Follow the Mural Trail throughout Chickasaw Country
The weather is getting warmer, the trees are budding and the smell of spring rainfall is in the air. In our book, that makes for the perfect time for a road trip. So, jump in your car and follow along as we make seven stops in south-central Oklahoma to view unique murals. Are you ready? Roll your windows down, turn up the radio and start your GPS. Our first stop is Marlow, Oklahoma.
First Stop in Marlow
This small town has been home to some big events over the years and Marlow’s history and culture come to life in their downtown murals. Did you know the John Wayne movie, Sons of Katie Elder, was based on a story about the Marlow brothers? Look closely in the “W” at the end of the mural and you’ll find the Marlow brothers’ hideout! Or cross the street to snap a photo in front of the Marlow Brothers' mural. And while in Marlow, be sure to grab a slice of pizza from DiCintio’s Pizza Cucina or get your shopping fix at Broadway and Main Boutique or the Marlow Mercantile.
Explore Duncan
Cruise 20 minutes south lands you in Duncan, Oklahoma. Head down Main Street and peer around the east side of the Henderson Furniture building, and you’ll find the Rhythm and Roots Mural. Created in 2015 by the Palmer Studios, the mural is part of the Oklahoma Tourism Department’s Rhythm and Roots Music Trail, which highlights venues and artists in Oklahoma. The song lyrics painted at the top of this mural are my favorite part: “I’ve never been to Heaven, but I’ve been to Oklahoma.” After taking a few selfies in front of the mural, take some time and explore downtown Duncan. A few of our favorite shops are The Sumac Trading Co. and The 3 French Hens. They are truly wonderful places to shop.
Capitol City Tishomingo
Your next stop is in the historic capitol of the Chickasaw Nation: Tishomingo! Down the street from The Doghouse on Main Street, you’ll find this exquisite mural of the Pennington Creek dam and local swimming hole. Get your fill of home cooking at Blake Shelton’s restaurant, Ole Red, grab your favorite double scoop of Blue Bell Ice Cream at Nikole's Country Store and stop at the Chickasaw Nation Information Center to learn more about the area and its history.
Stop in Davis
After you leave Tishomingo, it’s time to take a short drive to Davis. Right on Main Street, sits a beautiful mural of Turner Falls. Taking a picture at this mural and at the actual Turner Falls outside of Davis would be a really cool photo! Curb your sweet tooth with handcrafted gourmet chocolate at Bedré Fine Chocolate and eat a fried pie (or two) at Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies.
Welcome to Wynnewood
Wynnewood is home to two large horizontal murals dedicated to the area's Western and First American history. The Welcome to Wynnewood mural is the perfect photo stop before heading to Allisa’s Kitchen BBQ & Grill for a bite to eat. And, of course, no trip to this small town is complete without a visit to Mettry’s Department Store for the latest in Western clothing and boots.
And one for the road!
We will leave you with one more stop - the Welcome to Kingston mural in Kingston, Oklahoma. This colorful backdrop is a great photo opportunity, whether in front of the bright mural or atop the large "Lake Texoma" beach chair. And while passing through town, stop at Greg's Rockin' Goat Coffee for pick-me-up.
What a fun road trip! Thanks for exploring south-central Oklahoma with me! While you’re on your mural tour in Chickasaw Country, take pictures of your favorites and tag us with #VisitChickasaw.
