You don't need to break the bank to have a great time here! With countless free and budget-friendly attractions, there's something for everyone to enjoy in Oklahoma City. Whether you’re looking for inexpensive or free things to do, seeking family-friendly fun or adult-oriented experiences, you’ll find plenty of fun across our interactive museums, street art, scenic parks and more.
Arts, History & Entertainment
Peruse OKC Museums
Museums in OKC provide history and art lovers with access to world-class exhibits at affordable prices.
Visit the Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center, a free museum filled with modern art inside and out, including the Campbell Art Park and rotating galleries that run the gamut from The American School of Architecture to video games. Another admission-free museum, The American Pigeon Museum & Library, is as unique as it is affordable, celebrating “man’s oldest feathered friend” with multiple historical exhibits and 12 breeds of live birds. If you’re a sports fan, follow the Jim Thorpe statue into the free-to-visit Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame, commemorating hundreds of athletes who’ve called Oklahoma home.
Honor the victims of the Oklahoma City bombing at the Oklahoma City National Memorial. While the indoor museum costs $18, the outdoor grounds are open to the public at no cost and feature a reflecting pool, the Survivor Tree and the Field of Empty Chairs. Nearby, the Oklahoma State Capitol—the only one of its kind with active oil rigs and home to the largest public art museum in the state—is free to explore across its six floors of galleries and exhibits.
Next, hit the Mother Road and check out some of the most iconic stops along America’s iconic Route 66. Oklahoma boasts more miles of Route 66 than any other state, passing through OKC, with historic pit stops like the Tower Theatre, The Gold Dome and Milk Bottle Grocery.
Explore Public Art
Beyond the museum walls, you’ll find free public art on the streets, through alleyways and on murals across the city. One prime example is the Plaza Walls, a kaleidoscopic alley in the Plaza District, lined with ever-changing murals by artists near and far. Elsewhere, murals adorn Film Row and decorative doorways comprise the self-guided Door Tour through Automobile Alley.
For a free art event, the gallery-packed Paseo Arts District hosts its wildly popular First Fridays every month. During the event, the whole neighborhood opens its art spaces to the public, complete with performances, live music and vendors.
Outdoor Activities
Explore Local Parks & Gardens
OKC abounds with parks and outdoor activities. Among the must-visit additions, Scissortail Park is a sprawling 70-acre “front lawn” that connects downtown with the Oklahoma River, featuring paddle boat rentals, sports courts, a seasonal sprayground, the Skydance Bridge and recurring farmers markets and events.
Immediately to the north, Myriad Botanical Gardens is a lush oasis with a shimmering pond, soaring trees and fragrant flowers. While the outdoor park is free to visit, the newly renovated Crystal Bridge Conservatory—outfitted with two different tropical “zones”—is well worth the price of admission ($10.50 for adults).
On the north side, don’t miss Will Rogers Gardens, a 30-acre wonderland of ponds, nearly 1,000 rose bushes and a cacti-filled conservatory, all of which are free.
Go Fishing
Local waterways provide ample opportunities for avid anglers to go fishing in OKC.
Spend a day on Lake Hefner, where 17 miles of shoreline provides ample opportunity to reel in walleye, catfish and bass. Connected via a canal, Lake Overholser is another popular fishing spot, home to a large variety of fish, along with the Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge—a popular retreat for paddlers. Then there’s the Oklahoma River, where bass and catfish may bite along its many miles of waterway.
Hop on the Wheeler Ferris Wheel
For sky-high river views on a budget, hop on the Wheeler Ferris Wheel. Originally operating in Santa Monica, the mighty attraction now rises on the south bank of the Oklahoma River, offering unbeatable skyline views for just $6 per ride.
Hit the Trails
Across a vast, 90-mile network of interconnected trails, hikers and bikers can enjoy the perfect adventure at no cost. With 10 diverse trail systems, such as Bluff Creek Trail and the Katy Trail, Oklahoma City's non-motorized trails provide free outdoor recreation.
Go to the Zoo
A requisite stop for locals and visitors alike, the expanding Oklahoma City Zoo is just $16 for adults, $13 for kids 3-11 and free for children two and under—a great price considering the wild experiences, encounters and habitats like Lion Overlook and Sanctuary Asia. A newer addition, Expedition Africa is a veritable 12-acre safari at the Zoo.
Music & Entertainment
See a Show in OKC
Oklahoma City's vibrant performing arts scene has something for every theater lover and budget. Free theatrical venues include Michael Murphy’s Dueling Pianos and The Boom’s famous drag shows. Tower Theatre hosts periodic free shows, and each ticket for either OKC Improv or the Oklahoma Children’s Theatre cost $12 or less.
Enjoy Live Music
Music lovers can find intimate shows at affordable prices across our city. The 51st Street Speakeasy offers free live music weekly, and Resonant Head tickets cost $15 or less. Other venues with affordable covers include the iconic Blue Note Lounge and jazzy bands frequently put on free sets at spots like O Bar, The Study and Bradford House.
Go Thrifting
As evidenced by OKC’s myriad vintage shops and used bookstores, shopping needn’t come with a hefty price tag. Explore budget-friendly spots like Dig It, Craig’s Emporium and Bad Granny’s Bazaar for clothes and accessories. Bookish stocks its shelves with pre-loved literature and local art, along with a pay-what-you-can cafe called Caboose.
Attend a Free Event
From art and culture to music and food, Oklahoma City boasts a year-round calendar of free and inexpensive events, showcasing our diverse communities and lively spirit.
Don't miss annual events like the colorful Pride celebrations and exciting festivals that fill the city with music and delicious food. Every weekend offers new adventures, from thrilling horse shows and sporting events to show-stopping concerts and cultural experiences. Whether you're seeking family fun, a taste of OKC's unique culture, or simply an enjoyable day out, you'll find it in OKC.
Food & Brews
Go on a Brewery Tour
Raise a glass to OKC’s booming beer scene on a self-guided brewery tour across popular spots like Skydance Brewing Co., Stonecloud Brewing Co. and Prairie Artisan Ales. These breweries offer innovative and flavorful ales at just a few bucks per pint.
Taste the Local Flavor
Some of the best restaurants in OKC are among the most affordable. Enjoy quintessential Oklahoma onion burgers at Sun Cattle Co., pizza by the slice at Empire Slice House and delicious breakfast tacos at Stitch Cafe.
Food trucks, too, offer great bang for your buck, regularly found at central locations like Myriad Gardens and the Wheeler District, slinging everything from donuts to Korean BBQ.
For an unforgettable date night on a budget, head to Spark with three locations in OKC–Scissortail Park, Chisholm Creek and Nichols Hills. Order from their selection of burgers and bites, including their signature pink fries. Top it off with a decadent custard or shake and you’ve got the perfect night out.
Plan a Budget-Friendly Getaway
Looking for a budget-friendly vacation? OKC has it all. Enjoy festivals, museums, live entertainment and delicious local cuisine without breaking the bank. Plan your trip to The Modern Frontier today!