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

    Kickin' It on 66: The Route 66 Centennial Celebration at Scissortail Park

    Get ready for the "Main Event" of the century! In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we are diving into the massive Kickin' It on 66 festival happening May 30, 2026, at Scissortail Park in downtown Oklahoma City. Oklahoma holds more miles of the historic Mother Road than any other state, and we are celebrating 100 years of the Main Street of America with a sunrise-to-sunset party you can't miss. From retro roller skating to a high-tech drone finale, this is how OKC honors the spirit of the road. In this episode, we cover: Morning Kickoff: Starting the day right at the OKC Farmers Market. Park Activities: Pedal boats, kayaks, and the Sky Rink roller skating experience. The Route 66 Travel Hub: Planning your next Oklahoma road trip. The OKC Kids Market: Fun for the youngest road trippers. The Centennial Concert Lineup: An all-Oklahoma powerhouse featuring Kaitlin Butts, Ricochet, Bailey Rae (The Voice), and OK3 (The Voice). Neon Nights Drone Show: A custom-scored, high-tech choreographed drone spectacle painting the history of Route 66 in the Oklahoma sky. Event Details: Date: May 30, 2026 Location: Scissortail Park, 300 SW 7th St, OKC Cost: FREE! Travel Tip: Parking will be limited—we recommend taking the OKC Streetcar! Learn more and see the full schedule at: https://www.kickiniton66.com/ Also discussed the James Beard Triple Threat story from KOCO.    #OnlyInOK #Route66Centennial #KickinItOn66 #ScissortailPark #OKCEvents #MotherRoad #ExploreOKC #VisitOKC #KaitlinButts #Route66 #OklahomaCity #NeonNights

    38 min

  2. APR 13

    The Mother Road for Less: 10 Budget-Friendly Stops on Route 66

    Think a trip down the Mother Road requires a massive budget? Think again! In this episode of the Only In OK Show, we're proving that you can experience some of the most iconic sites in the world for basically the cost of a tank of gas. From vintage motorcycles and steam engines to public art and roadside oddities, Oklahoma's stretch of Route 66 is packed with high-memory, low-cost adventures. We're breaking down 10 incredible stops where admission is free (or very close to it), so you can enjoy the ultimate road trip without the "vacation debt" hangover. In this episode, we explore: Tulsa's Oil & Rail Roots: The Route 66 Historical Village and the massive Golden Driller. Two-Wheeled History: The Seaba Station Motorcycle Museum in Warwick. Capitol Treasures: Why the Oklahoma State Capitol is actually the state's largest public art museum. Family Fun: Huge parks in OKC and Elk City, plus the kid-friendly Edmond History Museum. Mother Road Icons: The architectural marvel of the Arcadia Round Barn and the nostalgia of the Bristow Train Depot. Unique Collections: The world-class J.M. Davis Arms & Historical Museum in Claremore. Roadside Oddities: Why you need to see a giant concrete totem pole and a quirky cuckoo clock. Whether you're a history buff, a gearhead, or just looking for a cheap weekend getaway with the kids, these stops offer the best of Oklahoma's Route 66 heritage.   #Route66 #Oklahoma #TravelOK #Mother Road #OnlyInOK #RoadTrip #BudgetTravel #ExploreOklahoma #OKCHistory #Tulsa #Route66Oklahoma #FreeTravel

    20 min

  3. APR 6

    The Mother Road 100: Tips and Tricks for the Route 66 Centennial in Oklahoma

    2026 isn't just another year in the Sooner State—it's the 100th Anniversary of Route 66, and Oklahoma is the undisputed heart of the journey. With over 400 drivable miles of the Mother Road, we have more history, neon, and kitsch than almost anywhere else on the map. In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're breaking down everything you need to know to navigate the Route 66 Centennial like a pro. Whether you're piloting a vintage pink Cadillac or taking the "kitchen and bedroom on wheels" approach in an RV, we've got the tips to make your trip legendary. In this episode, we cover: The RV Advantage: Why an RV is the ultimate way to see the route (and why you must pay attention to that instructional demo!). Ditch the GPS: Why the "Yellow Brick Road" of America requires a paper map and a sense of adventure to avoid the pull of I-40. The Keychain Challenge: How to earn (never buy!) the exclusive Oklahoma Tourism keychains across the five major sections of the state. Must-See Icons: From the Blue Whale of Catoosa to the soda forests of POPS 66 and the cinematic history of the Rock Café. The Big 2026 Showdown: How to choose between the Guinness World Record attempt in Tulsa and the massive celebration at Scissortail Park in OKC on May 30th. Pro-Tips: Why you need to book your vintage motels now and where to find the best fried onion burgers to fuel your trek. Grab your Rand McNally Official Centennial Map, download your TravelOK brochures, and get ready to experience the "living museum" of the 20th century right here in Oklahoma. #Route66 #Route66Centennial #OnlyInOK #MotherRoad #ExploreOklahoma #TravelOK #RoadTrip #BlueWhale #Pops66 #OklahomaHistory #RVLife #Route66MainStreet #Tulsa #OKC

    48 min

  4. MAR 30

    El Reno Burger Day 2026: The 850lb Beast & Route 66 History

    It's the first Saturday in May, and the air in downtown El Reno, Oklahoma, doesn't just smell like spring—it smells like caramelized onions and nostalgia. In this episode of the Only in OK Show, we're previewing the 38th Annual El Reno Burger Day Festival (May 2, 2026). As the "Official Birthplace of the Fried Onion Hamburger," El Reno turns a Great Depression-era necessity into a world-renowned delicacy. We dive deep into the history of how Ross Davis of the Hamburger Inn used paper-thin onions to stretch meat during the 1930s, creating a culinary icon in the process. What's on the menu for this episode: The 850-Pound Beast: Discover the engineering marvel behind the world's largest fried onion burger, featuring 250 lbs of beef, 150 lbs of onions, and a custom-baked 350 lb bun. The Science of Flavor: We talk the "Maillard reaction"—why smashing onions into beef fat creates the ultimate Oklahoma flavor profile. More than Just Meat: From the USTAF Sanctioned Bun Run to the massive car show on Rock Island and the Main Stage music, we cover the full festival experience. The Fried Onion Burger Holy Trinity: While at the fest, you have to visit the legends: Sid's Diner, Robert's Grill, and Johnnie's Hamburgers & Coneys. Route 66 News: We also discuss the neon glow returning to the Mother Road as the Cotton Boll Motel sign gets a new lease on life. Whether you're a foodie, a Route 66 road-tripper, or a local looking for a "Bun Run," this episode is your ultimate guide to El Reno Burger Day. Support the Community: Buy your burger from the official Foundation booth! Your $10 goes directly into grants for revitalizing El Reno's beautiful historic buildings. Links Mentioned: Official Festival Site: https://www.elrenoburgerday.com/ Follow the El Reno Main Street Program for updates. #ElRenoBurgerDay #FriedOnionBurger #Route66 #OnlyInOK #OklahomaFoodie #ElRenoOK #TravelOklahoma #GreatDepressionHistory #BunRun #OklahomaPodcast #ExploreOK #MotherRoad #CottonBollMotel

    42 min

  5. MAR 23

    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

  6. 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

  7. 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

  8. 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
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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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