Discover Oklahoma City: Living, Visiting, and Things to Do

Oklahoma City, often called OKC, is a vibrant, welcoming city that perfectly blends urban excitement with small-town charm. Whether you’re planning a visit, considering moving here, or just curious about what the city offers, Oklahoma City has something for everyone—rich history, incredible outdoor spaces, exciting sports, and family-friendly activities.

Top Attractions in Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum

This poignant tribute honors the victims, survivors, and rescuers of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing. The outdoor memorial features 168 empty chairs representing each life lost, while the museum provides an in-depth look at the tragedy, the events surrounding it, and the city’s resilience.

Bricktown Entertainment District

Bricktown is a revitalized warehouse district now buzzing with restaurants, bars, and entertainment. Take a leisurely canal boat ride, catch a game at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, or enjoy live music and events.

Myriad Botanical Gardens & Crystal Bridge

Located downtown, this 15-acre urban oasis includes a tropical conservatory, children’s garden, walking trails, and seasonal gardens. It’s perfect for a peaceful stroll, family outing, or even a relaxing picnic.

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

Dive into the rich history of the American West through art, artifacts, and exhibits. Highlights include works by Frederic Remington and Charles Russell, as well as displays on Native American culture and cowboy life.

Science Museum Oklahoma

This interactive museum offers hands-on science and technology exhibits for visitors of all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy the planetarium, live science demonstrations, and immersive exhibits.

Living in Oklahoma City

OKC offers a variety of neighborhoods catering to different lifestyles:

• Downtown OKC: Perfect for those who love urban living close to work, dining, and entertainment.

• Edmond: A suburban area known for excellent schools and a family-friendly environment.

• Norman: Home to the University of Oklahoma, offering a college-town vibe with cultural events and youthful energy.

• Moore & Midwest City: Affordable neighborhoods with strong community spirit.

The cost of living in OKC is lower than many major U.S. cities, making it attractive for families and professionals. The city offers a mix of historic homes, modern condos, and new developments with convenient access to parks, schools, and amenities.

Annual Events and Festivals

Oklahoma City hosts a variety of fun events year-round:

• Oklahoma State Fair: Held in September, featuring rides, concerts, and agricultural exhibits.

• Red Earth Festival: Celebrates Native American art, dance, and music in June.

• Festival of the Arts: A spring tradition showcasing local artists, performers, and culinary delights.

• OKC Memorial Marathon: April’s marathon honors the victims of the 1995 bombing while raising funds for the memorial.

Sports and Recreation

Oklahoma City is passionate about sports, and cheering for local teams is a big part of the city’s culture:

• Oklahoma City Thunder – 2025 NBA Champions!
  The Thunder clinched their first NBA championship in franchise history with a 103–91 victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 7 of the 2025 NBA Finals. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander was named Finals MVP after a phenomenal series, making this a historic moment for fans across the city.

• Oklahoma City Dodgers
  The AAA affiliate of the Los Angeles Dodgers plays at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, providing family-friendly entertainment.

• RIVERSPORT Adventures
  Located on the Oklahoma River, this facility offers whitewater rafting, kayaking, zip-lining, and other thrilling outdoor adventures.

🌳 Parks and Dog Parks

Oklahoma City is packed with parks for recreation, relaxation, and family fun:

Major Parks

• Scissortail Park: 70-acre downtown park with a lake, walking trails, playgrounds, gardens, and seasonal events.

• Myriad Botanical Gardens: Tropical conservatory, children’s garden, walking paths, and peaceful urban retreat.

• Lake Hefner Park: Ideal for cycling, sailing, fishing, jogging, and family picnics.

• Will Rogers Gardens & Park: Historic gardens with flower beds, rose gardens, walking paths, and a conservatory.

• Lake Overholser Park: Boating, fishing, and open spaces for outdoor activities.

• Martin Park Nature Center: 150-acre nature preserve with hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and educational programs.

Dog Parks

• Scissortail Dog Park: Off-leash area within Scissortail Park.

• Edmond Dog Park: 4-acre off-leash park north of OKC with separate areas for small and large dogs.

• OnCue Dog Park: Fenced dog park with agility equipment and separate large and small breed sections.

• Petland Dog Park: Open spaces, walking trails, and water features for dogs.

🛴 Getting Around Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City is car-friendly, but there are other options:

• Public Transportation: Embark bus routes connect key areas.

• Biking: Bike lanes and bike-sharing programs are expanding throughout the city.

• Walking: Downtown districts like Bricktown and Midtown are pedestrian-friendly.

• Electric Scooters: Companies like Lime offer scooters for short trips, perfect for exploring areas like Bricktown, Midtown, and the Plaza District. Riders must be 16+, helmets are recommended, and the max speed is 20 mph.

Dining and Shopping

Oklahoma City has a diverse culinary scene:

• Bricktown Restaurants: From casual bites to fine dining, with canal-side views.

• Plaza District: Eclectic restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries.

• Scissortail Park Farmers Market: Fresh produce, handmade goods, and local specialties.

• Local Favorites: Chicken-fried steak, fried okra, barbecue, and international cuisine options.

Entertainment Centers: Dave & Buster’s and Main Event

Dave & Buster’s – Oklahoma City
5501 N May Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Full-service restaurant, sports bar, and vast arcade with the latest games—perfect for adults and families.

Main Event – Oklahoma City
1441 W Memorial Rd, Oklahoma City, OK 73114
All-in-one entertainment venue with bowling, laser tag, arcade, and restaurant—great for family outings, birthday parties, and group events.

Children’s Activities and Local Businesses

Oklahoma City is a family-friendly city with plenty of ways to keep kids entertained:

• Breakaway Indoor Playground: Three-level indoor play structure and private party rooms.

• INTO Space: Space-themed playground for kids ages 0–12.

• Unpluggits Paint & Play: Art and craft activities combined with indoor play.

• We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym: Inclusive gym with sensory-safe equipment.

• Kidz Funtown: Indoor play area with endless fun for children.

These businesses also offer seasonal camps, workshops, and educational programs, giving parents convenient ways to keep their kids engaged year-round.

🏨 Accommodations

Oklahoma City offers a range of places to stay:

• Skirvin Hilton Hotel: Historic hotel with modern amenities downtown.

• 21c Museum Hotel: Boutique hotel with contemporary art exhibits.

• Airbnb: Unique lodging options from lofts to suburban homes.

Final Thoughts

Oklahoma City is a city of contrasts: rich history meets modern development, urban excitement blends with outdoor adventure, and community spirit welcomes everyone. Whether visiting for a weekend, relocating with family, or exploring the city’s attractions, OKC offers a warm welcome and unforgettable experiences for all.