Things To Do
in Stillwater
Stillwater is a quintessential Oklahoma college town anchored by Oklahoma State University along the Cimarron River. It blends big-campus energy with friendly, small-town charm, offering active sports, arts, and outdoor spaces. Historic brick streets and a compact downtown make exploring on foot easy and inviting.
Whether you're wandering campus landmarks, boating at Boomer Lake, or enjoying local cuisine, Stillwater welcomes curious travelers with warm hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, take a stroll along Main Street to admire the beautifully preserved historic buildings and charming boutiques. Don’t forget to visit the Washington County Historic Courthouse for a glimpse into the area's rich past.
Head to the Stillwater River for a scenic walk along the riverfront trail, where you can enjoy the serene views and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Stop for lunch at a riverside restaurant, where you can indulge in a hearty meal while watching boats float by. In the afternoon, consider visiting the Stillwater Public Library, known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful reading spaces.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local brewery or wine bar to enjoy some local craft beverages. Join a guided ghost tour in the historic district, where you’ll hear eerie tales of Stillwater's past and explore its haunted sites. Wrap up your evening with a delicious dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant, enjoying the flavors of locally sourced ingredients.
Begin your morning with breakfast at a quaint diner before heading out to the nearby Willow River State Park. Enjoy a hike on one of the park's scenic trails, where you can take in the lush greenery and beautiful landscapes. Don’t forget your camera, as you’ll want to capture the stunning views over the river.
After your hike, have a picnic lunch at a designated area in the park, surrounded by nature's tranquility. Spend the afternoon exploring the park further, possibly taking a dip in the river or trying your hand at fishing. If time permits, visit the nearby Kinnickinnic State Park for more breathtaking views and trails.
As twilight descends, return to Stillwater and enjoy dinner at a restaurant with outdoor seating, allowing you to relish the evening air. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront, where the city lights reflect beautifully on the water. End your day with a sweet treat from a local ice cream shop, perfect for a warm summer night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🏨One-night hotel | $70-150 |
| ☕Coffee or latte | $3-5 |
| 🛒Grocery bill (weekly) | $60-120 |
| ⛽Gas per gallon | $3-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong university-and-community mix with plenty of activities
- Walkable downtown and scenic outdoor spaces like Boomer Lake
- Smaller city with fewer big-city amenities
- Limited public transit and car dependency for some attractions
Places to Visit in Stillwater
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic clock tower and surrounding quad provide classic campus photography with a sense of place.
Sunrise or sunset vantage point with calm water and tree-lined shores, perfect for reflections and silhouettes.
Historic brick sidewalks, shopfronts, and brick facades offer charming street photography opportunities.
Riverside views along a calm bend; good for golden-hour landscapes.
Lush plantings and seasonal color along well-maintained paths ideal for close-ups and wide shots.
Food in Stillwater
Stillwater Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Oklahoma staple featuring a breaded steak cut, crispy fried coating, and creamy gravy; commonly found at traditional diners around campus.
Must-Try!
Slow-smoked beef with tangy barbecue sauce; offered at local barbecue joints and family-friendly eateries.
Southern-style fried catfish served with sides like hushpuppies or fries, often featured on weekend specials.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market featuring local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts, typically held in downtown Stillwater on Saturdays.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Oklahomans are known for courteous, friendly interactions; a simple hello or howdy goes a long way.
Respect for student and staff spaces; cheer responsibly during games and events; quiet, respectful behavior in libraries and galleries.
Safety
Tipping in Stillwater
Ensure a smooth experience
In full-service restaurants, tip 15-20% of the total bill; round up at cafes; tip bartenders and hotel staff as appropriate.
Most places accept credit/debit cards and mobile pay (Apple Pay, Google Pay); cash is often accepted in smaller establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with frequent afternoon storms; stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and seek shaded areas; campus and lakefront remain active with outdoor events.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage around September and October; perfect for campus walks and football game days.
Mild to cold with occasional snow; indoor venues and cafés offer warmth; layering is recommended for chilly mornings.
Warm days with occasional showers and gusty winds; blooming trees and gardens provide vibrant photography opportunities.
Stillwater at Night
Hiking in Stillwater
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Loop and lakeside paths suitable for easy hikes and morning strolls.
Riverside trails with scenic overlooks and wildlife viewing.
Well-marked plant-filled trails ideal for relaxed hikes and photography.
Airports
How to reach Stillwater by plane.
Small regional airport closest to town offering general aviation and some domestic flights.
Major international airport in Oklahoma City about 70-90 miles away; well-connected to many destinations.
Another larger airport about 180 miles away with broad domestic and international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Primary demographic around OSU, with a large seasonal and active campus population.
Longstanding family residents in neighborhoods adjacent to campus and downtown.
A smaller but steady community of longtime residents in Stillwater.
Historically significant presence in Oklahoma with cultural events in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
OSU Cowboys football draws large crowds and creates a lively game-day atmosphere.
OSU basketball games attract student sections and local fans.
Active collegiate programs with local meet opportunities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Stillwater.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many spots offer veggie burgers, salads, and vegetarian entrées; ask for guided options or customizations, and check cheese-containing dishes for rennet.