There are always new and unique things to do in Oklahoma City. It doesn’t matter if you’re visiting Oklahoma City for the first time or you’ve been to OKC before.
Oklahoma City is a place that easily gets overlooked when it comes to planning where to go. But, it shouldn’t be.
From its rich history to the abundant adventures to the creative street art, OKC is a mecca of fun. Often referred to as The Modern Frontier, you can experience contemporary art while also stepping back in time.
This post may contain affiliate links. Please see our disclosure.
Things to Do in Oklahoma City
1. Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
While much of Oklahoma City is colorful, there is a history here that shouldn’t be ignored.
Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in downtown Oklahoma City is the location of the Oklahoma City Bombing. Which is arguably one of the largest domestic terrorism events in history.
You absolutely need to visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum. While there is a fee for the museum, the outdoor memorial is free to explore.
2. Myriad Botanical Gardens & Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory
The Myriad Botanical Gardens is a beautiful botanical garden and urban park located downtown.
The Gardens is home to multiple tiers of densely landscaped areas that surround a sunken lake. While the inside does cost a fee, you can explore the outdoor gardens for free.
3. First Americans Museum
The First Americans Museum showcases First American history exhibitions. Culture, art, cuisine, and programs allow visitors to experience the history of 39 distinctive First American Nations.
4. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
OKC may be the midwest, but you’ll find nothing but the wild west here at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.
The Museum collects, preserves, and exhibits a renowned collection of Western art and artifacts. There are indoor and outdoor exhibits so make sure you explore everywhere.
5. Factory Obscura Mix-Tape
Factory Obscura Mix-Tape is a 6,000-square-foot interactive exhibit that allows you to immerse yourself amongst the emotional ties of mixed tapes.
6. Museum of Osteology
The Museum of Osteology is a museum with the opportunity to explore the form and function of the skeletal system.
The Museum currently displays over 300 skeletons from all over the world.
7. Paseo Arts District
The Paseo Arts District is an artsy neighborhood is full of galleries, shopping, and restaurants.
Stroll through the Paseo Arts District to find the best art in the city. Additionally, this neighborhood’s architecture is brimming with stucco buildings and clay-tiled roofs.
8. Oklahoma City Museum of Art
The Oklahoma City Museum of Art has one of the most comprehensive collections of Dale Chihuly glass in the world. It also houses a major collection of photography by Brett Wilson and a collection of works by painter Paul Reed.
Additionally, they regularly screen international, independent, documentary, and classic films.
9. Route 66 Park
The Route 66 Park includes a watchtower, an amphitheater, and a scaled-down walkable version of Route 66 from Chicago to Los Angeles.
10. Martin Park Nature Center
Martin Park Nature Center is a great way to get a dose of the outdoors. There is a variety of trails and an on-site nature museum.
11. Oklahoma History Center
The Oklahoma History Center is a learning center focused on Oklahoma’s unique Native American culture and history, aviation, tornadoes, commerce, and more.
The Oklahoma History Center is a Smithsonian Affiliate and is accredited by the American Alliance of Museums.
12. Science Museum Oklahoma
If you enjoy hands-on activities and science, the Science Museum is the place for you.
The museum includes activities centered around the ocean, space, aviation, butterflies, dinosaurs, and more.
13. Lake Hefner
Lake Hefner is a great spot to get away from the city. Take a stroll around the lake, enjoy a picnic near the lighthouse, or hike the 9-mile walking path.
14. Scissortail Park
Scissortail Park is a 70-acre urban public space featuring a variety of things to do.
There’s everything from ornamental gardens and woodlands to a seasonal roller rink to a picnic grove.
15. Street Art
Love street art? I can assure you that you will leave Oklahoma City feeling completely satisfied.
The murals of Oklahoma City blew me away. You could spend an entire trip just hunting down the best ones.
16. Frontier City Theme Park
Finally, Frontier City Six Flags is a western-themed amusement park that is fun for everyone.
Thrilling rides like the Brain Drain, Diamondback, and Gunslinger are waiting for you at this unique theme park.
PLANNING A TRIP?
Find accommodation, read accommodation reviews, and check flight prices.
Book attractions, tickets, or guides in advance.
Research using these guides or read my other Oklahoma City posts.
See my packing list.
I'm also a freelance writer and creator. You can see my published work here. I've been featured by Impact Travel Alliance as a creative who is transforming travel, and by Matador Network as a vegan travel blogger you should be following on Instagram.
When I'm not writing, I'm traveling, reading a book, trying not to kill my houseplants, worshiping my dog, or having an existential crisis.
You can also reach out to me on Instagram and TikTok.
Want to know more? Here's my full bio.
- What To See in Rome: A Journey Through the Eternal City - September 21, 2024
- Sustainable Travel: How to Explore the World Responsibly - September 12, 2024
- Discover Hidden Gems on Your Next Cruise: Personalized Shore Excursions in Italy - August 30, 2024
