporate events looking for an exciting alternative to traditional activities.
8. Fred's Saloon
CLASSIC WESTERN BAR
Fred's Saloon captures the authentic spirit of Oklahoma with its rustic atmosphere and friendly local charm. This classic western-style establishment offers cold drinks, hearty bar food, and often features live country music that gets patrons on their feet. Visitors appreciate the saloon's unpretentious vibe and the opportunity to mingle with locals while experiencing a genuine piece of small-town Oklahoma culture.
9. Valley Pecans
LOCAL CULINARY TREASURE
Valley Pecans is a beloved local business specializing in fresh, high-quality pecans and pecan products that showcase Oklahoma's agricultural bounty. Visitors can shop for a variety of pecan treats including flavored nuts, candies, baked goods, and specialty gift items made with locally grown ingredients. The shop provides a warm, welcoming atmosphere and opportunities to learn about pecan cultivation and processing, making it both a shopping destination and an educational experience.
10. Leslie Powell Foundation & Gallery
CONTEMPORARY ART SPACE
The Leslie Powell Foundation & Gallery serves as a cultural hub in Lawton, showcasing contemporary art from regional and national artists in a professional exhibition space. The gallery hosts rotating exhibitions throughout the year, featuring diverse media and artistic styles that challenge and inspire visitors. Beyond exhibitions, the foundation supports the arts through educational programs, artist grants, and community events that enrich the cultural landscape of southwestern Oklahoma.
11. Twister Museum
HOLLYWOOD MOVIE MEMORABILIA
The Twister Museum celebrates the blockbuster film "Twister" which used Wakita as a filming location for the 1996 hit movie. Visitors can explore movie props, behind-the-scenes photos, and memorabilia from the production that temporarily transformed this small Oklahoma town into a Hollywood set. The museum, open from April through September, also features the famous Wakita water tower that appeared prominently in the film, making it a must-visit for movie buffs and storm enthusiasts.
12. Heavener Runestone
ANCIENT MYSTERY SITE
The Heavener Runestone presents an intriguing historical mystery, featuring alleged Viking inscriptions that have sparked debate about whether Norse explorers visited Oklahoma in the 11th century. Visitors can examine the enigmatic rock wall markings and form their own opinions about this archaeological curiosity that challenges conventional understandings of pre-Columbian contact. The site is nestled in a picturesque park with hiking trails and picnic areas, making it an enjoyable destination for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers.
13. Mat Hoffman Action Sports Park
EXTREME SPORTS VENUE
Mat Hoffman Action Sports Park stands as the largest and most challenging skate park in Oklahoma, designed for thrill-seekers and extreme sports enthusiasts. The facility features a variety of elements including bowls, ramps, rails, and street obstacles that accommodate skateboarders, BMX riders, and inline skaters of different skill levels. Named after BMX legend Mat Hoffman, this free public park offers an adrenaline-pumping experience and has become a gathering place for the action sports community in the region.
14. Pensacola Dam & Grand Lake
ENGINEERING MARVEL DESTINATION
The Pensacola Dam, distinguished as the longest multi-arch dam in the world, offers fascinating tours that showcase this impressive feat of engineering. The dam creates Grand Lake O' the Cherokees with over 1,000 miles of shoreline, providing abundant opportunities for boating, fishing, and water sports in a stunning natural setting. Visitors can enjoy the area's recreational facilities while appreciating both the historical significance of this Depression-era public works project and the natural beauty of the lake it created.
15. Tulsa Art Deco Walking Tour
ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE EXPERIENCE
Tulsa's Art Deco Walking Tour guides visitors through the city's impressive collection of 1920s architectural gems designed by internationally recognized architects. The self-guided route features stunning examples of Art Deco, including the Philtower, Boston Avenue Methodist Church, and the magnificent Philcade Building with its ornate detailing and historical significance. This accessible cultural experience offers insight into Tulsa's oil boom prosperity while allowing visitors to admire the preserved artistic expression of an influential design movement.