Things to Do in Oklahoma City in May
May weather, activities, events & insider tips
May Weather in Oklahoma City
Is May Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak tornado season creates dramatic storm watching opportunities - Oklahoma City is prime storm chaser territory with guided tours available April-June when atmospheric conditions are most active
- Memorial Marathon (late April/early May) energizes the entire city with festivals, live music, and community events spanning multiple weekends - hotels fill up but the atmosphere is electric
- Perfect weather for Bricktown Canal walks and outdoor dining - temperatures stay comfortable for evening strolls while daytime heat hasn't reached summer intensity yet
- Local farmers markets hit peak season with Oklahoma strawberries, asparagus, and spring onions - Saturday Market at downtown and various neighborhood markets offer best local produce selection of the year
Considerations
- Severe weather including tornadoes peaks in May - while fascinating for storm enthusiasts, it can disrupt travel plans and requires weather awareness and flexible itineraries
- Hotel prices surge 40-60% during Memorial Marathon period (typically last weekend of April into first week of May) with limited availability requiring 6-8 weeks advance booking
- High pollen counts from Oklahoma's prairie grasses and oak trees make May challenging for allergy sufferers - consider antihistamines and indoor backup activities
Best Activities in May
National Memorial and Museum Tours
May's mild mornings (16-21°C/60-70°F) are ideal for walking the outdoor memorial before afternoon heat peaks. Spring blooming period creates a peaceful, reflective atmosphere. The indoor museum provides perfect refuge during Oklahoma's unpredictable spring weather patterns.
Bricktown Entertainment District Walking Tours
May evenings are perfect for canal walks and rooftop dining - temperatures drop to comfortable 18-24°C (65-75°F) after 6pm. Spring weather allows full enjoyment of outdoor patios and riverside paths without summer's brutal heat or winter's chill.
Storm Chasing and Weather Tours
May is peak tornado season in Oklahoma - guided storm chasing tours offer safe ways to experience this natural phenomenon with expert meteorologists. Tours operate during active weather patterns, typically 2-4 times per week in May depending on atmospheric conditions.
Stockyards City Western Experience
May brings perfect weather for outdoor cattle auctions and western activities. Morning temperatures (16-21°C/60-70°F) are comfortable for walking historic stockyards, while afternoon warmth enhances the authentic cowboy atmosphere without oppressive summer heat.
Lake Hefner Recreation and Sailing
May's variable weather creates excellent sailing conditions on Oklahoma City's largest lake. Spring winds are consistent but not overwhelming, and comfortable temperatures make waterfront activities enjoyable. Perfect season before summer heat makes daytime lake activities uncomfortable.
Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden
May showcases spring blooms throughout botanical areas while animals are most active in moderate temperatures. Morning visits (8-11am) offer coolest weather and most active wildlife before afternoon heat. Perfect month to enjoy both indoor and outdoor exhibits comfortably.
May Events & Festivals
Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon
One of America's most meaningful marathons, commemorating the 1995 bombing victims. The event transforms downtown with live music, vendor booths, and community celebration spanning the entire weekend. Even non-runners enjoy the festival atmosphere and powerful memorial ceremony.
Festival of the Arts
Oklahoma's premier arts festival typically occurs in late April extending into early May, featuring local and national artists, live music on multiple stages, and Oklahoma's famous festival food including funnel cakes and barbecue. Located in downtown Arts District with free admission.