Calf Fry, Red Dirt Music and an Eskimo named Joe. Those are just a few of the things that you will find in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Stillwater is a cute little town located just an hour outside of Tulsa and Oklahoma City. It’s home to friendly people, great food and to one of the nation’s best college football teams, OSU.
I’ve lived in Oklahoma my whole life but for some reason I’ve never really visited this neighboring town. I just didn’t realize what an amazing town Stillwater is. But I can assure you after getting a taste of what this booming town has to offer, I will be visiting much more often in the future. Stillwater is such a fun place to be. Not just for college students but for families, couples and anyone looking to get a taste of what Oklahoma is really about.
Calf Fry Festival
So let’s talk Calf Fry. Some of you may be wondering what in the world Calf Fry is, I know I was when I first heard the name. Calf Fry is a very popular event held each year in Stillwater. People come from all over for this 3 day event. It’s a celebration of Red Dirt Music, ice cold beer, community, and calf fries.
What are calf fries? In simple words, they are deep-fried bull testicles and yes people love them. I had actually never tasted them before this event so to say I was a little nervous was an understatement. However, they actually aren’t that bad. The taste is good because, let’s face it, anything deep fried is good, but the texture was something I had a hard time with. They are a little bit chewy which got to me.
Red Dirt Music
Stillwater is also home to some of the best Red Dirt Music around. Red Dirt Music is a music genre that gets its name from the color of soil that’s found in Oklahoma. Stillwater is actually the birthplace of where Red Dirt Music came from.
We got a great history lesson on Red Dirt Music from the very talented Monica Taylor. I could have listened to her talk for hours about how back in the day all of these talented red dirt musicians would gather around and just jam out together. We also learned a lot about Bob Childers, a Stillwater resident, who is known as the Godfather of Red Dirt Music.
Where to Eat In Stillwater
Last but certainly not least I have to mention the incredible selection of food available in Stillwater. One of my favorites is an Oklahoma favorite, Eskimo Joe’s. Eskimo Joe’s started out as a bar back in the 70’s and has grown to an iconic restaurant in Stillwater. Known for it’s incredible cheese fries, you don’t want to miss out on one of Oklahoma’s gem’s. In addition to the original Eskimo Joe’s restaurant you will find Mexico Joe’s and Mojo’s which just recently opened. Both have amazing food and drink options.
And then there is the down home cooking that Oklahoma is known for and Stillwater doesn’t disappoint. My recommendations would be Granny’s Kitchen for breakfast (get the homemade cinnamon rolls) and Louie’s Bar & Grill for Lunch.
I had an incredible time in Stillwater, Oklahoma! I could really kick myself for not visiting sooner, but I know for certain we will be back soon. Especially since Stillwater continues to grow. It’s definitely a place that you will want to see when visiting Oklahoma.