Northwest Oklahoma: Explore Caves & History

Pack your bags for a three-day adventure through Ponca City, Enid, Alva and Woodward in Northwest Oklahoma. Nature lovers will love a visit to Alabaster Caverns State Park, home to one of the largest natural gypsum caves in the world and there are plenty of discoveries for history buffs at the Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center. Shop like a cowboy at Walker's Western store or eat like one at Danny's BBQ Head Quarters.

Enter one of the largest natural gypsum caves in the world at Alabaster Caverns State Park.
Enter one of the largest natural gypsum caves in the world at Alabaster Caverns State Park.
Photo Credit: John Jernigan

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Day 1 - Ponca City, Enid

Start by choosing your adventure through history: Marland Mansion gives you a completely different kind of spectacle—oil wealth and architecture—while Pioneer Woman Statue & Museum adds women’s history and outdoor sculpture. Standing Bear Park is an honor to America’s first Native American civil rights leader. Grab lunch at Danny’s BBQ Head Quarters, then make your way to Enid. It’s another choose-your-own-adventure between Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center, which tells the story of the 1893 Land Run and history of northwest Oklahoma, or Leonardo’s, where children of all ages can enjoy a hands-on art and science museum and outdoor science playground. Wherever you spend the afternoon, make sure to reserve time to search out the public art around downtown Enid. Finish the day with a relaxed dinner at Enid Brewing Company, choose between craft burgers or smoked brisket mac & cheese. If you still have energy, be sure to check out the calendar for live music or other local events.

Stay: GLō Best Western Enid OK Downtown/Convention Center Hotel provides a comfortable stay with modern amenities, indoor pool and complimentary breakfast.

Day 2 - Alva, Alabaster Caverns, Woodward

Drive to Alva to get up close with exotic and traditional farm animals at Bradt’s Menagerie. Alva is rich with public art, so drive around town to experience the historic murals. Stop for pizza and a brew at Alva Beer Co. Next up, explore Alabaster Caverns, one of the largest natural gypsum caves in the world. Plan ahead for guided tours; you may need a reservation. Enjoy hiking trails or try wild caving at the park. Depending on the day of the week, have dinner at Freedom Chop House, starting with the Tumbleweed Onions; or journey on to Woodward and dine at Longshots Bar & Grill.

Stay: Loft on Main: This unique downtown lodging experience will keep you close to the action.

Day 3 - Woodward

Wake up and embrace your bold West. Walker’s Western Store is the place to find top brands that blend heritage, craftsmanship, and modern style. Walk out with a custom hat and newfound confidence. (Another great place for western wear, jewelry, and tack is The Cowboy’s Tack Shop.) Walk next door to Walker Mercantile Co. for over 6,500 sq ft of home décor, furniture, jewelry, art, chocolates, and more. Make sure to stop at Persimmon Creek Gifts for something special. Visit Chase’s BBQ Shack for lunch before exploring Boiling Springs State Park. The park is one of seven original state parks built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps and is named after a natural “boiling” spring that still flows. While at the park, you can hike, fish, bike, or play a round of golf. Close out your time in Woodward with a Mexican feast at Ramiro’s.

Stay: Loft on Main: Spend another night at this downtown loft for a convenient and comfortable end to the day.

Planning note: Verify current hours, reservations, event calendars and lodging availability before traveling.

See Related Pages

Order Related Brochures

  • Visit Enid
  • Visit Ponca City
  • Northwest Region Kit
  • Oklahoma Travel Guide 2026

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