Oklahoma City is a vibrant metropolis that celebrates its proud heritage and exciting future through world-class attractions and fine dining.
If you’re looking for a place to book your next trip to, then Oklahoma City is a top destination. Its urban renaissance has revitalized the downtown area, making it hip and exciting. From museums to parks, the arts to fun, there’s something for everyone in this vast metropolitan city.
So get out your passport and start filling up that vacation bucket list – here are the top things to do in Oklahoma City.
Planning a road trip in the area? Check out The Best Stops Along Your Route 66
12 Best Things To Do In Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City Museum of Art
415 Couch Dr // +1 405-236-3100
The Oklahoma City Museum of Art is a vibrant hub in the downtown district showing pieces from local, regional and national artists. Step inside this space to view the styles ranging from bold colors and towering blown glass pieces to modern sculptures that bring new energy to artistic expression. This art museum features three artist-in-residence studios where local artists can explore their craft.
Immerse yourself in art with an exciting adventure through time and space, where you’ll also find a Chihuly tower of curving, twisting, and colorful glass.
My experience of visiting this masterpiece is vividly brought to life with costumed docents sharing their experiences and expertise about each featured work of art.
The permanent collection also features more than 2,000 works by artists, including Georgia O’Keeffe, Pierre Bonnard, and Édgar Degas. If you enjoy fine art, there’s something for you at this historic treasure, and not to forget to mention that it’s also one of Oklahoma’s top attractions. Join us for an exciting day of discovery at the museum designed to stir your senses.
Have Fun At Bricktown Entertainment District
111 S Mickey Mantle Dr, Oklahoma City // +14052353500
The energetic entertainment district known as Bricktown is a hot spot for fun and exciting things to do in Oklahoma City. While in Bricktown, visit the bars and restaurants, catch a game at one of several live venues, or dance the night away at one of the area’s renowned nightclubs.
Bricktown Entertainment District offers a variety of activities and things to do. With the Bricktown Ballpark, the Oklahoma City Farmers Market, Gold Dome, and Myriad Botanical Gardens all within walking distance of each other, you’ll also find plenty of opportunities for fun things.
Step into Mickey Mantle’s Steakhouse & Saloon for mouthwatering steaks and a lively sports bar atmosphere located just across the street from the AAA Texas League’s RedHawks and Tinker Air Force Base.
You can’t miss a thing once you get going into the district. If you ask me what’s my favorite thing about it, I’d say the restaurants and the delicious meals they offer at every one of them. Don’t ask me what to recommend because you can’t be wrong. All foods are perfect in their way!
Visit National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
1700 NE 63rd St, Oklahoma City // +1 405-478-2250
Settle in for the day with some culture at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, a striking ode to Americana that pays tribute to the country’s cowboys and famous Western film stars.
The modern city has its charms – including attractions such as the preserved cattle trails and Western film studios – and if you’ve got some extra time, take a tour through history at the state capitol or browse art galleries on College Green.
The American Cowboy is a legend in his own right, and Oklahoma City is a cowboy’s dream. Home to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and an abundance of cowboys, artists, musicians, and more, the Sooner State offers up plenty of western fun for all ages. Discover a slice of cowpoke culture that celebrates tradition and pays homage to cowboys past and present at this iconic American institution. Welcome to the American West!
Explore the art, history, and culture of Oklahoma at the Oklahoma City Museum. This state-of-the-art facility includes traveling Western art exhibitions, rare and unique American Indian artifacts, the world’s largest collection of Frederick Remington prints and paintings, and a fully constructed turn-of-the-century cattle town.
Visit Historic Stockyards City
1305 S. Agnew Ave #2427 // +1 405-235-7267
The Stockyards in Oklahoma City is one of the largest livestock markets in the world. Visitors can find a variety of things to do, including shopping for western wear and Native American art, while dining at one of the city’s many historic restaurants. During my time there, I was able to feel the era when cowboys roamed the West.
Bring the family to Oklahoma City’s Western district for a visit to the legendary livestock market. There you’ll find authentic western wear, handcrafted items from Native American artisans, some of the best restaurants in the state, and a glimpse into the lifestyle of a bygone era.
I visited the Stockyards City in Oklahoma City while visiting family, and couldn’t get over how similar the area was to many cowboy movies that I had seen. The shops were filled with cowboy hats, boots, chaps, and leather goods, while the restaurants served traditional comfort food such as meatloaf and biscuits.
When I wandered through the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, it felt like I was walking back in time to when cattle drives crossed the plains.
Also, if you have some spare money to spend on clothing, Langston’s Western Wear specializes in providing the latest fashions for the cowboy in all of us. They are proud to offer their customers the best selection and quality of western wear available at prices that fit any budget.
Feel The Thrill At Frontier City & Six Flags Hurricane Harbor
3908 W Reno Ave, Oklahoma City // +1 405-943-9687
Frontier City is the ultimate theme park destination for thrill-seekers of all ages. Welcome to the new frontier, where you can live out your wildest adventure with tons of rides and attractions, including one of the highest-energy roller coasters in existence.
Too bad, I wasn’t able to feel the vibe that this place offers. Due to time limitations, I had to just pass by, therefore I am here to tell you not to make that same mistake.
Take advantage of Frontier City’s spectacular family-friendly, legendary adventures in The City of Frontier Heroes. From the energy and excitement of their exciting rides and attractions to the variety of Wild West shows, guests are sure to find adventure every time they visit.
Enjoy gravity-defying thrills on the most iconic roller coasters in the world, get up close to the action by riding a rifle in SharpShooters, or prepare to be drenched as you speed through the pounding rapids!
Take a walk on the wild side, or take it easy and float down a winding river. This epic adventure capital has something to thrill everyone. Hold on tight to your shoe-string budget as you experience Oklahoma’s zany entertainment extravaganza!
Whether it’s a business trip or an adventure you’ve been dreaming of for years, you’ll find your perfect match in Oklahoma. Enjoy the outdoors by camping at Caney Fork River Resort, tubing down the Big Kahuna with friends on the Whetstone Fork River, or taking the kids to Shipwreck Island and watching them glide down kid-friendly water slides.
Be sure to check out Enid’s museums and galleries, including the internationally recognized Center for Western Folk Art and Cultural Heritage and Kintla Peak Observatory.
Visit The Oklahoma History Center
800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr // +1 405-522-0765
With over 200 years of history, there is much to discover at the Oklahoma History Center in Oklahoma City. The official state museum of history, the Oklahoma History Center, offers over 215,000 square feet of exhibits, interactive installations, and artifact-laden galleries to help you experience Oklahoma’s past first-hand.
Enter the museum and let the fascinating lives of oil barons, pioneers, American Indians, and Oklahoma’s famous citizens bring the past to life.
The Oklahoma History Center is the perfect destination for history lovers of all ages. It features exhibits on the state’s colorful history, an extensive research library and archives, and even hosts traveling historical exhibits.
As an added bonus, the center also features an extensive genealogy library and archives for family tree researchers. The possibilities are endless at this beautiful facility, which was designed to bring the past into the present so that you can experience Oklahoma’s rich history up close.
Located directly adjacent to the Oklahoma State Capitol and the Governor’s Mansion, The Oklahoma History Center offers its visitors a unique opportunity to experience the past, present affairs, and future of our great state.
Watch A Science Show At Science Museum Oklahoma
2020 Remington Pl, Oklahoma City // +14056026664
Science Museum Oklahoma is more than just an entertaining way to spend a few hours. The museum makers anticipated that scientists, inventors, and other aspiring scientific minds might have the desire to offer their exhibits. As a result, they opened a space for anyone to present interactive science-inspired activities.
Located just north of downtown Oklahoma City, Science Museum Oklahoma is a short drive from nearly anywhere in the city. Here, kids and adults can explore and learn about science in an engaging, fun, and hands-on way. They’ll also discover how science changes over time — the history of various scientific discoveries is on display. No matter what your age, you’re sure to have a great time here.
It is a beautiful place for both children and adults. My two favorite parts are the planetarium and theatre.
The planetarium features an ever-changing story of the night sky that retains your attention without being too overwhelming, and the theater, with seating for over 50 people, has a large screen that is entertaining and educational for older kids as well as adults.
If you’re visiting during the warmer seasons, there are outdoor activities (such as the Japanese garden) that are just as fun.
See The Beautiful Myriad Botanical Gardens
301 W Reno Ave, Oklahoma City // +14054457080
Myriad Botanical Gardens is one of the city’s most treasured attractions. It took years for the first Myriad Gardens, founded by horticulture enthusiasts in Oklahoma City, to realize their vision of a botanically diverse public park. Their dream was finally realized in 1993 with the opening of this lush green oasis. Today, the garden is enjoyed by thousands of visitors every year.
It is a picturesque park with beautifully sculptured topiaries and colorful fountains where you can stroll among fragrant flowers.
Guests traveling with a furry friend can also enjoy an off-leash dog park (since the gardens have that option). There are many benches in the park, making it the perfect place to relax and leave work behind.
Visit The 45th Infantry Division Museum
2145 NE 36th St, Oklahoma City // +14054245313
For military history buffs, the 45th Infantry Division Museum in Oklahoma City is a must-see. You can find it in the old Lincoln Park Armory. A self-guided tour will let you explore the extensive museum’s exhibits of uniforms and firearms.
The pieces depict not only the history of the 45th, founded in 1920 but also the history of many world wars.
When I first walked into the 45th Infantry Division Museum, I felt as if I had time traveled. The uniforms that lined the walls and the war relics that decorated each glass case transported me back in time to when they were used in battles.
Tour the State Capitol
2300 N Lincoln Blvd, Oklahoma City // +14055213356
The Oklahoma State Capitol building is the seat of the state’s government. It was designed and built by architect Frank Pierce Milburn in 1914, renowned for the Oklahoma State Capitol and New Mexico State University’s Zimmerman Library Building and Kansas City Union Station.
The classic Greco-Roman structure has an Indiana limestone exterior and an Oklahoma pink and black granite base. There’s grand central dome–considered Milburn’s masterpiece–wasn’t completed until 2002. Guided and self-guided tours are available daily.
The building itself is the source of a lot of pride in Oklahoma. When a person steps up on the Capitol Grounds, they have just entered another realm, politically and architecturally.
Tour The Overholser Mansion
1521 N Hudson Ave, Oklahoma City
Henry Overholser built the home in 1903 for his family, which was a prominent leader in Oklahoma City real estate development.
Overholser was also president of the Oklahoma State Fair and spearheaded the construction of the first state capitol. Also, Overholser was influential in bringing railroads to Oklahoma City.
While walking through the house, you’ll see a portrait of Henry Overholser. Natives of Oklahoma City love to tell his story, and there is even a statue of him in front of the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum near downtown.
The mansion was built with deluxe Kansas limestone. Inside, you’ll see fine furnishings, period pieces, and a friendly staff that will help guide you on your self-guided tour.
Visit The Oklahoma City Zoo
2000 Remington Pl, Oklahoma City // +14054243344
The Oklahoma City Zoo is a must-see attraction that you would take your family or your friends. It has been consistently ranked as one of the top zoos in the United States, and it does not disappoint.
This zoo provides excellent habitats for each animal to suit their needs so you can enjoy an educational and fun trip.
A unique experience awaits you as you observe the exotic and fascinating creatures that inhabit Oklahoma, both large and small! With a total area of 400 acres, the Zoo holds more than 3,500 animals representing over 400 different species from around the globe at full capacity.
Conclusion
Oklahoma is a state full of fun and adventure. You can see some of the famous movie sights such as the Oklahoma Wax Museum and spend time sightseeing in this great state. There are museums full of cowboys and Indians and oil derricks just waiting to be explored.
If you like history, head to The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, where you can learn all about frontier life on the 1800s trail. Oklahoma will definitely keep you busy and entertained for days!
Visiting other destinations in Oklahoma? Check out our other delicious guides:
- 11 Quintessential Oklahoman Meals You Must Experience During Your Visit to Oklahoma City
- 18 Must-Try Oklahoma City Breakfast Restaurants
- 8 Awesome Things To Do In Tulsa
- 8 Best Bars in OKC
- 7 Must-Try Spots for BBQ in OKC
- 6 Must-Try Bakeries in Oklahoma City
- 7 Best Burgers in OKC
- 15 Must-Try Restaurants in Downtown Oklahoma City
While in Oklahoma City, don’t miss out on activities that will help immerse yourself with the city (hurry while they’re hot!):
Igor Jovanovski is an aspiring digital nomad, travel blogger and graphic designer who really loves food. He also has a creative side, and he works as a freelance graphic designer in his spare time. He has traveled across Europe quite a few times since he was young and recently started his mission to visit every country in the world! Igor’s favorite thing about traveling is the way he gets to know new people, food, places and cultures.
This exciting experience helps him create his own stories and make memories that will last forever