Adventures Not Too Far from Blanchard
You don’t have to travel far to find something unforgettable. Around here, a full-blown adventure can be only a couple of hours away — whether it’s a new resort opening, wild animal encounters, or a holiday getaway wrapped in twinkling lights. If you’re looking to plan a few memory-making weekends, here are some of my favorite “not-too-far-from-home” escapes for every season.
Spring – The OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark, Oklahoma City
Now open along the Oklahoma River, OKANA Resort is changing the way we do staycations. This beautiful new property beside the First Americans Museum blends modern design with Oklahoma heritage, highlighting the stories of our 39 Tribal Nations. With an indoor waterpark, lazy river, spa, restaurants, and shopping, it’s an easy spring getaway for families or couples wanting something new. It feels like you’ve traveled miles without ever leaving OKC.
Also Nearby
If you’re looking for a close-to-home, family-friendly option, Great Wolf Lodge in Grapevine, Texas is just about two hours from Blanchard. With its large indoor waterpark, themed suites, and year-round kids’ activities, it’s an easy getaway for families who want big fun without a long drive.
Summer – Beavers Bend State Park, Broken Bow
When the heat hits, I start dreaming of tall pines, cool lakes, and quiet mornings on the river — which means Beavers Bend. This part of southeast Oklahoma is stunning year-round, but in summer it truly shines. Spend the morning kayaking or floating the Mountain Fork River, then head to Broken Bow Lake for swimming, boating, or paddleboarding. Evenings are made for grilling out, firepits, and lightning bugs. Cabins range from simple to luxury, but no matter where you stay, a summer weekend in Broken Bow feels like a true reset.
Fall – Expedition Africa & the Baobab Lodge, Oklahoma City Zoo
Fall might be my favorite time to explore the Oklahoma City Zoo. The new Expedition Africa expansion — twelve acres of open savanna, giraffes, elephants, and sweeping viewing decks — has completely transformed the zoo experience. And now you can stay overnight. The new Baobab Lodge offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to sleep right inside the zoo. The lodge sleeps up to ten people and includes a king suite, bunk room, and a private deck that overlooks the giraffe habitat. It’s a staycation unlike anything else in Oklahoma City.
Winter – Holidays at Big Cedar Lodge, Branson, Missouri
Just a few hours north, Big Cedar Lodge turns into a real-life Christmas card each winter. Tucked into the Ozark Mountains outside Branson, the entire resort is decked with more than four million lights and full of festive touches everywhere you look. Families can enjoy breakfast with Santa, storytime with Mrs. Claus, elf visits, ice skating, snow tubing, and holiday light tours across the property. Their Four-Bedroom Lakeside Cottage is perfect for families wanting to celebrate together, complete with fireplaces, a full kitchen, and views over Table Rock Lake.
Adventures Not Too Far from Home
From spring’s new OKANA excitement to summer on the river, fall among giraffes, and winter in the Ozarks, there’s plenty of adventure just a short drive away. You don’t need to fly across the world to find something magical. Some of the best memories are made right here in our own backyard.
From milestone celebrations to family getaways and multi-generation journeys, planning memorable vacations is what we do best. Let us be your trusted travel advisors — helping you navigate options, find the best value, and enjoy dependable service every step of the way.
