Oklahoma City, the capital city of Oklahoma, is a vibrant destination with a rich blend of history, culture, and entertainment. With so many places to visit in Oklahoma City, it can be overwhelming to narrow down your choices. To help you plan your trip, we’ve highlighted the top attractions that you simply can’t miss.
From the moving Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum to the fun-filled Bricktown Entertainment District, and the serene Myriad Botanical Gardens, Oklahoma City has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or wildlife, Oklahoma City won’t disappoint.
Key Takeaways
- Oklahoma City offers a rich blend of history, culture, and entertainment
- The top attractions in Oklahoma City range from memorial museums to botanical gardens, art museums, and zoos
- Whether you’re interested in history, art, or wildlife, Oklahoma City has something for everyone
Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
The Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum is a powerful tribute to the victims, survivors, and rescue workers affected by the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. The Memorial is an outdoor exhibit featuring the “Field of Empty Chairs,” a symbolic representation of the 168 lives lost during the attack. Visitors can pay their respects at the reflecting pool and Survivor Tree, which stands as a symbol of resilience and hope.
The Museum showcases the history and aftermath of the attack, with exhibits detailing the investigation, rescue efforts, and community response. One of the Museum’s highlights is the “In Memoriam” exhibit, which honors each of the 168 victims through personal stories, photographs, and possessions. The Memorial and Museum offer a somber yet inspiring experience, reminding visitors of the resilience and strength of the Oklahoma City community.
Oklahoma City National Memorial
| Location: | 620 N Harvey Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73102 |
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| Hours: | Open 24 hours daily |
| Admission: | Free |
Oklahoma City National Museum
| Location: | 620 N Harvey Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73102 |
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| Hours: | Monday-Saturday: 9am-6pm; Sunday: 12pm-6pm |
| Admission: | $15 for adults; $12 for seniors (62+), students (with ID), and military; $12 for children (6-17); Free for children under 6 and members |
Bricktown Entertainment District
Looking for a lively and entertaining spot in Oklahoma City? Look no further than the Bricktown Entertainment District. Located in the heart of downtown, this vibrant area is the perfect destination for foodies, shoppers, and culture lovers alike.
Start your visit with a stroll along the picturesque Bricktown Canal, where you’ll spot charming shops, art galleries, and outdoor cafes. Then, head to one of the district’s many restaurants, ranging from casual bistros to upscale eateries serving everything from classic American fare to international cuisine.
After dinner, catch a movie at the Harkins Bricktown 16, or take in a show at the Civic Center Music Hall. If you’re in the mood for some nightlife, enjoy a drink at one of the many bars and clubs in the area, featuring live music, karaoke, and dancing.
With endless options for entertainment, the Bricktown Entertainment District is a must-visit destination in Oklahoma City.
Myriad Botanical Gardens
The Myriad Botanical Gardens is a stunning oasis in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City. The 17-acre park boasts a diverse collection of plant life, including tropical and desert plants, as well as a beautiful outdoor space for concerts and events.
Take a leisurely stroll through the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory, a 224-foot-long botanical paradise that features exotic plants, waterfalls, and a sky bridge. Visitors can also enjoy a walk through the outdoor gardens, which feature a variety of flowers and plants that change with the seasons.
Special events are a regular occurrence at the gardens, including outdoor concerts, educational workshops, and seasonal festivals. The annual “Illuminations” event, which takes place during the holiday season, features thousands of lights and a visit from Santa Claus.
Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory
The Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory is a must-see attraction within the Myriad Botanical Gardens. The conservatory features several unique plant habitats, including a tropical wet zone, a dry zone, and a desert zone. Visitors can also explore the sky bridge, which offers breathtaking views of the park and downtown Oklahoma City.
The conservatory is open year-round and admission is free for members. Non-members can purchase tickets at the garden entrance or online. Guided tours are available upon request.
Oklahoma City Museum of Art
If you’re a fan of art, the Oklahoma City Museum of Art is a must-see attraction. The museum houses a world-class collection of permanent and traveling exhibits, featuring everything from Impressionist paintings to contemporary art installations.
The museum’s permanent collection includes works by famous artists such as Georgia O’Keeffe, Dale Chihuly, and Van Gogh, as well as a diverse range of other American and European artists. In addition to its collection, the museum also offers a variety of special exhibitions and programs throughout the year, including film screenings, lectures, and hands-on workshops for all ages.
One of the museum’s most unique features is its roof terrace, which offers stunning views of downtown Oklahoma City. This outdoor space also hosts a variety of events, such as yoga classes, live music, and film screenings, making it a great place to relax and enjoy the city’s vibrant arts scene.
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is a must-see attraction in Oklahoma City, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the American West. The museum boasts an impressive collection of Western art, artifacts, and exhibits that showcase the cowboy way of life.
One of the museum’s highlights is the American Cowboy Gallery, which displays a variety of artifacts from the cowboy era, including saddles, spurs, and firearms. The Western Performers Gallery, on the other hand, celebrates the entertainers of the American West through photographs and movie posters.
The museum also features a vast collection of Western art, including works by Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell, two of the most famous Western artists. The art galleries showcase stunning landscapes, wildlife, and portraits of cowboys and Native Americans.
Special Exhibitions
In addition to the permanent exhibits, the museum hosts several temporary exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibits explore various themes related to the American West, including the art of Western movies, Native American culture, and the history of rodeo.
The museum also offers a variety of events and programs for visitors of all ages, including lectures, workshops, and guided tours. Families can enjoy the children’s area, where kids can experience the cowboy way of life through interactive exhibits and games.
Conclusion
If you’re interested in the history and culture of the American West, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum should be at the top of your list of places to visit in Oklahoma City. From the impressive art collection to the authentic cowboy artifacts and exhibits, this museum is a true gem that shouldn’t be missed.
Oklahoma City Zoo
The Oklahoma City Zoo is a top-rated attraction that is perfect for all ages. With over 1,900 animals and 500 species, the zoo is the ideal place for animal lovers to explore and learn about different species from around the world.
The zoo’s exhibits are organized into themed areas, including the Great EscApe, Cat Forest/Lion Overlook, Island Life, and Sanctuary Asia. Visitors can also enjoy a ride on the zoo’s train or carousel or explore the Butterfly Garden, which features over 15 species of butterflies.
| Address: | 2000 Remington Pl, Oklahoma City, OK 73111 |
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| Hours: | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily |
| Admission: | Adults – $12.00, Children (3-11) – $9.00, Seniors (65+) – $9.00 |
One of the zoo’s main goals is conservation, and it participates in over 30 conservation initiatives around the world. Visitors to the zoo can also learn about these efforts and ways to help protect animals and their habitats.
Overall, the Oklahoma City Zoo is a must-visit destination for families and animal lovers looking for an unforgettable experience in the heart of the city.
Oklahoma State Capitol
The Oklahoma State Capitol, located in the heart of Oklahoma City, is a beautiful architectural gem that stands as a symbol of the state’s rich history and government. At over 100 years old, the Capitol was designed by architect Solomon Andrew Layton and features a dome that reaches over 70 feet high. Visitors can take guided tours of the Capitol to explore its beautiful interior and learn about its significance to Oklahoma’s history.
Some of the notable features of the Capitol include the rotunda, which features stunning murals depicting the state’s Native American history and oil industry, as well as the chambers of both the Senate and House of Representatives. The Capitol also features several monuments and memorials on its grounds, including the Oklahoma Law Enforcement Memorial and the Survivor Tree, which was the only tree to survive the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing.
Whether you are interested in politics, history, or simply admiring beautiful architecture, a visit to the Oklahoma State Capitol is a must-see attraction in Oklahoma City.
Science Museum Oklahoma
If you’re a science enthusiast or simply love interactive exhibits, then a visit to the Science Museum Oklahoma is a must. This hands-on museum is designed to get visitors excited about science, technology, engineering, and math.
Spread over 70,000 square feet, the Science Museum Oklahoma’s permanent exhibits include the Destination Space exhibit, where you can journey through the solar system and learn about space exploration. The CurioCity exhibit is another popular exhibit where you can explore a mini city with over 15 unique buildings such as a bank, fire station, and TV studio, each providing a different hands-on learning experience.
For the budding scientists, the Tinkering Garage is a great spot, where you can experiment with tools and materials to create your own inventions. Younger visitors will love the KidSpace area, which features interactive exhibits designed for children aged six and under.
Make sure you do not miss the amazing Infinite Mirror Maze which is a 100-foot-long maze of mirrors that creates an illusion of infinite reflections. It’s a great way to stimulate your mind and have fun at the same time.
Oklahoma History Center
The Oklahoma History Center is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the state’s rich history, culture, and heritage. The center is located in Oklahoma City and features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and photographs that highlight Oklahoma’s fascinating past.
One of the main exhibits in the History Center is the “Sonic Oklahoma Gallery,” which showcases the impact of the Sonic Drive-In fast-food chain on Oklahoma’s culture and economy. Another popular exhibit is the “Oil and Gas Exhibit,” which explores the history and significance of the oil and gas industry in Oklahoma.
In addition to these exhibits, the center also features a research center where visitors can access genealogical and historical resources. The center also hosts special events and educational programs throughout the year.
Conclusion
Oklahoma City is a beautiful destination for anyone looking for an exciting trip with unforgettable attractions. From the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum to the Science Museum Oklahoma, the city offers a variety of experiences for all ages and interests. Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast, or animal lover, Oklahoma City has something for everyone.
Don’t miss out on the vibrant Bricktown Entertainment District or the breathtaking Myriad Botanical Gardens. The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum offers a unique insight into the history and culture of the American West, while the Oklahoma State Capitol showcases a stunning architectural marvel.
With so many places to see and things to do, it’s no wonder that Oklahoma City is a popular travel destination. We hope you’ll take the time to explore these unforgettable attractions and create lasting memories in this beautiful city.
FAQ
Q: What are the top places to visit in Oklahoma City?
A: Oklahoma City offers a variety of unforgettable attractions. Here are some of the must-see sites:
Q: What is the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum?
A: The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum honors the victims of the 1995 bombing through exhibits and memorial architecture.
Q: What can I do in the Bricktown Entertainment District?
A: The Bricktown Entertainment District is known for its vibrant atmosphere and offers a wide range of restaurants, bars, shopping options, and entertainment venues.
Q: What can I expect at the Myriad Botanical Gardens?
A: The Myriad Botanical Gardens is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, featuring diverse plant collections, outdoor spaces, and special events.
Q: Tell me more about the Oklahoma City Museum of Art.
A: The Oklahoma City Museum of Art boasts an impressive art collection, special exhibitions, and educational programs for art enthusiasts.
Q: What does the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum offer?
A: The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum showcases Western art, historical exhibits, and hosts various events throughout the year.
Q: What can I see at the Oklahoma City Zoo?
A: The Oklahoma City Zoo is home to a wide range of animal exhibits, conservation efforts, and family-friendly activities.
Q: What makes the Oklahoma State Capitol worth visiting?
A: The Oklahoma State Capitol is not only architecturally beautiful but also has historical significance. Visitors can take guided tours to learn more.
Q: What will I find at the Science Museum Oklahoma?
A: Science Museum Oklahoma offers interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and educational programs, making it perfect for science enthusiasts of all ages.
Q: What can I learn at the Oklahoma History Center?
A: The Oklahoma History Center provides exhibits that delve into the state’s rich history, culture, and heritage.
