Lawton travel guide

Lawton travel guide

National Airports

Lawton, Oklahoma, does not have a commercial airport with regularly scheduled passenger flights. The nearest airports with commercial service are:

Lawton-Fort Sill Regional Airport (LAW): While Lawton does have an airport, it primarily serves general aviation and military purposes. Commercial airline service is very limited, with occasional charter flights and private aviation services.

Will Rogers World Airport (OKC): Located in Oklahoma City, approximately 80 miles northeast of Lawton, Will Rogers World Airport is the nearest major airport with regular commercial flights. It offers a wide range of domestic and some international flights from various airlines.

Travelers looking to fly to or from Lawton often choose to use Will Rogers World Airport for its larger selection of flights and destinations. From there, they can rent a car, use a shuttle service, or arrange alternate transportation to reach Lawton.

Trains in Lawton

Lawton, Oklahoma, does not have an Amtrak train station or direct passenger train service. In fact, passenger train service is limited in Oklahoma overall, with Amtrak offering only one route, the Heartland Flyer, which runs between Oklahoma City and Fort Worth, Texas. Unfortunately, Lawton is not on this route.

If you’re looking to travel by train to or from Lawton, you would need to consider alternative transportation options, such as buses, car rentals, or private vehicles. The lack of passenger train service is a significant gap in public transportation infrastructure for Lawton and the surrounding area.

Buses in Lawton

Lawton, Oklahoma, has a public transportation system operated by Lawton Area Transit System (LATS), which provides bus service within the city and surrounding areas. Here’s some information about the bus system in Lawton:

Route Network: LATS operates several fixed bus routes covering key areas within Lawton, including residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, educational institutions, medical facilities, and shopping centers.

Fares and Passes: LATS offers affordable fares for its bus services, with options for single rides, daily passes, and monthly passes. Reduced fares are typically available for seniors, students, and individuals with disabilities.

Schedules and Hours: The bus schedules and operating hours vary depending on the specific route and day of the week. Generally, buses operate from early morning until evening on weekdays, with reduced service on weekends and holidays.

Accessibility: LATS is committed to providing accessible transportation for all passengers. Buses are equipped with features such as wheelchair ramps or lifts, priority seating for individuals with disabilities, and audio announcements.

Real-Time Information: Riders can access real-time bus arrival information through the LATS website or mobile app. This allows passengers to track the location and estimated arrival time of buses, helping them plan their trips more efficiently.

Additional Services: In addition to fixed-route bus service, LATS may offer other transportation services such as demand-response or paratransit services for eligible individuals who are unable to use fixed-route buses due to a disability.

Overall, the Lawton Area Transit System provides a convenient and affordable way for residents and visitors to get around the city without relying on a personal vehicle. Whether you’re commuting to work, running errands, or exploring the city, LATS offers transportation options to meet your needs.

How to get to Lawton

Getting to Lawton, Oklahoma, can be done through various transportation options depending on your starting point. Here are some common ways to reach Lawton:

By Car: Lawton is accessible by car via several major highways, including Interstate 44 and U.S. Route 62. If you’re driving, you can plan your route using a GPS navigation system or online mapping service. Lawton is located approximately 90 miles southwest of Oklahoma City and about 200 miles northwest of Dallas, Texas.

By Air: Lawton does have a regional airport, Lawton-Fort Sill Regional Airport (LAW), which primarily serves general aviation and military purposes. However, commercial airline service is very limited. The nearest major airport with regular commercial flights is Will Rogers World Airport (OKC) in Oklahoma City, approximately 80 miles northeast of Lawton. From there, you can rent a car or use other transportation options to reach Lawton.

By Bus: Greyhound Lines operates bus services to Lawton from various cities across the United States. The Lawton Greyhound station provides convenient access to the city and surrounding areas. Check the Greyhound website for schedules, fares, and ticket reservations.

By Train: Lawton does not have an Amtrak train station or direct passenger train service. The nearest Amtrak station is in Oklahoma City, where you can then use alternate transportation methods such as buses or rental cars to reach Lawton.

Ridesharing: Services like Uber and Lyft operate in Lawton, providing convenient transportation options for residents and visitors. Use a ridesharing app to request a ride and get to your destination in Lawton.

Carpooling: Consider carpooling with friends, family, or coworkers if you’re traveling from a nearby city. Sharing the cost of transportation and reducing the number of vehicles on the road can be a convenient and eco-friendly option.

Once you arrive in Lawton, you can use local transportation options such as taxis, rideshares, or rental cars to get around the city and reach your final destination.

What is the best time to travel to Lawton

The best time to travel to Lawton, Oklahoma, depends on your preferences for weather, activities, and events. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons in Lawton and what each offers:

Spring (March to May):

Spring in Lawton brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a pleasant time to visit.

This season is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and exploring nature reserves like the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.

Spring also brings events and festivals to Lawton, such as the Arts for All Festival and the Medicine Park Art Walk.

Summer (June to August):

Summers in Lawton are hot and humid, with temperatures often reaching the 90s Fahrenheit (32-37°C) or higher.

This season is great for outdoor activities like swimming, boating, and fishing at nearby lakes and reservoirs.

Be prepared for high temperatures and sun exposure, and consider visiting indoor attractions during the hottest part of the day.

Fall (September to November):

Fall is a pleasant time to visit Lawton, with cooler temperatures and colorful foliage.

This season is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife watching in the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge.

Fall festivals and events, such as the Medicine Park Flute Festival and the Holy City Easter Pageant, may also take place during this time.

Winter (December to February):

Winters in Lawton are generally mild, with temperatures averaging in the 40s and 50s Fahrenheit (4-15°C).

While snow is rare, winter brings occasional cold fronts and chilly temperatures, so be sure to dress warmly if you’re visiting during this time.

Indoor activities like visiting museums, attending theater performances, and shopping at local boutiques are popular during the winter months.

Overall, the best time to travel to Lawton depends on your preferences for weather and activities. Many visitors enjoy the mild temperatures and outdoor adventures of spring and fall, while others prefer the hot summer months for water-based activities. Winter offers a quieter atmosphere and opportunities for indoor exploration. Consider what activities you’re interested in and what type of weather you prefer when planning your trip to Lawton.

How to get around Lawton

Getting around Lawton, Oklahoma, can be accomplished through several transportation options. Here’s how you can navigate the city:

Driving: Lawton is a car-friendly city with well-maintained roads and highways. Many residents and visitors prefer to travel by car, as it offers flexibility and convenience. If you’re driving, you can easily navigate Lawton using GPS navigation systems or online maps.

Public Transportation: Lawton Area Transit System (LATS) operates a network of bus routes within the city. LATS provides affordable transportation options for residents and visitors, with fixed routes covering key areas including residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, educational institutions, and medical facilities. Check the LATS website for route maps, schedules, and fares.

Biking: Lawton is becoming increasingly bike-friendly, with designated bike lanes and trails throughout the city. Many residents commute by bike, and there are bike rental options available for visitors. Explore Lawton on two wheels and enjoy the scenic trails and parks.

Walking: Downtown Lawton and other areas of the city are pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks and crosswalks making it easy to explore on foot. Walking is a great way to experience the city’s neighborhoods, parks, and attractions at a leisurely pace.

Ridesharing: Services like Uber and Lyft operate in Lawton, providing convenient transportation options for residents and visitors. Use a ridesharing app to request a ride and get around the city.

Taxi: Traditional taxi services are available in Lawton for those who prefer a more traditional transportation option. You can find taxi stands at various locations throughout the city or call a taxi company to request a ride.

Carpooling: Consider carpooling with friends, family, or coworkers to share the cost of transportation and reduce your environmental impact. Carpooling is a convenient option for commuting to work or attending events in Lawton.

Overall, Lawton offers a variety of transportation options to suit different preferences and travel needs. Whether you prefer driving, taking public transit, biking, walking, or using ridesharing services, you’ll find convenient ways to get around the city and explore all that Lawton has to offer.

Accommodations in Lawton

Lawton, Oklahoma, offers a variety of accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Here are some options for lodging in Lawton:

Hotels: Lawton has a range of hotels catering to various budgets and needs. You can find familiar chain hotels, budget motels, and upscale accommodations. Many hotels are conveniently located near major highways, shopping centers, and tourist attractions.

Extended Stay Hotels: If you’re planning a longer stay in Lawton, consider booking an extended stay hotel. These accommodations offer amenities such as kitchenettes, laundry facilities, and spacious suites, making them suitable for business travelers, families, and individuals relocating to the area.

Bed and Breakfasts: For a cozy and personalized experience, consider staying at a bed and breakfast in Lawton or nearby communities. These charming accommodations often offer comfortable rooms, homemade breakfasts, and a warm atmosphere.

Vacation Rentals: If you prefer the flexibility and privacy of a home away from home, consider booking a vacation rental in Lawton. You can rent apartments, condos, or entire houses for short-term stays, allowing you to enjoy amenities like kitchens, living spaces, and outdoor areas.

Campgrounds: For outdoor enthusiasts, Lawton and the surrounding area offer campgrounds and RV parks where you can pitch a tent or park an RV. Enjoy amenities such as picnic areas, restrooms, and outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.

Corporate Housing: Some companies offer corporate housing options in Lawton for employees on temporary assignments or business travelers. These furnished apartments or houses typically include utilities, internet access, and other amenities for a comfortable stay.

Pet-Friendly Accommodations: If you’re traveling with pets, some hotels and vacation rentals in Lawton are pet-friendly and welcome furry companions for an additional fee.

When booking accommodations in Lawton, consider factors such as location, amenities, price, and guest reviews to find the option that best suits your needs and preferences. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons or when there are major events taking place in the city.