Plan a Fun Girls’ Day Trip to Marlow and Rush Springs

Girls’ trips aren’t always about lounging poolside or group pedicures at the local spa. (Although, those things are fun.) Sometimes, it’s simply about going out to explore something new.  The wonderful thing about taking a girls’ trip is that even the most mundane things can be exciting when you’re with your closest friends. That small town out in the middle of nowhere actually does have things to do. You just have to be willing to look a little harder.

As I continue to explore towns that often evade the spotlight, places that are occasionally overlooked or forgotten, I’ve come to realize that they ‘re often worth more attention than even I have been willing to give. That brings me to telling you about Marlow and Rush Springs. In this article, we’ll talk about how to plan a day trip to Marlow and Rush Springs whether you’re in the company of your closest gal pals, your significant other, or embracing the adventure solo.

Plan a Day Trip to Marlow & Rush Springs

Depending on which direction you’re coming from will determine which town you end up in first. It doesn’t really matter though because the towns are only about 10 minutes apart. Take a look at things to do in each town as you plan your day trip to Marlow and Rush Springs. Then, start wherever you want. You could also consider where you want to eat lunch and decide that way. Again, you’re never all that far from one place or the other. There’s no wrong answer here.

Starting Your Day Trip in Marlow: What to do in the Morning.

If you decide to start your day trip in Marlow, head to Red Bud Park. For such a small town, it’s a beautiful outdoor space with walking trails, picnic tables, and even horseshoe pits. If you want to play, you’ll need to bring your own horseshoes. However, if you decide to spend your time at the park, you can’t plan a day trip to Marlow without learning a little bit of history.

The interesting thing about Red Bud Park is that it is kind of the centerpiece of the town’s Wild West history. The town is named after the Marlow family who showed up sometime in the 1800’s. As was often the case during that time, Dr. Marlow and his wife would go on to create a large family with the addition of one girl and five boys. The boys are what the history of Marlow really centers around. Here’s why.

Marlow’s Outlaw History at Redbud Park

In the late 1880s, four Marlow brothers found themselves arrested on suspicion of horse theft. Despite the absence of concrete evidence, they were transported to trial, only to face an ambush that tragically claimed the lives of two brothers. Remarkably, the remaining two, George and Charles, fought off their attackers while chained together. In the end, the brothers were exonerated and lauded for their tenacious defense. These two, George and Charles, would go on to become esteemed citizens.

Now, back to Red Bud Park. The original Marlow homestead is believed to be located just north of the park, adjacent to Wild Horse Creek. At the park’s entrance, beside Wild Horse Creek, stands a monument honoring the four brothers and recounting their story. Another marker nearby explains the hideout used by these outlaws. To the west of the monument, you’ll discover a charming white church known as Red Bud Chapel, Marlow’s original Catholic church dating back to pre-statehood times.

Redbud Park and the Chisholm Trail

If you have a penchant for history, you’ll be intrigued to know that Red Bud Park sits on the historic Chisholm Trail. A marker nearby commemorates this location as the site of the largest animal movement in history. Between 1868 and 1878, an astonishing eighteen million Longhorns were herded along the Chisholm Trail through Oklahoma. As the marker notes, the midpoint of this epic trail followed the western bank of the creek, precisely where Red Bud Park now sits.

Exploring the Hideouts at Redbud Park

Behind Red Bud Chapel, to the north, lies the presumed cave where the Marlow brothers eluded the long arm of the law. A protective structure surrounds it, though it remains locked. However, you can book an appointment if you’re curious enough to look inside. While it may not be a site of grandeur, it’s still fun to look at things like that and imagine what it might have been like for them. Unfortunately, I didn’t realize about needing an appointment or I would have scheduled one.

On the opposite end of the park, a different hideout awaits, designed especially for the little ones. The Wild West-style playground sprawls across 13,000 square feet, featuring a wooden structure reminiscent of frontier days, complete with a hotel and general store. Inside, a world of adventure awaits children, with climbing, sliding, swinging, and endless play opportunities. There’s even a designated area for the tots. If you’re including your children on your day trip to Marlow and Rush Springs, visiting The Hideout is a must. If the sun is blazing, the adjacent splash pad promises a refreshing cooldown.

Red Bud Chapel: Marlow’s Oldest Catholic Church

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, attending mass was no simple task. Muddy trails, treacherous roads, and the rugged wilderness often conspired to make the journey to church an arduous three-hour ordeal. It’s no wonder that mass was held only once every six weeks. In 1902, a local banker’s generous donation led to the establishment of the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Prior to that, families had gathered in his home for their spiritual needs.

Tragically, a fierce windstorm nearly razed the new chapel to the ground a mere year later. While it couldn’t be fully restored, this humble sanctuary continued to be a beacon of faith for the community for years to come.

In the late 1990s, the need for a new church became apparent due to the growing Catholic congregation. The original church was generously donated to the City of Marlow, and with the support of the community, it found a new home. Today, it serves as a non-denominational chapel, preserving an essential piece of Marlow’s heritage. Nearby markers offer further insight into this historic treasure.

Trails, Games, and Picnics

Aside from visiting the park as a starting point to understanding Marlow’s fascinating past of outlaws and its strategic role on the Chisholm Trail, Redbud is a beautiful place to spend some time outdoors. Wander along the creek trails, play a game of horseshoes, or set up a little picnic.

Finish the Morning in Rush Springs

After exploring the park, head over to Rush Springs. By now, the shops should be open along Blakely Avenue. Sissy’s Antiques and Vintage Treasures is a fun store or if you like thrift shopping, you can visit the Senior Attic or the REM Mercantile.

Another thing you’ll want to add to your itinerary is a visit to the Hampton House. This two-story home once belonged to one of the town’s earliest settlers and now serves the community as a museum documenting the history of Rush Springs. It is free to visit but be sure to schedule an appointment in advance.

If you’re planning your girls’ day trip to Marlow in the summer, try to plan it around the Rush Springs Watermelon Festival. The festival takes place every year on the second Saturday in August and draws crowds upwards of twenty to thirty thousand people from near and far. If you can’t make it for the festival, be sure to stop by a local farm stand to pick up a watermelon to take home. They’re so good!

Lunch Break

Now that it’s time for lunch, you might have a tough time deciding what you want to eat. If you like barbecue, I highly recommend trying out Smokin Joes in Rush Springs. However, if that’s not the kind of food you like or you’d rather save a heavy meal for later, Deli Belly and Dicintio’s in Marlow both get excellent reviews. Here are a couple of my favorite options to consider for your day trip to Marlow and Rush Springs.

Dicintio’s Pizza Cucina in Marlow

If you’re craving pizza, stop for lunch in Marlow is Dicintios Pizza Cucina. The original owner sold to a local entrepreneur in 2020 but still hangs around the pizzeria pulling a shift on occasion. I suppose when you have such a long family history in the restaurant business, it’s hard to walk away. Brian Dicintio grew up in Eastchester, New York, above his family’s business, Skee’s Bar in Grill. Being of Italian descent, it’s no shock this was a popular spot for locals to hang out and listen to music over their favorite pizza.

In typical 1970s style, Brian left home in a Country Squire to explore new places and follow his dreams of ultimately making it to Alaska. Instead, he ended up in Marlow, Oklahoma. The original pizzeria opened in Marlow in 1986 and eventually moved to its current location on Main Street. If you are looking for that distinct taste of New York-style pizza, this is the unsuspecting place you will find it.

Smokin’ Joe’s Rib Ranch – Rush Springs

Smokin’ Joe’s has been an Oklahoma icon for a while now. The original Smokin’ Joes opened up near Davis in the late 1990s but since then, they’ve grown their locations across the state. Aside from Rush Springs, you can also find them in Tuttle and Stillwater. Now, it’s not hard to find good barbecue in Oklahoma but occasionally, you’ll find somewhere that is truly exceptional. Smokin’ Joe’s is that.

They offer just about any meat you can think of smoked to perfection. The portions aren’t small either. So, while it may seem a little pricey, you’ll probably be taking some home in a to-go box. Besides, barbecue always costs a little more than your average meal. Meat is expensive and the good use of a smoker is a craft. I’m a sucker for the brisket stuffed potato but you honestly can’t go wrong no matter what you choose. Save room for dessert because their blackberry cobbler is to die for.

Things to do in Marlow in the Afternoon – Antique Shopping & Wine Tasting

Once you’ve refueled with a satisfying lunch, it’s time to explore more of what Marlow has to offer in the afternoon. There’s something undeniably charming about small-town Main Streets, and Marlow is no exception. While a few buildings may remain locked, the town exudes an irresistible allure, with several local businesses eager to greet newcomers. Take your time meandering along the main thoroughfare, popping into various shops to see what you can find.

Marlow Mercantile

A must-visit during your day trip to Marlow is the Marlow Mercantile, a sprawling two-story emporium at the corner of South Second and West Main. Inside, you’ll encounter a captivating fusion of antiques, vintage discoveries, and unique gifts. Explore an eclectic mix of finds that ranges from the unusual to nostalgic items that transport you back to childhood.

Cotton Blossom Winery

After indulging in retail therapy at the boutiques and antique shops on Main Street, treat yourself to an afternoon of wine tasting at Cotton Blossom Winery. Sample three of their handcrafted Oklahoma wines for free or opt for the tasting flight featuring eight wines for a mere $5. Once you’ve found your favorite, savor a full glass. On hot days, don’t miss their wine slushies or a scoop of their specialty wine ice cream for a delightful cool-down.

If you’re lucky, you’ll show up on a day the winery is hosting a themed event. On our recent day trip, we were able to join in on an evening of bingo. It was an unexpectedly fun way to end our day trip to Marlow. It’s not uncommon for guests to order a pizza from Dicintio’s and bring it over to the winery during an event like this. However, the winery also offers fun items like teacup charcuterie.

End Your Day Trip to Marlow with Dinner at Giuseppe’s

If the winery isn’t open late for an event or you’d rather sit down in a traditional restaurant, the local Italian restaurant is a town favorite. “Giuseppe’s,” a family-owned Italian restaurant, awaits you at the corner of West Main and Second, housed in the old State National Bank building. Renowned for its traditional Italian dishes, “Giuseppe’s” offers not only an authentic culinary experience but also an atmosphere that mirrors the richness of its cuisine.

Frequently Asked Questions About Planning a Day Trip to Marlow