Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Broken Bow, Oklahoma and Vernon, Texas

Driving from Broken Bow, Oklahoma to Vernon, Texas is a picturesque experience that takes travelers through winding roads and beautiful sceneries. The road trip is approximately 250 miles long and takes approximately five and a half hours with reasonable stops. While driving, tourists may want to visit some places that they may not have heard about. This article will discuss five unexpected places to stop on a drive between Broken Bow, Oklahoma and Vernon, Texas.

Halfway Point: Whitesboro, TX

Whitesboro, Texas, is the halfway point between Broken Bow, Oklahoma and Vernon, Texas, and a great place to rest along the journey. It is a small city located in Grayson County, Texas. Tourists may want to visit the WinStar World Casino and Resort - a hotel and casino complex with several games, including tournaments, live music and performances, and a variety of restaurants on-site. The land covers 600,000 square feet and covers three towers. Inside the buildings are a hundred gaming tables, 7,400 electronic games rooms, 99 live gaming tables, a poker room with 46 tables, and Bingo, including the world's largest one-room bingo hall.

1. Red River Valley Historical Museum, Sherman, TX

This museum is located in Sherman, Texas, just 13.2 miles from Whitesboro and has been in operation since the 1960s. The museum preserves and exhibits historical artifacts and antiques from the Red River Valley area. It is a must-visit for anyone looking to learn the history of the region. The Red River Valley Historical Museum displays a replica of the Sherman Four-Way Bridge, covering about 10,000 square feet. The bridge was initially built in 1877, and it is Sherman's oldest surviving landmark. It also has exhibits from the Civil War, including artifacts from local soldiers and residents, clothing, and firearms, among others. Visitors who love history would appreciate the informative collection showcased here.

Favorite Food to Try: Cracker Barrel

Located at the Sherman Town Center complex, Cracker Barrel is an American-style restaurant that offers a variety of southern comfort foods and a fantastic ambiance that complements the menu. Be sure to try the biscuits and gravy, fried chicken, and sweet potato casserole if you ever grab a bite there.

2. Davy Crockett National Forest, Crockett, TX

The Davy Crockett National Forest, located in the eastern part of Texas, consists of over 161,000 acres of land for tourists to explore. It is a vast forest that takes one back in time and deep into the heart of nature. The national park provides an opportunity to connect with nature and the many species of wildlife, making it is ideal for camping, fishing, hiking, and bird watching. A stop in this forest offers a harmonious escape from the busy city life.

Favorite Food to Try: BBQ in a Cup

When in Crockett, tourists can try the BBQ in a Cup, local Texan cuisine served at local joints in a small container. The dish consists of layered meat, choice of fruit (pineapple mixed with the barbeque is a local preference), sauce, and topped with cheese.

3. Jim Hogg Park- Lake Georgetown, TX

Jim Hogg Park is a 28-acre campground located in Lake Georgetown, Texas, and provides tourists with a relaxed and tranquil ambiance to unwind. It is the perfect place to stop and relax, take nature walks, and indulge in water sports activities such as swimming, fishing, and boating. The park features restrooms, a group picnic area, and a playground.

Favorite Food to Try: Green Mesquite BBQ Georgetown

This restaurant is located in downtown Georgetown, Texas, approximately 2 miles from Jim Hogg Park. Green Mesquite BBQ Georgetown offers tradition Austin-style BBQ ribs, briskets, and sausage. Tourists can try the beans and cornbread as well!

4. Caldwell Zoo, Tyler, TX

This 75-acre animal park was established in 1953 and is located in Tyler, Texas. Caldwell Zoo has over 2,000 animals and species from all over the world - an excellent spot for families and animal lovers due to its vast collection of animals that tourists can interact with. Caldwell Zoo's collection consists of animals such as primates, African elephants, rhinoceroses, giraffes, sea turtles, and so much more.

Favorite Food to Try: Stanley’s Famous Pit Barbecue, Tyler, TX

Stanley’s Famous Pit Barbecue located in Tyler, Texas, offers traditional Texas-style BBQ delicacies. Tourists can try out their homemade sandwiches, brisket, smoked turkey, and sausage.

5. Wichita Falls Railroad Museum, Wichita Falls, TX

The Wichita Falls Railroad Museum is located in Wichita Falls, TX, and is a must-visit for anyone interested in railroad operations and history. The museum boasts of restored exhibits showcasing the trains and how they worked and the history of train operations in Wichita Falls. There is a range of items to see and explore, including a steam locomotive and freight car, and visitors get to learn about the peculiar role of the railroad in West Texas's settlement and industrialization.

Favorite Food to Try: Southern Girl Bakery, Wichita Falls, TX

Southern Girl Bakery is a unique combination of a bakery, a cafe, and a catering service. Tourists can try out their cupcakes, brownies, and cakes that come in different flavors.

Final Thoughts

On this journey, one can expect to see different types of landscapes and sights that are difficult to come by when in an urban area. Travelers can visit unexpected places, and who knows, they might discover a new hobby or interest. It presents an opportunity to learn about the rich history of the region and the sights to see. It is essential to take breaks every now and then to stretch, enjoy some local flavor, and appreciate the beauty of small towns. Anyone planning a road trip from Broken Bow, Oklahoma, to Vernon, Texas, should consider visiting the mentioned unexpected places.