Everyone deserves a chance to recharge and reconnect, and sometimes the best getaway destinations are the ones you've never heard of. Sulphur, Oklahoma is a hidden gem in the heart of the Chickasaw Nation. In this blog post, I'll share the experience of my accessible getaway to Sulphur where I stayed at the historic Artesian Hotel, explored the downtown shops, and discovered the area's accessible nature trails. If you're looking for a simple, relaxing, and accessible getaway, Sulphur, OK might be the perfect place for you!
The Artesian Hotel
Located right across from the Chickasaw National Recreation Area and the Chickasaw Visitor Center, the Artesian Hotel is the perfect blend of luxury, history, and comfort. The Artesian Hotel offers over 80 luxurious rooms while providing great accommodations for those with disabilities. This hotel offers comfortable rooms, delicious dining options, a relaxing spa, and a casino as well!
I stayed in an accessible King Room on the third floor. The room had plenty of turnaround space, a roll-under bathroom sink, roll-under desk, eye-level mirrors, grab bars in the bathroom, a fold-down shower chair in the tub, and plenty of other accessible amenities. They also have accessible rooms with roll-in showers if the bathtubs with a bench won't work for you. The room felt comfortable and quiet, which made for a relaxing stay.
Downtown Shops
Sulphur, Oklahoma may be a small town with a population of just over 5,000, but its downtown area is full of charm and historic character. Just a short stroll from the Artesian Hotel is a wonderful selection of local shops that offer everything from handmade goods to sweet treats and stylish boutique finds. Bedre Café, Smiths Okie Twister, The Spice & Tea Exchange, Luxe, and Sweet Swirls are just a few stores available to peruse. If you want to head into town a little further, then you should check out Oak & Ivy Fashion Boutique, The Mix Mercantile, and The Prairie Thicket. These are all great shops to check out if you love to explore more local places. I loved the small town feel and the slower paced vibe.
Accessible Trails
One of my favorite parts about exploring a new place is finding the accessible trails and paths that allow me to fully absorb nature and the beautiful scenery. The following trails should be accessible for most wheelchair users or those using mobility aids:
- Buffalo and Antelope Springs Trail
- Veterans Lake Trail
- Travertine Nature Center
Although accessibility will vary depending on your type of wheelchair or mobility aid, the three options listed above will be your most accessible trails. The Buffalo and Antelope Springs Trail is a wide gravel trail that has very little elevation change. This trail is a one-mile round trip. Please note that pets are not allowed on this trail, only disability trained service animals. The Veterans Lake Trail is wide, paved, and has a fairly smooth path that is six feet wide in most places. There are some sections of this trail that have steeper inclines with no more than a 5% incline. Be sure to take advantage of the wheelchair accessible fishing pier along this route which offers railings of 34" or less and plenty of turnaround space. The Travertine Nature Center is the perfect place to go when you have questions about local trails and other accessible options. There are plenty of accessible parking options, wheelchair accessible campsites, and accessible restrooms & showers, too.
When is the best time to visit Sulphur, OK?
Personally, I believe the best time to visit Sulphur is either in spring (March, April, or May) or fall (September, October, or November). Both of these seasons offer ideal weather conditions that enhance the overall experience of exploring this beautiful town and its natural beauty. Spring allows for more mild temperatures, beautiful blooming flowers, and usually lower hotel prices. Spring is also a great time to visit with fewer crowds while school is still in session. Fall also calls for more pleasant temperatures, the beautiful fall foliage, and fewer crowds after kids have gone back to school. Both seasons provide great outdoor temperatures for a peaceful picnic or a nice stroll on one of the accessible trails.
In conclusion, historic Sulphur, Oklahoma is a place you might want to add to your list of potential future getaways. I was truly impressed with the beauty, history, and accessibility of this small and quiet little town. Exploring the Chickasaw National Recreation Area was a highlight, with several paved and well maintained trails that made it possible to enjoy the natural beauty of the area without feeling limited by mobility. Although this town may be small, there was plenty to do, see, and explore during a quick trip and it is definitely a place I want to return to in the future.
About the Author
Aspen Baxter is passionate about promoting accessibility, inclusivity, and mental health awareness. Living as a paraplegic with Autism, Aspen has firsthand experience navigating the challenges of multiple disabilities. Following a medication injury in 2021 that resulted in her paralysis, Aspen has become an advocate for accessibility and inclusivity in all aspects of life.
Aspen's ride is a Quickie Nitrum with an Empulse R90.