If you’re planning a road trip through Oklahoma, you probably have cities like Tulsa and Oklahoma City on your list of destinations. Maybe you’ve considered visiting Fort Sill in Lawton or exploring the lands of the Cherokee, Choctaw, Chickasaw, and Muscogee peoples.
But, instead of taking I-44 straight from Tulsa to Oklahoma City, take a detour down Highway 412 to Highway 77. Spend a night or two in the town of Blackwell, OK.
Maybe you’ve never heard of it, but let’s explore why you should include Blackwell on your next road trip!
About Blackwell, OK
Blackwell calls itself “America’s Hometown.” It exudes small-town charm and character. A.J. Blackwell established the town in 1893 following the Cherokee Outlet land run.
Today, about 6,000 people call this town home. Located in Kay County, Blackwell is about 15 miles south of the Kansas border.
Getting to Blackwell, OK
Located at the intersection of Highway 177 and Highway 11 along I-35, Blackwell is easy to access in north-central Oklahoma. It’s about an hour’s drive directly south, straight down I-35 from Wichita, Kansas.
Coming from the other direction, Blackwell, OK, is about a 90-minute drive directly north, straight up I-35 from Oklahoma City.
Traveler’s Tip: Head due West on Highway 11 and extend your Oklahoma road trip to the historic town of Alva.
Things to Do in Blackwell, OK
Blackwell, OK, is in a great location to visit the cities in the area. You can easily take a day trip to Wichita or Oklahoma City.
But the city actually has activities for all travelers to enjoy, too. You don’t have to leave to visit bustling cities. Instead, stay awhile and enjoy the history, culture, and recreation Blackwell has to offer.
Here is our list of top things to do in Blackwell, OK.
1. Visit the Top of Oklahoma Historical Museum
- Address:
303 S Main St
Blackwell, OK 74631
- Hours:
Mon – Sat: 10AM-4PM
About the Top of Oklahoma Historical Museum: Take a trip back to the 1800s. Explore exhibits showcasing old cameras, television sets, tools, and more. Native American paintings also illustrate local history.
You can stop by the gift shop to grab a souvenir before heading out for a round of golf or a game of bowling. The Top of Oklahoma Historical Museum is open from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, except Sundays.
2. Play a Round at the Blackwell Municipal Golf Course
- Address:
333 Country Club Ln
Blackwell, OK 74631
About the Blackwell Municipal Golf Course: Blackwell Municipal Golf Course is located about three miles directly west of the Top of Oklahoma Historical Museum. You could easily visit both on the same day.
It’s a nine-hole golf course with a putting green driving range, pro shop, and snack bar. Book an early tee time and then spend the rest of your day exploring.
3. Score A Strike At Lucas Lanes
- Address:
935 N 9th St
Blackwell, OK 74631
- Hours:
Mon – Wed: 5:30PM-11PM
Sat: 2PM-12AM
Sun: 2PM-10PM
About Lucas Lanes: Fun for the whole family, Lucas Lanes is open Mondays to Wednesdays from 5:30 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., Saturdays from 2:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m., and Sundays from 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
In 2009, Lucas Lanes had a full remodel with new AMF SPL synthetic lanes and additional upgrades. If you’re not into bowling, other fun activities like pool tables and video games are on site.
4. Pig Out on BBQ at Prairie Smoke BBQ
- Address:
116 N Main St
Blackwell, OK 74631
About Prairie Smoke BBQ: Just a short 3-minute drive from Lucas Lanes, Prairie Smoke BBQ is a local favorite. Open for lunch and dinner, enjoy a plate of pulled pork, brisket, or ribs. Add cowboy beans, fried okra, or potato salad on the side.
Prairie Smoke BBQ is closed from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., Mondays to Saturdays. Make sure to check the hours before arriving.
5. Catch a Show at the Poncan Theatre
- Address:
104 E Grand Ave
Ponca City, OK 74601
- Hours:
Tues – Fri: 1PM-5PM
*and 1 hour prior to showtimes
About: Located southeast from Blackwell, OK, about 25 minutes, Poncan Theatre is a historic theater listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It first opened in 1927.
See a musical performed by the Evans Children’s Academy or enjoy the melodies of a concert brought to you by the Ponca City Concert Series. You can also see the largest collection of hand-painted theatre art in the world.
Is Blackwell, OK Worth A Visit?
Oklahoma is a state full of history, especially Native American history. Blackwell, OK, is no exception.
It’s also a town full of family fun. Whether you play a round of golf, go bowling with the kids, or catch a show, you’ll be entertained during your visit.
Yet you won’t be exhausted from running from one museum to the next, dealing with heavy traffic, or walking several blocks to your next site-seeing adventure. It will be relaxing and enjoyable.
When will you plan your visit?
