Kingfisher’s a Chisholm Trail stop that grew into a farming stronghold
The city of Kingfisher started its life as a stop on the Chisholm Trail, which was used to move cattle to Kansas after the Civil War, then became an integral part of the Buckle of the Wheat Belt in the early 1900s. Today it’s still a key wheat-producing area, but also a tight-knit community where families have lived for generations—and usually don’t want to leave. “It’s actually kind of hard to sell real estate there because there just isn’t a lot of turnover,” says Jeanne Gang, a Realtor with Epique Realty who serves all of Oklahoma and lived in Kingfisher for over two decades. Gang says the city’s many amenities are one of the biggest draws. “The schools are very well rated, there’s low crime and the police department is run well, and you can get nearly everything you need there without having to go to the city.” But when any of Kingfisher’s roughly 4,900 residents do need to go to bustling Oklahoma City, it’s only about 50 miles away.
Wide streets and mature trees frame homes across the city
Two- and three-bedroom ranch-style and New Traditional homes are the most common, though there are vintage bungalows and farmhouses scattered throughout the city. Older American Foursquare builds that were once owned by some of the city’s wealthiest residents line Main Street near downtown. Houses throughout Kingfisher sit on lawns landscaped with grass and mature trees and residential streets are wide. Prices typically range from $140,000 to about $375,000.
Kids attend Kingfisher's A- and B-rated schools
Kingfisher Public School district serves the community, offers school choice and has an A-minus rating. Kids attend A-minus-rated Gilmour Elementary, A-rated Kingfisher Junior High and B-plus-rated Kingfisher High. The high school offers clubs and organizations, including a photography club, a chapter of Business Professionals of America, and Jazz Band.
Kingfisher Trails and parks support walking, biking and outdoor play
City Park is Kingfisher’s main green space and features playgrounds, walking paths picnic areas, a miniature train and the Vernie Snow Aquatic Center, an indoor pool open year-round with lap lanes and fitness classes. Shaw Park is smaller, but is equally popular for its playground, tennis courts and splashpad. Kids skateboard and rollerblade at the city’s skate park and golfers tee off at Kingfisher Golf Club, a public course with an 18-hole layout. Kingfisher Trails, several miles of paved paths that link the city’s schools, parks, historical sites and downtown district, are also popular. “You can walk or ride your bike completely around town on those trails,” Gang says.
Small-town businesses mix with national chains and services
Kingfisher’s downtown district spans about three blocks and features locally owned boutiques, restaurants and small businesses on or near Main Street. Medic Pharmacy & Gifts has been a local fixture since the 1970s that not only sells medication and offers immunizations, it also has an old-fashioned lunch counter that serves custom sodas, sandwiches, salads and ice cream. The Quilt Lady is another popular local business that has been selling sewing and craft supplies since 1987. Dining options include a mix of national and regional chain restaurants, like The Shed Grill & Bar, which serves burgers, tacos and classic Southern dishes. Of the local spots, El Charro is a favorite for its traditional Mexican food and great service.
Residents pick up groceries and essentials at Walmart and a handful of other specialty retailers. For all other shopping, they usually head into Oklahoma City, “But between Ace Hardware, Walmart and Atwoods, people can find just about anything they need,” Gang says. For indoor entertainment, residents head to 89’er Theatre to catch some of the latest big movies. Mercy Hospital Kingfisher is located on the city’s south side and has an emergency room.
Winter Nights and farmers market bring residents together
Residents gather to celebrate Christmas at Kingfisher Winter Nights, which runs from late November to late December and features lighted animated displays, a train ride through City Park, and a visit from Santa. The city’s farmers market runs from May to October on the first and third Saturdays of each month.
U.S. Highway 81 links Kingfisher to nearby cities and I-40
Residents get around by car, as Kingfisher doesn’t have a fixed route bus line. Main Street and Broadway Avenue are the city’s main thoroughfares. Main Street turns into U.S. Highway 81 and connects to other roadways leading to Oklahoma City, about 50 miles from the city. Will Rogers International is the closest major airport, also about 50 miles away.
Tornadoes and flooding are weather considerations
Kingfisher is in the heart of Tornado Alley and is prone to tornadoes. The city’s website provides resources to keep residents prepared for severe weather. Flooding is also possible, especially close to Kingfisher Creek.
