A short forty-five minute drive southwest of the Metro, Lawton has been known for the wildlife refuge, Mt. Scott, and for Fort Sill. But it also is home to some great restaurants and two world-class museums. Don't wait too long to visit because one of those museums will soon leave the state.

Bye, Bye Percussion
Established in 1992, The Percussive Arts Society Museum has been a great destination for families. What child doesn't love a room full of hands-on drum exhibits? Located in Elmer Thomas Park, this museum lets visitors see one-of-a-kind percussion instruments from around the world. Kids love searching for instruments with names like angklung, button gongs, boobam, and jogged bumbug. The museum is now hosting a special exhibit called "Bells from Around the World." The museum sponsors a "concert in the park" series during the summer, so check their web site or call 580-353-1455 for the schedule. Unfortunately, this child-friendly museum will move to Indianapolis in early 2007, so take time this summer to visit, play, and get a final set of maraca bottle openers as a souvenir. Admission is only $1 for visitors 13 and up. The museum is open Monday-Friday 9am-5pm; Saturday and Sunday 1-4pm.

Museum of the Great Plains
Accredited by the American Association of Museums, the highest honor a museum can receive, the Museum of the Great Plains is located just across from the Percussive Arts Museum. Families can easily see both museums in one afternoon. This museum is known for its educational indoor and outdoor exhibits. The mammals of the Great Plains natural history exhibit, including several large reconstructed prehistoric animals, is particularly impressive. The museum also houses art work and folk art from the region. The Tingley Indian shop is a re-creation of a turn-of-the-century store that houses artifacts collected by the Tingley family of Anadarko. The exhibit features Native American clothing, dance regalia, and beadwork. Outside, families can visit the Red River Trading Post, the Blue Beaver One-Room Schoolhouse, the Elgin Depot, and a Frisco steam locomotive. Make plans to visit the museum September 27-28 for the Red River Encampment where you can experience life in the 1890s. The gift shop features handcrafted Native American and folk art items. Admission to the museum and grounds is $5 for ages 12 and up; $2.50 ages 7-11; $4 for seniors; free for children under 7. The museum is open Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm; Sunday 1-4pm. For more information, visit their web site or call 580-581-3460.

Biblical City in Oklahoma
It's not something you expect to find in a wildlife preserve, but the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge contains a recreation of biblical sites in ancient Jerusalem. The Holy City of the Wichitas boasts the longest-running Easter passion play in the U.S. and draws thousands of visitors for the sunrise production. It is truly inspiring to walk through the stone buildings and imagine yourself in New Testament times. Nearby is the Veterans Walkway, a memorial for the victims of the Oklahoma City bombing, and the World Chapel. The Holy City is open daily 8am to dusk. Admission is free (donations appreciated), and the site is handicap accessible. Visit their web site or call 580-429-6540 for more information.

Must Eat
Lawtonians will tell you there is only one place to grab a burger-Wayne's Drive Inn. Established in 1950 by Wayne Abshere, this 50s style drive-in has become a familiar touchstone for visiting soldiers and long-time residents alike. Most will tell you that Wayne's is famous for its steak fingers, and they are excellent, but don't miss the "Sissy Burger" (mayo instead of mustard) or the onion rings (hand dipped and perfectly salted). The Wayne's logo is nearly as famous as that restaurant in Stillwater, so pick up a T-shirt, sweatshirt, or cap. Visit the Wayne's web site.

Pam Washington is the Dean of the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Central Oklahoma. She and her husband Mike have been married for six years and have traveled Oklahoma with their blended family of five children.