Top 20 Things to Do in Oklahoma City, OK

Downtown Oklahoma City during a sunrise

Affectionately known as OKC, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, is a city of culture, warmth, and the pioneering spirit of the Old West. It’s also known for its hospitality, strong sense of community, innovation, and diversity. If you’re planning a visit to Oklahoma City or a possible move here, the information below is just what you’re looking for! It’s a comprehensive list of the most fun, exciting, and interesting things to do in Oklahoma City, brought to you by the storage experts at SecurCare Self Storage. Read on to discover why OKC is considered more than just OK by the fine folks who live here.

A Quick Note about the Weather in Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City enjoys four distinct seasons: relatively hot summers and cool but mild winters. Spring and fall are the most pleasant times of year, with mild weather and lots of sun, making it a perfect place for outdoor activities and sports.

One thing you should note, however, is that OKC is located directly in the heart of “Tornado Alley,” with occasional severe weather in springtime and into early summer. If you love experiencing the change of seasons, living in Oklahoma City will be very pleasant indeed.

Top 20 Things to Do in Oklahoma City

Blue Heron on a branch over the lake
  1. Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum: This museum is a moving tribute to the victims, survivors, and rescuers of the 1995 OKC bombing. It offers a profound historical and emotional experience. (As you might imagine, it’s also not recommended for children.)
  2. Bricktown: OKC’s entertainment district is known for its exciting nightlife, canal-side restaurants, and brick-lined streets. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a night out with friends and family.
  3. Myriad Botanical Gardens: This gorgeous urban park features a tropical conservatory, outdoor gardens, and more than a few seasonal events. It’s a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
  4. Oklahoma City Museum of Art: KC’s premier museum has an impressive visual arts collection, including a notable collection of Dale Chihuly glass sculptures. It’s a must-see destination for art enthusiasts and makes a great first-date locale.
  5. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum: This unique museum celebrates the enduring spirit of the American West. It showcases local artists and includes a wide variety of artifacts. Several interactive exhibits make it a fun place for kids and adults alike.
  6. Oklahoma City Zoo: One of the oldest zoos in the Southwest, the OKC zoo features a diverse array of fascinating animals. There’s also a butterfly garden and an open amphitheater is under construction where you can get up close and personal with seals and sea lions!
  7. Plaza District: Oklahoma City’s revitalized arts district has unique shops, fascinating galleries, and some of the city’s best restaurants.
  8. Wheeler Ferris Wheel: Originally located in Santa Monica, offers stunning views of the Oklahoma River and the city’s breathtaking skyline.
  9. Oklahoma History Center: This museum offers a variety of interactive exhibits covering everything from Native American history to space exploration. It is a great place to peer into OKC’s past and get a glimpse of its future.
  10. Lake Hefner: If you’re a fan of sailing, fishing, picnics, and making memories, Lake Hefner will be your favorite place in OKC. It also offers picturesque trails for biking and walking around the lake.
  11. Oklahoma City Thunder: Formerly known as the Seattle Supersonics, the Oklahoma City Thunder are one of the more competitive franchises in the NBA.
  12. Martin Park Nature Center: This lovely, serene park is ideal for nature lovers. It has hiking trails, wildlife viewing stands, and an educational visitor center where you and your family can learn about the area’s natural flora and fauna.
  13. Oklahoma State Capitol: Oklahoma’s seat of government is notable for its fantastic architecture and well-kept grounds.
  14. Riversport Adventures: A thrilling outdoor adventure park with whitewater rafting, kayaking, and zip-lining activities. It also boasts the world’s tallest adventure course, the 80-foot Sand Ridge Sky Trail!
  15. Oklahoma Railway Museum: If you love trains, this museum is a must! It showcases the state’s railroad history with an impressive collection of vintage train cars and locomotives. The museum also offers themed train rides for families and couples.
  16. Factory Obscura Mix-Tape: Combining interactive installations with psychedelic art, this immersive art experience takes you on an exciting sensory journey.
  17. Harn Homestead: Here, you’ll step back into Oklahoma’s pioneering history and see what life was like in the early 1900s. The Homestead has historic buildings, a barn, gardens to explore, and several daily demonstrations.
  18. Science Museum Oklahoma: This family-friendly museum has several hands-on science exhibits that are both interesting and exciting. It also has a planetarium and live presentations to spark your child’s curiosity.
  19. American Banjo Museum: This distinctive museum is dedicated to the history and artistry of the banjo.
  20. Paseo Arts District: If you’re into art walks, this part of OKC will be one of your favorites! Monthly art walks here celebrate the area’s local artists and craftspeople.

Top 7 Restaurants in Oklahoma City

Riverwalk in Oklahoma City during the night time

Like most large cities, Oklahoma City has many restaurants offering diverse cuisines and dining experiences. Below, we’ve highlighted 7 of the best, but there are many more to experience.

  1. Paseo Grill: A romantic setting with gourmet American dishes in the artsy Paseo District. Ideal for a cozy dinner​​ date.
  2. Kitchen No. 324: This trendy cafe and bakery is known for its upscale comfort food and lovely location.
  3. Redrock Canyon Grill: With a scenic lakeside terrace, this eatery is a great choice for celebrating special occasions​​.
  4. Flint: Located inside the Colcord Hotel, Flint offers a modern-rustic dining experience that blends the trendy with the sophisticated​​.
  5. Stitch Cafe: This cafe in the OKC Arts District is hugely popular thanks to its expansive menu and eye-popping plant shop​​.
  6. Palo Santo: Located in the Farmers Market District, this upscale bar offers masterful cocktails and a Latin-flavored ambiance​​.
  7. Elemental Coffee: Oklahoma City’s first coffee roaster in Midtown stands out for its cuppa’ joe and its role as a cultural hub.

Final Musings about the Top Things to Do in Oklahoma City

You’ll agree that Oklahoma City offers impressive activities, attractions, and adventure opportunities. Whether you’ve just arrived, recently moved in, or lived here your entire life, if you need to store things in OKC, SecurCare Self Storage is your best choice!

SecurCare has 11 storage facilities in Oklahoma City, offering safe, secure, and affordable storage units in various sizes. No matter what you need to store, you can find the perfect OKC storage unit with SecurCare! When you’re ready, reserve your Oklahoma City storage unit online. Until then, we hope this list of the top 20 best things to do in Oklahoma City, OK, has whet your appetite for visiting our lovely city!