Things to Do in Oklahoma City in January
January weather, activities, events & insider tips
January Weather in Oklahoma City
Is January Right for You?
Advantages
- Lowest rainfall month with only 2.5mm (0.1 inches) - perfect for outdoor activities and exploring downtown without weather interruptions
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day weekend brings special programming at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and Oklahoma History Center with extended hours
- Hotel rates drop 40-60% after New Year's rush - luxury downtown properties average $89-129/night compared to $180+ in peak months
- Thunder basketball season hits full stride with home games at Paycom Center creating electric downtown atmosphere and easier restaurant reservations
Considerations
- Extreme temperature swings from 27°C to 49°C (80°F to 120°F) require multiple clothing layers and can be physically exhausting
- High UV index of 8 combined with dry conditions means sunburn risk even in winter - locals avoid midday outdoor activities
- Many outdoor attractions like Myriad Botanical Gardens events are cancelled during extreme heat warnings which occur 8-12 days per month
Best Activities in January
Underground Tunnel System Exploration
Oklahoma City's extensive underground pedestrian tunnel network connecting downtown hotels, shopping, and attractions becomes essential during January's extreme temperature swings. The climate-controlled tunnels maintain 21°C (70°F) year-round and connect Bricktown to the Arts District. Perfect timing as surface temperatures can spike to 49°C (120°F) midday.
Bricktown Entertainment District Tours
January's low rainfall makes canal boat rides and walking tours ideal. The district's outdoor concerts move indoors to venues like Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark's climate-controlled spaces. Morning tours (8-10am) avoid temperature extremes while evening tours (after 6pm) catch the district's neon lights.
National Memorial Indoor Experiences
The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum provides powerful indoor experiences during January's harsh weather. The museum's climate control and contemplative atmosphere offer respite from outdoor temperature extremes. January marks the planning period for April's anniversary events, with special exhibits often launching.
Western Heritage Museum Immersions
January brings special exhibitions and MLK weekend programming to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Indoor galleries maintain perfect viewing conditions while outdoor exhibits close during heat warnings. The museum's Western art collection and interactive exhibits provide full-day entertainment regardless of weather.
Arts District Gallery Crawls
Oklahoma City's Arts District comes alive in January with new exhibition openings and First Friday Gallery Walks moving to climate-controlled venues. The concentrated layout allows indoor-to-indoor movement during temperature extremes. Local artists' studios often host special January viewings.
State Capitol and Government District Tours
The Oklahoma State Capitol's indoor tours become premium January activities when outdoor government building walks are impossible during heat spikes. January legislative session creates unique behind-the-scenes opportunities and the building's dome restoration viewing areas are climate-controlled.
January Events & Festivals
Martin Luther King Jr. Day Weekend Programming
Extended hours and special exhibits at Oklahoma History Center and various downtown museums. Many venues offer free admission or reduced rates for the three-day weekend, with indoor activities perfect for January's weather extremes.
Thunder Basketball Home Games
Oklahoma City Thunder's home games at Paycom Center create downtown energy and restaurant/bar scene. Games typically tip off at 7pm or 8pm, perfect timing after daily temperature peaks. Tickets range from $25-200+ depending on opponent.