Things to Do in Oklahoma City
Art festivals, whitewater adventures, hands-on museums and iconic Route 66 attractions are just the beginning. No matter when you visit, the city offers a mix of outdoor recreation, cultural experiences and memorable events that make every trip unique. Check out our guide below for some of the best things to do in OKC.
Explore OKC Attractions & Activities
Home to world-class museums, legendary restaurants, immersive art experiences and the most iconic road in America, local attractions offer something for everyone.
Museums range from the interactive wonders of the Science Museum Oklahoma and one of the world’s largest collections of Dale Chihuly glass at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art to Tribal stories at the First Americans Museum and Western exhibits at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum (visit the world’s largest cowboy boot, “Kicks 66,” right outside!).
Pause to reflect at the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, where stories of resilience and community leave guests feeling inspired. The outdoor memorial, including the reflecting pool and the Survivor Tree, is free to visit 24/7.
Immerse yourself in the city’s arts scene at Factory Obscura, an interactive art collective with galleries designed, and soundtracked, by local artists. For a deeper dive, explore some of OKC’s artsiest neighborhoods, like the gallery-filled Paseo Arts District and the Plaza District, home to vintage shops, award-winning eateries and the Plaza Walls. Each spring, the Paseo Arts Festival draws artists, performers and visitors to one of OKC’s most beloved creative traditions.
For a different kind of art, check out indie films on Film Row at the Oklahoma Film Exchange, and at Rodeo Cinema, a century-old Vaudeville stage in Stockyards City. And in June, attend deadCenter Film Festival, Oklahoma’s largest film festival.
Visitors of all ages can make a splash at OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark, featuring a sandy beach, cabanas, indoor wave pool, arcade, laser tag and more. Then take the Bricktown Water Taxi to sail the downtown canal, take in the skyline sights and learn OKC history.
Outdoor Adventures & Sports in OKC
Fresh air and wide-open spaces are easy to find in OKC, where river adventures, blooming gardens and scenic parks appeal to everyone from thrill-seekers to those looking to slow down and unwind. Stop to smell the roses at the Myriad Botanical Gardens, then explore 70 acres of landscaped lawns, playgrounds and sports courts in Scissortail Park.
Hit the wooded trails at Martin Park Nature Center, kayak through Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge and go sailing and sunset-chasing at Lake Hefner. The city’s extensive urban trail system includes paths along the river, where Riversport OKC offers white-water rafting, surfing and a six-story ropes course.
In the Adventure District, take Route 66 to the beach…or rather, Boombox Beach Club, home to 14 sandy volleyball courts. Oklahoma’s most popular cultural attraction, the Oklahoma City Zoo, is right nearby too. Find even more things to do in OKC by browsing all the options above!