Davis, Oklahoma, home of Turner Falls, perfectly blends natural beauty, rich history, and small-town charm. Whether you’re up for outdoor adventures, digging into local history, or just craving some finger-licking BBQ, there’s no shortage of things to do in Davis, OK.
Here are some must-see highlights to check out while you’re in town, arranged in geographical itinerary order. (I was hosted by Chickasaw Country and stayed at the Artesian Hotel in Sulphur, OK, which was a hub and starting point for all my activities.)
Welcome to Davis Public Art
Royce Barber Shop Building
112 E Main St., Davis, OK
A vibrant double-sided mural on Main Street, painted by local artist Tracy Beasley, beautifully honors Turner Falls. It’s a must-see! And right next to it, check out the eye-catching bison sculpture.
Explore the Arbuckle Historical Society Museum
12 E. Main St., Davis, OK
For a fun and educational outing, visit the Arbuckle Historical Society Museum. Located in a restored 1907 Santa Fe Depot, the museum showcases local history, including Native American artifacts and a glimpse into life before Oklahoma became a state. It’s also listed on the National Register of Historic Places, making it a must-see for history buffs!
Explore Downtown Davis
Stop by Crazy Chick Boutique for trendy outfits, grab sports gear and ice cream at Chigley & Co., and pick up fresh flowers and gifts at All About Flowers. Chocoholics, save room for gourmet treats from Bedré Fine Chocolate, made by the Chickasaw Nation. The factory store even has big windows where you can sometimes catch the chocolate being made.
Try the Legendary Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies
4145 US-77, Davis, OK
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Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies started as Maude Pletcher’s humble family recipe in Springer, Oklahoma, just south of the Arbuckle Mountains. Her delicious fried pies were a locally loved favorite.
Flash forward to 1954 when E.W. Pletcher bought the land where the fried pie shop now stands. The business faced tough times, including a challenging run as a filling station. The turning point came when E.W.’s son Jerry and wife Diane took over the struggling station. Instead of sticking with the usual offerings, they focused on something special: Grandma Maude’s fried pies.
What started as a simple addition to the menu quickly turned the business around. The fried pies were an instant hit, drawing in customers far and wide, becoming a sensation and an Oklahoma legend.
The pastries come in a tempting range of sweet, savory, and seasonal flavors. I sampled the cherry-filled fried pie, and it was absolutely scrumptious!
Visit Turner Falls Park
I-35 &, US-77, Davis, OK 73030
It wouldn’t be a complete list of things to do in Davis, OK, without the area’s most famous attraction: Turner Falls Park. Visitors can see the state’s tallest waterfall, swim, hike, fish, and explore caves and castle ruins. This stunning spot made such an impression that I wrote an entire article about it. ⬇️
Read Next: Exploring Turner Falls Park in Oklahoma: Castles, Cascades, and Caves
Pro Tip: If you can swing a visit mid-week or during the off-season, you’ll dodge the crowds that often flock to this popular park.
Grab a Bite at Smokin’ Joe’s Rib Ranch
3165 Jollyville Rd., Davis, OK
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I could smell the goodness before I even walked in. At Smokin’ Joe’s Rib Ranch, they slowly smoke everything over hickory, and the mouthwatering aroma hit me right away. The place was packed with locals too, which is always a good sign.
Pulled pork is my go-to, but I had to try the ribs and brisket, too—because why not? I added some beans and black-eyed peas, both loaded with smoky meat.
There was no way I could finish everything (hello, leftovers!), but every bite was worth it. That was some seriously good BBQ!
Final Thoughts
Davis, OK, offers a little of everything, from its iconic Turner Falls and vibrant murals to delicious local eats like Smokin’ Joe’s BBQ and Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies. Whether exploring the area’s rich history, wandering downtown, or taking in the natural beauty, Davis is packed with charm and adventure. Be sure to check out these highlights and make the most of your visit!
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