Home to a stretch of world-famous Route 66, the state of Oklahoma sits in the center of America’s heartland with a vast and varied landscape. Ancient mountain ranges of the Ozarks and the Ouachitas sit to the east, while, in the west, amber waves of grain fade off into the horizon of The Great Plains. Between them, you’ll find the Cross Timbers — a beautiful expanse made up of Bison-dotted prairie and woodland.

But Oklahoma is more than beautiful views — it’s a state rich in history, culture, and industry. Cultural influences from western ranchers, southern settlers, and nearly 70 Native American tribes sit alongside one another here, and music, dance, and theatre thrive in the state’s major cities of Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and Bartlesville — check out the Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa in its grand Italianate surroundings. A number of professional sports teams also call Oklahoma home, and catching a game is a great way to get into the local spirit — whether you’re topping off the experience with some indulgent barbecue or a taste of Oklahoma City’s wealth of Vietnamese cuisine.

Plan a trip to Oklahoma between September and November to make the most of exploring its diverse landscapes in a milder climate. Fall is the best time to check out some of Oklahoma’s natural wonders like Natural Falls State Park, Chickasaw National Recreation Area, and Beavers Bend State Park. Winter in Oklahoma can get extremely cold, so you’ll need to pack cozy layers, but holiday markets and festive parades are the best way to warm up. May to early June is tornado season and is known for bringing hot temperatures to the state, but late spring and summer are when county fairs and cultural festivals take over cities and towns all over Oklahoma, including the three-day Paseo Arts Festival in Oklahoma City, Native American Pow Wows, and Tulsa’s annual Juneteenth celebration.

Route 66

One of the world’s most famous highways, Route 66 has its longest uninterrupted stretch of road in Oklahoma. There are over 400 miles of this legendary route within the state’s borders, starting in Quapaw in the northeast and going all the way to Texola in the west. Route 66 passes through major cities like Oklahoma City, Tulsa, and Miami and small towns where you can find museums, quaint diners, and roadside attractions like the Round Barn in Arcadia or the Blue Whale in Catoosa.

Chickasaw Cultural Center

There are 67 independent Native American tribes that currently reside in Oklahoma, many of which have museums across the state dedicated to celebrating and preserving their heritage. One of the largest is the Chickasaw Cultural Center in Sulphur, which features exhibits that honor important historic Chickasaw leaders, a Spirit Forest, and an interactive 360-degree spirit dance exhibit.

Oklahoma City

Located in the heart of the state, its capital Oklahoma City combines history at the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, culture, a lively sports scene, and leafy green spaces. Take five in Scissortail Park — where you might stumble upon a live performance while strolling or kayaking through the 40-acre space — or make your way to Factory Obscura for some mind-bending interactive art installations.