Pawhuska, Oklahoma
where the prairie winds blow and the tall grasses sway
Historic Route 66
This past weekend, I had the opportunity to escape to Tulsa, Oklahoma, for a long, leisurely trip. From the moment I arrived, I was struck by how easy it was to navigate the airport — from the gates to baggage claim, and straight out to the rental car center. A quick stop at the kiosk for my keys, and I was on my way, ready to explore the open roads of Northeastern Oklahoma.
Every great adventure begins with a “must-see” destination, and for this trip, it was Pioneer Woman’s, Ree Drummond, Lodge Tours and Mercantile as the inspiration. Her stories and recipes from the Drummond Ranch, showcased on the Food Network and her books, sparked my curiosity and set the tone for the journey ahead.
Double rainbow on the drive to Pawhuska
Once I picked up my 2025 Jeep Wrangler — perfect for winding gravel backroads — I headed north toward Pawhuska, just an hour away. The drive along Highway 11 was a scenic tapestry of rolling hills and prairie grasses swaying in the prairie wind, a gentle reminder of the land’s quiet beauty.
My first stop was the iconic Mercantile, proudly sitting at the corner of Highway 60 (Main Street) and Kihekah Ave. The neon sign flickering invitingly caught my eye, promising a taste of small-town charm. Ample parking around the corner led me past the beautifully restored Boarding House, its historic architecture whispering stories of days gone by.
Across the street, I marveled at the Frontier Hotel, with its gorgeous marble stairs and inviting lobby, which also features a small art exhibit from the Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve. The architecture alone is worth a moment’s pause—timeless and elegant. Nearby, Charlie’s Sweet Shop beckoned with the irresistible scent of sugar and spice, while a few doors down, I ascended a narrow staircase to P-Town Pizza, where the promise of wood-fired pies awaited.
Inside, the warm aroma of freshly baked pizza enveloped me. I ordered the Not Knots — soft, pillowy knots drizzled with garlic parmesan butter, sprinkled with extra parmesan, and served with two flavorful sauces. A true indulgence, I highly recommend these little bites of heaven.
The pizzas arrived in all their glorious varieties. The small pepperoni was a standout — featuring three types of spicy pepperoni that added a delightful complexity to each slice. I paired it with the Marghe-ree-ta, a split pizza sharing the same flavorful tomato sauce but offering a contrasting vegetarian option. Both were delicious, but I couldn’t resist the Fig and Prosciutto pizza as the showstopper.
That first bite of the Fig and Prosciutto was celestial. The sweetness of the fig preserves contrasted beautifully with the salty prosciutto, all atop a perfectly baked crust with a blend of cheeses that melted in your mouth. Topped with fresh arugula, it felt almost like a healthy lunch—almost. The combination of flavors was pure heaven, a perfect harmony of sweet and savory in every delicious slice.
Not Knots - Pillows of Delicious
Avocado Toast with Over Easy Eggs Topped with Bacon, Arugula and Spicy Watermelon Radish served with Crispy Bits Potatoes
Iced Spicy Cowgirl Coffee… sweet and spicy like me
Whispers of a once vibrant and bustling city are carried in the breeze
A time gone by still reflected in the sidewalk
Walking down the street afterward, I could feel the love the Drummonds have for their community. The town, once bustling with life, now clings to its fading past, its historic buildings whispering stories of brighter days long gone. Faded facades and empty storefronts tell silent tales of prosperity and dreams that refuse to die.
Yet, despite the quiet, I saw hope. With the dedication of its residents and a shared vision for renewal, this town has the potential to rise again. Rebuilding storefronts, filling empty windows with new businesses, and revitalizing the streets could breathe fresh life into this charming place. I could easily envision new shops, cafes, and gathering spots that would draw even more visitors, turning this quiet town into a vibrant hub once more.
As I drove away, the prairie wind still in my hair, I felt inspired. This town’s story isn’t over — it’s just waiting for new chapters to be written. And I believe, with hope and community spirit, the best days are still ahead.
Water tower
Thank you for joining me on this journey. If you'd like to stay inspired and receive more stories like these, be sure to follow me on social media. There's so much more to share, and I can't wait to continue this adventure with you. Stay tuned for the next stop!
The Lodge kitchen
The Lodge decor
