Top 10 Things to Do in Oklahoma City From Someone Who’s Lived Here for 10+ Years
Oklahoma City is one of the most underrated cities around. You may say I’m biased, but from someone who moved here in college, stayed for a while, decided I wanted to try something else, and ultimately decided to come back, I can safely say OKC is 🔥🔥🔥
If you’re visiting Oklahoma City for the first time, I have to warn you that if you visit the places on this list, you might have the urge to move here. And that’s ok. The more the merrier. 🙂
If you already live in OKC, props to you for being ✨ amazing ✨
If you’ve looked at a few other resources for things to do in Oklahoma City, you’ll likely see the same things over and over. I’m here to give you more of the hidden gems than the typical tourist attractions.
This list is meant to showcase the unique spots OKC has. If you’ve ever talked to me about this subject, you know I’m going to say “The Myriad Gardens is great but…” and then list 50 things to do instead of that.
[To be clear, I do enjoy the Myriad Gardens and if you are a big plant nerd, definitely check it out. If that isn’t really your passion, skip it.]
Another big one I’d skip (and this is just MY OPINION. you know, that thing we’re all entitled to) is the Bricktown Water Taxi. I lived 2 hours from San Antonio for most of my life. I visited their River Walk more times than I can count. The Bricktown River Walk is honestly a sad version of the San Antonio one and I don’t want people to get the wrong impression of OKC.
OK, rant over. Back to business. Here are my suggestions if you want a true local experience of Oklahoma City.
Also, this list is just in a random order, not ranked or anything.
Let’s get into it.
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1. Chisholm Creek
Chisholm Creek is a shopping center in the northwest part of OKC, with a beautiful water feature, a stage for performances, outdoor activities like giant chess, and a playground for the kiddos.
Currently, most of the businesses in the area are food and/or drink-related. There are also quite a few sporting activities like TopGolf and iFly, plus several workout studios and salons.
Depending on what you’re trying to accomplish while you’re here, you will likely have a ton of choices. But I’ll help narrow it down so you’re not overwhelmed 😁 because that is what I’m here for.
Food: Must-try local spots include Birra Birra (pizza), Riserva (tapas), and Domenico (crazy desserts).
Drinks: Definitely check out Sidecar – they have a beautiful view from their rooftop bar and their drinks are next level.
Other: If you’re looking to pamper yourself, check out Polished or Airbrush Tans by Hannah.
2. Bradford House
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. Bradford House is 👏 that 👏 b*tch.
But really, it is one of the cutest boutique hotels I have ever seen. Perfect for a staycation, a weekend trip, or a full-on vacation.
They always have a ton of events going on so definitely check their Instagram to see what activities you want to partake in.
Not only is the hotel beautiful, they have an amazing food and coffee menu.
And like, just, ugh, the aesthetics. I can’t. I’ve never in my life seen a full episode of Gilmore Girls but I imagine it’s the embodiment of that show, idk.
3. Local Coffee Shops
I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again. Oklahoma City is the Capital of Cute Coffee Shops 🫡
Everyone loves a cute coffee shop. Even if you don’t drink coffee, you can still enjoy a tea or pastry and the viiiibes.
I actually have a full blog post about some of the best coffee shops in Oklahoma City. So depending on where you’re staying, you’ll surely have a ton of options.
4. Scissortail Park
One of my favorite spots in Downtown OKC is Scissortail Park. Depending on the weather, this is a great spot to just walk around and soak in the city.
The beautiful landscape tucked south of the OKC skyline is truly a sight to see. There are always a ton of activities and events going on at the park, one of my fave being the farmers market every Saturday from April to October.
The park spans 70 acres and includes water features, a kid’s play area (plus splash pad for those never-ending hot days), and a ton of different sporting courts like pickleball, soccer, basketball, etc.
It’s definitely one of my top spots to recommend to anyone visiting OKC because it showcases that Oklahoma isn’t just flat dirt land. And that OKC is ON THE MAP YALL.
5. First Americans Museum
We have a TON of museums in Oklahoma City and it is very hard to pick just one, but I truly think visiting the First Americans Museum (FAM) truly shows what Oklahoma is all about.
Not only does it depict the struggles and successes of the indigenous people in Oklahoma throughout history, but it is also a straight up beautiful space. They are continuing to build that part of the city up, and FAM will eventually neighbor OKANA, a resort and casino.
The museum and gallery itself help educate people on the impact of indigenous culture in our state today, and I think that is the perfect way to understand Oklahoma and how it was shaped.
6. First National Center
If you love looking at historic architecture, the First National Center is the place for you. Recently restored, the former First National Bank now includes high-end apartments, hotel rooms, wonderful restaurants, and several stores to make it a one-stop shop for things to do in Oklahoma City.
The old bank vault has been transformed into a swanky bar called the Library of Distilled Spirits. The ground floor is home to a handful of boutiques and salons, as well as The Gilded Acorn, and coffee shop and patisserie.
7. Oklahoma City Zoo
Another attraction in Oklahoma City that I will suggest to ANYONE, no matter who they are, is the Oklahoma City Zoo. Our zoo has a lot of accolades and awards and is constantly growing, updating, and expanding its offerings.
And you may be thinking “zoos are for children”. WRONG. I don’t have kids and I love going to the zoo. And not in the way Disney Adults claim Disney is fun without kids. I mean it in a normal way.
The variety of animals the Oklahoma City Zoo has is truly incredible. You could spend an entire day there, or you can easily skip through to the animals you want to see most.
I always make a B-line to the elephants 🐘💕 and then high-tail it to the Bison. The Oklahoma City Zoo puts so much work into this space.
Admission to get in is really reasonable at around $16 per adult, $13 per child. There are always extra activities and events going on, and you can FEED GIRAFFES. There, I’m done making my case.
8. James Beard Restaurants
You read that right. Oklahoma is home to MULTIPLE nominees of the coveted James Beard Awards.
In Oklahoma City, you can enjoy food from THE “2023 Best Chef – Southwest” Andrew Black. He owns multiple restaurants in the area: Grey Sweater, Black Walnut, and will soon be opening Perle Mesta in the historic Skirvin Hotel in Downtown Oklahoma City.
One of my absolute favorite restaurants in OKC (and one that I will suggest to anyone who will listen) is Ma Der Lao. Chef Jeff Chanchaleune has been nominated for the James Beard Award 3 times, so it’s safe to say this food is amazing.
An oldie but a goodie: Florence Kemp has been running Florence’s Restaurant for an incredible (and unbelievable) 70 years. SEVENTY YEARS. This southern food joint is an OKC classic.
Other nominated restaurants and/or chefs in Oklahoma City include:
- FRIDA Southwest – Outstanding Wine & Other Beverages, 2023 Semifinalist
- Zach Hutton with Scratch Kitchen – Best Chef, 2022 Semifinalist
I’d say the food scene in Oklahoma City is pretty dang impressive.
9. Will Rogers Garden
A great alternative to the Myriad Gardens, Will Rogers Garden is a hidden gem in OKC. You won’t find this place as crowded as the Myriad Gardens, clogged up with tourists taking selfies.
If you appreciate nature, landscaping, plants, etc. this is a great place to take a beat from your busy vacation schedule and just walk around.
Some classes and events require a fee, but exploring the gardens is totally free!
10. Riversport
This place put OKC on the MAP. If you aren’t familiar, Riversport is an adventure park connected to the Oklahoma River. There are a ton of water activities like whitewater rafting, tubing, and kayaking. There are some non-water-related activities like climbing, ziplining, and trails for walking, running, and biking.
They have events going on all the time. My favorite are the recurring movie float nights where they play a movie on the big screen while you float in the water. It’s like a drive-in movie but better.
If you are a big adrenaline junky or have kids that love outdoor activities, you MUST check out Riversport when you’re visiting Oklahoma City.
