Bartlesville Oklahoma Attractions and More

 Bartlesville is an idyllic town that boasts plenty of attractions for residents to enjoy. Plus, it's a great place to live! Bartlesville residents have access to a wealth of services to assist with both daily living and finances. Mortgage loan officers, insurance brokers, and estate planning lawyers are some of the top options available in the area.

1. Bartlesville Public Library

The Bartlesville Public Library exists to offer residents of Bartlesville Oklahoma resources that improve and contribute to our community's quality of life. They offer a range of services, such as books and media; adult, children, and family programs; literacy classes; job assistance; and computer instruction. On January 1, 1902, the library was officially established and opened its doors at 2 North Finley Avenue (now Prudential Brown-Fowler Agency). Samuel S. Childs, a prominent citizen and major supporter of the library, donated an extensive collection of books as its founding benefactor. In the early 1900s, the library established itself as a vital and useful community asset due to the dedication of its librarian, Miss Dunham. Her enthusiasm was credited with increasing circulation to such an extent that her salary was raised to $95 per month.

Circulation at the library increased as more people moved in from nearby neighborhoods such as Rankin Avenue, Berta Place, and Alward Avenue. Many new books were donated by residents, and women's and PTA groups ran fund drives to support its operations financially. In October 1974, the library moved to its present location on South Maple Avenue with help from volunteers such as Friends of the Library, Kiwanians, girl and boy scouts, school and municipal officials, and students. Coordination by Mrs. Jane D. Steinkopf took only two hours and resulted in a stunning modern facility complete with skylights, an open stairway between floors, a two-story window wall in the rear lobby area, and 42 parking spaces - all completed within two hours!

2. Bartlesville Museum of Art

Bartlesville Museum of Art is an ideal destination to visit while in town and offers a plethora of exhibits sure to dazzle. They even provide services like tours of their galleries and educational programs for children that will teach them about art history! Bartlesville Museum - Situated right downtown, this attraction is perfect for a fun-filled day! They also have several unique shops and boutiques that are great to browse or pick up something special to take home as a souvenir. This art museum boasts one of the world's largest collections of Western art and is definitely worth a visit! They also have an expansive collection of wildlife that you can explore and learn more about, plus they host animal shows for added entertainment!

While in town, don't miss visiting Oak Grove Nature Center! They offer various hiking trails that are perfect for anyone who appreciates outdoor adventure or wants to learn more about Oklahoma's natural splendor. Plus, their nature education program helps kids develop an appreciation of wildlife conservation! Just a short drive outside of Bartlesville you'll come upon Lake Yale. This scenic lake offers plenty of opportunities for relaxation and recreation; make sure to stop by while you're here in Bartlesville! While in Bartlesville, be sure to explore the sights along the Lake Keystone Parkway and Oklahoma State Highway 75 - both offer stunning views of the water! Additionally, US Highway 75 runs parallel to Oklahoma State Highway 75 for some stunning panoramas!

3. Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve

The Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve is an educational and entertaining destination situated in the Osage Hills of Bartlesville Oklahoma. Originally owned by oil tycoon Frank Phillips, it now serves as a zoo, museum, and property that preserves the American West's spirit. On the property, you can find a 3,700-acre wildlife preserve home to an array of animals from both native and exotic species. You'll see elk, buffalo, and longhorn cattle as well as Japanese Sika deer, water buffalo, Sardinian donkeys, llamas, pigmy goats, and ostriches. There are a few miles of trails to hike in the park, such as Princess Falls Asphalt Trail and Warrior Loop Trail. Take a stroll and take some time out of your day to appreciate nature at Osage Hills while taking in its sights.

Another fascinating area to visit on the property is the Welcome Center. This open and flexible space reflects Woolaroc's history while welcoming its future. It serves as an experience-based facility that brings education, gathering, and navigation together for a remarkable visitor encounter. Memory Lane Station: For children and adults alike, this station offers a fun destination with a model train track, buttons activating fire stations and garages, toys to play with, and information about the history of the ranch. Spend some quality time here playing with toys while learning about its heritage!

The property also boasts a number of museums and historic buildings that are worth exploring, such as the Woolaroc Museum with its Western art and Native American art collections. The paintings from these artists are truly beautiful; furthermore, this museum holds an extensive selection of Western artwork including paintings, chuckwagon scenes, saddles, hides, and Colt firearms.

4. Bartlesville Area History Museum at Historic Dewey Schoolhouse

Bartlesville Oklahoma is an inviting city that provides visitors with a range of attractions such as museums, grand buildings, and natural wonders. Plus, it hosts plenty of festivals and activities that appeal to tourists of all ages. If you're curious to learn more about Bartlesville and its history, the Bartlesville Area History Museum at Historic Dewey Schoolhouse is an excellent destination to visit. Built in 1912, this schoolhouse now houses various exhibits that highlight local heritage. At this museum, visitors can explore historical items from around Bartlesville such as antique cars and musical instruments used during its early days. Plus, guided tours are available to teach more about the region's vibrant past.

Bartlesville boasts the Phillips Petroleum Company Museum, which chronicles the history of this multinational corporation. This popular attraction is a must-visit for anyone interested in industrial-age history! If you're passionate about nature and wildlife preservation, the Oak Grove Nature Center is an excellent option. Here, you can learn about native plants and animals as well as view a range of displays.

Finally, the Santa Fe Depot is another unique destination in Bartlesville worth exploring. Built in 1909, this historic train station once operated two major railroad lines. Nowadays it serves as a visitor center and houses offices for both the Bartlesville Regional Chamber of Commerce and Bartlesville Development Corporation; plus, there's an assortment of Santa Fe-type 2-10-2 locomotives to ride around on!