Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive between Choctaw, Oklahoma and Royse City, Texas

Traveling from Choctaw, Oklahoma to Royse City, Texas, can be an enjoyable journey by car. This trip takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, spanning a distance of approximately 280 miles, passing through the countryside of Oklahoma and into Texas. While you may have an idea of what there is to see along the way, there are some unexpected places worth exploring. Here are five unexpected stops to make to enjoy the journey.

Halfway Point: Marietta, OK

The halfway point between Choctaw and Royce City falls in Marietta, OK. This small town with a population of just over 2,000 people is located in Love County, which borders the Red River separating Texas and Oklahoma. Marietta is home to Lake Murray State Park, which offers breathtaking scenery, hiking trails, bike trails, and water activities. The park is an ideal place to stop and stretch your legs while enjoying the natural beauty of Oklahoma.

A quick bite to eat can be found at the rustic Hog Wild Family Restaurant where you can indulge in some of the best home-style cooking to keep you on the road. This spot is perfect for an early lunch before you hit the road once again.

1. Turner Falls Park

Located 68 miles south of Marietta and about 70 miles outside of Royse City, Turner Falls Park is a picturesque destination. The 77-foot waterfall at Turner Falls Park is the largest in the state of Oklahoma and worth visiting if you are a nature enthusiast. It’s an ideal place to hike, splash around waist-deep pools, and enjoy the stunning natural landscape of the area.

If you're hungry, try some traditional Fried Catfish with hushpuppies and coleslaw, which can be found at Smokin Joe’s Rib Ranch, located at the entrance of the park.

2. Red River Historical Museum

Just 92 miles from Marietta, in Vernon, Texas is the delightfully intriguing Red River Historical Museum. This museum is full of captivating stories of the Red River Valley, and offers an excellent opportunity to learn about the history and heritage of Texas, especially in the Vernon Army Airfield exhibits which depict the history of the United States Army Air Forces in World War II.

Hungry for a snack? Visit J & B Bar-B-Q, an old-fashioned restaurant that is a local favorite. Here you can taste authentic beef brisket, pulled pork, and mouth-watering hot links, among other meat options.

3. The World's Littlest Skyscraper

As you drive into Wichita Falls, Texas, you can’t miss the fascinatingly odd The World's Littlest Skyscraper. Located in downtown Wichita Falls, this four-story high building was built in 1919 and is the smallest skyscraper in the world. The story of how this building came to be, and its cleverly crafted design, is worth a side trip to see for yourself.

If you find yourself craving something sweet after visiting the skyscraper, then make your way to Wichita Falls' famous bakery, Denim Donut. Here, you can try their mouth-watering donuts and tasty kolaches.

4. The Baker Hotel

If you're into history, architecture, and the paranormal, the abandoned Baker Hotel in Mineral Wells, Texas, is worth a visit. The Baker Hotel was once a popular destination for the rich and famous, with Benny Goodman and Marlene Dietrich among its guests. It was closed down in 1972 and has been left untouched since then, excluding the occasional paranormal investigator. The Baker Hotel is eerie and very evocative, and it is worth a visit if you're interested in Texas history.

Before you hit the road again, stop by Kuby's Sausage House for some authentic German food. The restaurant has been a fixture in Dallas for over 50 years and is famous for its world-famous German sausages and cold cuts.

5. Greenville Municipal Auditorium

As you near Royse City, Greenville Municipal Auditorium is a must-visit destination. Constructed in 1920, it is one of the oldest active theaters in Texas, hosting several performances and concerts. The auditorium is extravagant, with a grand marquee spelling out its name and a fairy light canopy that sparkles at night, which makes it a perfect place to end your trip with some entertainment.

For a bite to eat, Whataburger offers a classic fast-food experience with a vast array of burgers, shakes, and fries options that will satisfy your cravings.

Conclusion

From Marietta's scenic state park to Greenville's historic auditorium, and many fascinating roadside stops in between, the drive from Choctaw, Oklahoma to Royse City, Texas, is full of surprises. Each stop offers a unique experience, food options, and exceptional stories. Don’t miss out on the adventure-you'll regret not taking. Pack a bag, gas up your car and take the road trip!