Need a fun and energetic getaway in Oklahoma? Head to Stillwater! Home to Oklahoma State University, Stillwater offers a vibrant college-town atmosphere, lively music scene, great outdoor spaces, and famous food stops. Whether you’re cheering on the Cowboys, exploring parks, or savoring classic eats, Stillwater welcomes you with open arms.
Stillwater, OK Highlights:
- Oklahoma State University: Tour the beautiful campus, catch a football game at Boone Pickens Stadium, or visit museums and gardens.
- Eskimo Joe’s: Legendary restaurant and bar known for burgers, cheese fries, and a lively atmosphere.
- Lake McMurtry: Enjoy hiking, fishing, kayaking, and camping at this scenic outdoor destination.
- Boomer Lake Park: Walk or bike around the lake, fish, or simply relax in this family-friendly park.
- Downtown Stillwater: Explore local shops, cozy cafés, and live music venues in the historic district.
Best Time to Visit Stillwater, OK
The best time to visit Stillwater is in the spring and fall (March–May and September–November). These seasons bring comfortable weather, exciting OSU events, and outdoor festivals that make the city buzz with energy.
How to Get to Stillwater, OK
- If you are traveling by car: Stillwater is conveniently located along Highway 51 and U.S. Route 177, about 1 hour from both Oklahoma City and Tulsa.
- By Plane: Stillwater Regional Airport (SWO) offers flights connecting through Dallas/Fort Worth. Major airports in Oklahoma City and Tulsa are also nearby for broader flight options.
- By Bus: Local and regional bus services connect Stillwater to major Oklahoma cities.
Where to Stay in Stillwater, OK
- Atherton Hotel at OSU – Elegant boutique hotel located right on campus, perfect for events and visits.
- Home2 Suites by Hilton – Modern hotel offering spacious rooms and easy access to downtown and campus.
- Hampton Inn & Suites Stillwater West – Family-friendly hotel with a pool and complimentary breakfast.
Best Things to Do in Stillwater, OK
⮕ Get Up Close with Exotic Animals at Lost Creek Safari
© Lost Creek Safari
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What is Lost Creek Safari?
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The
Lost Creek Safari
is a USDA-Certified animal park in the town of Stillwater, where guests
have a unique chance to enjoy an up-close and personal experience with
some of the most exotic animals in the world.
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What kind of animal encounters can visitors experience?
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Visitors can feed grapes to playful lemurs,
cuddle baby kangaroos, and say hello to a camel,
among other unique experiences.
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Who owns Lost Creek Safari?
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Owners Carla and Rusty strive to go the extra mile,
making every visit feel like a VIP, behind-the-scenes animal encounter.
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When is Lost Creek Safari open?
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The Lost Creek Safari is open on a seasonal basis from March to October.
It operates Monday to Friday by reservation, with no reservations needed for weekends.
Address: Lost Creek Safari, 1200 W. 80th St, Stillwater, OK 74074, Phone: 405-707-0403
⮕ Explore Campus Spirit and Innovation at Oklahoma State University
© Oklahoma State University
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What is Oklahoma State University?
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Established on Christmas Day in 1890,
Oklahoma State University
has grown into one of the premier land-grant universities in the United States.
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What makes Oklahoma State University unique?
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It is the only university to have a statewide presence in all
seventy-seven counties of Oklahoma through its
Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service.
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What can visitors do at Oklahoma State University?
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Visitors and locals in Stillwater can find a wide variety of things to do at
Oklahoma State University, even if they aren’t students. The university hosts
numerous sporting events and other special events throughout the year.
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Does Oklahoma State University have NCAA sports?
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Yes! The university is home to NCAA Division 1 basketball and various
other high-profile collegiate sports.
Address: Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK 74078, Phone: 405-744-5000
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
⮕ Stroll Through Blooming Trails at The Botanic Garden at OSU
© The Botanic Garden at OSU
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What is The Botanic Garden at OSU?
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Nestled between two charming oak groves is
The Botanic Garden at OSU.
This 100-acre garden is a treat to explore, featuring peaceful trails
and stunning fauna.
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What is the purpose of The Botanic Garden at OSU?
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At its core, The Botanic Garden at OSU is designed to inspire research and discovery
for students and visitors alike. It operates as a living laboratory utilized by
various departments of the university.
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What can visitors experience at The Botanic Garden?
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For visitors, there is nothing better than sitting at one of the garden’s benches and simply
soaking up the sights,
smells, and sounds that a thriving and diverse ecosystem provides.
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What makes The Botanic Garden special?
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As visitors stroll through the trails, they can see
gorgeously kept gardens and leave feeling refreshed and
more connected with Mother Earth.
Address: The Botanic Garden at OSU, 3300 W. 6th Street, Highway 51, Stillwater, Oklahoma 74078, Phone: 405-744-5000
⮕ Cheer for the Cowboys at Boone Pickens Stadium
© jaflippo/stock.adobe.com
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What is Boone Pickens Stadium?
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The state-of-the-art football stadium of Oklahoma State University,
Boone Pickens Stadium,
not only provides excellent facilities situated in
extremely convenient proximities but also offers a
one-of-a-kind game-day environment.
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What is the history of Boone Pickens Stadium?
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Formerly known as Lewis Field, Boone Pickens Stadium has been the
home field of the Oklahoma State University Cowboys football team
since 1913, becoming a complete football stadium in 1920.
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What makes Boone Pickens Stadium unique?
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The stadium is the oldest football stadium in the country’s
Big 12 Conference, adding to its historical significance.
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Are there any pre-game activities at Boone Pickens Stadium?
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Visitors can enjoy pre-game activities at the stadium on game days,
particularly the Fan Fest, which starts three hours before kickoff.
Address: Boone Pickens Stadium, 700 W Hall of Fame Ave, Stillwater, OK 74075, Phone: 405-744-3188
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
⮕ Raise a Glass to Local Craft Beers at Iron Monk Brewery
© Iron Monk Brewery
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What is Iron Monk Brewery?
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The
Iron Monk Brewery
in downtown Stillwater, Oklahoma, is the state’s premier craft brewery and
taproom, providing a variety of beers and tours of the brewing facilities.
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What kind of beers does Iron Monk Brewery offer?
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The Tap Room offers year-round favorite brews, as well as a
revolving selection of small-batch beers that can’t
be found anywhere else.
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Does Iron Monk Brewery serve food?
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While the brewery itself does not serve food, it partners with several
local food trucks to offer delicious options that pair perfectly
with their craft beers.
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Are brewery tours available at Iron Monk Brewery?
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Yes! Brewery tours are offered at certain times on Saturdays.
These tours include an overview of the brewing process,
samples of four different beers, and a souvenir pint glass.
Address: Iron Monk Brewery, 519 S. Husband St, Stillwater, OK 74074, Phone: 405-714-2585
⮕ Step Into Stillwater’s Story at the Sheerar Museum of History
© Sheerar Museum of Stillwater History
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What is the Sheerar Museum of Stillwater History?
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The
Sheerar Museum of Stillwater History
is dedicated to receiving and collecting the material culture associated
with the town of Stillwater, Oklahoma. The museum preserves historical artifacts from
prehistoric times through the 1800s to present day for future generations.
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What kind of exhibits are at the Sheerar Museum?
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The museum features permanent exhibits about Payne County
and Stillwater, along with temporary exhibits that change annually,
focusing on different themes or subjects.
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How much does it cost to visit the Sheerar Museum?
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Admission to the Sheerar Museum of Stillwater History is by donation,
making it accessible for all visitors.
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When is the Sheerar Museum open?
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The museum is open to the public on certain days, so visitors should
check ahead for specific operating hours.
Address: Sheerar Museum of Stillwater History, 702 S Duncan St, Stillwater, OK 74074, Phone: 405-377-0359
⮕ If You Love Outdoor Adventure, Then Spend a Day at Lake Carl Blackwell
© Oleksii Sergieiev/stock.adobe.com
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What is Lake Carl Blackwell?
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Established in 1937,
Lake Carl Blackwell
is a popular outdoor recreation destination, located about
eight miles west of Stillwater. The lake is nearly in the middle
of Oklahoma City and Tulsa.
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Who owns and manages Lake Carl Blackwell?
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The lake and its approximately 800 adjoining acres are
owned and managed by Oklahoma State University.
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What activities can visitors enjoy at Lake Carl Blackwell?
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Activities at the lake include picnicking, fishing,
hiking, duck hunting, boating,
water skiing, swimming, mountain biking,
horseback riding, and camping.
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What amenities are available at Lake Carl Blackwell?
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The family-oriented lake also includes a lakeside convenience store,
a marina, and sand beaches.
Address: Lake Carl Blackwell, 11000 Oklahoma 51 West, Stillwater, OK 74074, Phone: 405-372-5157
⮕ Honor Champions and Legends at the National Wrestling Hall of Fame
© National Wrestling Hall of Fame
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What is the National Wrestling Hall of Fame?
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The
National Wrestling Hall of Fame
in Stillwater, Oklahoma, is the country’s official hall of fame and museum
for amateur wrestling. It serves as a shrine to the sport
in the United States.
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What is the purpose of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame?
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The Hall of Fame is a focal point for the preservation
of wrestling’s heritage, the encouragement of youth to aspire to
higher goals, and the celebration of new achievements in the sport.
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Are there special hours for Oklahoma State wrestling matches?
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Yes! The museum operates with special hours on
Oklahoma State home wrestling match days.
Address: National Wrestling Hall of Fame, 405 W Hall of Fame Ave, Stillwater, OK 74075, Phone: 405-377-5243
⮕ Find Quiet Reflection and Stunning Architecture at St. Francis Xavier
© St. Francis Xavier
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What is St. Francis Xavier Parish?
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The parish of
St. Francis Xavier
in Stillwater has a rich, long history and was the first parish
to be established in the town.
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What was the early history of St. Francis Xavier Parish?
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In the town’s beginnings, there was no diocese and no bishop. The area’s
first priest was a missionary traveling priest from the Sacred Heart near
Shawnee, a Benedictine Monastery.
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When was St. Francis Xavier Church built?
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The church was originally built in 1899 with rough plank pews
and an unplastered interior. Over time, it has undergone many transformations.
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When was St. Francis Xavier officially dedicated?
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The church got its first resident priest and was officially
dedicated in December of 1901.
Address: St. Francis Xavier
, 711 N Country Club Rd, Stillwater, OK 74075, Phone: 405-372-6886
⮕ Experience Electric Game-Day Energy at Gallagher-Iba Arena
© .shock/stock.adobe.com
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What is Gallagher-Iba Arena?
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Known once as "The Madison Square Garden of the Plains” and
"The Rowdiest Arena in the Country,” the
Gallagher-Iba Arena
is Oklahoma State University’s premier wrestling and basketball venue.
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When was Gallagher-Iba Arena originally built?
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The arena was originally built in 1938 as the
4-H Club and Student Activities Building.
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How did Gallagher-Iba Arena get its name?
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The building was later renamed Gallagher Hall in honor of
Ed Gallagher, a legendary wrestling coach at the university.
In 1987, it was renamed Gallagher-Iba Arena to also honor
Henry Iba, an innovator and longtime basketball coach.
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When was the first basketball game played at Gallagher-Iba Arena?
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The first basketball game at the arena took place on December 9, 1938.
Address: Gallagher-Iba Arena, 200 Athletic Center, Stillwater, OK 74078, Phone: 405-744-3188
Where to Eat in Stillwater, OK
- Eskimo Joe’s – Iconic spot for burgers, cheese fries, and local legends.
- The Garage Burgers and Beer – Favorite for burgers, casual bites, and great local beer selection.
- Hideaway Pizza – Legendary pizza place that started in Stillwater back in 1957.
If you are interested in local events:
- OSU Cowboy Football Games (Fall) – Cheer on the Oklahoma State Cowboys at Boone Pickens Stadium.
- Stillwater Arts Festival (April) – Celebrate local artists with exhibits, food, and entertainment downtown.
- Remember the Ten Run (April) – 5K/10K race honoring the lives lost in the 2001 OSU plane crash.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Stillwater, Oklahoma:
- Lake Carl Blackwell (20–25 min) – Boating, fishing, horseback riding, and camping just west of Stillwater.
- Perry (25–30 min) – Visit this small town for a charming courthouse square and historic murals.
- Mulhall (25–30 min) – Step back into history with small-town charm and famous restaurant stops like Lucille’s Roadhouse.
- Guthrie (30 min) – Explore Victorian architecture, antique shops, and the historic Oklahoma Territorial Museum.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What makes Stillwater, OK a great weekend getaway?
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The town of Stillwater, OK is a fun weekend getaway,
home to the famous
Oklahoma State University.
Its welcoming spirit and friendly smiles make it easy to see why Stillwater is
known as one of the “Friendliest Cities in the South.”
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What is Stillwater best known for?
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Stillwater is best known for being the home of
Oklahoma State University, a major educational institution that
brings vibrancy and energy to the town.
Map:
Plan Your Trip