If you’re anything like me—and after decades of travel writing, I still fall for the charm of a well-preserved town—you’re going to love Guthrie, Oklahoma. I wandered into Guthrie expecting a quick history fix, and ended up staying longer than planned. You’ll see why as soon as you set foot on those red-brick sidewalks and gaze up at the beautifully restored Victorian facades.
Guthrie isn’t just pretty to look at—it’s full of stories. I’ve browsed antique shops, toured museums, and even caught a show at the Pollard Theatre, all within a few walkable blocks. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture lover, or just craving a slower pace, this little town delivers the kind of atmosphere you don’t find everywhere.
And the best part? It’s only about 30 minutes from Oklahoma City. So if you're looking for a quick getaway that feels like a step back in time, Guthrie might just be your new favorite day trip—or weekend retreat.
Best Things to Do in Guthrie, Oklahoma
Learn about history at Oklahoma Territorial Museum and Carnegie Library
Guthrie felt like stepping through a doorway in time, and nowhere was that more vivid than the Oklahoma Territorial Museum and Carnegie Library. With each creaking floorboard and sepia-toned photograph, the past seemed to breathe a little louder. It wasn’t just exhibits behind glass—it was the sensation of a town becoming a state, the echo of ink drying on foundational documents. I remembered standing in the old Carnegie reading room, sunlight slanting across wood-paneled walls, and feeling that history wasn’t just told—it was lived. It reminded me how quickly life could pivot into something new.
What I Loved Most: Walking through the restored 1902 Carnegie Library and seeing the original Land Run documents—moments frozen in ink and ambition.
Plan your day trip:
- Drive Time from Oklahoma City: ~45 minutes north
- Vibe: Historic, reflective, frontier-rooted
- Highlights: Land Run artifacts, vintage clothing exhibits, original Carnegie library, Territorial Governor’s Office
- Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall for mild weather and walkable historic downtown
- Admission: $7 for adults, $5 for seniors, students, and children (under 5 free)
- Don’t Miss: The original Land Run diorama and the restored Carnegie Library’s reading room
Visit the Guthrie Scottish Rite Museum
Walking into the Guthrie Scottish Rite Museum felt like discovering a hidden layer of Oklahoma’s soul. The towering castle-like façade hinted at something grand, but stepping inside revealed even more—a hush of awe, velvet-lined corridors, and ornate rooms filled with symbolism and mystery. The history wasn’t loud here...it whispered from the woodwork, the Masonic artifacts, the regalia worn with purpose. I felt transported, not just to another era, but to another state of mind. It was beautiful, strange, and unexpectedly moving. I left with more questions than answers—in the best possible way.
What I Loved Most: Standing under the grand dome of the Egyptian Room, bathed in filtered light and silent wonder. It felt like a sacred pause in time.
Plan your day trip:
- Vibe: Majestic, mysterious, symbolic
- Highlights: Grand lodge architecture, Egyptian Room, Masonic artifacts, guided tours
- Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall for cool air and atmospheric light through stained glass
- Admission: $10 for adults, $5 for seniors and students (call ahead for tour availability)
- Don’t Miss: The massive marble staircase and the detailed symbolism in every corner of the Egyptian and Gothic rooms
Address: 900 E Oklahoma Ave, Guthrie, OK 73044, Phone: 405-282-1281
Watch a show at Pollard Theatre
The Pollard Theatre had a warmth I didn’t expect...a kind of lived-in magic that settled in the red velvet seats and flickered just beneath the footlights. From the moment I stepped through the doors, I felt the pulse of stories waiting to be told. The historic charm of the building wrapped around the performance like a second script—every creak of the floorboards, every golden sconce casting its glow, made the experience feel deeply personal. It wasn’t just a show—it was an echo of all the nights that had come before, and I was lucky enough to be part of this one.
What I Loved Most: Sitting in that intimate space, completely immersed, feeling the actors breathe life into the room. The laughter, the tension, the applause—it all felt close and real.
Plan your day trip:
- Vibe: Intimate, nostalgic, creative
- Highlights: Live theater productions, historic setting, local talent, seasonal shows
- Best Time to Visit: Evenings in fall or winter for cozy, crowd-filled performances
- Admission: Typically $15–$30 depending on show and seating (advance booking recommended)
- Don’t Miss: A pre-show stroll down brick-lined streets and a post-show drink at one of the nearby saloons or cafés
Address: 120 W Harrison Ave, Guthrie, OK 73044, Phone: 405-282-2800
Romantic Activities and Attractions:
Visit the Oklahoma Frontier Drugstore Museum
The Oklahoma Frontier Drugstore Museum felt like a forgotten cabinet creaked open—rows of glass bottles, hand-written labels, and turn-of-the-century remedies tucked neatly behind the counters. It was more than nostalgia—it was a glimpse into the daily hopes and ailments of another time. I felt a strange intimacy reading old prescriptions and peering at tools once used with great care and limited science. The creaky wooden floors and vintage apothecary cases transported me, and for a quiet moment, I saw how medicine once walked hand-in-hand with mystery and guesswork. It was humbling and oddly beautiful.
What I Loved Most: Seeing the original soda fountain and the pharmacist’s workspace exactly as it would’ve been over a century ago—preserved like a moment waiting to be remembered.
Plan your day trip:
- Vibe: Quirky, educational, timeworn
- Highlights: Antique apothecary bottles, historic tools, soda fountain, pharmacist’s office
- Best Time to Visit: Weekends in spring or fall when downtown Guthrie is lively but uncrowded
- Admission: Free (donations appreciated)
- Don’t Miss: The original medicine displays and early pharmaceutical advertising—surprisingly artistic and sometimes a little bizarre
Address: 214 W Oklahoma Ave, Guthrie, OK 73044, Phone: 405-282-1895
Go on a Guthrie Ghost Walk
The Guthrie Ghost Walk is a guided tour through Historic Downtown Guthrie, an area known for its stories of spirits, sprights, and ghosts. Visitors can hear tales of broken hearts, mysterious events, and even murderous intent.
The tour includes stops at notable locations such as the Bluebell Saloon, where bullet holes in the ceiling tell stories of past conflicts, and the Territorial Jail, with its shuttered windows and eerie history.
As visitors stroll through the largest historic district in the country, they can enjoy the classic Victorian and Edwardian architecture while listening to tales of hauntings, sightings, and unexplained events. If lucky, they might even experience something supernatural themselves!
Each tour begins at the Apothecary Garden, located at the corner of Oklahoma Avenue and 2nd Street.
Address: Guthrie Ghost Walk, 214 W Oklahoma Ave, Guthrie, OK 73044, Phone: 405-293-8404
Sign up for paintball at Avid Extreme Sports
Avid Extreme Sports Park in Guthrie felt like stepping into a real-life action movie. The moment I arrived, the energy was palpable—adrenaline, camaraderie, and the thrill of the game all rolled into one. The themed fields, from the rugged Wastelands to the intricate Castle, transported me to different worlds. Each game was a new adventure, and I found myself fully immersed, strategizing with teammates and navigating the diverse terrains. The staff's enthusiasm and professionalism made the experience even more enjoyable, ensuring safety while keeping the excitement high. It was more than just paintball; it was an unforgettable journey through creativity and challenge.
What I Loved Most: Engaging in a scenario game on the expansive 60-acre field, where every corner held a new surprise, and the sense of immersion was unparalleled.
Plan your day trip:
- Vibe: High-energy, immersive, adventurous
- Highlights: Themed fields like Castle, Wastelands, and Western Town; scenario games such as "Fire for Effect" and "The Brand"; accommodating staff and well-maintained equipment
- Best Time to Visit: Spring or fall for comfortable weather and major events
- Admission:
- Walk-on play: $15 for self-equipped players (includes all-day entry and air)
- Rental packages: Starting at $24.95 per player (includes equipment and 100 paintballs)
- Private group packages: Weekday parties at $299.95 for up to 10 players; weekend parties at $349.95 for up to 10 players
- Don’t Miss: Participating in one of their signature scenario events for a full-day immersive experience
Address: 2651 E Seward Rd, Guthrie, OK 73044, Phone: 405-282-0110
Have dinner at Billy Sims BBQ
Billy Sims BBQ in Guthrie brought together the comfort of Southern hospitality and the boldness of game-day energy. The walls were adorned with memorabilia that celebrated Billy Sims' football legacy, creating an atmosphere that was both nostalgic and lively. The aroma of pecan wood-smoked meats filled the air, making it impossible not to feel hungry. As I bit into the tender brisket, I was reminded of backyard barbecues and family gatherings. The flavors were rich, the portions generous, and the experience authentically Oklahoman.
What I Loved Most: The Three-Meat Combo allowed me to sample a variety of their smoked offerings, each one flavorful and cooked to perfection. The baked potato salad stood out as a unique and delicious side.
Plan your meal:
- Location: 1624 S Division St, Guthrie, OK 73044
- Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Vibe: Casual, sports-themed, family-friendly
- Highlights: Smoked brisket, pulled pork, St. Louis-style ribs, baked potato salad, and the signature Heisman sandwich
- Best Time to Visit: Lunch hours for a quieter dining experience or evenings to enjoy the lively atmosphere
- Price Range: Moderate; meals typically range from $10 to $25
- Don’t Miss: The Banana Stacker dessert—a sweet finish to a hearty meal
Address: 1624 S Division St, Guthrie, OK 73044, Phone: 405-293-6282
See the galleries at the Territorial Capital Sports Museum
Stepping into the Territorial Capital Sports Museum felt like walking through the heartbeat of Oklahoma's athletic history. The walls were adorned with memorabilia that told stories of triumph, perseverance, and hometown pride. I was captivated by the exhibits honoring legends like Jim Thorpe and Mickey Mantle, as well as the tributes to local high school heroes whose names might not be nationally known but are cherished in their communities. The museum's dedication to celebrating athletes from all walks of life made me feel connected to a rich tapestry of sports heritage.
Plan your visit:
- Location: 315 W. Oklahoma Ave, Guthrie, OK 73044
- Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Vibe: Nostalgic, educational, community-driven
- Highlights: Exhibits on baseball, football, basketball, rodeo, golf, and the Olympics; tributes to Native American athletes and women in sports; the Oklahoma High School Baseball Coaches Hall of Fame
- Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings for a quieter experience and the opportunity for personalized stories from the knowledgeable staff
- Admission: Free (donations appreciated)
- Don’t Miss: The Warren Spahn Award Gallery featuring a 9-foot bronze statue and the extensive collection of autographed baseballs from the 1930s and 1940s
Address: 315 West Oklahoma Avenue, Guthrie, Oklahoma 73044, Phone: 405-260-1342
Watch a rodeo show at the Lazy E Arena
Lazy E Arena felt like the beating heart of Oklahoma’s western heritage. The moment I stepped inside, the scent of fresh dirt and the buzz of anticipation filled the air. With its massive indoor space and climate-controlled comfort, it was more than just an arena—it was a cathedral for rodeo fans. I remember the thunder of hooves, the sharp crack of ropes, and the roar of the crowd as cowboys and cowgirls competed with grit and grace. It was raw, real, and unforgettable.
Plan your visit:
- Vibe: Authentic, high-stakes, family-friendly
- Highlights: Cinch Timed Event Championship, National Little Britches Rodeo Finals, OCA Ranch Rodeo, Pink & Ruby Buckle barrel races
- Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall for major rodeo events and youth championships
- Admission: Varies by event; for example, OCA Ranch Rodeo tickets range from $11.39 to $97.29 depending on age and seating :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
- Don’t Miss: The Jr. Ironman competition and the arena’s signature events that blend tradition with top-tier competition
Address: 9600 Lazy E Drive, Guthrie, Oklahoma 73044, Phone: 405-282-3004
Conclusion
As I left Guthrie, I carried more than just photos or souvenirs...I carried a feeling. A quiet awe for the way the town holds its past so close, and a renewed appreciation for stories told in sandstone and stage lights, in dusty exhibits and living legends. Guthrie wasn’t loud about its magic, but it lingered long after I’d gone. It reminded me that sometimes the most meaningful travel doesn’t take you far—it just takes you deeper.
In Summary...
(and if you want to revisit my photo journey)- • Learn about history at Oklahoma Territorial Museum and Carnegie Library
- • Visit the Guthrie Scottish Rite Museum
- • Watch a show at Pollard Theatre
- • Visit the Oklahoma Frontier Drugstore Museum
- • Go on a Guthrie Ghost Walk
- • Sign up for paintball at Avid Extreme Sports
- • Have dinner at Billy Sims BBQ
- • See the galleries at the Territorial Capital Sports Museum
- • Watch a rodeo show at the Lazy E Arena