Departing Dallas/ Ft. Worth Metroplex

Day 1 – Talimena Scenic Drive/ “Castle in the Clouds”

We take the scenic route, traveling on part of the Talimena Scenic Byway, where you can drive from an elevation of 274 feet to an elevation of 2,600 feet in a distance of less than 100 miles. Look up and experience the Black Fork Mountain on one side and Rich Mountain on the other. Our hotel is on Rich Mountain, the Queen Wilhelmina Lodge, referred to as the “Castle in the Clouds.” You might want to ride the miniature train, play miniature golf or just walk around the state park to view the breathtaking panoramic scenery.

(D) Overnight: Mena, Arkansas

Day 2 – Cherokee Heritage Center/Discoveryland - Oklahoma!

After leaving our mountaintop setting, our next stop is the Cherokee Heritage Center, dedicated to telling the story of the Cherokee Native Americans, including the sad Trail of Tears. In the Ancient Village, see demonstrations of traditional crafts, such as basketry, pottery, flint knapping and blowgun shooting. Where “the wind comes sweepin’ down the plain” is the familiar refrain we hear at Discoveryland this evening. Performing beneath the stars, a national cast of recognized singers and dancers bring to life Broadway’s immortal Oklahoma! This rollicking frontier musical never fails to delight audiences. We’ll arrive early for a total evening of family fun to include a Cattleman’s Ranch Dinner and a performance by Native American Dancers.

(B,D) Overnight: Tulsa, Oklahoma

Day 3 – Water Taxi/ Science Museum/ Pool Time

Upon arrival in Oklahoma City, we’ll go to the Science Museum, an interactive, fun environment for families. The model train exhibit is a local favorite; the kiddos will love the Gadget Trees featuring a 24 foot slide (the tallest spiral slide in the world!); see one-of-kind space artifacts and meet Otto! We’ll be staying in the Bricktown area where there are water taxis to transport you on the canal. The indoor pool at the hotel is equipped with basketballs, fountains and waterfalls that are sure to please. 

(B) Overnight: Oklahoma City

Day 4 – Arbuckle Wilderness Park/ Homeward Bound

We head home today, but we’re not through with the sightseeing and activities yet! Lions and Tigers and Bumper Boats! Enter the 400-acre Arbuckle Wilderness Park and you’re in for a wild ride! It’s home to more than 100 species of animals, and only a fence – sometimes not even that – separates us from the park’s roaming rare and exotic residents, including lions, tigers, rhinos and giraffes. An eight-mile safari bus tour will bring us even closer. Young and old alike are sure to be intrigued by the experience of this visit to the Arbuckle Mountains.

(B)