8 visitusa.org.uk BE INSPIRED “Oklahoma’s music pedigree is strong and vibrant – a rich mix of country & blues, folk & bluegrass and more recently R&R and OK’s own ‘red-dirt’ fusion" As America grew, it seems every restless settler, cowboy, oil tycoon and budding entrepreneur paused or settled in what is now Oklahoma. Most notable are the 39 Native American tribes now headquartered in the 'Sooner State' as a result of having been resettled – willingly or forcibly – in the 1800s. Oklahoma is a richly-storied state: diverse, beautiful, welcoming and ready, willing and able to share these significant stories with you. It's at America’s crossroads, where ranchers raised cattle (and still do) and cowboys hit the famous Chisholm Trail. Where Native American nations have re-built communities and prospered, and now proudly share their stories at numerous tribal cultural centers, such as the First Americans Museum in Oklahoma City and the Choctaw Cultural Center near Durant. And where, in 1926, Tulsa businessman Cyrus Avery envisioned a highway connecting east and west and the iconic Route 66 was born. Oklahomans come from many backgrounds and many nations. This diversity is perfectly reflected in cuisine across this state. Traditionally, it’s about hearty Western fare – BBQ ribs and steak; fried chicken; biscuits and gravy; Indian tacos; pie and ice cream. Today, local ‘farm-tofork’ sourcing is a big deal, and Okies with roots all over the world – from Ireland to Italy and Sweden to Southeast Asia – offer an eclectic culinary experience in flourishing restaurant, craftbrewery, and winery scenes. Music to the ears: Oklahoma’s music pedigree is strong and vibrant, a rich mix of country and blues; folk and bluegrass, and more recently R&R and OK’s own ‘red-dirt’ fusion. Live music is everywhere, from huge arenas to ‘front-room’ bars. Home-grown artists, such as Vince Gill, Reba McEntire, Carrie Underwood and Blake Shelton (to name a few) have become mega stars. 2022 will add exciting new music attractions to Oklahoma, not least the Bob Dylan ‘living archive’ at its own purpose-built, Bob Dylan Center in Tulsa. Oklahoma Routes America’s energetic growth created the heart of Oklahoma, past & present. This is the year to slow down and experience more of the USA Visit Oklahoma BE INSPIRED, VISIT TRAVELOK.COM
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