DISTRICT HOPPING OKC

It is divided into multiple districts which cluster all the best things in areas around the city. The Paseo Arts District is an artsy hideaway with galleries and shops set in funky historic buildings. Be there Memorial Day weekend for the annual Arts Festival. Midtown is a buzzy area for walkable access to bars and eateries. There’s always something going on in the Plaza District, known for its Plaza Walls mural project and eclectic shops.

MUSEUMS

The Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum is a must-see. It provides a poignant look at the tragedy of Oklahoma City federal building bombing in 1995 and the resiliency of the city coming together in the aftermath. Experience the vibrant culture of 39 First American Nations at the newly opened First Americans Museum. Art lovers can head to the Oklahoma City Museum of Art or the Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center. From renowned western artists to John Wayne movie memorabilia, immerse yourself in all things Wild West at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.

ADVENTURE

The Riversport center in the Boathouse District has whitewater rafting, kayaking and tubing, a ropes course, zipline and even an indoor ski slope. Scissortail Park is the city’s new 70-acre public park in the heart of downtown. Enjoy biking or strolling through the beautifully landscaped space and catch a concert or farmer’s market happening on the lawn. Biking OKC is a perfect place for bicyclers of any skill level, not only because of the lack of hills, but because there are miles of connecting bike trails throughout the city. Sports fans are in luck, too. Cheer on the local NBA team, the Thunder, or catch minor league baseball’s OKC Dodgers at Bricktown Ballpark.

DAY TRIPS

Head to Tulsa to explore the Gathering Place, visit the Bob Dylan Center and live music at Cain’s Ballroom.

Visit Norman to cheer on the University of Oklahoma Sooners if it’s game day or check out the National Weather Center there to learn all you ever wanted to know about meteorology.

It’s well worth the drive to the Chickasaw Cultural Center in Sulphur where you can discover the history of the Chickasaw people and view a recreated traditional village.

LOCAL FAVORITES

There are three dishes that OKC is known for – steak, onion burgers and pho. Here are my top places to try each.

Steak – Cattleman’s is an old-school institution in Stockyards City, Mickey Mantle’s is a home run in Bricktown (the namesake baseball great was born and raised in Oklahoma).

Onion Burger – Tucker’s is the one for this Oklahoma specialty. And if you see a Theta Burger on a menu, trust me and try this only-in-OK style burger.

Pho – Pho Lien Hoa is the local’s go-to, but you’ll find plenty of options in the Asian District just north of downtown.

BREAKFAST/BRUNCH

Café Kacao – The wait is well worth it at this popular spot for an amazing Guatemalan brunch.

LUNCH

Rivière Modern Bánh Mì – This is my favorite spot in OKC and the one place I insist on going anytime I’m back in town. Creative banh mi sandwiches are the star, but my pick is the crispy salt and pepper tofu (seriously, deliveries of this dish were the only thing that kept me going during the 2020 lockdown).

The Press – This Plaza District spot has the best veggie burger in town, but everything is good – from the Oklahoma Caviar to the sweet potato fritters.

DINNER

Grey Sweater – Make reservations asap for a tasting journey at this restaurant concept by 2023 James Beard award winner for Best Chef Southwest, Chef Andrew Black.

The Jones Assembly – Restaurant by day, concert venue by night, the Jones is a unique spot for drinks, food or live music on Film Row.

El Coyote – Enjoy New Mexican style eats at this aesthetically pleasing spot in the up-and-coming Britton District – the tree-shaded patio is not to be missed!

DRINKS

The craft beer scene in OKC is on point. There are too many great breweries to name, but here are my top recommendations (and my fave brew at each).

Madhopper Brewing – drink: Brewnecorn.

Prairie Artisan Ales – drink: Prairie Bomb!

Stonecloud Brewing Company – drink: Neon Sunshine.

Anthem Brewing Company – drink: Golden One.

Pro Tip: You can try the full gamut of craft beers from local breweries on tap at Oak & Ore in the Plaza District.