The Talimena National Scenic Byway is well-known for its stunning fall foliage, so make a weekend trip out of your fall drive! Not only is this drive wonderfully scenic with its golden valleys and stunning vistas, but it also passes through some of the state’s most historic towns. From classic diners to sprawling state parks, get ready to embark on the perfect fall road trip in Oklahoma.
This fall, plan a road trip to Angel's Diner to savor the nostalgia of the 1950s. Enjoy your share of delectable desserts, specialty coffees, milkshakes, and fun, retro diner fare from the decades. With this delightful, nostalgic trip, create some memories!
This site is a great spot to stop for a mid-morning break. Restrooms are available here, as are picnic tables. If you like to hike, you may want to take some time to enjoy nature and explore the area. At the very least, make sure to see the old rock wall and entrance gate as well as the spring structure built by enrollees from the civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) in the 1930s.
If you can spare the time, take Highway 270 north to Heavener. The drive is beautiful, but you want to see the Heavener Runestone, which is a 19th-century artifact made by a Scandinavian immigrant. Along the way, stop at the Southern Belle Restaurant in Heavener, where you'll find the leading fried chicken in Heavener.
On the way back, stop by Talking Trees Campground. Fishing does not require a license here, because the lake is privately owned. There are 700 miles of trails. If you want to spend the night here and extend your trip, reserve one of their cabins!
Keep going, and stop at the vistas to see different landscapes. You'll want to stop at Pioneer Cemetery in Mena, Arkansas. Although there are only 23 graves, the area has years of history. Settlers came here as early as 1860. The soil was rich, and the water was clean and readily available.
Queen Wilhelmina State Park has wonderful accommodations, whether you want to camp, RV, or stay in a lodge. It was named for the Queen of Holland because the railroad was largely financed by Dutch investors.
The trail ends in Mena, Arkansas. Although the town is small, it has many restaurants and attractions. The Mena/KCS Historic Depot & Museum is a great way to end your journey. The depot has been completely restored to be reminiscent of days gone by.
