Visit Stillwater, Oklahoma
Top Things To Do in Stillwater, OK
Welcome to Stillwater, Oklahoma
Staying at ROLL ON INN RV Park in Carney puts you just 25 minutes from Stillwater, one of Oklahoma’s most charming and energetic towns. Whether you’re a nature lover, art explorer, or fan of college-town spirit, here are 7 must-see places in Stillwater that go beyond food and drink.
1. The Botanic Garden at OSU
Over 100 acres of native plants, colorful wildflowers, and themed walking paths make this garden a peaceful escape. Free to the public and open year-round, it’s a favorite for photographers, bird watchers, and quiet morning walkers.
Tip: Head to the butterfly garden early in the morning—it’s the best time to spot butterflies and hear songbirds before the midday heat sets in.
2. Lake McMurtry
This serene lake on the outskirts of Stillwater is perfect for kayaking, hiking, trail running, or just enjoying a quiet sunset by the water. Less crowded than Boomer Lake, it’s ideal for low-key nature lovers.
Tip: Rent a kayak for the west side of the lake—it’s quieter and has more wildlife. Bring a hammock and string it up lakeside for sunset views.
3. Oklahoma State University Campus
One of the most beautiful college campuses in the U.S., OSU is open to the public and offers scenic walks, iconic buildings, and plenty of spots for photos. Don’t miss Edmon Low Library, Theta Pond, and Boone Pickens Stadium.
Tip: Park near the Student Union on weekends—campus is quieter and you’ll avoid weekday parking permits.
4. Boomer Lake Park
A paved walking and biking trail circles this large city lake, with plenty of picnic areas, fishing spots, and wildlife viewing. Paddleboards and kayaks are welcome, and the open sky makes it great for sunsets.
Tip: Walk the east side for the best water views and early morning shade. Bring binoculars—this is a local birding hotspot.
5. Modella Art Gallery
Located in downtown Stillwater, Modella showcases rotating exhibits of contemporary art, live music, and community events. A creative anchor for the arts scene, it’s small but impactful.
Tip: Ask about artist talks or live acoustic nights—they’re often free and rarely advertised online.
6. Stillwater History Museum at the Sheerar
A quiet gem tucked near downtown, this museum gives you a peek into Stillwater’s pioneer days, OSU history, and Route 66-era nostalgia. Great for families and history buffs.
Tip: Check the back room—temporary exhibits often highlight quirky or little-known Oklahoma topics.
7. Lost Creek Safari
This USDA-licensed exotic animal park is a hit with families, especially those traveling with kids. Meet camels, kangaroos, lemurs, and even a zebra—all just a short drive from central Stillwater.
Tip: Bring cash—some animal feed experiences and small extras are cash-only, and totally worth it.
Top Picks for Dining in Stillwater, OK
- Eskimo Joe’s — Long a Stillwater staple, Eskimo Joe’s is known for its lively, college-town vibe, burgers, cheese fries, and casual American fare.
Tip: Visit early or call ahead—it gets crowded on game days and weekends. Grab a souvenir T-shirt at the retail store attached to get a piece of Stillwater to take home. - The Ranchers Club — For a more upscale, refined dining experience, The Ranchers Club delivers expertly cooked steaks, rustic ambiance, and quality service.
Tip: Reservations are wise, especially for weekend dinners or special occasions. Sit in the main dining room for the most atmospheric experience. - Hideaway Pizza — A laid-back, fun option, Hideaway Pizza is a Stillwater favorite for casual pizza, pastas, and a lively setting.
Tip: Try to snag a booth under the signature kite-decor ceiling for full local flavor, and go for one of the specialty pizzas if you want something a little different than standard.
Why Stillwater Is a Great Day Trip from ROLL ON INN
Stillwater combines small-town charm with big personality—and it’s only a 25-minute drive from ROLL ON INN. Home to Oklahoma State University, peaceful lakes, and hidden cultural gems, it’s perfect for travelers who want to explore nature, history, and arts in one easy stop. Whether you’re catching a game, visiting a gallery, or strolling campus, you’ll find something memorable in Stillwater.
Plan Your Visit
- Short stay? Try Lake McMurtry, Modella Art Gallery, and OSU campus for a well-rounded visit.
- Bring comfy shoes: Stillwater is great for walking trails, art strolls, and college campus tours.
- Photo ops: OSU library lawn, lakeside sunsets, colorful downtown murals.
- Local tip: Ask a local their favorite Stillwater tradition—you might hear a great story about game day superstitions or the best cheese fries in town.
For More Info & Local History
- Official city & travel info: https://www.visitstillwater.org/
- Museums, galleries & campus events: osu.edu/events/
Local Event Websites
Timeline:
The Story of Stillwater, Oklahoma
Fun Fact: Stillwater is widely credited as the birthplace of Red Dirt music — a genre named after the color of the local soil.
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