· US

Woodward

Woodward, Oklahoma, United States

Located in northwestern Oklahoma, Woodward is a charming city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor adventures. Known as the "Crystal City of the Plains," Woodward is a popular destination for touri…

#Small town#Rural#Oil industry#Outdoor recreation#Western heritage

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Woodward.

Top Hotels in Woodward

Top Flights to Woodward

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Woodward.

Shopping

Main Street Woodward Shopping Spree

Explore unique shops and boutiques along historic Main Street.

Outdoor

Boiling Springs State Park Exploration

Enjoy the natural beauty and recreational activities at Boiling Springs State Park.

Crystal Beach Water Park Fun

A family-friendly water park offering a variety of aquatic activities for all ages.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Woodward.

Currency
$ | USD | US Dollar
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Woodward, Oklahoma, is around 12,000.
Languages
English, English
Average weather
Woodward
Jan
cold
7°-5°
Feb
cold
10°-3°
Mar
cloud
15°1°
Apr
sun
20°6°
May
sun
25°12°
Jun
hot
31°18°
Jul
hot
34°21°
Aug
hot
33°20°
Sep
sun
29°15°
Oct
cloud
22°9°
Nov
cloud
14°2°
Dec
cold
8°-4°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Woodward.

What people love

Woodward, Oklahoma is a charming city with a mix of outdoor recreational opportunities, historical sites, and cultural attractions. Here are some pros of traveling to Woodward:

  1. Outdoor Recreation: Woodward is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, and bird watching. Boiling Springs State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

  2. Historical Sites: History buffs will appreciate the various historical sites in Woodward, including the Plains Indians and Pioneers Museum which showcases the history of the area. The Crystal Beach Park is another historical site that offers a glimpse into the past.

  3. Cultural Attractions: Woodward has a vibrant arts and culture scene with art galleries, theaters, and live music venues. Visitors can explore local art and attend performances showcasing the talent of the community.

  4. Friendly Community: Woodward is known for its friendly and welcoming community. Travelers can expect to receive hospitality and a warm reception from the locals.

  5. Local Cuisine: Woodward offers a variety of dining options, ranging from local diners serving comfort food to upscale restaurants offering gourmet cuisine. Visitors can taste authentic Oklahoma flavors and enjoy a unique dining experience.

Overall, traveling to Woodward, Oklahoma can provide a mix of outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and a glimpse into the rich history of the region.

What to know

Woodward, Oklahoma is a small city located in the Great Plains region of the United States. While there are many positives to visiting Woodward, there are also some potential cons to consider:

  1. Limited tourist attractions: Woodward is a relatively small city with limited tourist attractions compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for a wide variety of entertainment options may find Woodward lacking in this aspect.

  2. Remote location: Woodward is located in a fairly remote area of Oklahoma, which means it may take longer to reach compared to other more accessible destinations. This could result in longer travel times and potentially higher transportation costs.

  3. Limited dining and shopping options: While Woodward does have some dining and shopping options, they may be limited compared to larger cities. Visitors looking for a wide variety of culinary experiences or shopping opportunities may be disappointed.

  4. Weather extremes: Woodward experiences a range of weather extremes, including hot summers and cold winters. Visitors should be prepared for potentially uncomfortable weather conditions depending on the time of year they choose to visit.

  5. Limited public transportation: Woodward is a car-dependent city, and public transportation options are limited. Visitors without access to a car may find it difficult to get around the city and explore the surrounding areas.

Overall, while Woodward has its charms and attractions, visitors should be aware of these potential cons before planning a trip to the area.

Woodward, Oklahoma, is a city with a rich history that reflects the broader historical developments of the American West.

Early History

  • Native American Presence: Before European-American settlement, the region that is now Woodward was inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Apache, Comanche, and Kiowa.
  • Exploration and Settlement: The area that became Woodward was part of the land acquired through the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. It was sparsely populated until the late 19th century.

Establishment and Growth

  • Railroad Arrival (1887): The town of Woodward was established in 1887 as a station on the Southern Kansas Railway (later part of the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway). The railway's presence was pivotal in its development as it provided vital connections for trade and transport.
  • Land Run (1893): Woodward experienced growth following the Cherokee Outlet Land Run in 1893, which opened the area to settlement by non-Native settlers.

Significant Events

  • Tornado of 1947: One of the most significant events in Woodward's history was the devastating tornado that struck on April 9, 1947. It was one of the deadliest tornadoes in U.S. history, killing over 100 people and destroying much of the town.
  • Economic Development: The discovery of oil and natural gas in the surrounding areas in the 20th century significantly impacted Woodward's economy, transforming it into a hub for the energy industry.

Historical Figures

  • Temple Houston: The son of Sam Houston, Temple Houston was a notable lawyer and politician in early Oklahoma history who lived and worked in the Woodward area.

Important Landmarks

  • Woodward County Courthouse: This historic courthouse, built in 1935, is an example of Art Deco architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • Boiling Springs State Park: Located near Woodward, this state park showcases the natural beauty of the area and is a popular spot for recreation.
  • Plains Indians & Pioneers Museum: This museum in Woodward offers exhibits on the history of the region, focusing on both Native American and pioneer heritage.

Modern Development

  • Woodward continues to be a regional center for cattle ranching, agriculture, and energy production. It hosts events like the annual Woodward Elks Rodeo, which draws visitors from across the region.

Overall, Woodward's history is characterized by its transformation from a frontier town into a modern city, driven by transportation, agriculture, and energy industries.