Cushing, Oklahoma: Where the Fun Never Stops! Best Things to Do and Places to Visit

Cushing asks nothing of your legs. The town is flat and small, Main Street carries the murals, and the whole walk takes an afternoon at a stroll. The effort here is optional and vertical instead, because the Oklahoma Skydiving Center puts you out of a plane at 10,000 feet, tandem if neither of you has done it. The Club Course Golf moves quickly, which matters if one of you is impatient. Everything else is sitting down.

Welcome to Cushing, Oklahoma, a small but lively town known for its long history and its friendly community. Local or tourist, there are plenty of fun things to do and places to visit in Cushing. Adrenaline-pumping activities through to gastronomic delights, architectural marvels through to recreational activities, this town has a version for everyone.

If you are an adrenaline junkie, head over to the Oklahoma Skydiving Center or the Cushing Aquatic Center for some heart-pumping action. For anyone who prefers a more laid-back experience, visit the Cushing Main Street Farmers Market or take a stroll around the Tidewater Winery. History buffs can explore the Drumright Historical Museum or check out the murals paying homage to the city’s past.

Whatever your interests, Cushing has something for them. So pack your bags, grab your friends or family, and get ready for an experience in this charming town that stays with you.

Key Takeaways

Cushing, Oklahoma is a small but vibrant town with a rich history and friendly community.
Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or prefer a more laid-back experience, Cushing has something for everyone.
From the Oklahoma Skydiving Center to the Tidewater Winery, the Drumright Historical Museum to the stunning murals, there are plenty of fun things to do and places to visit in Cushing.

Welcome to Cushing, Oklahoma

You have made it to Cushing, Oklahoma. This small town is full of charm and character, and you are in for a treat. Get ready for the friendly atmosphere and small town feel that Cushing is known for.

As you work through the town, you will notice it is steeped in history. Cushing was founded during the Oklahoma Land Run of 1891 and has been growing ever since. Take a stroll down Main Street and see the murals that pay homage to the town’s past. You will feel like you stepped back in time.

But Cushing is not only about history. There is plenty to do and see here. If you are after a fun day out with the family, head to the Cushing Aquatic Center. It suits cooling off on a hot summer day exactly. And if you are feeling adventurous, why not try skydiving at the Oklahoma Skydiving Center? It will get your heart racing.

If you are in the mood for some shopping, check out the Copper Penny Trading Company. You will find all sorts of unusual items here, from vintage clothing to antique furniture. And if you are a fan of the arts, do not miss the Cushing Community Theatre. They put on some serious productions across the year.

So, welcome to Cushing. Get ready for all the fun and charm this small town carries.

Adrenaline Pumping Activities

After an experience that will get your heart racing? Cushing, Oklahoma is the answer. Adrenaline junkie or simply after something new, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Oklahoma Skydiving Center

If you are after the ultimate thrill, why not try skydiving? The Oklahoma Skydiving Center runs tandem jumps for beginners, along with training for anyone who wants to become a certified skydiver. You jump from a plane at 10,000 feet and take the rush of freefalling before your parachute opens and you glide safely back to the ground. It is an experience that stays with you.

Extreme Tours

For anyone who wants to see the sights while getting their adrenaline fix, there are plenty of extreme tours in Cushing. Take a guided ATV tour of the local trails and see the Oklahoma countryside up close. Or, if you are feeling really adventurous, try a zipline tour through the treetops. You zip from platform to platform, taking in the long views as you go.

Whatever type of adventure you are after, Cushing has a version for everyone. So why not try something new and exciting today? Your heart, and your Instagram feed, will thank you.

Gastronomic Delights

Cushing may be a small town, and it is big on flavor. You will find plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. Here are some of the places to eat and drink in Cushing:

Best Restaurants

The Grill – This local favorite serves up classic American fare, from juicy burgers to crispy fried chicken. Be sure to save room for their famous homemade pies!
Los Arcos – Looking for authentic Mexican cuisine? Look no further than Los Arcos! You’ll love their flavorful tacos, sizzling fajitas, and refreshing margaritas.
China King – If you’re in the mood for Chinese food, head to China King. Their menu features all your favorite dishes, from sweet and sour chicken to lo mein.

Popular Bars

The Buckhorn Bar – This laid-back watering hole is the perfect spot to unwind after a long day. Grab a cold beer, shoot some pool, and enjoy the friendly atmosphere.
The Oasis – With its spacious patio and live music on the weekends, The Oasis is a great place to gather with friends. Their bartenders are known for their creative cocktails, so be sure to try something new!

Whatever you are in the mood for, Cushing has something for it. So go ahead and work through some strong eats and drinks.

Architectural Marvels

Cushing may be a small town, and it is big on unusual architecture. Historic buildings through to modern marvels, you will find plenty of eye-catching structures to admire.

Dunkin Theater

One of the more iconic buildings in Cushing is the Dunkin Theater. This Art Deco masterpiece was built in 1929 and has been a beloved landmark ever since. The theater originally showed silent films and had a pipe organ for accompaniment. Today it is still a popular spot for movie lovers, and you can catch the latest blockbusters on the big screen.

If you are a fan of classic cinema, you will appreciate the Dunkin’s vintage character. The marquee is a work of art in itself, with neon lights and bold colors that harken back to a bygone era. Inside, the theater holds up just as well, with ornate details and plush seating that will make you feel like a VIP.

Romantic date night or a fun outing with friends, the Dunkin Theater suits escaping reality for an evening. Just grab some popcorn and settle in for a cinematic experience that stays with you.

So, if you are into architecture, the Dunkin Theater belongs on any list in Cushing. From its Art Deco design to its long history, this theater is a real find and a testament to the town’s own character.

The Dunkin Theater went up in 1929 and it is still showing films today. Art Deco marquee, neon, ornate detail on the inside and plush seating, the whole thing built for an evening rather than for a screening. It showed silent films once, with a pipe organ playing along underneath them. Now it runs the latest blockbusters instead, which is a stranger and rather better inheritance than that sounds. Sit close together.

Recreational Activities

After some fun recreational activities in Cushing? Here are a couple of options that will keep you occupied.

Club Course Golf

If you are a golf enthusiast, you will love the Club Course Golf in Cushing. This public course is always in excellent condition, thanks to the hard work of the club pro and his team. And if you are worried about the pace of play, do not be. The course is designed to move quickly, so you will not spend all day out in the sun.

But do not worry if you are not a seasoned pro. The course suits beginners and family members who simply want a good time. And if you do not have your own clubs, no problem, because club rentals are available, and carts are available for anyone who prefers to ride.

Movie Night at The Screen

After something a little more low-key? Why not check out a movie at The Screen? This cozy theater suits catching the latest blockbuster or indie flick. And with multiple showtimes each day, you will find a movie that fits your schedule.

But what really sets The Screen apart is its commitment to the community. The theater regularly hosts special events and screenings, so you can take in movies in a whole new way. And with friendly staff and comfortable seating, you will feel right at home. So grab some popcorn and settle in for a night at the movies.

Where to Stay

If you are planning a trip to Cushing, Oklahoma, you will need a place to rest your head at night. Luckily, there are a few options available to you.

Best Accommodations

On finding the strongest accommodations in Cushing, you are in luck. Here are a few options to consider:

The Cushing Country Inn & Suites: This hotel is known for its clean and comfortable rooms, as well as its friendly staff. It’s conveniently located near many of Cushing’s top attractions, making it a great choice for anyone who wants to explore the area.
The Cushing Motel: This budget-friendly motel may not be the fanciest option, but it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a clean and affordable place to stay. Plus, it’s located right in the heart of downtown Cushing, so you’ll be within walking distance of many shops and restaurants.
The Cushing RV Park: If you’re traveling in an RV, this is the place to be. The park is clean and well-maintained, and it’s located just a short drive from many of Cushing’s top attractions.

Wherever you choose to stay in Cushing, you can rest assured of clean and comfortable accommodations. So go ahead and book your trip, because you will not regret it.

Traveler’s Experience

So, you are planning a trip to Cushing, Oklahoma and you want to know what other travelers have experienced? Well, you have come to the right place. Let us take a look at some of the reviews and ratings from Tripadvisor and Yelp.

Tripadvisor Reviews

According to Tripadvisor, the top 5 traveler favorites in Cushing are the Cushing Aquatic Center, Copper Penny Trading Company, the Cushing Country Club, the Cushing Public Library and the Cushing Municipal Airport. One reviewer said the Cushing Aquatic Center is a strong place to cool off during the hot Oklahoma summers, that the water slides are a blast and the staff is friendly and helpful. Another said the Copper Penny Trading Company is a quiet find in Cushing, with a strong selection of unusual gifts and home decor items.

However, not all reviews were positive. One reviewer said the Cushing Country Club is in serious need of updates, that the course is poorly maintained and the staff is unfriendly. Another said the Cushing Public Library is small and outdated, and that there are stronger libraries in the area.

Yelp Ratings

On Yelp, the highest rated places to visit in Cushing are the Cushing Aquatic Center, the Cushing Country Club and the Cushing Municipal Airport. One reviewer said the Cushing Aquatic Center is a strong place to take the kids for a fun day in the sun, that the water slides are a blast and the lifeguards are attentive and friendly. Another said the Cushing Country Club is a fine course with well-maintained greens and fairways, and that the staff is friendly and welcoming.

However, some reviewers were not as impressed. One said the Cushing Municipal Airport is small and outdated, and that the facilities need serious renovation. Another said the Cushing Country Club is overpriced and not worth the money, and that there are stronger courses in the area for a fraction of the price.

Overall, it seems the Cushing Aquatic Center and the Cushing Country Club come up more than anywhere else in the area. However, opinions vary depending on the traveler’s experience and preferences.

Nearby Towns to Visit

If you are after more adventure beyond Cushing, there are plenty of nearby towns to explore. Here are some fun places to visit during your stay:

A Day in Stroud

A short drive from Cushing, Stroud runs a charming small-town experience. Start your day with a cup of coffee at the local diner, then head to the Route 66 Interpretive Center to pick up the history of the famous highway. After that, take a stroll through the downtown area, where you will find antique shops, boutiques and local restaurants. And do not forget to snap a photo with the giant popcorn bucket statue.

Exploring Chandler

Another nearby town worth visiting is Chandler. This historic town is home to the Lincoln County Museum of Pioneer History, where you pick up the area’s early settlers and Native American tribes. Take a walk around the downtown area to see the murals and the architecture, then grab a bite to eat at one of the local cafes. If you are visiting during the summer, check out the Chandler Aquatic Center for some fun in the sun.

Perkins’ Charm

Perkins may be a small town, and it is full of character. Start your day with a visit to the Perkins-Tryon Historical Society Museum to pick up the town’s history, then head to the local park for a picnic lunch. If you are feeling adventurous, take a hike at the nearby Cimarron Valley Wildlife Management Area. In the evening, catch a movie at the historic Showest 4 Drive-In Theater.

Elm’s Beauty

A short drive from Cushing you will find the town of Elm. This picturesque town is ringed by rolling hills and open countryside. Take a drive down the scenic backroads for the long views, then stop by the Elm General Store for some homemade fudge and souvenirs. If you are visiting during the fall, check out the annual Elm Pumpkin Festival for some festive fun.

Whichever nearby town you choose, you will have a fun and memorable experience during your stay in Cushing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some quirky attractions in Cushing, Oklahoma?

Well, Cushing is known for its unusual and quirky attractions. You do not want to miss the Ghost Town of Shamrock, where you can take in what life was like in a western town in the late 1800s. If you are after something a bit more modern, check out the Drumright Historical Museum, which features exhibits on the oil boom that put Cushing on the map.

Is there a local food scene in Cushing worth trying?

Absolutely. Godofredo’s Pizzeria & Tap Room belongs on any pizza lover’s list, and if you are in the mood for good ol’ Southern comfort food, head over to Buckhorn Bar. For an unusual dining experience, try Tidewater Winery, where you can enjoy a glass of wine overlooking the vineyards.

What outdoor activities are available in Cushing?

Cushing is ringed by natural scenery, so there is plenty to do outdoors. Take a dip in the Cushing Aquatic Center, go for a hike on the Washington Irving Trail, or take a game of bowling at Frontier Bowl. If you are feeling adventurous, why not try skydiving at the Oklahoma Skydiving Center?

Are there any hidden gems to discover in Cushing?

Definitely. Kin’s Canvas is a strong spot to unleash your inner artist and make your own masterpiece. And if you are a fan of literature, do not miss the Washington Irving Trail Museum, which celebrates the life and works of the famous author.

What’s the best time of year to visit Cushing?

While Cushing works year-round, the fall is particularly fine. The changing leaves make the backdrop, and there are plenty of fall festivals and events. Plus the weather suits outdoor activities exactly.

Absolutely. A short drive away is the charming town of Pawhuska, home to the Pioneer Woman Mercantile, where you can eat well and do some shopping. And if you are a fan of the Wild West, do not miss the Woolaroc Museum & Wildlife Preserve in Bartlesville.

Frequently asked questions about Cushing, Oklahoma

Which museum near Cushing covers the oil boom?

The Drumright Historical Museum. I went in expecting a quick look and came back out an hour later. Its exhibits cover the oil boom that put Cushing on the map, and the scale of what happened here is not obvious from the street. The Ghost Town of Shamrock is the other one, showing western life in the late 1800s. Both sit close enough together that you can do the two of them at once.

Which trail near Cushing is worth walking?

The Washington Irving Trail. It runs flat and it is very easy to underestimate, which I duly did. The Washington Irving Trail Museum sits alongside it and covers the writer’s life and his work, so the walk comes with a reason attached. Further out, the Cimarron Valley Wildlife Management Area near Perkins gives you a proper hike instead. Either one makes a better afternoon than the town suggests that it should.

What is the Dunkin Theater in Cushing?

A 1929 Art Deco movie house that has never stopped working. I sat through a blockbuster there and spent half of it looking at the ceiling. The marquee alone is worth standing under, with its neon and its bold colors from a period the rest of the street has entirely forgotten. It ran silent films once. The Screen is the other cinema in town, cozier and a good deal quieter.

Keep exploring Cushing, Oklahoma