Must Do in OKC

If you’ve never made it inside of the Oklahoma City National Memorial or it’s been years since your last visit, it’s worth a stop when you’re in town. The Memorial recently went through a $10 million renovation upgrading the museum with state-of-the-art technology, hands-on exhibits and new artifacts. Detailed information on the investigation—including Timothy McVeigh’s vehicle he was driving when he was pulled over and arrested—as well as the trail of evidence that was left behind, are all a part of the new enhancements. Also added to the museum is a 40-foot glass overlook creating a seamless connection between the museum and memorial outside, with stunning views of the ever-changing Oklahoma City skyline.

Scissortail Park is Oklahoma City's newest 70-acre outdoor recreation space just steps away from the core of downtown Oklahoma City. Stroll through the gardens and groves, relax on the lawn, catch a concert or live performance, play like a kid on the Children's Playground and get on the water with pedal boat, kayak and standup board rentals from the Boathouse.

In one place, visitors will experience the collective histories of 39 distinctive First American Nations. The First Americans Museum showcases state-of-the-art exhibitions in First American history, culture and art; live public and educational programs; a full-service restaurant presenting unique Native-inspired cuisine; and a museum store featuring authentic one-of-a-kind hand-made items or products by premiere First American artists.

As a popular Bricktown attraction for more than 20 years, the water taxi takes visitors down the Bricktown Canal at a leisurely pace, while the guide narrates the history of the canal and surrounding businesses. You can rent a private cruise, or even join a dinner cruise.

It's no secret that OKC's art scene is booming, and Factory Obscura's Mix-Tape is its newest addition. This 6,000 square-foot interactive exhibit hits play on an immersive art experience highlighting the emotional ties to the mixed-tapes of the 1980s and the form of expression by the person creating them. Wonder as you wander through a color wheel of creation designed in partnership with 30 Oklahoma City-based artists, and connect in real-time with guests of Meow Wolf's House of Eternal Return in Santa Fe. Don't miss the iconic boom box outside! Press any button and watch what happens next.

It's safe to say that OKC is Thunder-struck, and attending a Thunder game is a can't-miss Oklahoma City experience. Don your best blue, orange and yellow and head to the Paycom Center to see the excellence and energy of Thunder nation. Want to get in on the action? Here are the best ways to Thunder Up in OKC.

Located in the southwest section of the Oklahoma City Zoo, Sanctuary Asia extends the Asian elephant herd’s existing habitat and creates new habitats for red pandas, Indian rhinos, langurs, Komodo dragons, Tanuki (raccoon dogs) and cassowary birds. The expansion also includes a two-story restaurant with a view into the elephant, rhino and Komodo dragon habitats plus a splash zone in the courtyard for children to enjoy during warmer months.

For a totally unique overnight experience with a American West feel, look no further than the Conestoga Wagons & Teepees at Orr Family Farm. Go camping or "glamping" under a country sky in this home away from home on the range, complete with a roaring campfire (for toasting marshmallows, of course), temperature-controlled wagons and teepees, deluxe amenities and exclusive access to Orr Family Farm activities. You won't find lodging like this anywhere else in the region!

Experience the history and artistic beauty that more than 10 million people have seen at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Its large collection of classic and contemporary Western art, including works by Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell, as well as sculptor James Earle Fraser’s work, The End of the Trail, make this museum top-notch, and interactive galleries bring the history of the American cowboy, rodeos, Native American culture, Victorian firearms and Western performers to life.

The Oklahoma City Museum of Art boasts one of the most comprehensive collections of Dale Chihuly glass in the world, including the 55-foot Elenor Blake Kirkpatrick Memorial Tower in the museum’s atrium. Chihuly is heralded as the most important artist working in glass since Louis Comfort Tiffany, and the museum’s collection represents more than three decades of some of his finest work. Be sure to take a selfie when you’re in the hall of Chihuly glass - it’s the perfect backdrop.

A world-class facility for exhibitions, performance, and education and breathtaking addition to the OKC skyline, the Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center is a hub for artistic experiences of all kinds. Located in the heart of Automobile Alley in downtown Oklahoma City, the center provides accessible, inclusive art experience through free exhibits, events and performances year-round. The onsite cafe allows for guests to finish the gallery experience by dining outside or inside while enjoying hand-crafted cocktails and modern cuisine, inspired by Oklahoma. 

Home to a number of shops specializing in all things western, you can outfit an entire ranch (cattle included) or just find a new pair of boots and enjoy a great steak in Stockyards City. It’s home to the Oklahoma National Stockyards, the world’s largest feeder and stocker cattle market, where live cattle auctions take place every Monday and Tuesday and are open to the public.