Top 25 Must-See Attractions in Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City is the largest urban center and capital of the state of Oklahoma. The city is situated amid an active oil field, featuring oil derricks scattered throughout its landscape. The summer season typically experiences hot and humid conditions, which can occasionally result in extended drought periods. Oklahoma City possesses a rich and varied history, providing numerous museums worthy of exploration during your leisure time.

If you have an interest in sports, there are several local teams to support across multiple sports disciplines, alongside the teams representing Oklahoma City University. Given the numerous activities available, allow us to explore the best things to do in Oklahoma City.

1. Remember The Victims Of The Oklahoma City Bombing

On April 19, 1995, Oklahoma City, alongside the entire nation, was deeply impacted by a domestic terrorist attack resulting in the loss of 168 lives and injuring 680 others. Today, the Oklahoma City National Memorial stands as a tribute to those who perished, the heroes who rescued those trapped and provided care to the injured, and the survivors who remain to share their stories. The memorial consists of several sections, each narrating the events of that tragic day. A visit here may take longer than anticipated due to the extensive exhibits available for reflection.

2. Escape From The Hustle And Bustle Of The City

Centrally located in downtown Oklahoma City, the Myriad Botanical Gardens spans over 15 acres of public space. The gardens offer numerous attractions, including a children’s park, splash fountains, an off-leash dog park, and extensive pathways for walking and running. The bandstand occasionally hosts concerts, and the Crystal Bridge Conservatory is a favored location for weddings. Throughout the year, various classes are conducted for both adults and children, covering topics such as chocolate making, story reading, and gardening.

3. Learn The History Of Oklahoma At The Oklahoma History Center

The Oklahoma History Center, which took several years to complete, occupies an 18-acre site and features 215,000 square feet dedicated to illustrating the historical significance of the city. The center showcases over 2,000 artifacts representing more than 50 distinct topics in Oklahoma’s history. Visitors can also partake in the Red River walking tour, a quarter-mile path that mimics the journey of the Red River along Oklahoma’s border.

4. Learn About The Skeleton At The Museum Of Osteology

The Museum of Osteology focuses on bones and skeletal structures, featuring over 300 skeletons on display and an additional 5,000 specimens not on public view. As the first museum of its kind in the United States, it houses skeletons from a diverse range of species from around the globe. This interactive museum provides an engaging experience for children, making learning enjoyable. A notable highlight is the 40-foot skeleton of a humpback whale.

5. Cheer On The Oklahoma City Dodgers

The Oklahoma City Dodgers compete in the Pacific Coast League of minor league baseball. Their home games are held at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, and the team boasts a successful history since its founding in 1962, with four league titles, two conference titles, and thirteen division titles. The city passionately supports the team, creating an electric atmosphere on game days.

6. Be Entertained At The Paycom Center

If basketball is your preference over baseball, consider visiting the Paycom Center, home to the Oklahoma City Thunder NBA team, which has a seating capacity of 18,203 that fills to capacity during home games. For dining options before or after the game, there are various restaurants, bars, and an Irish pub. The arena is also a venue for many WWE events, including Raw, SmackDown, and Unforgiven, as well as regular UFC and other fighting events.

7. Meet The Animals At Oklahoma City Zoo And Botanical Garden

Animal enthusiasts will appreciate the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden, which hosts over 1,800 animals within its 119-acre grounds. Notable attractions include the elephant habitat, which houses a herd of African elephants. The habitat features outdoor yards, swimming pools, waterfalls, and various structures providing shade. Children can explore the children’s zoo, where they can encounter goats, monkeys, flamingos, and other species. Daily opportunities exist for guests to feed giraffes from a specially designed platform.

8. Can You Handle The Rollercoaster At Frontier City

Frontier City is an amusement park located in Oklahoma City, featuring more than 50 rides, including four roller coasters. The park is themed around the Wild West and hosts regular gunfight stunt shows. The roller coasters are particularly popular, with the ‘Brain Drain’ being the most thrilling, reaching seven stories high and completing a full loop before returning to the ground. A variety of dining options are available within the park, along with season passes for committed thrill-seekers.

9. Enjoy Live Music At Civic Center Music Hall

Civic Center Music Hall serves as an excellent venue for family entertainment through live music performances. Initially constructed in 1937 and known as the Municipal Auditorium, the center underwent a name change in 1966. Eight different organizations are based at the center, which hosts approximately 250 live shows annually across various stages. In addition to musical events, the Civic Center regularly showcases comedy and theatrical productions.

10. See How Science Affects You Everyday

The Science Museum Oklahoma is an interactive and educational establishment designed to engage visitors of all ages in scientific exploration. The museum features numerous hands-on exhibits, including a Segway course that teaches visitors about the gyro effect, and an opportunity to learn about bridge construction by designing your own. Other attractions include a resonant pendulum demonstrating efficient weight movement, providing many engaging activities awaiting your discovery within the museum.

11. Make A Splash At Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Oklahoma City

Six Flags Hurricane Harbor provides an ideal destination for families seeking an enjoyable day out. This expansive water park features various slide rides, raft rides, and family-friendly attractions. Among the most thrilling rides is the Mega-Wedgie, a 277-foot long speed slide featuring a dramatic 64-foot free-fall section at its conclusion. Alongside the exhilarating rides, attendees can find numerous dining options within the park to refuel after their day of excitement.

12. Learn The History Of The Oklahoma State Firefighters

The Oklahoma State Firefighters Museum relies on the dues paid by over 8,000 firefighters to ensure its operations. Established in 1969, the museum serves as a significant educational resource for the community, displaying numerous antique fire apparatus and equipment, some dating back to the mid-18th century. The museum also features artifacts from the oldest fire company in the nation, as well as the largest collection of fire patches in the world.

13. Enjoy The Great Outdoors At Lake Hefner

In 1947, Lake Hefner was constructed in response to a potential water shortage for Oklahoma City. Named after Robert A. Hefner, who served as mayor from 1939 to 1947, the lake is surrounded by 9.5 miles of bike trails suitable for family enjoyment. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of game fish, including bass, bluegill, and catfish, available in the reservoir.

14. Go Back To The Days Of The Wild West

The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum offers an enlightening experience for both parents and children, with an impressive collection dedicated to the history of the American West. The museum encompasses Native American artifacts, authentic cowboy apparel, various firearms, and fine art. Since its establishment in 1955, it has welcomed over 10 million visitors and stands as the leading institution for Western history in the country. The museum features both permanent and rotating exhibitions.

15. Take A Ride On A Diesel Or Steam Train

Located in a historical railroad depot in Oklahoma City, the Oklahoma Railway Museum was established in 2002 by Jim Murray Jr. and his partners after acquiring land and railway tracks. The museum features various diesel locomotives and one steam engine available for rides. Each year, the museum hosts the beloved ‘Day Out with Thomas’ event, appealing to visitors of all ages and ensuring a delightful day for all.

16. Perfect Your Technique At H&H Shooting Sports

Residents of Oklahoma City often seek to enhance their shooting skills at H&H Shooting Sports, the largest indoor shooting range accessible to the public in the United States. With a total of 61 shooting lanes, these are categorized into three types: 42 for public firearm use, 15 for traditional archery, and 4 for technohunt. The facility offers private instruction for those with limited or no experience, and Boy Scouts can learn at no cost while working toward their merit badges. H&H is also committed to staying at the forefront of technology, ensuring well-trained personnel are present for maximum safety.

17. See Incredible Artwork At The Fred Jones Jr. Museum Of Art

The Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art has gained significant attention in the art community, regarded by many as the premier university art collection in the U.S. With nearly 16,000 pieces, the museum showcases works from various renowned artists. The Weitzenhoffer Collection holds masterpieces by famed Impressionists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir, valued at over $50 million. Established in 1936 by Oscar Jacobson, the museum’s journey began with just 250 works and has since evolved into the extraordinary collection that is now on display.

18. Play A Round At Quail Creek

Quail Creek Golf and Country Club transcends the typical golfing experience by providing a luxurious venue that includes various recreational activities such as tennis, fitness, swimming, and both formal and casual dining. Once acclaimed for having the “Best 17th Hole in America,” as recognized by Sports Illustrated, the course has since undergone renovations to ensure a beautiful yet challenging golfing experience. The scenic backdrop has made the venue a popular choice for weddings and special events.

19. Enjoy Farm To Fork At Ludivine

In an era where consumers are increasingly aware of their food sources, Ludivine ensures that its menu comprises only locally-sourced, fresh ingredients. Daily menu changes allow Chefs Jonathan Stranger and Russ Johnson to create exceptional dishes that distinguish the restaurant from its competitors. For larger groups, reservations are advisable given the growing popularity of this culinary gem.

20. Let Your Hair Down At The Blues And BBQ Festival

If you’re looking to unwind, enjoy delicious barbecue, and listen to live blues music, the Blues and BBQ Festival is an event not to be missed. Held over two days in June, this festival features continuous live performances up to midnight each night. A variety of BBQ options ensure even the most discerning eaters are satisfied. Past performers have included the Scott Keeton Band and Otis Watkins and the Bushdoctors, creating a festive atmosphere.

21. Admire The Beauty Of St. Joseph Old Cathedral

When Rev. Nicolas F. Scallon arrived in Oklahoma City, local Catholics were gathering for mass in a tent that served as a general store. Within a short time, three lots were purchased, initiating the construction of a church. However, due to rapid congregation growth, a new church was completed in 1901, becoming Oklahoma’s first cathedral. The cathedral suffered significant damage during the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, leading to a two-year closure for repairs.

22. Get Fit In The Boathouse District

The Oklahoma River features a series of boathouses and recreational options along its banks, collectively known as the Boathouse District. Visitors can engage in various activities such as rowing and kayaking. Developed in the 1990s along a seven-mile stretch of the river, this area has recently been designated as an official U.S. Olympic training site for both Olympians and Paralympians, with further developments anticipated in this dynamic region.