Locust Grove is in Mayes County at the intersection of State Highway 82 and U.S. Highway 412. U.S. Highway 412 is also known as Alternative Highway 412 or Scenic Highway 412; the town is eleven miles south of Salina. Locust Grove was named for the locust thickets where the 1862 battle took place.
Founding and Local History
Present-day Locust Grove was founded on May 12, 1912, by O. W. Killam, directly as a result of the construction of the Kansas, Oklahoma and Gulf Railroad (KO&G). The historic town plan is also part of the local history: it called for parks and a public marketplace.
Poetry, Art, and Crafts
Exhibitions exploring creativity through words rotate at the Rural Oklahoma Museum of Poetry. The main exhibition space offers an interactive experience for all ages. The museum also hosts the Wonder City Wordfest every year on the second Saturday in April. If you plan to travel specifically for the festival, check the date for the relevant year before departure.
Gourds, Etc Art Studio-Gallery adds craftwork to the cultural offerings. Handcrafted Cherokee gourd masks, gourd art, coiled pottery, paintings, and handmade Christmas ornaments are available for purchase. The selection may change. Gourds, Etc regularly offers workshops on making gourd masks; confirm the specific dates before your trip. The annual Christmas Art Show takes place on the first Saturday and first Sunday in December. Check the latest details before visiting.
Wildlife and Unique Places
Zoo Safari USA is a zoological park that aims to offer visitors of all ages an educational experience. As an educational zoo, it focuses on conservation and the protection of wildlife. Approximately 15 animals can be seen; the number of animals and demonstrations may change over time. Keeper talks cover the animals’ natural habitats, feeding, behavior, and personalities.
Another distinctive detail is the Rabbit-in-Hat Magic Shop, with its elaborately designed Enchanted Courtyard.
Events and Trip Planning
Locust Grove’s Annual Founders Day takes place on the second Saturday in May. The Annual Founders Day Car Show features live Classic Rock and Roll music and entertainment. More recurring events take place in December: the Christmas Parade and Community Tree Lighting is held on the first Tuesday of the month, and the Christmas Art Show on the first Saturday and Sunday.
When looking for a hotel in Locust Grove, you can plan your travel dates around an event: Wordfest is scheduled for April, Founders Day for May, and the Christmas events mentioned above for December. If a particular date is important for your trip, check the dates for the relevant year before booking.
Discover more destinations: Strang, Pryor Creek.
For the broader travel overview: Mayes County.
