When you hear Boise City, you probably immediately think of Idaho, the land of potatoes and blue football turf. But, located 1,000 miles southeast is another Boise City, a small town in western Oklahoma.
You probably aren’t planning a trip there any time soon. But you may be taking a road trip along either of the highways that run through this tiny town.
Let’s take a look at why you should consider stopping for a night or two in Boise City, OK. You might just find a couple of surprises. Let’s dive in!
What to Know About Boise City, OK
A small town of only about 1,200 people, Boise City, OK, probably won’t make it on many bucket lists. It’s located in the panhandle of Oklahoma on Highway 412 in Cimarron County, the last county in the western part of the state.
As a result, it’s in close proximity to other states and small cities. Drive north about 30 minutes to Campo, Colo., south about 20 minutes to the Texas State Line Monument, and about 40 minutes southwest to Clayton, N.M.
One of the most unusual events on U.S. soil during WWII occurred in Boise City, OK, when a US bomber crew accidentally bombed the town. On July 5, 1943, the crew was performing target practice and mistakenly thought the town square was the target. Thankfully, no one was injured or killed.
Even though Boise City might have a unique history and only covers 1.3 square miles, it’s a town worth visiting when traveling through the Oklahoma panhandle. You can even embrace the local cuisine and learn about the town’s history, especially during the Dust Bowl era.
Traveler’s Tip: If you’re heading east next, stop in to Alva, OK, where you can watch a street race!
5 Ways to Do Boise City, OK, Like a Local
You won’t find a lot to do in Boise City, OK, but there are a handful of activities that will help you blend in like a local. From supporting small businesses to taking a tour along the old Santa Fe Trail, you’ll enjoy visiting this small town in western Oklahoma.
1. Shop at the Boise City Farmers Co-Op
Address: 600 South Hart Ave, Boise City, OK 73933
Shop for corn, milo, or wheat at the Boise City Farmers Co-Op. Support the local farmers, ranchers, and growers in the area and stock up before heading out of town.
Since Farmer’s Markets are only seasonal, co-ops like this one in Boise City offer year-round purchasing. This won’t stop every traveler, but it’s a great way to act like a local.
2. Sit Down for Breakfast at Farmhouse Cafe
Address: 505 N Cimarron Ave, Boise City, OK 73933
The Farmhouse Cafe has a four-star rating on Google, and guests rave about the excellent customer service and delicious menu. You won’t find a website or online menu, so just stop in during your visit to Boise City, OK, just like a local would.
It’s only half a mile from the Cimarron Heritage Center, so you could enjoy a morning stroll up a few blocks after breakfast.
3. Take a Tour of the Cimarron Heritage Center
Address: 1301 North Cimarron Ave, Boise City, OK 73933
You can’t visit Boise City, OK, without taking a trip to the Cimarron Heritage Center. The 3.5 acres of exhibits include an old dugout, a journey along the Santa Fe Trail, and an 18,000 lb replica of an Apatosaurus dinosaur.
The Tin Man, a 13-foot tall replica of the character from the Wizard of Oz, greets you upon arrival. Browse through a one-room schoolhouse with artifacts from local schools and several other historic buildings.
There is no admission fee, and the center is open from Monday to Saturday, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
4. Try Some Jerky at No Man’s Land
Address: 1016 East Main St, Boise City, OK 73933
Want 16 grams of protein from 100% USDA Grade beef slow-dried without fillers? Check out the local favorite, No Man’s Land, and grab some old-style jerky.
Each strip takes about 24 hours to process. It’s not quick or cheap, but it’s the best jerky around. No Man’s Land is family-owned and operated and has been in business since 1994.
5. Shop for Fabric at Pam’s Variety Fabric Shop
Address: 23 E Main, Boise City, OK 73933
At Pam’s Variety Fabric Shop, you can find every kind of fabric imaginable. Lots of quilters live in the area, and at this fabric shop, you’ll find more bolts of fabric than people living in the town.
Small prints, large prints, fleece fabric, clothing fabric, tapestry fabric, and more line the walls and aisles. Need inspiration? Patterns and examples hang all over the store.
On Mondays to Saturdays, you can visit Pam’s from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Main Street.
Is Boise City, OK, Worth a Visit?
Boise City, OK, isn’t really close to any big cities, national parks, or places of great importance in the history of America. In fact, it’s about two hours north of well-known city, Amarillo, Texas. But that’s what makes it unique and special.
As you’re driving down Highway 385 or along Highway 412, make plans to stop in Boise City for a day or two to recharge. Enjoy life as a local and enjoy a slower pace for a bit. Then, fuel up at the Toot’n Totum before getting back out on the road for the rest of your journey.
Have you started planning a road trip through Oklahoma yet?
