Things to Do in Oklahoma City

About Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City's skyline rises from the Great Plains, proof of a city that has rebuilt itself more than once. Cowboy heritage collides with big-city ambition here. Cattle drive history shares space with a growing arts district. Walk through Bricktown's cobblestone streets and you'll find century-old warehouses converted into entertainment venues, their red brick reflecting in the canal below. Barbecue joints and honky-tonks keep the American West spirit alive—but that is only part of the story. The museums impress, the restaurants push past typical Western fare, and the music scene runs deeper than country standards. Oklahoma City doesn't do standby mode. The welcome feels real, not performed. Prairie sunsets paint the sky orange and purple most evenings, and locals talk to you like they've known you for years.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Rent a car for maximum flexibility—OKC is designed for driving with ample parking downtown ($5-10/day). The downtown streetcar system connects major attractions for $1, while ride-sharing averages $8-15 between districts.

Money: Budget $25-35/day for meals, $100-150 for mid-range hotels. No state income tax means competitive prices. Most places accept cards, but carry cash for food trucks and small BBQ joints that may be cash-only.

Cultural Respect: Show respect at the Oklahoma City National Memorial—speak quietly and follow posted guidelines. Tipping 18-20% is standard. Don't assume everyone's a cowboy; OKC is increasingly diverse and cosmopolitan while maintaining friendly, laid-back Midwestern values.

Food Safety: Try local favorites like chicken-fried steak and barbecue at established spots like Cattlemen's Steakhouse or Leo's BBQ. Food trucks are generally safe—look for busy ones with high turnover. Tap water is safe to drink throughout the city.

When to Visit

Spring (March-May) offers ideal weather with temperatures ranging from 60-80°F and moderate rainfall (3-4 inches monthly). This peak season sees hotel rates 20-25% higher, but rewards visitors with perfect conditions for outdoor activities and festivals like the Festival of the Arts (April). Summer (June-August) brings hot, humid weather (85-95°F) and afternoon thunderstorms, though hotel rates drop 15-20%. The Red Earth Festival (June) showcases Native American culture during this season. Fall (September-November) delivers comfortable temperatures (65-80°F declining to 45-65°F) with minimal rainfall and impressive autumn colors. This shoulder season offers moderate pricing and excellent weather for exploring. Winter (December-February) sees temperatures from 25-50°F with occasional ice storms, but hotel rates plummet 30-40%. Holiday events like the Prairie Surf Studios light displays make winter visits worthwhile for budget travelers. Severe weather ensoiasts should visit April-June for tornado season, while families prefer the mild springs and falls. Summer visitors should book accommodations early despite lower rates, as business travel keeps downtown hotels busy. The Oklahoma State Fair (September) and various holiday markets provide unique seasonal experiences worth planning around.