Finding Hugo, Oklahoma: A Hidden Gem with Circus Heritage

Place: Hugo, Oklahoma

Attractions:

• Endangered Ark Foundation: A sanctuary dedicated to preserving Asian elephants, offering interactive tours and up-close experiences. You can go up to an observation deck and help give an elephant a bath!

• Showmen's Rest and Bull Rider's Reprieve: A cemetery honoring circus performers, reflecting Hugo's rich circus history.

• Growler Pines Tiger Preserve: A wildlife refuge offering unique and educational experiences featuring gorgeous tigers and a fascinating presentation on their care and training. I recommend paying a little extra for the private presentation and tour!

• Frisco Depot Museum: A museum showcasing the town's railroad history.

• Hugo Lake State Park: Perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and camping.

Restaurants:

• Buffalo Grill: Known for its barbecue dishes, burgers, and breakfast burritos.

• Roma Italian Restaurant: Offers hearty pasta dishes and complimentary garlic butter bread.

• Angie's Circus City Diner: A local favorite for comfort food like chicken fried steak and catfish. We enjoyed the circus decor and learning about the history of the town.

• El Kanelo Mexican Restaurant: Serves authentic Mexican cuisine with fresh and flavorful dishes. We split a pitcher of margaritas!

Shops:

• Linda's Place Florist and Gifts: A charming spot for flowers, home accents, and unique gifts.

• Best Friends Closet: A cute thrift shop.

• 1204 Treasure Trove: Antique store.

Places to Stay:

• Buffalo Trails Cabins: Each cabin has a different theme and there are plenty of activities like a petting zoo, corn hole, porch swings, and you can even book a foam party for the kiddos!

• Holiday Motel: A budget-friendly option with free Wi-Fi and parking.

• HiWay Inn Express: A mid-range hotel with comfortable amenities.

• Elephant Cabin Rentals: Rustic cabins near the Endangered Ark Foundation, offering a unique experience with breakfast delivered by elephants.

• Choctaw Casino - Grant: Casino and hotel located 10 minutes south of Hugo.

Hugo, Oklahoma, might be off the beaten path but its blend of history, wildlife, and natural beauty makes it a destination worth exploring. The Endangered Ark Foundation has an annual open house in March. Event guests have the opportunity to roam around the different areas on the reserve to meet the herd, participate in fun interactive trivia stations, enter door prizes/giveaways and watch fun educational demonstrations. You can check out their Facebook page for more information. This event is how I discovered this neat little town and our private tour at Growler Pines Tiger Sanctuary as well as our fun stay at the Buffalo Trails Cabins made our weekend road trip an experience we will never forget!