Discover Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City, the primary seat of government and the most populous urban center within the state of Oklahoma offers a plethora of Things to do in Oklahoma City, catering to visitors of all ages. The city is a hub for culture, history, and entertainment, providing a rich experience for tourists.
Highlights of the City
- Downtown Bricktown: Once a warehouse district, the revitalized Bricktown Entertainment District is now a vibrant area with restaurants, shops, and canal-side attractions.
- Adventure District: This area houses several top-tier destinations, such as the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden, bringing wildlife encounters to the heart of Oklahoma City.
Recreation and Leisure
- Scissortail Park: Visit this sprawling urban oasis to enjoy gardens, a lake, and outdoor concerts.
- Myriad Botanical Gardens: These gardens offer beautiful flora, events, and educational programs, making it a serene escape in the city center.
Cultural Hotspots
Investigate the city’s rich history at the poignant Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, or dive into the western legacy at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Both institutions capture pivotal elements of Oklahoma City’s past.
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List of Additional Attractions:
- Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
- National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
- Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden
Oklahoma City invites visitors to explore its myriad of best things to do, from the bustling streets of Bricktown to the enchanting greenery of Scissortail Park. Whether you are interested in the arts, nature, or urban excitement, Oklahoma City delivers an engaging and memorable experience.
Museums and Historical Sites
Oklahoma City, steeped in a rich tapestry of history, offers an array of museums and historical sites that provide a deep dive into the state’s heritage and its people’s resilience. Guests have the opportunity to delve into a range of displays and artifacts that tell the tale of Oklahoma’s history and contemporary life.
Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum serves as a symbol of resilience and commemoration for those who perished in the tragic 1995 Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building bombing. It presents powerful exhibits, including remnants of the original structure and moving tributes to the victims, survivors, and rescuers. The Memorial’s reflective atmosphere offers visitors a space for contemplation.
Oklahoma History Center
At the Oklahoma History Center, one discovers Oklahoma’s journey through its expansive exhibits featuring indigenous cultures, pioneer life, and the state’s evolution over the centuries. Housing five galleries and more than 2,000 artifacts, the center provides an in-depth look at Oklahoma’s unique narrative, from its natural history to its vital role in American history.
45th Infantry Division Museum
The 45th Infantry Division Museum honors the famed Thunderbirds’ service in World War II and the Korean War, showcasing an extensive collection of military artifacts, historical photographs, and personal accounts of soldiers. This museum offers insight into the division’s notable contributions, including the liberation of the Dachau concentration camp and an array of military equipment displayed outside the museum.
Art and Culture
Oklahoma City offers a vibrant scene for art lovers, featuring a range of art galleries, exhibitions, and performances. The city takes pride in its diverse art collections, from glass art by Dale Chihuly to masterpieces by classical artists such as Frederic Remington.
Oklahoma City Museum of Art
The Oklahoma City Museum of Art stands out with its three floors of art collections, housing an impressive array of works. Notably, the museum boasts an extensive assembly of glass sculptures by Dale Chihuly and an influential collection of photographic works by Brett Weston. Guests have the opportunity to fully engage with the beauty of these artworks and encounter the wide range of artistic expressions showcased.
Paseo Arts District
Paseo Arts District is the city’s cultural nexus, offering an eclectic mix of galleries and studios within a charming Spanish revival architecture setting. Here, art enthusiasts can explore many mediums and styles with monthly gallery walks celebrating local and national artists. The district pulses with creative energy, adding a colorful facet to Oklahoma City’s art scene.
Civic Center Music Hall
At the heart of Oklahoma City’s performing arts stands the Civic Center Music Hall. This historic venue hosts various performances, from ballet and opera to Broadway shows and concerts. The beautifully renovated space provides an elegant backdrop for enjoying works by composers and playwrights, resonating with other influential historical artists such as Charles M. Russell and James Earle Fraser.
Nature and Recreation
Oklahoma City offers an impressive array of natural spaces and recreational activities. From the lush landscapes of botanical gardens to the outdoor adventures on the lake and the tranquility of nature centers, there’s a place for every nature enthusiast and outdoor hobbyist to explore.
Myriad Botanical Gardens
The Myriad Botanical Gardens is a verdant urban oasis spanning 15 acres in downtown Oklahoma City. The gardens are home to the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory and offer an array of outdoor spaces perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, and educational programs.
- Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory: A highlight where visitors can walk among 2,000 species of tropical and desert plants.
- Outdoor Spaces: Include a children’s garden, walking paths, and a dog-release area.
Lake Hefner
Lake Hefner is renowned for its recreational activities, a beloved spot for both residents and visitors. The lake provides an ideal setting for sailboats, with surrounding areas well-equipped for bicyclists, joggers, and those seeking a peaceful picnic spot.
- Activities: Sailing, cycling, jogging, and picnicking.
- Trails: Features trails for walkers and bikers that circle the lake, offering stunning sunset views.
Martin Park Nature Center
The Martin Park Nature Center provides a serene escape into the wonders of Oklahoma’s native flora and fauna. It’s a protected wildlife sanctuary with hiking trails that wind through forests, grasslands, and a creek.
- Hiking Trails: Over 2.5 miles of gentle trails suitable for all ages.
- Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to observe birds, butterflies, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
The Myriad Botanical Gardens and Martin Park Nature Center are also ideal spots for those interested in botany and local ecosystems, as they carefully preserve and showcase the region’s native plants and wildlife. Lake Hefner invites water sports enthusiasts and includes the Boathouse District, where visitors can engage in kayaking and other water-based activities. The combination of nature preservation and recreational opportunities makes Oklahoma City a destination where the beauty of the great outdoors can be appreciated in full force.
Family and Entertainment
Oklahoma City offers many entertainment options that cater to families looking for educational experiences and fun-filled adventures. Whether encountering exotic animals or engaging with hands-on science exhibits, the city is a playground for knowledge and excitement.
Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden
The Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden is a destination where visitors can marvel at a diverse collection of wildlife in habitats that closely mimic their natural environments. It’s an immersive experience providing education about animal conservation. Families can enjoy viewing everything in the Oklahoma Trails exhibit, from majestic big cats and aquatic wonders to the local favorites.
Science Museum Oklahoma
Science Museum Oklahoma takes learning and makes it an adventure for all ages with its interactive exhibits and imaginative programs. Highlights include riveting live science demonstrations and the fact-filled Planetarium. This museum is a hub for science enthusiasts and curious minds, igniting a passion for the universe’s wonders.
Visitors should also consider the thrills of Frontier City Theme Park‘s roller coasters and performances, the aquatic experiences of Hurricane Harbor Oklahoma City, and the problem-solving fun at The Escape. Each of these venues ensures a memorable experience entrenched in the virtues of joy and learning, making them essential Things to do in Oklahoma City and solidifying Oklahoma City as a dynamic destination for family entertainment.
Unique Oklahoma Attractions
Oklahoma City offers an array of distinctive museums that cater to various interests, from the intricacies of osteology to the rich history of the American West.
Museum of Osteology
Visitors can explore over 300 real skeletons of different species at the Museum of Osteology. This museum provides a unique look into the biology and structure of vertebrates, focusing on the form and function of the skeletal system.
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is the spirit of the American West. Exhibits showcase historical cowboy gear, Native American artifacts, and Western art, providing insights into the lives of those who shaped the frontier.
- Osteology: A branch of biology focused on studying bones, osteology is the main attraction at the Museum of Osteology. Visitors can study various skulls and skeletal specimens up close.
- American Banjo Museum: Although not directly mentioned in the provided search results, this museum is another unique Oklahoma City destination centered on the rich history of the banjo in American music and culture.
- The Oklahoma Railway Museum: Trains have played a pivotal role in the West’s history, and this museum showcases that legacy through exhibits and historic train rides.
Dining and Nightlife
Oklahoma City offers an enticing spread of dining and nightlife options. From the bustling Bricktown District with its picturesque canal-side restaurants to the vibrant Paseo District, home to some of the city’s most unique bars, visitors can indulge in diverse culinary experiences and spirited entertainment.
Bricktown Canal Dining
In the heart of Oklahoma City, the Bricktown Canal provides a scenic backdrop for dining. Guests can enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants situated along the waterway, offering everything from casual eats to gourmet fare. Afterward, a ride on the Bricktown Water Taxi provides a charming view of the neighborhood’s highlights.
- Casual Eats: Grab a burger at a canal-side grill.
- Gourmet Dining: Enjoy upscale restaurants with patio seating overlooking the water.
Paseo District Bars
The Paseo Arts District boasts an eclectic mix of bars perfect for a night out. This area, known for its artsy vibe, provides various options for a laid-back evening or a lively night.
- Live Music: Check out bars with local bands.
- Craft Cocktails: Sample innovative drinks handcrafted by seasoned mixologists.
- Brunch Spots: Many bars here also serve brunch, perfect for a late-morning weekend indulgence