The Best Things to Do in Oklahoma City: The Perfect Oklahoma City Itinerary for Your Next Visit
Oklahoma City, often simply called OKC, is the capital of Oklahoma and the state’s most populous city. As travelingmitch contributor Jacqueline Swartz is here to tell you, a visit here is a chance to dive into the history (and present) of the American West. It’s a city on the move, and it’s ready and waiting to be explored.
The Oklahoma City skyline. Photo Credit: Unsplash
Oklahoma City is not exactly on the bucket list of most travellers. What a surprise, then, to find so many attractions. There are new museums, extensive green spaces and hip new neighbourhoods to be enjoyed.
Just look at the kudos and awards the city has garnered in the last few years. Travel & Leisure named it one of the 50 best places to travel in 2020. It was also one of 22 of the USA’s most underrated destinations, according to a CNN travel report in 2022. Not to mention, USA Today named the city number one Best City for Street Art two years in a row.
Is anyone surprised? Well, yes, if you haven’t been to Oklahoma City.
“We benefit from your low expectations,” quipped Mayor David Holt, addressing a group of visiting travel writers.
A Bit More About Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City has a unique history that dates back to the 1880s. The city's story begins with the Land Run of 1889, a significant event in which thousands of settlers raced to claim land in the “unassigned lands” of the Indian Territory, which would later become the state of Oklahoma. Oklahoma City was officially founded on April 22, 1889, when the first land run took place.
The city grew rapidly in its early years, becoming the capital of the newly created Oklahoma Territory in 1890. Oklahoma City's location at the crossroads of major cattle trails and railroads helped it become a major trading centre in the region. The discovery of oil nearby in the early 20th century further boosted the city's growth and prosperity.
One of the city's most famous historical events, as you’ll likely know, was the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995, which occurred at the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum now stands at the site, honouring the victims and educating visitors about the impact of the bombing.
In terms of tourism, Oklahoma City has several notable attractions, many of which will be covered below. The city also has a strong “cowboy culture”, exemplified by the presence of the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and with events like the annual Oklahoma State Fair featuring rodeos and other western-themed activities.
That being said, it’s so much more than just that.
*Please note that this article contains affiliate links. Simply put, this means we may receive a small commission for sharing some of our honest and heartfelt recommendations.
What to Do in Oklahoma City During Your Visit
Appreciate Oklahoma City’s Green Spaces
There are a series of parks greens the downtown area, offering a cool escape from the summer heat. Scissortail Park includes 70 acres of green space, with paddle boarding around the shore of the Oklahoma River. The outdoor theatre hosts a variety of musical groups, from the Oklahoma Philharmonic to indie rock, bluegrass and soul.
The botanical gardens at Myriad Gardens. Photo Credit: Jacqueline Swartz
Walking distance away are the Myriad Gardens, which has plants from all over the world. The indoor botanical gardens here are well worth a visit. They’re festooned with brightly coloured floating objects, like hot air balloons, giving a whimsical aura to the plants and flowers.
Nearby, check out the Oklahoma City Museum of Art which combines big city collections with small-town friendliness. It starts with the five-dollar mimosa (prosecco and fruit juice) offered to visitors. The museum has an exceptional collection of glass art by the American master, Dale Chihuly. And I saw a temporary exhibit of Rodin Sculpture that would have been at home in any major museum.
Make Time for Bricktown
When the factories closed, the area became desolate. Today, Bricktown is Oklahoma City’s main arts and entertainment district, with restaurants and shops. What makes it stand out is the water taxis that float down the picturesque mile-long canal. As we moved down the waterway, a voice narrated the history of the place. Lining the shores are large metal sculptures depicting cowboys and stage coaches, a big part of Oklahoma’s history.
Johnny Baier, Executive Director, American Banjo Museum. Photo Credit: Jacqueline Swartz
After getting off the boat, I’d recommend heading across the street to the American Banjo Museum, which has second largest collection of banjos in the US (comedian/musician Steve Martin has donated one). The banjo, I learned, comes from Africa, but then morphed in the US. With strings added, it was used in various styles of music, such as bluegrass and jazz.
Learn some IMportant Lessons at The First AMericans Museum
Bricktown and some of the other attractions came about because in 1993, Oklahoma residents voted yes to a one-percent sales tax, bringing more than $7 billion in both private and public investment to the city in the last 20 years. Each successive initiative, called Metropolitan Area Projects (MAPS) is targeted to various projects. The current MAPS project is the fourth.
One thing that stands out is the Native presence. Even before Oklahoma became a state in 1907, tribes were forced to relocate there from neighbouring states. The so-called “Trail of Tears” was the result. (The Martin Scorsese film, Killers of the Flower Moon, tells the story of how the forced migration of Native people to what was thought of as barren land resulted in extraordinary wealth when oil gushed from the earth).
Native people live all over the state. The Choctaw reservation, for instance, stretches for 10,864 miles in Southeast Oklahoma. It’s not uncommon to discover that someone you meet has Native affiliation. The highly regarded mayor of OKC, David Holt, is an example – he is a member of the Osage Nation.
The First Americans Museum, known as FAM, opened in September, 2021. It is unique in telling the stories of the state’s 39 tribes.
The First Americans Museum. Photo Credit: Lori Duckworth, Oklahoma City Tourism
“We are as diverse as the countries of Europe, explained Deputy Director, Shoshana Wasserman, a member of the Muscogee Creek tribe. “But we share a collective story; here we do it thematically.”
In the Oklahoma Gallery, for instance, visitors can see four different “Origin Stories.” There are works of art, interactive media, and soundscapes. Then the journey turns to the tribes’ various homelands. Followed by the removal of people to places such as boarding schools. Then a “misrepresentation tunnel”, and the harmful effects from stereotypes.
There’s an exhibit from the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian called “Winiko: Life of an Object,” containing objects from the 39 tribes of Oklahoma. Still, Wasserman points out, “The most striking things about the museum are not necessarily objects, but stories.” In addition, a restaurant featuring Native American cuisine is open during museum hours.
Break Out the Cowboy Hat at The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum
Twenty-five dollars will buy you a ticket to both the First Americans Museum and the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.
The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is one of the premier institutions dedicated to preserving and celebrating the history and culture of the American West. The museum was founded in 1955 and has since become a major attraction for tourists and history enthusiasts alike.
Some highlights include:
The Hall of Great Western Performers, which honours actors, directors, and others who have made significant contributions to the Western film genre.
The American Cowboy Gallery, which explores the life and work of cowboys through art, photographs, and artifacts.
The Western Performers Gallery, which features memorabilia and exhibits dedicated to Western entertainers.
The Native American Gallery, which highlights the art, culture, and history of Native American tribes from the Great Plains region.
The huge space even has a full-scale town. One section is dedicated to the chuck-wagon, another to saddles and boots. The Museum was named the best western museum in the US by True West magazine. The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history, art, and culture of the American West.
Visit the One-of-a-kind Oklahoma Zoo
The Oklahoma City Zoo, located in Oklahoma City, is a popular destination for visitors of all ages. Founded in 1902, it is one of the oldest zoos in the United States.
The Oklahoma Zoo has expanded in recent years, and aims to build a variety of environments as similar as possible to the animals’ native habitat. Expedition Africa, which opened in the Summer of 2023, features a giraffe viewing area.
I’m always drawn to elephants, so it was a treat to climb up to a platform and see them cavorting on land and in water. Sanctuary Asia totals over 14 acres for the zoos’ Asian elephants, Indian rhinos and Burmese tortoises.
In addition to its animal exhibits, the Oklahoma City Zoo also offers a variety of educational programs and events for visitors of all ages. These include animal feedings, keeper talks, and behind-the-scenes tours that allow guests to learn more about the zoo's conservation efforts and animal care practices.
GEt Out on the River
Rafting in OKC? Why not? Photo Credit: Lori Duckworth, Oklahoma City Tourism
Located in the Boathouse district along the Oklahoma River, Riversport is your home for adventure when you’re in Oklahoma City. It’s open to various skill levels. It’s worth noting that you’ll be testing yourself in an area where Olympic athletes train.
One of the main attractions is its whitewater rafting and kayaking centre, which features a man-made whitewater rapids course. You’ll also want to take note of the opportunity to zip line across the river, the high ropes course, the opportunities for flatwater kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, as well as the cycling opportunities along the river trails.
The park also features a number of dining options, including a cafe with outdoor seating overlooking the river, as well as a bar and grill.
Explore Oklahoma City’s Dining Options
Another Oklahoma surprise is the food culture. “People like to go out to eat here,” remarks Joe Hudson, District Manager of the historic Automobile Alley district. Formerly the automobile centre of town, it still has buildings from the early 1900’s and old showrooms with neon signs. It’s also one of the city’s best shopping areas.
“There are lots of fun takes on classic American fare,” he adds. Steaks and BBQ, of course, but also lots of Asian and Asian/fusion restaurants. Chef Jeff Chacaleune went back to his Lao roots when he opened Ma Der Lao Kitchen, which was named Best new Restaurant in Oklahoma in 2022. The biggest star, however, is called Grey Sweater, and offers five, seven and ten-course tasting menus. Chef Andrew Black received the James Beard award for Best Chef in the Southwest in 2023.
The Paseo District offers cafes and casual eateries. It’s known for its Spanish revival look and its art galleries. “This was an artist’s slum for a long time,” notes Joe Hudson. Now that has changed, but the art part has remained – there is even First Friday art walk. Frida’s Southwest is one of the bright spots in the neighbourhood. Paseo Grill is a good choice here.
Other options include:
The Metro Wine Bar & Bistro: This cozy bistro offers a menu of French-inspired dishes paired with an extensive wine list.
Cheever's Cafe: Housed in a historic building, Cheever's Cafe serves up modern American comfort food with a southwestern twist.
Vast: Located atop the Devon Tower, Vast offers breathtaking views of Oklahoma City skyline along with a menu of upscale American cuisine.
Red PrimeSteak: Known for its excellent steaks and contemporary American cuisine, Red PrimeSteak is a popular choice for fine dining in Oklahoma City.
Mahogany Prime Steakhouse: Another excellent steakhouse, Mahogany Prime offers a wide selection of premium steaks and seafood in a sophisticated setting.
Some Other Oklahoma City Activities to Consider
Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. Photo Credit: Unsplash
If you’re into sports, consider going to a Oklahoma City Thunder game.
Wheeler Ferris Wheel is an iconic Ferris wheel that offers panoramic views of downtown Oklahoma City and the surrounding area.
Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark is home to the Oklahoma City Dodgers minor league baseball team, and the ballpark offers a fun and affordable sporting experience for visitors.
The Oklahoma State Capitol is where you can take a guided tour of the state capitol building, which features stunning architecture and a dome covered in 22-carat gold.
Where to Stay in Oklahoma City
Take a look at different accommodation options during your stay in Oklahoma City.
OKC Awaits
Whether it’s a walk along the river (or raft, for that matter), a visit to a one-of-a-kind museum, delicious food, or a little sports, there’s something for everyone in Oklahoma City, just waiting for your arrival.