Travel

Someone once told me that the start of August in the summer is the equivalent of Sunday. For many, they both signify the end of two good things: summer and the weekend.

The Oklahoma Turnpike Authority’s (OTA) construction of the Gilcrease Expressway continues to move forward at a record pace. The project connects L.L. Tisdale to I-44 and completes the western loop around the Tulsa metro area. The project was first envisioned nearly 60 years ago.

Preparing for a trip can be daunting. Here are a few things that should be at the top of your packing list, no matter where you’re heading this summer:

When you have limited vacation but still want maximum adventure, look no further than Orca Island Cabins. You’ll be treated to the trip of a lifetime.

With summer in full swing, Oklahomans are taking advantage and vacationing right here in our home state – exploring our burgeoning agritourism and entertainment districts, from the Blue Dome District in Tulsa to the Bricktown Entertainment District and Midtown community in Oklahoma City.

It seems the social media world never stops evolving, always launching new tricks and features to keep consumers wanting more.

With warmer weather and summer break, more people will be going on road trips and vacations. Many of these travelers will take a turnpike to get to their destinations faster.

Springtime and sunshine call for a windows-down cruise along historic Route 66 (with “Life is a Highway” by Rascal Flatts playing, of course).

From galleries to interactive exhibits, the Citizen Potawatomi Nation Cultural Heritage Center has something for the whole family. This spring break, load up the family and take a trip to the newly renovated center.

The 80-year-old historic Santa Fe Station in Oklahoma City has recently been restored to its former luxuriousness.

Your morning commute to and from Norman just got a little bit sweeter.

Washington Post writer Christine Dell’Amore recently gave Oklahoma City a tip of the proverbial cap on a national scale, confirming what Oklahomans have known for a long time — it’s awesome to live here.

For many Oklahoma football fans, OU-Texas weekend in October is comparable to a holiday.

I went to check in for a flight recently and located my confirmation number on my calendar. Then I hit a snag: I didn’t remember which airline I was on. But my days of searching for flight confirmations are over.

To get to the “Center of the Universe,” all you have to do is head to Tulsa. Follow the brick path from Boston Avenue between First and Archer streets to the large brick circle located near 50 S. Boston Ave. to experience the acoustic phenomenon.

Traveling with a baby has turned parents into sherpas, transporting mountains of gear for their little ones. Lighten that load when you stay with a Destination Hotels property. This collection of independently owned hotels and resorts in the US and Caribbean has partnered with Babierge to offer parents the option of renting baby gear instead.

Cloverleaf is a one-of-a-kind shopping experience in Oklahoma. Visitors can’t miss the bright pink castle decorated with rainbow-colored bicycles, old Dairy Queen signs, teal dragons and a bright pink RV.

In 2004, the International Air Transport Association began pushing airlines to issue electronic tickets. Prior to that, most passengers received their tickets through the mail from a travel agent or from an airline ticket office.

The Museum of Osteology in Oklahoma City is widely known for engaging locals and tourists with its fascinating exhibits.

Take the road less traveled in Oklahoma, and you’re bound to stumble upon some quirky roadside attractions. Weird statues and kitschy museums dot the state, but here are some must-sees:

Years ago, travel agents were the ideal way to book vacations. Today, with online resources coupled with our ever-growing desire for personalized service, we need a new kind of partner to help with our holiday plans; we need a travel advisor.

Carlton Landing is Oklahoma’s newest town, bursting at the scene with charm right out of a storybook. Placed comfortably on the rolling hills overlooking Lake Eufaula, Carlton Landing feels reminiscent of a small beach town mixed with the best features of rural lake living and new urbanism.

A popular place for families to catch parades is on St. Charles Avenue near Napoleon. Viewing ladders are lined up like wooden soldiers, providing the perfect vantage for catching coveted spears, plush and beads. From princesses to cowboys, kids in costumes capture the spirit of Mardi Gras — as well as the throws.

The Washington Times’ Eric Althoff recently visited Oklahoma City and was surprised by what he found.

If you haven’t started your holiday shopping and you’re having nightmares about lumps of coal in your stocking … you can save yourself that dreaded trip to the mall by ordering Oklahoma Today gift subscriptions for everyone on your list.

Fall is finally here, the air is crisp and leaves are turning orange, yellow and red. What better time is there to explore some of Oklahoma’s state parks?

Traveling can be stressful, but these great gadgets make life on the go a breeze.

• Ostrich Pillow: Our personal favorite, the Ostrich Pillow provides a micro sleeping environment featuring polystyrene filling and soft interior allowing you to power nap anywhere.

• Steripod: This toothbrush protector kills germs of any kind. Each clip-on pod lasts three months.

• World’s Smallest Travel Steam Iron: It may be mini, but this 420-watt travel steamer packs a mighty punch to your wrinkled clothing; a must-have for Business travelers.

• Loop Worldwide Travel Adapter: Stay charged worldwide. Loop’s charging ports work throughout 150 different countries.

If you haven’t experienced the autumn grandeur of Talimena National Scenic Byway, this is the start of peak fall foliage in southeastern Oklahoma.

As the leaves begin to turn and the smell of pumpkin spice fills the air, it’s time for Oklahoma’s most fantastic fall festivities!

Going somewhere this Labor Day? Keep these five Oklahoma Turnpike Authority (OTA) safety tips in mind on your way to Grand Lake or wherever your holiday weekend plans might take you:

1. Always buckle up.
2. Avoid cell phone use while operating your vehicle. Remember, it’s against the law to text while driving.
3. Be attentive in work zones and keep both hands on the wheel.
4. Plan ahead to allow ample time to reach destinations.
5. Keep water on hand when traveling in the heat.

For the second year in a row, Tulsa will revive the legendary Great Raft Race on Labor Day.

The new Discover Oklahoma Destination Dining Guide, featuring 260 of Oklahoma’s most unique and yummy restaurants, is hot off the press, and it’s free!