Visitor's Guide 2022

OKLAHOMA CITY 2 0 2 2 O F F I C I A L V I S I T O R S G U I D E

COMMON GROUND SACRED GROUND |

In the middle ground between history and healing lies hope .

ITWAS HOPE THAT SUSTAINED US IN 1995.

IT’S HOPE THAT SUSTAINS US TODAY.

What was meant to tear us apart instead brought us together. Now, here on that Sacred Ground, we present powerful stories of strength and resolve.

In an increasingly divisive world, we seek to come together and find Common Ground through education, enlightenment and programs like Better Conversations.

P l an You r V i s i t : Memo r i a lMus eum. com • 405.235.3313 Free Parking with Paid Admission

AF F I L I ATE OF THE NAT I ONAL PARK SERV I CE • ON THE NAT I ONAL REG I STER OF H I STOR I C PLACES

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In This Issue

About OKC 2

Welcome to the Modern Frontier

#SeeOKC

123 Park Ave. Oklahoma City, OK 73102 (405) 297-8912 | (800) 225-5652 VisitOKC.com

To Do 9

Must See in OKC

20 23 24 28

Route 66

State Capitol Outdoor Guide Hidden Gems

Produced by the Oklahoma City Convention & Visitors Bureau. Every effort has been made to maintain the accuracy of information presented in this guide. No responsibility is assumed for errors, changes or omissions. Please call in advance to verify information.

30 Sports OKC Districts 34

We wish to thank and acknowledge the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber and the attractions, events and industry partners who provided photographs for use in this guide. President, Zac Craig Vice President , Destination Marketing, Lindsay Vidrine Vice President, Tourism, Sandy Price Vice President, Convention Sales & Services, Mike Burns Vice President, Sports Development, AdamWisniewski Project Designer & Photographer, Josh Vaughn Contributors, hayden Bryan, greg horton, Maryam Kari, Jana steelman, Josh Vaughn, Lindsay vidrine and cory lee woodard Illustrator, Matt Goad

A Guide to OKC’s Districts Locally Loved Neighborhoods

Dining 41

taste of the town

44 As Seen on TV Explore Like A Local 48 Accessible OKC 50 Arts 57 Shopping 62 coming soon 64 events Resources 67 Unique Lodging 70 Hotels 76 Getting Here & Getting Around 79 Maps

ON THE COVER Andrew G.’s capture of the First Americans Museum

When you’re ready for a getaway, Omni Oklahoma City Hotel makes it easy to get back out there and play. From seven distinct dining options, to our luxurious Mokara Spa and the scenic rooftop pool, your playlist is endless. Explore more at OmniHotels.com/OklahomaCity

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downtown okc

@thecageokc & @losfloresmedia

@markafterdark23 First Americans Museum

@kareokiephoto

Whether you’re posing in front of one of the city’s vibrant murals or capturing the beauty of the cityscape, you’ll find there is an abundance of picturesque spots in the Modern Frontier. Take us on the adventure with you by using #SeeOKC in your social media posts and show us what Oklahoma City looks like through your eyes. #SEEOKC

factory obscura

@philfromokc & @realpicswithraina

skydance bridge

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Must See in OKC

If you’re planning a day trip, weekend getaway or full-on vacation, we’ve got you covered with these must-see adventures and experiences that are unique to OKC. Many of these attractions host special events and activities throughout the year, so before you go, check VisitOKC.com for event details, hours of operation, coupons and more.

NOWOPEN Wednesday - Monday

ONE PLACE, MANY NATIONS.

MUSEUM | SHOPPING | DINING 659 First Americans Blvd., OKC, OK 73129 FAMok.org | 405-594-2100

@firstamericansmuseum

@FAMokMuseum

PHOTO CREDIT: JAMES PEPPER HENRY

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B R I C K O P O L I S The variety of options at Brickopolis Entertainment – a downtown event center and play park – virtually guarantees that every member of the family will have something to do. A sprawling campus right on the BricktownCanal includes miniature golf, a kid’s climbing wall, laser tag, gemstonemining and an arcade. Apizza buffet is also onsite.

B R I C K T O W N WA T E R T A X I As a popular Bricktown attraction for more than 20 years, the water taxi takes visitors down the Bricktown Canal at a leisurely pace, while the guide narrates the history of the canal and surrounding district. You can rent private cruises, or join a themed or live music cruise.

4 5 T H I N F A N T R Y D I V I S I O N M U S E U M Dedicated to the soldiers of the USArmy’s 45th Infantry Division, the museumhas a massive collection of weapons, military utility vehicles, aircraft and armored cavalry pieces, with exhibits indoors and out.The 45th was a unit of theOklahomaNational Guard that served inWWII and the KoreanWar. Much of the focus is on the unit’s role in securing Hitler’s bunker at the end of WWII.

C E N T E N N I A L L A N D R U N M O N U M E N T

Created byNative artist andmultiple awardwinner Paul Moore, themonument is 45 figures depicting participants in the 1889 opening of TheUnassignedLands. Built to larger-than-life scale, the sculptures sprawl andmeander along the southern edge of Bricktown, narrating a variety of stories with posture, expressions and circumstances. Rather than create static poses,Moore imbued his sculptures with energy and emotion.

A M E R I C A N B A N J O M U S E U M As much an art exhibit as a tribute to the classic bluegrass, folk and Americana instrument, the museum has a large collection of banjos, including representative examples throughout history. Famous musicians are profiled, and rotating exhibitions feature well- known musicians, singer-songwriters and even the art of banjo decoration.

F A C T O R Y O B S C U R A Part art gallery, part immersive experience, Factory Obscura in theWomb Building – previously occupied by Flaming Lips front manWayne Coyne – is a local arts collaborative focused on awakening wonder. The first permanent experience is Mix-Tape, a multisensory homage to and modern application of the old school mixtapes, those old cassettes that were thematic collections of favorite songs. The creators describe it as a mixture of visuals, sounds, textures and interactivity.

B L U E Z O O A Q U A R I U M Boasting such aquatic life as sharks, eels, jellyfish, seahorses and an octopus, Blue Zoo OKC has more than 200 species of marine life. With an emphasis on education, Blue Zoo combines fun, interactive experiences with an opportunity to learn about animals from all over the world. Located in Quail Springs Mall, guests can touch and feed stingrays, birds, reptiles and more.

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L A K E S H E F N E R , O V E R H O L S E R A N D S T A N L E Y D R A P E R

F I R E F I G H T E R S M U S E U M The museum shares space with the Oklahoma State Firefighters Association, and while they are the historical focus, the museum also has exhibits on the London Fire Brigade, firefighter patches and restored firetrucks. It is also home to a large collection of firefighting gear that date back to the mid-18th century.

Oklahoma City is home to three public lakes, all of which provide opportunities for fishing, boating, kayaking, and in the case of Hefner, kitesurfing and sailing. Make sure you have a state and city- issued license for fishing before you toss out a line. Hefner andOverholser have boathouses with kayak rentals, and all three have ramps where you can put your own watercraft into the lake.

F I R S T A M E R I C A N S M U S E U M Along the Oklahoma River, the First Americans Museum shares cultural diversity, history, art and contributions of the First Americans. Visitors can experience the collective histories of Oklahoma’s 39 distinctive First American Nations through immersive family-friendly activities, a full-service restaurant featuring unique Native-inspired cuisine, a museum store highlighting authentic handmade items by premiere First American artists, and an outdoor cultural park where plains, prairies and wetlands converge.

M U S E U M O F O S T E O L O G Y Amuseumdedicated to bones.Why not?The museumhas hundreds of skeletons featuring a variety of NorthAmerican specimens ranging from tiny mice to a 40-foot humpback whale. Educational signage provides a fascinating glimpse into the vertebrate world.

PHOTO CREDIT: JAMES PEPPER HENRY

F R O N T I E R C I T Y A N D H U R R I C A N E H A R B O R Themetro’s Six Flag’s amusement parks are locatedon nearly opposite ends of the city.TheHurricaneHarbor water park is a great way to beat the summer heat, with pools, a lazy river, water slides, spray cannons and inner tubes – even a family-sized tube. FrontierCity includes roller coasters, bumper cars, a kids’ train, mine car ride and a ton of other options for thrill-seekers of all ages.

M Y R I A D B O T A N I C A L G A R D E N S One of the local favorites on this list, you’ll find the downtown crowd dancing in the gardens, walking dogs, sharing a picnic, listening to free concerts and enjoying the beauty of this 17-acre urban botanical garden. The Crystal Bridge Conservatory will be closed for renovations until late 2022, but will reopen with an array of electrifying plants. In the meantime, the outdoor grounds of the gardens still allow for year-round exploring. The plants are seasonal, and in many cases indigenous, so there is always something green or vibrant happening with the flora. A sunken pond attracts waterfowl of all sorts, but you’ll especially see ducks, geese and koi.

H A R N H O M E S T E A D This historical farmand homesteadoperates nowas an event venue and education center to introduce guests to the realities of pioneer life lived by themen, women and childrenwho settledOklahoma after the LandRun.The house and property belong toWilliam FremontHarn, a land commissioner appointed by President BenjaminHarrison. Tours are available, and hands-on activities include barn and gardenworks, as well as household chores.

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O K L A H O M A C I T Y Z O O The innovative approach to zoo design continues to improve the lives of the animals and the experience of the guests.The zoo has spent millions of dollars building new habitats for many of the animals, creating a livable environment that is as similar to their native habitat as possible.The newest installment of this process is Sanctuary Asia, which started with themassive elephant habitat, and now includes red pandas, rhinos, raccoon dogs, Komodo dragons and other wildlife.

N A T I O N A L C O W B O Y & W E S T E R N H E R I T A G E M U S E U M

More than an homage to the cowboy spirit of theWest, this wildly popular destination houses some of the world’s most beautifulWestern andWestern- inspired art. A full-scaleWestern town is located inside themuseum, and one entire hall is dedicated to wagons, including the chuck wagon, or as the museumputs it, the original food truck. An outdoor educational experience called Liichokoshkomo’ (Chickasaw for “Let’s Play!”) brings to life diverse stories of theWest with interactive fun. Real cowboys, movie cowboys and television cowboys all share space in this premier institution.

O K L A H O M A C O N T E M P O R A R Y The beautiful newOklahoma Contemporary Arts Center on the north edge of Automobile Alley certainly displays plenty of art, but the mission of Oklahoma Contemporary has always been multifaceted. Visitors can find free, groundbreaking exhibitions from international, national and local artists, plus large-scale, public sculptures and installations in Campbell Art Park. Programs include musical and theatrical performances, artist talks and demonstrations, workshops and more. Enjoy hands-on experiences in the Learning Gallery or Studio School. Round out a visit by eating in the café or shopping in their uniquely curated store.

O K L A H O M A C I T Y M U S E U M O F A R T The striking Dale Chihuly piece

hanging in the foyer is an indication that there are awe-inspiring discoveries inside the MOA. The ground floor is typically reserved for travelling or special exhibits while the second floor houses a selection of the museum’s permanent collection, including a piece from former President Barack Obama’s portraitist KehindeWiley. The third floor contains the museum’s large-formmodern art pieces, as well as a beautiful collection of other Chihuly glass pieces.

O K L A H O M A C I T Y N A T I O N A L M E M O R I A L & M U S E U M

O K L A H O M A H A L L O F F A M E Located in the historic and classically styledMid-Continent Life Insurance Building, the Gaylord-Pickens Museum tells the story of Oklahoma by telling the stories of great Oklahomans. The museum contains portraits of Hall of Fame inductees, as well as rotating collections that tell their stories. A “Makerspace” encourages hands-on activities, and the entire structure is designed to be an immersive, educational experience.

This space is sacred ground for Oklahoma City residents, especially those who were here for the horrific events of 1995. Built as a tribute to “those who were killed, those who survived, and those who were changed forever,” the National Memorial has become a profound statement of the resolve, hope and community spirit that grew after the Murrah Bombing. Designed to be seen by day and by night – they truly are different experiences – the grounds also house the Memorial Museum, a project to educate the public about the bombing, its impact and the resiliency of hope.

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O K L A H O M A H I S T O R Y C E N T E R This 18-acre complex is awell-designed,

O K L A H O M A S T A T E C A P I T O L Native American artist and former state politician Enoch KellyHaney crafted the 17-foot tall, 6,000-pound bronze sculpture “TheGuardian” atop the State Capitol. Haney’s statue is one of many reasons people come to see the capitol: Classical architectural style, the stunning rotunda, rotating art exhibits and even the bronze on the Capitol grounds. It’s not just a building for the state’s politics; it’s a work of art in its own right.

multisensory experience that tells the story of Oklahoma via five galleries in a 215,000-square- foot spacewith audio, visual and computer- assisted activities that share a diverse collection of Oklahoma perspectives.More than 2,000 artifacts are contained in the center, includingNative American andmilitary artifacts, photographs, textiles andmachinery.

O R R F A M I LY F A R M This family-friendly, agri-taiment destination includes a variety of rides, seasonal activities and educational experiences. Take a ride on the four- lane zip line, saddle up for a pony ride or pan for real gemstones in the Neal Simpson mine. Guests can also enjoy petting and feeding barn animals, plus fall activities such as hayrides, a pumpkin patch and giant corn maze.

O K L A H O M A N A T I O N A L S T O C K YA R D S The world’s largest stocker and feeder cattle market is located in the Stockyards City district of Oklahoma City. Operating since 1910, the stockyards have been a vital part of local culture and national trade. Cattle auctions take place every Monday and Tuesday and are open to the public.

P L A Z A WA L L S What do you do with alleyways?Make art in them, of course.The Plaza District allows a rotating group of muralists to turn some of their would-be unsightly alley walls into beautiful works of art. Artists are given a ton of creative freedom, whichmeans an eclecticmix of themes, colors, subjects and styles.

O K L A H O M A R A I LWAY M U S E U M

The collection at the ORM is impressive: four operating locomotives, freight cars, passenger cars, a steam engine and even a fully reconstructed train depot. The collection is designed to educate the public about the role of trains in the development of Oklahoma and the U.S., and those operable locomotives pull passengers on the first and third Saturday, April through August.

R E D E A R T H Red EarthArt Center offers a cultural experience that is uniquelyOKC. Red Earth strives to preserve and promote the traditions, arts and cultures of theNative Americans through education.Withmore than 1,000 unique pieces of art in their own permanent collection and rotation of exhibits spotlighting local, regional and national artists, Native American arts are thriving at Red Earth.

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R I V E R S P O R T Located in the Boathouse District along the Oklahoma River, Riversport offerings include a zip line across the river, surfing and snow skiing simulators, stand-up paddleboards, kayaking, sky trail, play areas for kids and Riversport Rapids, featuring Class II-IV whitewater rafting. Age restrictions apply. Day passes are available for families and individuals.

S C I E N C E M U S E U M O K L A H O M A Nearly every local has a story about spending time as a kid at ScienceMuseum Oklahoma.Themuseummakes science interactive and fun.The 350,000-square- foot space includes two theaters for live shows, a curiosity village, andmost importantly, hands-on activities that teach kids (and adults) about weather, electromagnetism, optics and just about any sciency thing you can imagine.

S C I S S O R T A I L P A R K OKC’s newest park, the first phase of this 70-acre urban oasis is open and continues to grow with a second phase opening in 2022, extending from the core of downtown Oklahoma City to the shore of the Oklahoma River. Every detail is designed for connection – with nature, neighbors and ourselves. Features include ornamental gardens and woodlands, a lake and boathouse, children’s playground, grand promenade, water features, outdoor roller rink, an enclosed dog park, interactive fountain, dining options and much more.

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Route 66 Oklahoma boasts more than 400 drivable miles of Route 66 – more than any other state – and Oklahoma City serves as a center point along this stretch of famous highway.

@lilfamadventure

Classen Inn 820 N. CLASSEN BLVD. Built in 1963 and renovated in 2020, Classen Inn is the perfect mix of funkiness, swagger and fun. This updated superette is a bright spot for sojourners looking for a unique lodging experience that fits the Mother Road vibe.

In OKC, travelers find a mix of historic and modern experiences along the route. Here are just a handful to mark on your map: Milk Bottle Building 2426 N. CLASSEN BLVD. Squeezed into a tiny piece of land on a busy city thoroughfare, this tiny brick building was built in 1930. Around 1948, its crowning glory was added – a giant metal milk bottle perched on top. Over the years, the bottle has been painted to advertise various dairy businesses, meanwhile the building has served as a grocery store, fruit stand and sandwich shop. Tower Theatre 425 N.W. 23RD ST. The historic TowerTheatre opened in 1937 and is one of Oklahoma City’s last original movie houses with an intact auditorium and iconic neonmarquee. In 2017, TowerTheatre was reimagined as a livemusic, movie and event venue in the heart of the Uptown 23rdDistrict.

Lake Overholser Bridge NORTH OVERHOLSER DRIVE, HALF A MILE WEST OF COUNCIL ROAD Built in 1924, this bridge boasted a unique design for the time, using the latest steel truss technology and combining a variety of trusses in unusual ways. The Overholser Bridge lost its official association with Route 66 in 1958, when a new highway section and wider bridge was built to the north, but its size, symmetry and long-time service as part of old Route 66, solidified it as a Mother Road landmark.

Cheever’s Café 2409 N. HUDSON AVE

Gold Dome Building 1112 N.W. 23RD ST.

This stylish Art Deco building served as the Cheever family’s flower shop during Route 66’s heyday, but is now one of OKC’s most beloved restaurants. Cheever’s Café specializes in American cuisine with Southwest influences and a variety of sublime prime steaks, seafood and salads.

This geodesic dome was built in 1958 and originally served as a bank. It was the fifth geodesic dome constructed in the world, using 625 individual panels to create the landmark building. Route 66 travelers and mid-century modern enthusiasts love the unique architecture.

For more Route 66 inspiration, maps and itinerary ideas, go to VisitOKC.com.

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Oklahoma State Capitol Building

A tour of the Oklahoma State Capitol is a must for any history or art buff. Built in 1917, the Greco- Roman structure was topped with a dome in 2002 and houses murals and paintings of Oklahoma’s history. It’s also the only state capitol in the U.S. surrounded by oil wells. One of the wells is named Petunia #1 because it was drilled in the middle of a flower bed on the capitol complex.

YOUR ADVENTURE BEGINS HERE.

Oklahoma’s Capitol is unique among state capitol buildings for the amount of artwork adorning its hallways and rotunda, and beautifying its grounds. Two significant collections of artwork at the Capitol are managed by the Oklahoma Arts Council – the Capitol Art Collection and the State Art Collection. Comprising the Capitol Art Collection are more than 100 permanent sculptures, murals and paintings located throughout the Capitol’s hallways and rotunda, and on the Capitol grounds. In addition to enriching a historic civic space, the

collection provides visitors and students a unique and engaging way to learn about Oklahoma’s history through the events, people and land depicted in the works. The Oklahoma Veterans Memorial is located outside on the southeast side of the capitol complex. Four walls depict scenes of WorldWars I and II, Korean, Vietnam andMiddle Eastern wars, along with a bronze statue of “The Big Guy” who stands eight and a half feet tall on a three-and-a-half-foot pedestal. His bronze face has the features of a Native American and he wears the gear of a Vietnam soldier.

A L S O N E A R B Y OKLAHOMA HISTORY CENTER

800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive HARN HOMESTEAD 1721 N. Lincoln Blvd

The Capitol Building is currently undergoing renovations, so call theWelcome Center at (405) 521-3356 ahead of a visit for the latest updates. The enhanced ADA- accessible east entrance and rotunda are now open, with the full project scheduled for completion in 2022.

OKLAHOMA BLACK MUSEUM & PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 4701 N. Lincoln Blvd

Open Monday thru Friday: 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Saturday & Sunday: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Tours conducted Monday thru Friday 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Call to schedule. Admission is free. The Welcome Center also has a brochure for self-guided tours.

VISIT US ONLINE AT OKCADVENTURE.COM!

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From manicured gardens to wildflowers or urban trails to water sports, OKC has plenty of ways to play outside. With an average of 235 days of sunshine annually, you can enjoy a variety of outdoor recreation options year-round. We’ve gathered a few ways you can get back to nature while never leaving the city. Get Outside It may seem counterintuitive that Oklahoma City is a destination for water-based sports, but the U.S. Olympic Committee’s USRowing National High Performance Center being located inOKC’s Boathouse District is just one example of the surprising watersports you’ll find here. Situated along the Oklahoma River, the Boathouse District is home to Riversport Adventures, which includes stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), kayaks, canoes, surfing and snow skiing (yes, you read that right), zip lines and the Riversport Rapids. FeaturingClass II-IV rafting, kayaking and canoeing, the Riversport Rapids is open to various skill levels, but childrenmust be at least eight-years of age, and 16 to goBigWater Rafting. Surfers of all skill levels (42” and taller) can also catch a wave at SurfOKC. Day passes are available for individuals and families for all of Riversport’s activities. Additionally, bike and running trails along the river are open and free to the public. The BoathouseDistrict trails and river lead directly to the LakeOverholser Boathouse, with evenmore outdoor activities, like a climbing wall, and easy access to StinchcombWildlife Refuge, as well as SUP and kayak rentals onsite. LakeHefner has its own boathouse as well, but the water is a little too choppy for SUPs. Kayaking is available, though, as are trails for biking, running, in-line skating or a casual walk to take in a sunset.The lake features sailing and kitesurfing, as well as one of the state’s largest public golf courses.

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Scissortail Park is OKC’s newest urban park. The 36-acre Upper Park offers a variety of engaging experiences, including ornamental gardens and woodlands, a 3.7-acre lake with pedal boats, canoes and kayaks, a children’s playground and interactive sprayground, seasonal roller rink, dog park, picnic grove, restaurant, performance stage and great lawn. The Park’s second phase will extend from the core of downtown to the shore of the Oklahoma River, making it a 70-acre urban oasis in 2022.

Speaking of golf, OKCboasts five public golf courses with varying degrees of difficulty.They are distributed through all quadrants of the city, so finding one near you is easy. Earlywine has two courses, with the north course beingmore difficult, and James E. Stewart is a short threemiles fromdowntown.

TheMyriadBotanical Gardens , our 17-acre public park in downtown, is home to beautiful plants from all over the world, plus seasonal water features, Mo’s Carousel, mixed media art and outdoor fun for all ages. Year-round programming includes a wide variety of local and regional musical acts, yoga, Zumba, workshops and tours. Note the indoor conservatory is under renovation and closed until late 2022.

If skateboarding or BMX aremore your thing, themetro features three skate parks, including MatHoffmanAction Sports Park , with an 11-foot half pipe, a 10-foot over-vert pocket, and a street course and bowl course. Bring your own safety gear; it’s required. For the serious cyclist or runner, Oklahoma City has a network of 10 interconnected trails that lead to nearly every part of the city, a total of 80miles of non-motorized trails . An interactivemap is available at okc. gov to help plan your outing.

Will Rogers Park&Gardens is a year-round favorite for gardeners and horticulturalists alike. Located in one of the city’s oldest parks, the 30-acre garden houses a formal rose garden, conservatory, color garden with seasonal blossoms, arboretum and exhibition center.

Sometimes just being close to nature is enough. StinchcombWildlife Refuge on the west side of the metro is adjacent to Lake Overholser and features a thousand acres of hiking, fishing, bird watching and exploring. Whitetail deer, beaver, egrets, cormorants and hundreds of species of migratory birds and waterfowl move through Stinchcomb regularly.

Wheeler Park , on the southern bank of the Oklahoma River, is known for its iconic Ferris wheel, but is also a great place to hang out, have a picnic, kick back in a hammock or grab some food from one of the frequent food trucks that show up.

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HIDDEN GEMS IN THE MODERN FRONTIER Prefer to explore off the beaten path? We’ve gathered some unconventional spots around Oklahoma City that are just the right mix of quirky, fun and unexpected.

plaza walls

Wheeler District

Nat’l Stockyards

L I V E C A T T L E A U C T I O N The Oklahoma National Stockyards hosts live cattle auctions nearly every week, and they are open to the public. It’s kind of like going to a horse show; sometimes you do things just for the experience — and the Instagram photo. N A T I O N A L M U S E U M O F H O R S E S H O E I N G T O O L S Take a walk-through history by learning about the tools, life and products in the world of farriers. What began as a private collection, is now a museum featuring exhibits and memorabilia about

M U S E U M O F O S T E O L O G Y

9 9 ’ S M U S E U M O F W O M E N P I L O T S One of the best stories you’ve never heard, chronicled in Atlas Obscura and other publications, is the history of this women’s pilot group that included Amelia Earhart. One floor is dedicated to women pilots who were groundbreakers in other ways, like the first African American female pilot,

A M E R I C A N P I G E O N M U S E U M In addition to a collection of live birds, the museum has amassed enough pigeon-related artifacts to curate several permanent exhibits. Learn about the role pigeons played in wartime—the museumwas originally dedicated to the noble homing pigeon, after all. Other exhibits include the passenger pigeon timeline and a history of pigeon racing. O K C R A T T L E S N A K E M U S E U M Located in Stockyards City, it’s a short walk from the famous Cattlemen’s Steakhouse. The museum features all of Oklahoma’s venomous snakes, a selection of rattlesnakes from across the U.S., venomous lizards and even more exotic snakes from outside the U.S.

Going here means you can check the “education” box on your itinerary. The collection contains more than 300 skeletons and 400 skulls. Don’t worry, there’s a hands-on section, too.

4 5 T H I N F A N T R Y D I V I S I O N M U S E U M This military organization is famous for many reasons, but mostly it’s because they were the first American unit in Hitler’s bunker. The museum contains a large collection of WWII artifacts, including Hitler’s mirror. The outside grounds are dedicated to a huge collection of military vehicles, artillery and aircraft. W O R L D O R G A N I Z A T I O N O F C H I N A P A I N T E R S While an organizational headquarters in purpose, the facility also contains a stunning collection of painted porcelain from around the world in the Porcelain Art Museum.

W H E E L E R F E R R I S W H E E L TheWheeler District is home to the historic Santa Monica Pier Ferris Wheel. After being purchased on eBay in 2008, over $1 million was invested to refresh and refurbish theWheel. Overlooking the downtown skyline, the Wheeler FerrisWheel stands 100 feet above the South bank of the Oklahoma River and is open seasonally with a variety of ticket and pass options. P L A Z A WA L L S Looking for an Instagram-worthy photo op? PlazaWalls is a curated, rotating mural project in the Plaza District. Murals change annually during the Plaza District Festival.

Bessie Coleman. T H E B O O M

This LGBTQ+ inclusive dinner theatre and nightclub hosts a variety of musical and comedy productions, monthly drag bingo, a weekly trivia night and a hilarious Sunday Gospel Brunch. A M E R I C A N B A N J O M U S E U M This Bricktown museum contains hundreds of banjos from the instrument’s storied history, and rotating exhibits featuring famous musicians. The most surprising thing about this museum is how incredibly beautiful these instruments can be.

the industry and craftsmanship of horseshoeing.

museum of osteology

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Fan Zone Fan Zone Fan Zone Fan Zone Fan Zone Fan Zone We take our sports pretty seriously here in OKC. And while the Oklahoma City Thunder have

P A D D L E S P O R T S The Boathouse District along the Oklahoma River is a hot spot for urban recreation. It is also an official U.S. Olympic &Paralympic Training Site and home of the OKCNational High Performance Center for both rowing and canoe/kayak. Be a spectator at several events throughout the year, such as the Stars and Stripes River Festival in June and the Oklahoma Regatta Festival in October.

O K C T H U N D E R B A S K E T B A L L OklahomaCity’s passionate commitment to theThunder is well publicized. Since their inaugural 2008-09 season, the teamhasmade the playoffs regularly and even competed for anNBAChampionship.TheThunder play at Paycom Center, located in the heart of downtown, andThunder gear is readily available at theThunder shop inside the center pre-game, but the store is alsoopenMonday through Saturday. E N E R G Y F C Fútbol is on the rise inOklahomaCity.Theworld’smost popular sport continues to generate a large enthusiastic following inOKC, and the object of fan affections is Energy FC.The Energy is part of theUSL, the second tier ofAmerican soccer, and has been a development network forMLS players since 2013. The Energy play at TaftStadium, but have optedout of the 2022 season due to venue renovations.The teamstore at 1001N. Broadway Ave. (inAutomobileAlley) is the best place to find officially licensedmerchandise anytime. certainly captured our hearts, our passion for sports doesn’t end with basketball season. Not by a long shot. From softball bats and soccer to paddlesports, sports fans can experience world-class athleticism in a variety of venues.

O K C D O D G E R S B A S E B A L L TheOklahomaCityDodgers – theTriple-Aaffiliate of the L.A. Dodgers – celebrate opening day inApril. With approximately 70 home games each season, there are plenty of opportunities to catch the team in action at theChickasawBricktownBallpark.The team hosts a season full of specialty nights, promotions, and group or single ticket packages.The teamstore is open Monday throughFriday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

U S A S O F T B A L L & N C A A W O M E N ’ S C O L L E G E W O R L D S E R I E S OKC is proud to be the home of USA Softball, the National Governing Body of softball in the U.S. In addition to hosting tournaments at various levels throughout the year, every June, the NCAAWomen’s CollegeWorld Series plays in OKC. The annual event, hosted at the recently expanded Hall of Fame Stadium, brings thousands of visitors, fans and athletes to the city for fast- paced championship softball. This is a topnotch, family friendly sporting event with national media, a festival atmosphere and incredible athletic competition.

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All Aboard!

FromAmerica’s birth to modern Bluegrass... experience America’s instrument...the Banjo... at the American Banjo Museum

FUN FOR THEWHOLE FAMILY Come spend a day at the Oklahoma Railway Museum. See freight cars, passenger cars, and even a real steam engine on display. Admission is free. Our museum is open every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 9–5. Train rides available on the 1 st & 3 rd Saturdays, April - August.

9 East Sheridan Avenue Bricktown - OKC 405-604-2793 Tues-Sat 11am-6pm | Sun Noon-5pm AmericanBanjoMuseum.com

OKLAHOMA RAILWAY MUSEUM 3400 NE Grand Blvd Oklahoma City, OK 73111 405.424.8222 | oklahomarailwaymuseum.org

With almost 9 acres of space to explore, hundreds of exhibits, gardens, live planetarium and science shows all included with general admission — it’s easy to exercise your curiosity. DISCOVER YOUR INNER SCIENTIST

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Adv enture D i str i ct Located in northeast OKC at the crossroads of I-35 and I-44, the Adventure District is

In terms of geographic size, Oklahoma City spans 625 square miles, making it the 8th largest city per square mile in the U.S. But you don’t have to worry about getting lost in the expanse, our 14 districts offer a glimpse at life like a local, with eclectic architecture, tons of diverse dining and memorable experiences influenced by each district’s personality and history. OKC’s Districts

home to many can’t-miss museums and attractions. You’ll find plenty of ways to entertain the whole family, plus indoor and outdoor experiences that pack year-round fun. You won’t believe how many different types of activities you’ll find all within a two-mile radius.

Arts D i str i ct Equal parts historic and revitalized, the Arts District – including Film Row – is home

to many of OKC’s major venues for visual and performing arts, as well as a mix of artistic businesses, locally-owned restaurants, street art and galleries, plus swoon-worthy Art Deco architecture details throughout the district.

As i an D i str i ct Local foodies know that OKC’s Asian District is where you’ll find incredible

food and cultural experiences. An influx of Vietnamese immigrants in the 1970s created a hub now known for its Asian fusion cuisine. Here you’ll find some of the best Asian restaurants, including authentic Vietnamese food that rivals any found this side of the Pacific. This district also hosts popular food tours and festivals.

Automob i l e A l l ey Located north of downtown along Broadway Avenue, Automobile Alley was originally

home to the city’s car dealerships, a fact that is immortalized in the neon signs that still hang from its original buildings. The past and present combine to make this district effortlessly cool with great shopping, dining, modern art museums and nightlife options.

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Paseo Arts D i str i ct Known for its eclectic art galleries (many attached to working artists’ studios) and shops,

Boathouse D i str i ct Whether you want to train like an Olympian or just have some fun, the Boathouse

as well as distinctive Spanish Revival architecture, the Paseo Arts District has a bohemian vibe that will instantly charm you. Situated around a curvy, tree-lined street, visitors love exploring the more than 20 galleries, plus shops, bars and equally creative thriving food scene all by foot.

District along the Oklahoma River is specifically designed for outdoor recreation. It’s the official U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Site for rowing and canoe/kayak, but also has an ever-growing list of other activities and hosts numerous regattas and waterfront events throughout the year.

Br i cktown Just a short walk or streetcar ride from downtown hotels, event venues and attractions,

P l a z a D i str i ct If you’re the sort that likes to check out the hip and happening, you’ll find it in the Plaza

this former warehouse district is filled with restaurants, nightlife and family friendly entertainment options. From taking a water taxi ride along the Bricktown Canal to catching anOklahoma City Dodgers’ baseball game, Bricktown is a well-established entertainment district with a variety of hotel options easily within walking distance of all kinds of fun.

District; an enclave of locally-owned shops, neighborhood bars, fun-and-funky restaurants, plus the quirkiest mix of patrons and proprietors that unabashedly display their love for individuality and for this city.This district is also anchored by the nationally- renowned Lyric on the PlazaTheatre.

C i t y Cent er Marked by the skyscrapers that formOklahoma City’s skyline, City Center includes the hustle and bustle of downtownmixedwith several must-see urban destinations such as theOklahoma CityNationalMemorial &Museum. Discover everything fromurban parks to public art, splurge- worthy dining and even unexpected places like theUnderground, a network of tunnels that connects a large part of this district while housing restaurants, businesses and art installations.

Stockyards C i t y Home to a number of shops specializing in all thingsWestern, you can outfit an entire ranch

(cattle included) or just find a new pair of boots and enjoy a great steak in Stockyards City. It’s home to theOklahomaNational Stockyards, the world’s largest feeder and stocker cattlemarket, where live cattle auctions take place everyMonday andTuesday and are open to the public.

De ep Deuce Located just north of Bricktown, this district was the heart of OKC’s African-American neighborhood

West ern Av enue Fromupscale to accessible, contemporary to antique, theWesternAvenue district has a little

in the 1920s and 30s, and during that time the district was known for its incredible jazzmusic. Music legends Jimmy Rushing andCharlie Christian both calledDeepDeuce home, as didRalph Ellison, the author of InvisibleMan. Today you’ll find hip cocktail lounges, whiskey bars and dining options ranging fromupscale to creative takes on comfort food.

bit of everything. You’ll find local dives wheremaking friends comes easily, chic shops alongClassenCurve and one-of-a-kind food andwares that give you a taste of OKC’s local flavor in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere.

Uptown 2 3rd Home to one of the newest neighborhood revitalizations inOKC, theUptown 23rd

Mi dtown Midtown’s mix of local restaurants, neighborhood pubs, unique shops and historic homes make it

District blends modern amenities with historic charm. Uptown is located along historic Route 66 withmany iconic landmarks such as the TowerTheatre, GoldDome andOklahoma City University's gothic towers. Locals love this district’s ever-growing list of restaurants, boutiques, diverse livemusic scene, street art andmore.

a great place to experience the best of OKC’s urban renaissance. This walkable district is buzzing at all times of day. Nightlife options range from retro-chic cocktail lounges to upbeat beer halls, including one with a bowling alley. Indie boutiques sell trendy clothing and designer home decor.

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Locally Loved Beyond OKC’s thriving districts, are a few other noteworthy neighborhoods or entertainment zones that have established themselves with locals and may offer just the

3 9 T H S T R E E T D I S T R I C T Located on 39th Street west of Pennsylvania and stretching to Youngs, this area is part of historic Route 66 and in the 1970s became known asThe Strip, of which it is still affectionately known. Today, it’s home to 45 locally-owned businesses, thriving LGBTQ+ nightlife and annual OKCPride festivities. OKC’s premier LGBTQ+ and ally resort since 1968 –Hotel Habana – has changed its name to theDistrict Hotel and has undergone exciting renovations. FromSundayGospel Brunch to glitzy nightclubs, there’s something happening every day of the week. I N N O V A T I O N D I S T R I C T As OKC’s newest emerging area, the InnovationDistrict brings together the greatest minds for collaboration, yielding world-changing results. Home to internationally-acclaimed organizations spanning diverse sectors – health, energy, aerospace, technology, research, academia andmore – it’s a hub for entrepreneurship, innovation and community growth.The area encompasses about 1.3 squaremiles east of downtown – roughly betweenNE 13-16th Streets to the north andNE 4th to the south and Robinson and Lottie Avenues to the west and east. It’s the heart of the city’s bioscience sector, wheremany institutions conduct groundbreaking research and foster innovation.This area of OKC is one to watch as they have big plans for vibrant community spaces and events.

experience you’re looking to explore.

Fiestas De Las Américas

H I S T O R I C C A P I T O L H I L L This business district, which was established prior toOklahoma Statehood, offers a glimpse back in time with historic buildings and classic facades from the early 1900s. Located just south of downtown on SW25th St. betweenWalker and Broadway Ave., the area is home to numerous restaurants, local shops and the award-winning outdoor festival, Fiestas De Las Américas. Numerous revitalization projects are underway, from the recently restored YaleTheater to community events hosted by CalleDos Cinco, it’s exciting to see this historic area get reborn. W H E E L E R D I S T R I C T This burgeoning new area of OKC is located just west of the BoathouseDistrict. Its main attraction is the historic Santa Monica Pier FerrisWheel (purchased on eBay in 2008), but Wheeler Riverfront Plaza also offers hammocks, games, concessions, a seating area and goodies like t-shirts and prints. Food trucks, a brewery, cycling events and a summer music series have quickly helpedmake this urban neighborhood a happening hotspot. C H I S H O L M C R E E K Thismixed-use development has no shortage of dining, entertainment and shopping options. LocatedonW. Memorial Road betweenPennsylvaniaAve. andWesternAve., this 190-acre complex features distinctive entertainment venues such as Top Golf and iFly, leading outdoor outfitting retailerCabela’s, event space and a unique collection of restaurants and retailers—all connected bymiles of pedestrian trails and expansive green spaces.

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Oklahoma City’s origin story is as complex and interesting as the diverse food scene you’ll find today. By Greg Horton Taste of the Town

cafe kacao

Food writers and adventurous eaters have gradually becomemore cautious about using the word “authentic” to describe food, especially food fromdifferent ethnic groups or nationalities. As writer and food expert GustavoArellano pointed out in a recent interview, “Just because it’s ‘authentic’ Mexican food doesn’t mean it’s good. Authenticmight just mean it’s awful food but made by someone from that place.” The caveat is important. Everyone’s parent isn’t a great cook, wherever they’re from, but the food is authentic, so authenticity probably isn’t a good standard anyway. Arellano talks about “traditional” a lot in his writing, and that’s the best place to land, but what is important for a guide to food in a city is to note that these traditional foods become part of the overall landscape of a place; they become a part not just as “ethnic” food but as staples in the diet of the people in that place.

Because of the Land Run and subsequent immigration, Oklahoma has nothing we can point to and call “Oklahoma food” -- unless it’s pre- Colombian dishes from indigenous people. That’s one of the strengths of our food scene: hang around long enough, make good food and we’ll say it’s local food, because it is, and it contributes to our set of wonderful,

complex, exciting and adventurous options. Our staples are drawn from menus and spice cabinets of the East Coast, Deep South, Texas, NewMexico andMexico, Vietnam, Lebanon and Laos, Guatemala and Honduras, etc. When people come to a place, they bring their food with them, or at least their recipes, and some of their parents are and were great cooks. We’re happy to add them to our menu of local staples. The heaviest cluster of local restaurants are within the urban core, a roughly three-mile by one-mile rectangle with downtown proper as the center of the south edge. But as is often the case in cities with plenty of land, great local restaurants are scattered in every direction, including our Taco Trail southwest of downtown. For the truly adventurous, simply type “tacos SW OKC” into the search engine, and enjoy the moveable feast. For everyone else, we have suggestions, but we’ll start with what Oklahoma is mostly known for.

Patrono

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Kacao or Cafe Antigua . Best known for their breakfasts, you can choose from traditional items like motuleños and machaca or go with more familiar options like chilaquiles or carne guisada. For the truly adventurous, head over to Tienda Guatemala for outstanding rustic cuisine, but you’ll need cash. Lao food has been in the state almost as long as Vietnamese food. James Beard Award-nominated Chef Jeff Chanchaleune opened MaDer in 2021, and it features his very traditional take on Lao dishes like larb,

Frida southwest

The chicken-fried steak with jalapeño cream gravy at Cheever’s Cafe has been on every local’s must-try list for 20 years, primarily because it deserves to be. Huge portions of beef with mashed red potatoes covered in white gravy means it’s dinner for two, or three honestly. The burger at Bar Arbolada went from a classic burger that a few people knew about to a burger that everyone wants, and it took less than a year. Owner Riley Marshall crisps the edges on the flat-top, and then adds cheese if you want it, pickles, finely diced onions, ketchup and mustard. It’s burger magic, and since you’re getting it in one of the city’s best bars, have a house beer, glass of wine or cocktail with it. One of the city’s best biscuits (with or without gravy) is at StellaModern Italian . Yes, an Italian restaurant. It’s on the brunch menu, and it’s so delicious that you’d be happy eating with no accompaniments, but get the bacon- jalapeño gravy anyway. Clark CrewBBQ is where you’ll find Jack Daniel’s Barbecue champion Travis

Clark overseeing some of the city’s best barbecue. The brisket, ribs, burnt ends and beans have all won championships, and his house beer is only available in traditional foods become part of the overall landscape of a place the restaurant. He’d be happy if we told you about his friends at Edge Craft BBQ (get the sausage) and Jo-Bawb’s BBQ (get the ribs). Basically, you have great choices here. Frida Southwest features the combined efforts of Chef Quinn Carroll and pastry Chef Rachel Porter to serve some of OKC’s premier food -- in this case Southwestern cuisine -- in one of its most beautiful spaces. Don’t leave without trying something from the seasonal menu, a tamale and the Mexican hot chocolate cheesecake. Excellent options abound for vegetarians and vegans.

Stop by Scratch Kitchen&Cocktails to find the purest evolution of Okie- centric food crafted by Chef Zach Hutton who delivers farm-fresh food inspired by his childhood in Apache, Okla. You’ll find okra, peaches, pork dishes, smoked fried chicken, trout, heirloom tomatoes and beef, of course, served in ways you’ve never seen it, and it’s all delicious, including the cocktails. Mahogany Prime Steakhouse is one of our standout prime steakhouses -- we have seven -- and the service, wine list, steak and sides are all stellar. This next bit is important: get the lobster cargot. When Vietnamese refugees started moving to OKC in the late 1970s, one of the first things they did was open pho restaurants. The delicious noodle soup can now be found all over the metro, but the Asian District had it first and still does it best. PhoCuong , Pho Lien Hoa (cash only) and VII Asian Bistro are just a few of the options close to downtown. They’re all very vegetarian and vegan friendly. You can find Guatemalan cooks in the majority of OKC kitchens, but you can also try stellar Guatemalan food at Cafe

Grey Sweater

it’s important to note it’s a modern approach, not rustic. Still, the pasta, chops, seafood and steaks are all excellent. For a more country/rustic take, Gabriella’s is a local favorite. The city’s soul food is on the northeast side, and Florence’s has been doing it well for 70 years. Yammed fried chicken, neck bones, Southern fried chicken,

cornbread and pear pie are all on the menu, and all done expertly. Finally, the pinnacle of OKC dining is Chef Andrew Black’s Grey Sweater . It’s a beautiful, elegant tasting menu restaurant with exceptional food and cocktails in an environment designed to be an experience more than a meal.

papaya salad and mushroom stew, but the nam khao is the star. Also check out Four Js for larb, or grab the city’s best egg rolls at Queen of Eggrolls . Back to tacos. Trompudo’sTacos opened in 2021, too, andowner LupeGarcia, who grewup in theTexMex side of the food industry, has turned his attention toMexicoCity cuisine. It’s fair to call his the best al pastor in the city -- he does it trompo style as is traditional -- but he also does outstanding suadero and asada. The first Lebanese immigrants arrived in the late 19th century, so “Mediterranean” food has been a staple here for nearly 140 years. OozieMediterranean serves themost traditional version, and you’ll definitely want stuffed eggplant and the cabbage rolls, but you can find delicious options at Jamil’s Steakhouse -- our last Lebanese steakhouse -- Nunus’s (get the hashwa), and Mediterranean Imports , Deli&GastroGoods , where everything is delicious. Chef Jonathan Krell serves up memorable Italian at Patrono , but

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