Carrollton
Carrollton
Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City
Bus Driving

Carrollton to Oklahoma City

Updated: 28 May 2026

Traveling from Carrollton to Oklahoma City is a straightforward 320-kilometer journey heading north on Interstate 35. You will cross the Red River into Oklahoma, passing through cities like Gainesville and Ardmore. The drive is typically completed in about 3 hours under normal traffic conditions. Alternatively, you can utilize regional bus services that connect the Dallas metro area to downtown Oklahoma City. This route is a popular corridor for both business commuters and weekend tourists.

Total Distance: 320 km driving distance; 290 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving is the fastest way to reach Oklahoma City, taking approximately 3 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective method for this short distance.
Compare Carrollton to Oklahoma City Routes
Bus
Direct
Driving
Direct
Duration 4 hours 30 mins 3 hours
Avg Price $35-$70 $40-$60 in fuel
Operator Greyhound Personal Vehicle
Route Dallas Bus Station to Oklahoma City Station. I-35 North through Gainesville, Ardmore, and Norman.
Tip The bus station in Dallas is located near downtown, requiring a short ride from Carrollton. Expect heavy traffic near the Oklahoma state line during holiday weekends.
Travel Tips
  • Tolls
    Some segments of the turnpike system in Oklahoma require payment via PlatePay or Pikepass.
  • Traffic
    Avoid I-35 during rush hour in the Dallas area to save significant time.
  • Rest Stops
    The Chickasaw Cultural Center near Sulphur is a great place to stretch your legs.
  • Parking
    Downtown OKC has ample parking garages that are reasonably priced.
  • Weather
    Oklahoma is prone to sudden weather changes; check the forecast before departing.
Safety Tips
  • Speed Traps
    Observe speed limits strictly in small towns along I-35, especially in Oklahoma.
  • Tornado Awareness
    If traveling in spring, monitor local weather reports for severe storm warnings.
  • Road Conditions
    Construction is common on I-35; check apps for real-time delays.
  • Vehicle Check
    Ensure your tires are properly inflated for the high-speed highway driving.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a train to OKC?
    There is currently no direct passenger rail service from Carrollton to OKC.
  • How much is the toll?
    Tolls vary by route; expect to pay around $5-$10 if taking the turnpikes.
  • Is it a scenic drive?
    The drive is mostly flat prairie, but the Arbuckle Mountains offer some elevation change.
  • Can I fly?
    Flights are available from DFW, but the drive is often faster when considering airport time.
  • What is the best route?
    I-35 North is the most direct and efficient route.
Quick Info
  • From Carrollton, Texas, United States
  • To Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, United States
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

Spring and Fall offer mild temperatures perfect for visiting the Bricktown district.

Things to Do in Oklahoma City
1
Bricktown
Enjoy the canal-side restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues in this historic warehouse district.
2
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
Explore extensive galleries dedicated to the history and culture of the American West.
3
Oklahoma City National Memorial
Visit this solemn site dedicated to the victims and survivors of the 1995 bombing.
4
Myriad Botanical Gardens
Walk through 17 acres of urban parkland featuring a unique cylindrical conservatory.
Tags
Carrollton to Oklahoma City I-35 North driving to OKC bus to Oklahoma City travel from Texas to Oklahoma weekend trip to OKC Oklahoma City travel guide DFW to OKC