Nestled in north-central Oklahoma, Enid is a city rich in history and brimming with cultural and recreational offerings. Established during the Land Run of 1893, Enid quickly evolved from a tent city into a thriving community. The city’s name is believed to be inspired by a character from Alfred Lord Tennyson’s Idylls of the King.
Railroad aficionados will appreciate the Railroad Museum of Oklahoma, located in a historic freight depot. The museum boasts one of the largest collections of railroad memorabilia in the United States, including over 1,000 pieces of dining car china, maps, depot clocks and a functioning telegraph system.
“One of the main goals of both the museum and the [railroad] club is to teach railroad safety,” says the museum’s president, Mike Marshall. “We have the BNSF transcon southern Tracon mainline that operates within 50-feet of the north side of our property … and a school not far from us, and it’s not uncommon to see those kids actually climb over the stop train, which is extremely dangerous.”
Marshall also says the museum works hard and takes pride in preserving all of its items on display, especially the nine authentic cabooses and various other rolling stock, such as the Frisco 1519 Steam Engine, which will celebrate its 100th anniversary at an event in October.
For those seeking outdoor recreation, the Jerry Allen Memorial Skate Park offers a dynamic space for skateboarders, bikers and rollerbladers. Spanning 16,000 square feet, the park opened in January 2021 and features an open-ended bowl, flat bar and grind ledge. Skaters of all ages are welcome, yet it was the appeal potential to younger generations that helped move the project forward.
“Jerry Allen was a former city commissioner,” says Rob Houston, the director of Visit Enid. “He had a passion for youth, and once this new idea of the skate park came about, he was all over it and was really one of the key city leaders to make sure that it got done.”
With its variety of attractions that cater to diverse interests, the city has been home to the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) Division II Baseball World Series since 2009 and will continue to host through at least 2028. Held annually at David Allen Memorial Ballpark, top junior college teams from across the nation compete for a national championship during the final week of May.
“The folks of Enid do an outstanding job of connecting the community with the World Series, its players and everything surrounding it,” says Christopher Parker, president and CEO of the NJCAA. “That makes you feel welcome and like a great environment no matter who’s playing, and that’s a real strong position for them to be in.”
Other can’t-miss attractions include the Cherokee Strip Regional Heritage Center, a museum which focuses on the history of the Cherokee Outlet and the Land Run of September 16, 1893, as well as Red Bird Farm, which offers summertime attractions including blackberry picking, build-your-own flower bouquet sessions and a Fourth of July event for the entire family.
Enid’s blend of historical significance and contemporary attractions makes it a compelling destination for travelers. Whether you’re delving into the city’s rich past, cheering on future baseball stars, or enjoying the vibrant skate scene, Enid offers experiences that resonate with a wide array of interests.
