El Reno, County seat in Canadian County, Oklahoma, United States
El Reno is a city in Canadian County, Oklahoma, situated about 25 miles west of Oklahoma City where Interstate 40 and U.S. Route 81 meet. The town serves as the administrative center for the county and sits on relatively flat terrain.
The city grew from several settlements following the 1889 land rush and took its name from Fort Reno, a military post established in 1874. During World War II, the former military grounds became a prisoner of war camp.
A local burger topped with fried onions originated here during the Great Depression and remains central to the town's identity today. An annual festival dedicated to this dish draws visitors who want to taste and celebrate this culinary tradition.
The downtown area is straightforward to navigate, with streets connecting the main shops and public buildings. Visiting during the annual festival or on weekends gives you the best chance to experience the town when local businesses are most active.
The town sits along a stretch of Interstate 40 that attracts travelers looking for classic roadside dining experiences. Many visitors stop here specifically to try local restaurants rather than chain establishments found elsewhere.
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