Oklahoma City, also known as OKC, is the capital and largest city of the state of Oklahoma. It is a vibrant city that offers a perfect blend of modern amenities and rich cultural heritage. The city has a lot to offer to its visitors, from historical landmarks to natural wonders and adventurous activities. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to Oklahoma City and make the most out of your visit.
Top Attractions
Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum
The Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum is a must-visit attraction in the city. It is dedicated to the victims of the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. The museum tells the story of the tragedy and its aftermath, and the outdoor memorial is a peaceful tribute to those who lost their lives.
Bricktown
Bricktown is a popular entertainment district in Oklahoma City. It features a variety of restaurants, bars, shops, and attractions, including a canal that offers water taxis and boat rides. It is also home to the Chesapeake Energy Arena, where you can catch a basketball game or a concert.
Oklahoma City Zoo
The Oklahoma City Zoo is a fun-filled attraction for the whole family. It features a wide variety of animals from around the world, including elephants, lions, tigers, and bears. The zoo also offers interactive experiences, such as giraffe feedings and sea lion shows.
Hidden Gems
Myriad Botanical Gardens
The Myriad Botanical Gardens is a beautiful oasis in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City. It features a variety of gardens, including a tropical conservatory, a children’s garden, and a dog park. The gardens also host events throughout the year, such as outdoor concerts and yoga classes.
The Womb Art Gallery
The Womb Art Gallery is a unique art space that features contemporary art from local and international artists. It is housed in a former sperm bank and offers a one-of-a-kind experience for art enthusiasts.
The Paseo Arts District
The Paseo Arts District is a charming neighborhood that features a variety of art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. It is a great place to explore and discover local art and culture.
Food Scene
Oklahoma City has a diverse food scene that offers something for everyone. From classic barbecue to modern cuisine, you can find it all in OKC. Some must-try restaurants include:
Iron Star Urban BBQ
Vast
The Jones Assembly
The Mule
Nonesuch
Budget-Friendly Tips
Oklahoma City is an affordable destination that offers a lot of value for your money. Here are some budget-friendly tips:
Take advantage of free attractions, such as the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum and the Myriad Botanical Gardens.
Visit local farmers markets, such as the OSU-OKC Farmers Market, for fresh and affordable produce.
Check out happy hour deals at local restaurants and bars.
Take advantage of public transportation, such as the OKC Streetcar, to save on transportation costs.
Outdoor Adventures
Oklahoma City is home to a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to water sports and fishing. Some must-visit outdoor attractions include:
Lake Hefner
Oklahoma River
Martin Park Nature Center
Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge
Bluff Creek Park
Historical Landmarks
Oklahoma City has a rich history that is reflected in its architectural landmarks and museums. Some must-visit historical landmarks include:
The Oklahoma State Capitol
The Overholser Mansion
The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
The Oklahoma History Center
The Governor’s Mansion
Family-Friendly Activities
Oklahoma City is a family-friendly destination that offers a variety of activities for kids of all ages. Some must-visit family-friendly attractions include:
The Oklahoma City Zoo
The Science Museum Oklahoma
The Frontier City amusement park
The Oklahoma Railway Museum
The Harn Homestead and 1889ers Museum
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, Oklahoma City has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. Some unique attractions include:
The American Banjo Museum
The Museum of Osteology
The National Softball Hall of Fame and Museum
The Oklahoma City Ghost Tour
The Oklahoma City Museum of Art’s rooftop film series
Natural Wonders
Oklahoma City is surrounded by natural beauty and offers a variety of outdoor activities to explore it. Some must-visit natural wonders include:
The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
The Turner Falls Park
The Gloss Mountain State Park
The Chickasaw National Recreation Area
The Tallgrass Prairie Preserve
Vibrant Nightlife
Oklahoma City has a vibrant nightlife scene that offers a variety of options for a night out. Some popular nightlife spots include:
The Pump Bar
The HiLo Club
The Jones Assembly
The O Bar
The Whiskey Chicks
Local Markets
Oklahoma City has a variety of local markets that offer fresh produce, handmade goods, and unique souvenirs. Some must-visit markets include:
The OSU-OKC Farmers Market
The Paseo Farmers Market
The Farmers Market District
The OKC Farmers Public Market
The Plaza District’s Live on the Plaza
Beaches and Mountains
Oklahoma City is located in the heart of the Great Plains, so it doesn’t have any beaches or mountains within its city limits. However, there are several options for day trips to nearby beaches and mountains:
The Great Salt Plains State Park
The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
The Lake Murray State Park
The Beavers Bend State Park
The Little Sahara State Park
Cultural Immersion
Oklahoma City has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its museums, art galleries, and events. Some must-visit cultural attractions include:
The Oklahoma City Museum of Art
The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
The Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center
The Red Earth Art Center
The deadCenter Film Festival
Art and Music Scene
Oklahoma City has a thriving art and music scene that offers a variety of events and venues. Some must-visit art and music spots include:
The Tower Theatre
The Jones Assembly
The Blue Door
The Oklahoma City Philharmonic
The Paseo Arts District’s First Friday Gallery Walk
Walking Tours
Walking tours are a great way to explore Oklahoma City’s history and culture. Some must-try walking tours include:
The Bricktown Walking Tour
The Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum Walking Tour
The Paseo Arts District Walking Tour
The Capitol Complex Walking Tour
The Downtown Architecture Walking Tour
Architectural Marvels
Oklahoma City has a variety of architectural marvels that showcase its rich history and culture. Some must-visit architectural landmarks include:
