In 1969 Merle Haggard said that Muskogee was a place where even squares could have a ball. It’s 2023, and you don’t have to be a square, but you can still have fun in this small town in the Ozarks.
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Merle might have been on to something in that song. It’s home to the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame, several fascinating museums, a castle, a waterpark, and great places to eat. Here’s a full day of adventure for your Ozark family vacation.
Jump to Your Adventure:
| War Memorial Park | Waterpark | Music Hall of Fame | The Castle | Food | Stays |
War Memorial Park
History buffs or military veterans will appreciate the unique beauty of the War Memorial Park in Muskogee. It’s home to the infamous USS Batfish submarine. In the span of just 72 hours, the USS Batfish destroyed 16 Japanese warships. To this day, the USS Batfish is still the most successful submarine sinking ship. You can take a tour inside and see the living quarters as well as other critical areas of the submarine.
War Memorial Park is also home to a portion of the USS Oklahoma. Another significant piece in the price of freedom. The USS Oklahoma was struck and sunk in the attacks on Pearl Harbor in 1941. More than 429 service members aboard this single ship lost their lives that day. War Memorial Park is a humbling and interesting place to spend an afternoon.
River Country Water Park
When the weather warms up, the fun starts to pile on. You can float around the lazy river, race down the slides, or dodge in and out of the various splash attractions. For a cheap afternoon thrill, visit the River Country Family Water Park.
As impressive as the water park is for the cost, you never have to leave because their concessions offer tasty solutions for various appetites. Kids under the age of 2 get in free, 3-15 are $6, and adults are $7 for the day. You can also save $3 per person if you come after 4 pm for their special twilight admission deal.
Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame
With legendary musical giants among their population, how could Oklahoma not have a music hall of fame? As Merle already boasted of its popularity, it only makes sense that Muskogee is the home to such a place.
The Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame recognizes more than 100 big names in the music industry, which took off in the Sooner State. Among that list includes well-known celebrity names such as Carrie Underwood, Woody Guthrie, and Vence Gill, to name a few. The museum entrance is free. Once inside, you can see instruments, apparel, award-winning records, and more.
The Castle of Muskogee
Kicking off every season at the Castle of Muskogee is the annual Renaissance Festival. The Castle at Muskogee is really an event booking facility, but it hosts notable attractions each year. Loyal guests return yearly for a few of these festivities:
Renaissance Fair: Come dressed up and play the part of peasant, queen, fairy, or warrior in a 1569-era style celebration. Play games, shop for merchandise, and eat old-world food here.
Fireworks Shop: From June 15 to July 4, the Castle is home to thousands of fireworks in an indoor vendor style. Your pyros are guaranteed to fire, and they have new selections each year.
Halloween Galore: My favorite time to visit the Castle! The Castle does Halloween like no other! Get chased by zombies, sign up to hunt them down, and enjoy other favorites like the torture chamber inside tunnels.
Christmas: Ride a train, hayride, camel, or poney while you enjoy the lights around you.
The Castle of Muskogee is undoubtedly a major attraction. They have events throughout the year, but these are the staples you can always count on. Check their events calendar to see what happens during your family vacation to the Ozarks.
Best Places to Eat in Muskogee
After all this fun, you’ll need to replenish the gas tank. Being in Oklahoma, you already know Muskogee does food (especially meat and BBQ) well! Here are a few fan-favorite places to fill up and feel good during your visit to Muskogee, Oklahoma.
Zollie’s Restaurant: Zollie's at,111 North York, Muskogee is said to be the home of the best steak, bar none! Check out their homemade Hungarian Goulash or chili cheese fries, too, though.
American Pie Wood-Fired Pizza: Mouthwatering dessert calzones, toasted subs, authentic ravioli, or fresh wood-fired pizza can be found at 107 W Broadway, Muskogee.
Mahylon’s: If you want BBQ done right, head to 3301 Chandler Rd, Muskogee. You can get brisket, ribs, turkey, hot links, and more. They also offer baked potatoes, salads, and sandwiches.
Ready to Plan Your Visit?
While not a major metropolitan, Muskogee, Oklahoma, has plenty of attractions worth checking out. Maybe you’ve got a day trip coming up and need some inspiration. Perhaps you’re in a neighboring city and have some downtime. Don’t overlook this quiet place with loads of potential.
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