As soon as warm weather arrives, Oklahomans know exactly what time it is: patio season. There’s nothing better than enjoying great food, iced drinks, and Oklahoma sunsets while dining outside with friends and family. From rooftop views to cozy hidden patios, Oklahoma is filled with outdoor dining spots that deserve a visit this summer. Rooftop Dining in Oklahoma City Oklahoma City’s rooftop restaurant scene continues to grow, offering incredible skyline views, lively patios, and some of the best sunset spots in the state. From upscale dining to casual rooftop hangouts, OKC has plenty of elevated experiences perfect for summer evenings....

There’s something magical about summer evenings in Oklahoma. The sunsets stretch across the sky, patios fill with laughter, and warm nights create the perfect excuse to spend quality time together. If you’re looking for fun and memorable date night ideas this summer, Oklahoma offers plenty of unique experiences beyond the typical dinner reservation. Pack a Sunset Picnic One of the simplest date nights can also be one of the best. Grab a few Oklahoma-made snacks, drinks, and sweet treats from Sample Oklahoma and head to: A local lake Scissortail Park A quiet overlook A small-town park Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge...

Summer road trips and sweet treats go hand in hand — and Oklahoma has no shortage of incredible dessert stops worth adding to your bucket list. From homemade ice cream to famous fried pies, the state is filled with local favorites that make summer even sweeter. If you’re looking for the perfect excuse to hit the road this season, here are some Oklahoma sweet stops you won’t want to miss. Fried Pies Along Route 66 Oklahoma and fried pies are practically inseparable. Crispy on the outside and warm on the inside, these classic treats have been road trip staples for...

Summer in Oklahoma means one thing: barbecue season is officially here. From backyard cookouts to lake weekends and family reunions, there’s nothing better than gathering around good food on a warm evening. If you’re planning a summer BBQ this year, why not make it extra special with Oklahoma-made sauces, seasonings, and local ingredients from Sample Oklahoma? Here are five easy crowd-pleasing recipes your guests will love. 1. Sweet & Smoky BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders These sliders are simple to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. What You’ll Need: Pulled pork Slider buns Oklahoma-made BBQ sauce from Sample Oklahoma Pickles...

Nothing says “road trip snack” quite like jerky. It’s easy to pack, full of flavor, and perfect for long drives across Oklahoma highways, lake weekends, camping trips, and summer adventures. Even better? Oklahoma is home to some seriously delicious locally made jerky brands that deserve a spot in your snack bag this season. If you’re looking to upgrade your road trip snacks this summer, here are some Oklahoma-made jerky favorites you can pick up at Sample Oklahoma. No Man’s Land Beef Jerky A true Oklahoma favorite, No Man’s Land Beef Jerky is known for its tender texture and bold flavor....

There’s something special about summertime in Oklahoma. The days feel longer, the sunsets glow a little brighter, and small towns across the state come alive with local festivals, live music, hometown food, and Route 66 nostalgia. If you’re looking for the perfect summer road trip, Oklahoma’s stretch of Route 66 offers plenty of opportunities to slow down, explore hidden gems, and experience authentic small-town charm. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or just searching for a fun day trip, here are some June festivals and events worth adding to your Route 66 summer bucket list. Rock the Route – Stroud,...

Route 66 is often celebrated for its neon lights, roadside diners, and nostalgic charm—but some of its most powerful stories live in the places that have been left behind. Across Oklahoma, stretches of the Mother Road are dotted with ghost towns, near-ghost towns, and quiet communities that feel frozen in time. These aren’t the polished, postcard stops. They’re slower, quieter, and sometimes a little eerie—but that’s exactly what makes them unforgettable. Where the Road Went Quiet Not every town along Route 66 survived the shift to interstates and faster travel. When traffic moved on, some communities faded with it. Places...

There’s something about Route 66 that just hits differently on camera. Maybe it’s the neon glow, the vintage charm, or the endless stretch of road that feels like it goes on forever. Whatever it is, Oklahoma offers some of the most photogenic stops along the Mother Road—and if you know where to look, you can capture shots that feel straight out of a film. Whether you’re building your Instagram feed, shooting content for a brand, or just want memories that actually feel as good as the moment, here’s your guide to the best photo spots along Route 66 in Oklahoma....