Only in OKlahoma Show

Harley Covington and Brett Manzer
  • 4.9 (28)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Howdy Y'all…just kidding! Welcome to our page. We are the Only in Oklahoma Show, where you can hear about travel and entertainment in the Great State of Oklahoma. Our sole purpose is to shine a light on some of the people, places and stories that make Oklahoma, more than just "OK". In fact, Oklahoma is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the country even by some of the locals. Powered by award winning podcasters (2018 Podcast Award – Society and Culture), Harley C. and Brett Manzer. Tune into the Only in Oklahoma Show to hear interviews, news and reviews about Oklahoma's best restaurants, hotels, festivals, museums, outdoor activities, breweries, rodeos, concerts, casinos, Route 66, and more (literally this list is endless). If it's fun and in Oklahoma, we will be talking about it. We will also be covering some not so topics, like bureaucrats, bridges, toll booths and taxes. If it affects your bottom line or your lake time, we will be cussin' and discussin'. If you are joining us from the Odd Pod, some things never change. Manzer and Harley will be trying to make you laugh while dropping some knowledge about the places we cover. Don't worry, we will still be covering the occasional red-dirt ghost story, cryptid, and UFO conspiracy…as long as it is north of the Red River (BOOMER!). Boots and straps and cowboy hats are optional. Welcome to the Only in Oklahoma Show!

  1. 8H AGO

    The Dusty, High-Octane History of Frontier City: From Boomtown to Six Flags HQ

    The Wild West isn't just a theme—it's a survival story. In this episode of Only in OK, we are diving deep into the dusty, high-octane history of Frontier City. This Oklahoma City icon isn't just a theme park; it's a survivor that outlasted real estate developers, economic crashes, and even an F2 tornado. We explore how a 1957 state birthday exhibit became the secret headquarters of the global Six Flags empire while the rest of us were just waiting in line for the Silver Bullet. Whether you're a rollercoaster nut or a fan of Oklahoma history, strap in—we're going back to the Old West, right off I-35. In This Episode, We Discuss: The "Boomtown" Origins: How Hollywood publicist James Burge saw Disneyland in '55 and decided OKC needed a slice of the action. The Park That Refused to Die: How the 1980s oil crunch accidentally saved Frontier City from being demolished for a real estate development. The Six Flags Birthplace: The "Only in OK" fact—the company that bought Six Flags (Premier Parks) started in a small office in the Frontier City parking lot. Frontier City on Film: From the gritty streets of Dillinger (1973) to the cult horror of The Fun Park and the neon nights of American Ninja Warrior. Ride Deep Dives: The resurrection of the Wildcat, the "hand-me-down" pedigree of the Silver Bullet, and the interactive history of Quick Draw. The 2021 "Water Hero": A look back at the guest who climbed the lift hill to save stuck passengers (and got a 5-year ban for it). Frontier City Ride Guide Ride Name Type Backstory Silver Bullet Steel Looping A classic Schwarzkopf model with high G-force and only a lap bar. Wildcat Wooden Resurrected after sitting abandoned in KC for 13 years; named by Deer Creek 6th graders. Diamondback Steel Shuttle Originally part of "Lightnin' Loops" at Six Flags Great Adventure. Steel Lasso Suspended Built for the 50th Anniversary; the first "feet-dangling" ride in OK. Valentine's Day Survival Guide: Science Museum Oklahoma Need a sitter for Valentine's weekend? Science Museum Oklahoma has you covered with Parents' Night Out on February 13, 2026. Who: Kids aged 6-12. What: After-hours museum access, science activities, pizza, and supervision. Cost: $60 for members / $70 for non-members. Deadline: Register by February 9th at sciencemuseumok.org. Partner Spotlight: Enid SOS Our partner for today's show is Enid Street Outreach Services (Enid SOS). They provide essential services—food, showers, medical advocacy, and shelter—to the unsheltered and low-income community in Enid, OK. How to help: Donate clothing (jeans/sleeping bags) or volunteer your time. Learn more: Visit enidsos.org . #Frontier City #OklahomaCityHistory #OnlyInOK #SixFlagsHistory #OKCPodcast #SilverBullet #WildcatCoaster #OklahomaTravel #EnidSOS #ScienceMuseumOK #ParentsNightOut

    41 min

  2. FEB 2

    The 100-Square-Foot Mistake & Oklahoma's Most Adorable Small Towns

    Is it a National Park or a clerical error? In this episode of the Only in OK Show, Brett and Harley dive into the hilarious history of Guthrie's "smallest National Park" and explores the most charming small towns across the Sooner State. The Typo That Made History: Guthrie's Tiny Landmark Did you know Oklahoma is home to the smallest National Park landmark in the country? Well, technically. Located behind the Guthrie Post Office lies a 10x10 patch of land that exists solely because a city clerk in 1907 didn't double-check their math. Instead of a "100-foot square" plot (10,000 sq. ft.), the paperwork officially designated it as "100 square feet." Today, this "park" is a cult-favorite roadside attraction complete with: An unofficial "Park Ranger" (Stacey Frazier). A wrought iron fence and the historic Beacon Hill monument. "Don't Feed the Bears" signs—despite the only bears being located in nearby antique shops. Exploring the 10 Most Adorable Small Towns in Oklahoma After we "hike" through Guthrie, we zoom out to look at the soul of the state. Based on recent rankings from World Atlas, we break down the must-visit spots for your next Oklahoma road trip: The Scenic Superstars: Broken Bow's towering pines and Eufaula's massive shoreline. Healing Waters: The Arbuckle duo of Sulphur and Davis (don't forget the Arbuckle Mountain Fried Pies!). The Cobblestone Charm: Medicine Park, Oklahoma's first resort town. Star Power: Atoka (Reba's Place), Ada (Blake Shelton's stomping grounds), and Pawhuska (The Pioneer Woman & Osage Nation). Culture & History: Hands-on blacksmithing in Grove and the stunning fall foliage of Talihina.   Links & Resources Mentioned United States Smallest National Park Facebook Page World Atlas: 10 Most Adorable Small Towns in Oklahoma Follow us on Social Media: [Insert your links here] Enjoyed the show? If you visit any of these spots, tell them the Only in OK Show sent you!   #OnlyInOK #OklahomaHistory #SoonerState #OklahomaRoadTrip #ExploreOklahoma #OKPodcasts #TravelOK #OklahomaLife #GuthrieOK #SmallestNationalPark #RoadsideAttractions #TravelOddities #OklahomaHistory #GuthrieGhostWalk #HistoricGuthrie #ClericalError #SmallTownOklahoma #MedicinePark #BrokenBow #ArbuckleMountains #Pawhuska #BeaversBend #TurnerFalls #TalimenaDrive #RebasPlace #ChickasawNation #OsageNation #ArbuckleFriedPies #FriedPies #OklahomaTravel #SmallTownCharm #HiddenGems #OklahomaOutdoors

    35 min

  3. JAN 26

    Forget Big Bend! 🌵 Discover Oklahoma's Secret Desert Wilderness

    Is Oklahoma hiding a massive desert adventure? 🦬🏜️ In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're skipping the 8-hour drive to Texas and heading straight to the Charon Gardens Wilderness Area in the Wichita Mountains. If you've been dreaming of Big Bend's rugged canyons and granite peaks, you won't believe what's waiting for you just west of Medicine Park. From "Crab Eyes" to scrambling up Elk Mountain, we break down why this 5,700-acre gem might actually be better than a National Park. After the break, we get serious about safety on Oklahoma roads. 🚔 The Oklahoma Highway Patrol is facing a massive shortage, and they're asking the State Capitol for $25.8 million. We dive into the "Always On" problem, the rural coverage gap, and why nearly 200 missing troopers should matter to every driver in the Sooner State. 📍 In This Episode: The Big Bend Dupe: Why Charon Gardens is a climber's and hiker's paradise. Wildlife Showdown: Bison & Elk vs. Bears & Lions. The Parallel Forest: Oklahoma's creepiest (and coolest) tree grove. OHP's Big Ask: The $26 million plan to fix the trooper shortage. Rural Reality: What happens when help is hours away? 🥾 Resources Mentioned: Charon Gardens Permits: Recreation.gov Visit: Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge Join the Force: OHP 76th Academy Recruitment If you visit any of the spots mentioned in today's show, make sure to tell them the "Only in OK Show" sent you! #Oklahoma #WichitaMountains #CharonGardens #OnlyInOK #HikingOklahoma #OklahomaHighway Patrol #OKStateParks #BigBend #Bison #ExploreOK #MedicinePark #OHP

    51 min

  4. JAN 19

    Shawnee's Painted Horses

    In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're exploring the "public art gallery without walls" in Shawnee, Oklahoma. Discover the story behind the Painted Horses, a collection of nearly 40 life-sized fiberglass masterpieces scattered throughout the city. We talk about the project's origins with former Mayor Chuck Mills, the impact of the 2023 Shawnee tornado on the herd, and where you can find fan favorites like "Indian Blanket" and "Evening Star." It's the perfect DIY scavenger hunt for your next Oklahoma road trip! After the break: We're shifting gears to road safety. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) is launching a major statewide crackdown on distracted driving for the remainder of January 2026. Learn about the new enforcement rules, the $100 fine for holding a phone, and why Col. Joe Williams says putting your phone down is a matter of life and death. We're also highlighting the incredible work of Enid SOS (Street Outreach Services), a non-profit dedicated to providing food, shelter, and medical advocacy to the unsheltered community in Enid. Resources Mentioned: Find the horse map at VisitShawnee.com Support local outreach at EnidSOS.org Pick up a physical map at the Visit Shawnee office: 2820 N Kickapoo. #OnlyInOK #VisitShawnee #ShawneeOK #PaintedHorses #OklahomaRoadTrip #OHP #DriveSafeOK #EnidSOS #OklahomaPublicArt #ExploreOklahoma #Route66Safety

    29 min

  5. JAN 12

    Fairies, Gnomes, & Celebrity Chefs: Exploring Will Rogers Gardens and Choctaw Casino Takeovers

    Is there a secret kingdom hidden in the heart of Oklahoma City? This week, Brett and Harley are tracking down the "Gnome on the Range" at the historic Will Rogers Gardens. We dive into the magical world of fairy houses and gnome homes handcrafted by Robert Trobaugh of the OKC Parks Department. From "turtle traffic jams" to Easter Island-style sculptures, discover why this 30-acre oasis is the ultimate "Oklahoma Disney movie." In this episode, we discuss: The Fairy Kingdom of 405: How Robert Trobaugh uses salvaged materials to build a five-star resort for mythological creatures. Will Rogers Gardens Gems: The Ed Lycan Conservatory's massive cacti collection and the historic WPA-era red stone shelters. Garden Bouncers: Why the "gazillion" turtles and koi are the real bosses of the park. Family Magic: Tips for starting your own fairy garden (and how to save your bank account from "miniature furniture" debt). Break: Think Ability Inc. We spotlight Think Ability Inc., a Duncan-based non-profit providing independent living support for people with developmental disabilities. Visit: Think Ability Garden Cafe at 805 West Main, Duncan, OK. Celebrity Chef Takeovers at Choctaw Casinos After the break, we're talking high-end eats! Choctaw Casinos & Resorts is bringing the heat this winter with exclusive celebrity chef restaurant takeovers. Alex Guarnaschelli: Jan 23–24 (Grant, OK) Scott Conant: Feb 13–14 (Pocola, OK) Jet Tila: Feb 27–28 (Choctaw Landing) Links Mentioned: Finding the Fairies at Will Rogers Gardens (MetroFamily Magazine) Choctaw Casino Events #OnlyInOK #OklahomaCity #WillRogersGardens #OKCParks #FairyGarden #GnomeLife #ChoctawCasinos #AlexGuarnaschelli #ScottConant #JetTila #OklahomaFoodie #VisitOKC #ThinkAbility #ExploreOklahoma

    25 min

  6. JAN 5

    Route 66 Centennial Guide: Oklahoma's 100th Anniversary Events for 2026!

    Get your kicks! 🛣️ In 2026, the legendary Route 66 turns 100, and Oklahoma is the heart of the celebration. Join Brett and Harley as they break down everything you need to know to navigate the "Mother Road" during its historic centennial year. Oklahoma boasts over 400 miles of driveable pavement—the longest stretch in the nation. From world-record car parades in Tulsa to the neon glow of OKC, we're covering the festivals, the vintage races, and the hidden gems you can't miss. In this episode, we discuss: The Big Events: The National Kickoff, The Great Race, and Route 66 Bike Week. Oklahoma's "Big Three" Festivals: Massive celebrations in Tulsa, OKC, and Vinita. Must-See Museums: Diving deep into Clinton, Elk City, and Chandler. Hidden Gems: Darryl Starbird's Rod & Custom Show and small-town magic in Sayre. 2025 Year in Review: Celebrating our 20 million views and 60k new followers! 2026 Sneak Peek: Pizza tours, Black Mesa road trips, and more. Special Shoutout: Today's show is brought to you by Friends of Nicoma Park. Support their mission to build a 60-acre community hub with soccer fields, splash pads, and dog parks! 🔗 Follow them here: https://www.facebook.com/friendsofnicomapark Resources Mentioned: Official Centennial Info: https://route66centennial.org/ Get your Route 66 Supporter Pack: https://oklahomaroute66.com/news/centennial-supporter-pack Timecodes: 0:00 - Intro: The Mother Road turns 100 2:15 - Why Oklahoma is the Heart of Route 66 5:30 - National Kickoff & The Great Race 9:45 - The Oklahoma Museum Trail 14:20 - Tulsa vs. OKC: The May 30th Showdown 18:10 - Small Town Magic: Sayre & Vinita 22:00 - Ad: Friends of Nicoma Park 25:30 - 2025 Year in Review: 20 Million Views! 28:45 - 2026 Preview: Pizza & Black Mesa 31:15 - The Feedbag: Mall Nostalgia #Route66 #Oklahoma #Route66Centennial #MotherRoad #TravelOklahoma #OnlyInOK #ClassicCars #RoadTrip #ExploreOK #OKC #Tulsa #Route66Experience

    31 min

  7. 12/29/2025

    Chasing Stars at Black Mesa & The Future of Tinker AFB

    Discover the "Gold Standard" of the Great Plains. In this episode of the Only in OK Show, Brett and Harley take you to the furthest corner of the Panhandle to celebrate a historic milestone: Black Mesa State Park has officially become Oklahoma's first International Dark Sky Park. We dive into what it took to achieve this prestigious designation from DarkSky International and why "nocturnal heritage" is the next big thing for Oklahoma tourism. From removing "islands of light" to protecting the biological rhythms of bighorn sheep and mountain lions, we explore why Black Mesa is now a premier global destination for astrotourism. In this episode, we discuss: The 5-Year Transformation: How the park retrofitted lighting to eliminate light pollution. Where the Rockies Meet the Prairie: The unique geology of the 30-million-year-old black lava rock. The High Point Trail: Navigating the nature preserve and the famous Okie-Tex Star Party. Astrotourism's Economic Impact: How the village of Kenton and the OKC Astronomy Club put Oklahoma on the celestial map. Stick around after the break: We're heading to Midwest City because Tinker Air Force Base is getting a "Glow Up." Learn about the latest developments and what it means for the community. Plan your visit:  https://www.travelok.com/state-parks/black-mesa-state-park-nature-preserve Also discussed:  Chickasha Christmas Lights, Yukon Christmas Lights, Ralphie's Restaurant, Tinker AFB and Midwest City #OnlyInOK #BlackMesa #DarkSkyPark #Stargazing #OklahomaTravel #ExploreOK #Astrotourism #TinkerAFB #OklahomaStateParks #KeepTheDark

    36 min

  8. 12/22/2025

    The Christmas Extravaganza

    In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we discuss our plans for Christmas this year. We also give a festive review of Ralphie's in downtown Chickasha, located in the historic El Chedos/The Outpost building. Highlights of this episode include: The 2026 Outlook: Why 2026 is set to be the "Year of the Only in OK Show" and a potential million-dollar milestone. Ralphie's Restaurant Review: A deep dive into the A Christmas Story themed menu. Chickasha Tourism: Insights into the Ralphie's Airbnb and how the town is "on to something" with its holiday transformations. And most importantly, we want to wish you a very Merry Christmas #OnlyInOK #ChickashaOK #OklahomaPodcast #RalphiesChickasha #AChristmasStory #VisitOklahoma #OklahomaEats #ChickashaChristmas #2026Vision #OklahomaTourism

    47 min
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4.9
out of 5
28 Ratings

About

Howdy Y'all…just kidding! Welcome to our page. We are the Only in Oklahoma Show, where you can hear about travel and entertainment in the Great State of Oklahoma. Our sole purpose is to shine a light on some of the people, places and stories that make Oklahoma, more than just "OK". In fact, Oklahoma is one of the most underrated travel destinations in the country even by some of the locals. Powered by award winning podcasters (2018 Podcast Award – Society and Culture), Harley C. and Brett Manzer. Tune into the Only in Oklahoma Show to hear interviews, news and reviews about Oklahoma's best restaurants, hotels, festivals, museums, outdoor activities, breweries, rodeos, concerts, casinos, Route 66, and more (literally this list is endless). If it's fun and in Oklahoma, we will be talking about it. We will also be covering some not so topics, like bureaucrats, bridges, toll booths and taxes. If it affects your bottom line or your lake time, we will be cussin' and discussin'. If you are joining us from the Odd Pod, some things never change. Manzer and Harley will be trying to make you laugh while dropping some knowledge about the places we cover. Don't worry, we will still be covering the occasional red-dirt ghost story, cryptid, and UFO conspiracy…as long as it is north of the Red River (BOOMER!). Boots and straps and cowboy hats are optional. Welcome to the Only in Oklahoma Show!

Information

  • Creator
    Harley Covington and Brett Manzer
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    102
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Show Website
    Only in OKlahoma Show

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