16 Fun Things to Do in Oklahoma City
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There are so many fun things to do in Oklahoma City! I was genuinely impressed by the city’s charm, energy, and diverse range of activities. As someone who is on a journey to visit all 50 states, my time in Oklahoma City left a lasting impression.
During my visit, I discovered that Oklahoma City is full of fun things to do, whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, an outdoor enthusiast, or a fan of arts and culture. As you make your way through the neighborhoods, you’ll find each one offering its own unique charm and attractions. While exploring, I highly recommend renting a car to make the most of your time and discover hidden gems off the beaten path.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, this guide covering some of the best things to do in OKC is designed to help you make the most of your time in this captivating city!
Fun things to do in Oklahoma City
Check out the Plaza District
If you’re looking for a vibrant hub of activity in OKC, head to The Plaza District! There are a ton of unique shops, awesome murals, and great dining spots.
The Mule is a must-visit spot if you want some mouthwatering cheese curds and drinks. The atmosphere is super cool too. If you stop in you’ll see why it’s a popular Oklahoma City restaurant for visitors and locals alike.
Myriad Botanical Gardens
For a breathtaking botanical experience, get ready to fall in love with the Myriad Botanical Gardens! This 15-acre oasis in downtown Oklahoma City offers a variety of activities throughout the year, from bulb displays to concerts and classes.
While the outdoor area is free to explore and showcases stunning landscapes, stepping into the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory is an experience you won’t want to miss! With its diverse plant life, serene waterfalls, and enchanting walkways, the conservatory is a botanical wonderland that’s worth every penny of the admission fee (which is around $10.50).
Skydance Pedestrian Bridge
The Skydance Pedestrian Bridge isn’t just a crossing—it’s an iconic structure offering panoramic views of Oklahoma City’s skyline. Whether you’re taking a stroll or capturing breathtaking photos, this bridge adds a touch of magic to your visit. It’s a fantastic spot to soak in the city’s beauty and should be on everyone’s list of top things to do in Oklahoma City.
Oklahoma City Museum of Art
If you’re an art enthusiast, you will love the Oklahoma City Museum of Art. Snag a coupon for your admission here! The museum has an impressive collection, including one of the largest collections of Chihuly artwork in the world, a treat for fans of this iconic glass artist.
Besides Chihuly’s masterpieces, the museum showcases works by other talented artists. As someone who doesn’t always do art museums, I really did enjoy my experience at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art and highly recommend adding it to your list of things to do in Oklahoma City!
Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum honors the lives lost during the tragic events of 1995, offering a profound and reflective journey. The museum’s exhibits provide poignant insights into the history and impact of the Oklahoma City bombing, making it a significant and somber yet essential stop for understanding the city’s resilience and strength.
Oklahoma State Capitol
This iconic structure stands as a testament to the state’s heritage and political legacy. From guided tours to exploring the grounds, you can immerse yourself in Oklahoma’s past and present.
The grandeur of the building’s architecture and the stories within its walls make a visit to the state capitol an educational and enlightening experience for all ages.
Lake Hefner Lighthouse
For a surprising fun thing to do in Oklahoma City, venture out to Lake Hefner Lighthouse. While it’s a little bit of a drive (about 20 minutes outside of the city), this quaint spot with its charming little lighthouse paints a picturesque scene.
Take a stroll along the nearby trail, perfect for a morning walk or jog. We visited in the morning and adored the serene beauty of this OKC hidden gem!
Scissortail Park
Scissortail Park is a true oasis in the heart of Oklahoma City! Whether you park here to cross the Skydance Pedestrian Bridge or simply come to explore the park itself, you’re in for a treat.
The park’s expansiveness and lush greenery, especially in the spring, create a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities. I really loved finding such vast green spaces within the urban landscape of the city.
There were so many stunning parks in Oklahoma City, but this was one of our favorites that we visited!
Factory Obscura: Mix-Tape
Immerse yourself in a sensory adventure at Factory Obscura: Mix-Tape, a unique experience. If you’ve visited The Fairgrounds in St. Pete, you’ll find similarities in this eclectic collection of local artists’ work.
It’s more than just art; it’s a narrative of your senses and emotions through music. Get ready for plenty of fun photo ops as you explore this immersive exhibit. Tickets are around $22 per person.
Bricktown Water Taxi
The Bricktown Water Taxi is one of the top things to do in Oklahoma City! It reveals the hidden charms of the area. Cruise through a manmade canal that winds its way through the city, offering scenic views, fascinating statues, and a narrated 40-minute tour highlighting the history of Oklahoma City.
It’s open year-round, and hours vary by season. Tickets are $13 for adults, $10 for children 6-12, and $4 for children 5 and under.
Wheeler District
The Wheeler District is another really neat neighborhood in Oklahoma City. It’s a neighborhood that feels straight out of The Truman Show!
We loved checking out The Big Friendly, an awesome neighborhood brewery, which had excellent beer choices (their strawberry ale was so crisp and refreshing!) and a super aesthetic vibe.
If you have the kids you may also want to check out the Wheeler Ferris Wheel. There are also hammocks, picnic tables, and giant OKC letters for a great photo op in this area too.
Check out a local coffee shop
Start your day with a caffeine fix at one of Oklahoma City’s charming coffee shops. With so many excellent options to choose from, you’re in for a treat!
I enjoyed my cold brew from Culture Coffee, topped with a housemade carrot cake cold foam—a unique and delicious combination. Clarity Coffee is another standout, with locations scattered throughout the city.
Have a steak dinner at Cattlemen’s Steakhouse
One of my favorite things to do in Oklahoma City was for sure our unforgettable dining experience. Treat yourself to a steak dinner at Cattlemen’s Steakhouse, located in Historic Stockyards City. This special restaurant is renowned for its award-winning steaks, delicate flavors, and exceptional service.
I savored every bite of my perfectly cooked steak and was blown away by the accompanying mushrooms—this meal left me wishing I had arrived hungrier!
Brickopolis Entertainment
Looking for a dose of fun and excitement? Head to Brickopolis Entertainment, where the options for entertainment are endless! From laser tag and mini-golf to arcade games, pool, and darts, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
During our visit, we had a blast playing various games and unwinding in this lively entertainment hub. It’s the perfect place to kill some time or enjoy a fun-filled evening with friends and family. Plus, it’s conveniently located just steps away from the Bricktown Water Taxi—a perfect combination for a day of adventure in Oklahoma City.
Cocktails at the Library of Distilled Spirits
End your day on a high note with a visit to the Library of Distilled Spirits, a captivating speakeasy nestled inside The Vault in the basement of the historic First National Bank building.
Explore the impressive collection of 1,500 spirits in The Vault, where rare bottles are displayed in original safety deposit boxes—a unique blend of history and luxury. Sip on expertly crafted cocktails and immerse yourself in the speakeasy’s intriguing ambiance, making it a memorable stop during your visit to Oklahoma City.
Where to stay in Oklahoma City
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Oklahoma City, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Compared to what I’m used to, many hotels here are quite affordable! During my visit, I had the opportunity to explore some fantastic options that cater to different preferences and budgets.
- Wyndham Grand OKC— I recently experienced the Wyndham Grand in Clearwater Beach and Jupiter, Florida and I’m low-key obsessed with Wyndhams now. I was SHOCKED that you could stay here for less than $100/night! It’s a great budget-friendly option without compromising on comfort.
- The National, Autograph Collection— One of the most popular Oklahoma City hotels located within the restored First National Building (the same place where the Library of Distilled Spirits is). I would expect this place to be more pricey, but rates when we went were around $200/night! It’s right downtown so you’re within walking distance to some great OKC attractions.
- Holiday Inn Express in Bricktown— I am an IHG credit card holder, so I always lean toward these hotels because I can book with points. Bricktown was one of my favorite locations we explored, so staying in the heart of it all is a vibe. The prices vary but are often less than $100/night, however, you will have to pay to self-park.
- Holiday Inn Express & Suites Oklahoma City Southeast – I-35— This is where we stayed during our trip since we rented a car and wanted to avoid parking fees and bugging valet to get the car multiple times each day. We booked with points but the price was around $80/night when we went. Like all Holiday Inn Express’ breakfast was included. We were right outside the city, just a short 7-minute drive from the action!
Click here to see all hotel options in OKC for your dates.
Are you ready to experience the best things to do in Oklahoma City?!
As you can see, there are so many fun and exciting things to do in Oklahoma City! Whether you’re exploring the vibrant neighborhoods, enjoying delicious meals, or immersing yourself in local culture, OKC offers a memorable experience. I hope that you enjoy your time exploring this charming city as much as I did!
Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other US blog posts:
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