Only in OKlahoma Show

Harley Covington and Brett Manzer
  • 4.9 (29)
  • 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. 3D AGO

    Civil War Living History at Har-Ber Village & the New OKANA Resort in OKC

    From the 1860s to a $400 million modern oasis, we're covering the best of Oklahoma's "then and now" in this episode! Part 1: Step Back in Time at Har-Ber Village Museum We're heading to the shores of Grand Lake O' the Cherokees in Grove, OK, for Civil War Era Historical Days. Discover the fascinating history of Har-Ber Village, founded by Harvey and Bernice Jones, which evolved from a private retreat into a six-acre pioneer settlement with over 100 exhibits. Highlights include: Living History: Union and Confederate camps, blacksmithing, and open-hearth cooking. The Conflict in Indian Territory: Understanding the unique, local perspective of the Civil War in Oklahoma. Must-See Stops: The Bass Reeves-linked jail, the Mountain Home Schoolhouse, and the rhythmic mechanics of the 19th-century Print Shop. Nature & Food: The pet-friendly nature trail and the best comfort food at the on-site café. Part 2: Tropical Luxury at OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark Next, we shift gears to Oklahoma City's newest crown jewel: OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark. This Chickasaw Nation development is more than just a place to splash—it's a world-class cultural flagship. Why it's a game-changer for families: The "Elevated" Experience: Why it feels more like a high-end Caribbean resort than a standard theme park. Indigenous Art & Culture: From Mother Earth amenities to Bedré Fine Chocolate and proximity to the First Americans Museum. Family Sanity Hacks: The "Bunk Suites," the 100+ game "Okanarama" arcade, and the convenience of the wristband "purchasing power." Eat & Play: Virtual batting cages at Curveball Kitchen and an axe-throwing speakeasy at Bullseye. Whether you're looking for a quiet walk through history or a "land-locked cruise ship" vacation, this episode has your next Oklahoma road trip covered! Links Mentioned: Har-Ber Village Museum OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark #OnlyInOK #OklahomaTravel #HarBerVillage #GroveOK #GrandLake #CivilWarHistory #LivingHistory #OKANAResort #OKC #OklahomaCity #ChickasawNation #FamilyVacation #IndoorWaterpark #ExploreOklahoma #TravelOK

    43 min

  2. MAR 16

    Oklahoma Travel: Luxury Cabins in Broken Bow and Historic Dining at Carletti's OKC

    In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're traveling from the serene canopy of the Kiamichi Mountains to a revived 1930s speakeasy in Oklahoma City. First, we explore Mount Mirabelle, a luxury cabin in Hochatown that feels like a romantic movie set, complete with cathedral ceilings and sunset views. Then, we head to OKC to visit Carletti's, where a 200-year-old Bolognese recipe is being served inside a historic hillside building once known for its "shady" nightlife. Part 1: The Ultimate Romantic Getaway – Mount Mirabelle Looking for a "workcation" spot or a romantic escape? We're diving into the details of Mount Mirabelle, a Sababa Homes property that perfectly balances modern luxury with the rugged beauty of Broken Bow. The Vibe: 1,000 sq. ft. of massive glass windows, 18-foot ceilings, and dual fireplaces. The Amenities: A private hot tub, digital board game table, and even a Level 1 EV charger—a rare find in the mountains! Pro Tip: It's a pet-free zone and just 5 minutes from the "Big Three": Grateful Head Pizza, Girls Gone Wine, and Mountain Fork Brewery. Book Your Stay: Mount Mirabelle Property Page Part 2: An "Edible Museum" – Carletti's Italian Heritage After the break,  we discuss Carletti's in this weeks News 9, Flavor of Oklahoma.  The History: Originally the notorious Kentucky Club speakeasy in the 1930s, you can now dine inside original horse stalls converted into cozy booths. The Secret Sauce: Learn how Chef Becker had to "chase the matriarchs with a scale" to finally write down a Bolognese recipe that has been a family secret since the 1800s. The Experience: From a recreation of the 100-year-old C&R Grocery store to the moody, late-night speakeasy bar in the back, Carletti's is a love letter to the Italian coal miners of Krebs who shaped Oklahoma's food scene. Learn More: Flavor of Oklahoma: Carletti's Links Mentioned in This Episode Mount Mirabelle: https://sababahomes.com Carletti's OKC: News 9 Feature Only in OK Show: Facebook  #Oklahoma #OnlyInOK #Hochatown #BrokenBow #OKCEats #ItalianFood #Speakeasy #TravelOK #MountMirabelle #Carlettis #FlavorOfOklahoma #Podcast

    54 min

  3. MAR 9

    Tulsa's #1 Park & The Toby Keith Expressway | Only in OK

    In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we are exploring the crown jewel of the 918 and a massive new tribute to an Oklahoma music legend. Part 1: The Power of Tulsa – Gathering Place We dive into why Gathering Place was recently voted the #1 City Park in the Nation for 2024 by USA TODAY. From the vision of the George Kaiser Family Foundation to its mission of unifying Tulsa across all zip codes, find out what makes this $465 million gift so special. The Bloom Watch: Learn about the 70+ cherry blossom trees expected to hit full bloom March 20–23. Adventure Awaits: We break down the Chapman Adventure Playground, the "Laredo Slide Vale" (yes, for adults too!), and the free kayak rentals at Peggy's Pond. Pro Tip: Check out the ONEOK Boathouse for the history of these iconic trees and the "Community Cherry Tree" exhibit. Part 2: Red, White, and Black-top – The Toby Keith Expressway We shift gears to discuss the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority's latest announcement: the new East-West Connector is officially being named the Toby Keith Expressway. The Project: A 30-mile, $3 billion stretch linking I-44 to I-35 as part of the ACCESS Oklahoma plan. The Family's Stance: We discuss Stelen Covel's (Toby's son) honest reflection on the project—from initial community concerns to Toby's final support for the state's economic growth. The Debate: Does naming a toll road after a local hero make the "tax" easier to swallow, or are Oklahomans still "Red Solo Cup half-empty" about the construction? Links Mentioned: Visit Gathering Place: gatheringplace.org OTA names planned turnpike corridor after Toby Keith | News | oudaily.com https://www.facebook.com/VisitDuncanOK Wright's Family Steak House Follow the Show: https://facebook.com/onlyinokshow If you visit any of the spots mentioned in today's episode, be sure to tell them the Only in OK Show sent you! #Oklahoma #Tulsa #GatheringPlace #TobyKeith #OnlyInOK #VisitOK #918 #TobyKeithExpressway #OklahomaCity #TulsaRiverParks #RedDirt #OKC #ExploreOklahoma #USAFirst #oklahomaculture

    45 min

  4. MAR 2

    Exploring Black Kettle National Grasslands & Norman's New Waterfront Dining | Only In OK

    Today, we're showing you why Roger Mills County is home to a "prairie masterpiece." We're diving deep into the Black Kettle National Grasslands, a sprawling 30,000-acre network of untouched beauty that's part of a massive 1.9-million-acre "sky island" system managed by the Cibola National Forest. From the soul-stirring big skies of Western Oklahoma to the somber history of Peace Chief Black Kettle and the Washita Battlefield, this episode covers the ecological recovery of the "Dirty Thirties" and the best ways to enjoy the land today. In the first half, we discuss: The "Sky Islands": How Oklahoma's grasslands connect to New Mexico's mountain ranges. Outdoor Adventure: Kayaking the "No Wake" zones of Dead Warrior, Skipout, and Spring Creek Lakes. Film History: Why the landscape near Sayre was the perfect backdrop for The Grapes of Wrath. Travel Tips: Why you should pair your visit with a classic Route 66 road trip. After the break: We head to Norman, Oklahoma, for some "oceanfront" property news. For nearly 20 years, a 10,500-square-foot building has sat vacant on the water. We have the scoop on Uncle Julio's Mexican from Scratch finally moving into the infamous Wayne's Waterside Grill location. We dig into the foreclosure history, the $1.7 million sale, and what this means for the Norman dining scene in 2026. Links Mentioned: Cibola National Forest & Grasslands Washita Battlefield National Historic Site #OnlyInOK #OklahomaRoadTrip #BlackKettleGrasslands #ExploreOK #NormanOK #WesternOklahoma #OklahomaHistory #Route66 #TulsaToOKC #OutdoorOklahoma

    46 min

  5. FEB 23

    Chef Scott Conant, Damaris Phillips at Choctaw Pocola & IKEA is Coming to Oklahoma!

    From world-class culinary takeovers to the biggest retail news in decades, Oklahoma's food and shopping scenes are leveling up! In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're recapping our incredible dining experience with Chef Scott Conant and giving you the inside scoop on the next big event at Seven Ponies. Plus, the rumors are true—IKEA is finally coming to the 918! Part 1: Culinary Stars at Choctaw Casino & Resort – Pocola We take you inside the Celebrity Chef Takeover at Seven Ponies. We recap the sophisticated flavors of Chef Scott Conant's menu, from the Macaroni di Semolina to that legendary Chocolate Budino. Don't miss the next big event: On Friday, March 27th, Food Network star Damaris Phillips brings her "Southern Sweetheart" style to Pocola. We break down the mouth-watering menu, including Beaten Biscuit Panzanella, Pork Confit with Smoky Grits, and Derby Pie Pots de Crème. Pro Tip: Tickets for the Damaris Phillips takeover are on sale now! Get tickets here . Part 2: Stop the Car—IKEA is Coming to Tulsa! Put down the Allen wrench and cancel your road trip to Frisco! We discuss the official announcement that IKEA is opening its first Oklahoma location in Tulsa Hills. The Details: We dive into the "City Store" format coming to the former Belk location (7309 S Olympia Ave). The Perks: Yes, the Swedish meatballs and cinnamon rolls are included! The Impact: What this means for Oklahoma's economy and why shoppers from three states will be flocking to Tulsa in Fall 2026. #OnlyInOK #OklahomaFoodie #ChoctawPocola #DamarisPhillips #ScottConant #IKEATulsa #TulsaHills #ExploreOklahoma #OKCEvents #TulsaShopping #SouthernCooking #SevenPonies

    35 min

  6. FEB 16

    The Hidden $1M Pigeon Museum in OKC & Norman's Student Heroes | Only in OK

    Think pigeons are just "sky rats"? Think again. This week, we're heading to 2300 NE 63rd St to explore the American Pigeon Museum & Heritage Center, a world-class facility hidden on 10 beautiful acres in Oklahoma City. From War Heroes like Cher Ami—the bird that saved a WWI battalion—to high-stakes Pigeon Racing athletes worth thousands of dollars, we're diving into the fascinating (and surprisingly zen) world of these feathered veterans. You'll learn about "Rolling" competitions, birds with bell-bottom feet, and why the pigeon was actually the first domesticated bird in history. In the second half of the show: We're celebrating "Real American Heroes" right here in Norman. We highlight the heartwarming story of Lyz Farrar (owner of Donate-A-Miracle) and the group of local high school seniors who stepped up to support her thrift store and the community. In This Episode: The World of Wings: Exploring the diversity of the African Owl and the Parlor Roller. Feathered Veterans: The emotional history of the Dickin Medal and pigeons in combat. The Sport of Kings: How pigeon racing works and the high stakes involved. Community Spotlight: Norman seniors Everett Lee, Skylar Lipscomb, and Trenam Verbick giving back to Donate-A-Miracle. Plan Your Visit: Location: 2300 NE 63rd St, Oklahoma City, OK Hours: Friday & Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm Admission: Free (Suggested $5 donation) Website: theamericanpigeonmuseum.org Support Our Sponsors: Today's show is brought to you by Friends of Nicoma Park. Support local community initiatives at facebook.com/friendsofnicomapark. #OklahomaCity #OnlyInOK #AmericanPigeonMuseum #OKCHistory #NormanOK #PigeonRacing #CherAmi #DonateAMiracle #OklahomaMuseums #VisitOKC #GoodNewsOklahoma #CommunityHeroes

    37 min

  7. FEB 9

    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

  8. 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
See All (102)

4.9
out of 5
29 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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