Blake Walsh

15 Best Things to Do in Ada, OK

  • Published 2022/08/17

You may have heard of Ada, Oklahoma, before, since it’s the birthplace of American country singer Blake Shelton!

Find this beautiful city in Pontotoc County, providing a variety of fun and activities for all.

Explore the state parks, scenic venues, and outdoor recreational facilities.

Ada doesn’t shy away from an active scene.

After all, it’s home to several popular festivals and celebrations year-round!

You can take a stroll through its streets and find several boutiques, shops, and restaurants.

Otherwise, visit one of the many indoor entertainment centers.

There’s no shortage of entertainment and adventure in Ada, a terrific getaway from the sameness of modern life.

Spend a vacation to remember in this charming city!

Here are the best things to do in Ada, Oklahoma:

Visit Wintersmith Park

Lake at Wintersmith Park

Holt9359 at en.wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Wintersmith Park, also known as Wintersmith Park Historic District, is a popular recreational facility just minutes from the city’s heart.

If you’re looking for a lovely place to indulge in outdoor activities, this park is the place to go.

Paved pathway at Wintersmith Park

Brad Holt, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

You can spend much quality time with your family and friends on hiking trails, a spacious grass area, and picnic pavilions.

Likewise, you can find a lake within the 150-acre park where you can spot some ducks and other wildlife walking by.

Other amenities include a theater, ball courts, and a newly installed sports complex.

Amphitheatre at Wintersmith Park

Brad Holt, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Due to its historical significance to the community, Wintersmith Park has also landed a place on the National Register of Historic Places.

There’s so much to see and enjoy at this park, so try and drop by on your vacation!

Beautiful landscape of Wintersmith Park

Brad Holt, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Enjoy a Glass of Wine at Waddell Vineyards

Waddell Vineyards has become a popular wedding venue due to its scenic beauty and relaxing atmosphere.

However, you can also taste the wines there.

Located five miles from the city center, Waddell Vineyards features lush vineyards that take up about seven acres with 4,000 different vines.

In 2007, Robert and Debbie Waddell built the facility as a winery.

Recently, they decided to expand the business into a wedding venue, attracting new clients.

They produce wines from fresh ingredients and the grapes from their vines.

You can find various wines to cater to any palate, ranging from red to white, dry to sweet and even unique blends!

Sip fine wines at the tasting room while enjoying picturesque views at Waddell Vineyards!

Watch a Live Show at McSwain Theatre

Constructed in 1920, McSwain Theatre has seen the growth of Ada’s community for nearly a century!

As the premier event venue in the city, this theater proudly presents a variety of entertainment, including concerts, operas, movie screenings, and more.

You can find this family-friendly venue right in the heart of Ada.

Over the years, McSwain Theatre has undergone several renovations to accommodate more people, expanding its stage, seating capacity, and even backstage.

Currently, this theater continues to be a community favorite, welcoming crowds with a passion for imagination and entertainment.

Buy tickets ahead of time and secure your seats at McSwain Theatre!

Indulge in Indoor Activities at Lazer Zone Family Fun Center

Are you looking for something fun to do with the whole family in Ada?

Check out the Lazer Zone Family Fun Center!

This entertainment center can accommodate young kids, so they can have fun, too!

Guests can play a round of laser tag, go bowling, or play mini golf.

They also feature an arcade packed with your favorite and classic games for added fun and excitement.

This facility hosts special events and games where participants can win fabulous prizes on certain days.

Enjoy indoor fun with the whole family at Lazer Zone Family Fun Center!

Unwind at Vintage 22

Along Ada’s Main Street, you can find Vintage 22, a relaxing and upscale bar that serves excellent drinks in a cozy atmosphere.

This bar and bistro also serves light snacks and meals if you’re hungry, or you can grab a drink from the bar.

Likewise, they offer live music and entertainment where you can hit the dance floor with your friends.

During basketball season, you can watch your favorite teams compete on their televisions while enjoying a refreshing beer.

Whether you want to unwind, look for a relaxing hangout place, or wish to enjoy some live music, Vintage 22 has everything you need.

Stop by the bar while visiting the city of Ada!

Play a Round of Golf at Lakewood Golf Course

Lakewood Golf Course is Ada’s prime location for golfing, with its location right next to a lake!

Boasting 35 pars and nine holes, this golf course gives you panoramic views of the surrounding Pontotoc County.

Its layout caters to both first-time players and seasoned golfers, allowing everybody to enjoy the game.

Professional players can also join their golfing tournaments for a chance to win prizes.

After a round of golf, head to their shop for a quick snack or a drink to keep you energized for the rest of the day.

Spending the day at the Lakewood Golf Course is relaxing, so try and visit!

Purchase a Souvenir at Serendipity on Main

Are you looking for a unique purchase in Ada?

Try checking out Serendipity on Main!

Found in the heart of the city, this boutique sells various products, including beautiful house decor, bath items and essentials, clothes, and so much more!

This shop carries Ada’s most unique finds, such as craft decorations, one-of-a-kind wardrobe items, and even accessories for babies and toddlers.

You can also buy a wide range of clothes, including classic tees and tops, jeans, dresses, and jewelry.

Whether you’re looking to buy a souvenir, a gift, or a house decoration, this boutique has just what you need!

Go on a shopping spree at Serendipity on Main!

Try Your Luck at Ada Gaming Center

The Ada Gaming Center is your one-stop shop for all things fun and exciting!

Initially constructed in 1983 as a bingo hall, Ada Gaming Center has since expanded to a casino and arcade center.

It is now Ada’s premier gaming destination and casino with all its amenities and features.

You can play a card game of your choice, such as poker or blackjack, and get the chance to win some extra cash and prizes.

Otherwise, you can try one of their many electronic games to pass the time.

In case you get hungry, their snack bar offers a list of light meals to keep you energized for the day.

Try your hand at a game of cards at Ada Gaming Center!

Go Roller Skating at Star Skate

Star Skate offers roller skating fun for the whole family!

Found just a short drive towards the southern end of Ada, this roller skating rink welcomes skaters of all ages!

This establishment also offers special discounts and deals for the whole family, so you may want to check that out.

If you don’t have your pair of roller skates, you can rent from this establishment for a small price.

They also host special events, including Family Skate Days, Roller Derby, and more.

Whether it’s your first time putting on a pair of skates or you’ve skated before, Star Skate can provide you with fun and excitement.

Watch a Race at Oklahoma Sports Park

Attention, racing fans!

Oklahoma Sports Park is home to dirt track races packed with thrill and excitement.

Watch skilled and talented drivers take the wheel, battling it out on the ten-mile loop track for the chance to win a trophy.

Since opening in 1994, Oklahoma Sports Park has attracted over a thousand fans during each race.

This event is family-friendly, so feel free to bring your little ones and watch the race together!

If you’re looking for a thrill of excitement or perhaps an unexpected ending, head to Oklahoma Sports Park!

Shop for Fresh Goods at Ada Farmers’ Market

Ada Farmers’ Market opens to serve the community and its visitors from April to October!

This market is the ideal place to go if you’re looking for locally-sourced fresh fruits and vegetables.

All items sold at this market come from Ada’s local community, farmers, and residents.

Many items here include baked goods, jams, jellies, and other sweet treats.

There’s nothing better than going shopping on a sunny day so head to the Ada Farmers Market!

Join the Pontotoc County Free Fair

Since 1916, the city of Ada has celebrated the annual Pontotoc County Free Fair, packed with fun activities!

This three-day event includes activities for all ages, including dog shows, costume contests, and live entertainment.

You can also find several vendors, food trucks, and booths selling various food and drinks, which you should try out!

If you’re feeling up for it, you can test your bravery on one of their many rides, including bumping cars, roller coasters, and more.

Kids can even compete in various contests and get the chance to win awesome prizes.

Don’t miss out on attending the Pontotoc Country Free Fair while visiting Ada!

Sing and Dance at AdaFest

AdaFest is one of Ada’s most sought-after annual events, where you can sing and dance the night away!

This festival celebrates the music, film, and arts scene and industry of Ada.

Admission is free, so join the festival whenever you want.

Notable bands and artists take the stage to provide music and live performances for the crowd.

Their film festival also screens award-winning films, while their fine arts festival allows guests to share their craft, including poems, sculptures, paintings, and more.

You can also find several vendors and food trucks throughout the festival, where you can try out their food and drinks!

AdaFest promises many hours of fun and adventure, so try and stop by!

Try Out the Food at East End Eats

East End Eats is a recurring event in Ada between May to October.

This event combines everyone’s favorite food and music!

With food trucks and vendors lining the street, you can take a foodie tour and try out all the snacks they offer.

To make things even better, this event also hosts musical and live entertainment.

Sit back and enjoy the music while stuffing yourself with flavorful food.

This event is family-friendly, with activities for younger audiences, so feel free to bring the kids and include them in all the fun!

Spend the day with your loved ones and enjoy all East End Eats has to offer!

Check Out Ada’s Best Italian Restaurant at Papa Gjorgjo

Are you craving Italian food?

Then you’re lucky because Ada is home to one of the best Italian restaurants, Papa Gjorgjo!

This local favorite and cozy eatery sells other meals on top of classic Italian dishes, giving you an extensive menu to choose from.

Papa Gjorgjo serves fresh-out-of-the-brick-oven pizza and handmade pasta, ensuring nothing short of delicious and high-quality meals.

You can also get grilled meat or fresh seafood with a soup or salad.

This restaurant has become one of Ada’s favorite places to eat, so try and stop by Papa Gjorgjo and see what all the fuss is about!

Final Thoughts

No matter what time of the year it is, Ada always has fun and adventure awaiting!

From state parks to entertainment centers and everything in between, you won’t run out of things to see and do in this beautiful city.

You can join one of their many celebrations and sing and dance the night away.

Look no further for the ideal vacation and book your next trip to Ada, Oklahoma, today!

You might even discover more things to do in Ada once you arrive.

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