Oklahoma City Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Oklahoma City.
Healthcare System
Oklahoma City operates on the U.S. private healthcare system, which provides high-quality medical care but at significant cost without insurance. The city has numerous hospitals, urgent care centers, and medical facilities with modern equipment and well-trained staff.
Hospitals
Major hospitals serving tourists include OU Health (1200 Everett Drive), Integris Baptist Medical Center (3300 NW Expressway), and SSM Health St. Anthony Hospital (1000 N Lee Ave). All have 24/7 emergency departments. For minor issues, numerous urgent care clinics throughout the city offer walk-in service with shorter wait times and lower costs than emergency rooms.
Pharmacies
CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart pharmacies are widespread throughout Oklahoma City, many open 24 hours. Most prescription medications available internationally can be obtained with a valid U.S. prescription. Pharmacists can provide advice on over-the-counter medications for common ailments. Many tourist hotels are near pharmacy locations in Bricktown and downtown areas.
Insurance
Travel health insurance is not legally required but is STRONGLY RECOMMENDED for international visitors. Medical care in the U.S. is extremely expensive without insurance - a simple emergency room visit can cost $1,000-3,000+, and serious medical issues can result in bills exceeding $100,000. Ensure your insurance includes emergency medical evacuation coverage.
Healthcare Tips
- Always carry your insurance card and a credit card - hospitals may require payment information before non-emergency treatment
- For minor issues, use urgent care clinics instead of emergency rooms to save significant money and time
- Prescription medications should be kept in original containers with labels when traveling
- If you take regular medications, bring extra supply as getting prescriptions transferred internationally can be complicated
- Save receipts and medical documentation for insurance reimbursement claims
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Car break-ins and theft from vehicles are the most common crimes affecting visitors, particularly in parking lots and garages near tourist attractions, hotels, and entertainment venues.
Pickpocketing and purse snatching are relatively uncommon in Oklahoma City compared to larger U.S. cities, but can occur in crowded tourist areas and during major events.
Oklahoma City is located in Tornado Alley and experiences severe thunderstorms, hail, and tornadoes, particularly from March through June. Tornadoes can develop quickly and be extremely dangerous.
Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95-100°F (35-38°C) with high humidity, creating dangerous conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Oklahoma has higher than average rates of alcohol-related traffic accidents. Bricktown and entertainment districts see increased impaired driving on weekend evenings.
While common for residents, tourists using vacation rentals or having items shipped to hotels may experience package theft.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Individuals sell fake or invalid tickets outside Paycom Center (OKC Thunder games), concerts, or major events. Tickets may be counterfeit, already used, or duplicates sold to multiple people.
One person creates a distraction (spilling something, asking for directions, dropping items) while an accomplice steals bags, wallets, or phones from distracted tourists.
Unlicensed taxi or shuttle drivers at Will Rogers World Airport or hotels offer rides at inflated prices or take unnecessarily long routes to increase fares.
Individuals approach tourists claiming to collect for local charities, disaster relief, or community causes, keeping donations for themselves.
Scammers call hotel rooms late at night claiming to be front desk staff saying there's a problem with your credit card and requesting card information to 'verify' or 'update' it.
Disreputable rental companies claim pre-existing damage was caused by the renter, demanding payment for repairs that were never needed or were already present.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Transportation Safety
- Oklahoma City is very car-dependent; rental cars are recommended for visiting most attractions outside downtown
- Use rideshare apps (Uber/Lyft) for evening entertainment in Bricktown to avoid parking issues and impaired driving
- Be extremely cautious at intersections - Oklahoma has higher rates of red-light running than national average
- Highway speeds are high (70-75 mph); stay in right lanes if uncomfortable with speed
- The streetcar system (OKC Streetcar) is free and safe for downtown/Bricktown travel during operating hours
- Always wear seatbelts - Oklahoma law requires them for all passengers
Weather Awareness
- Check weather forecasts every morning, especially March-June
- Download the NOAA Weather Radio app and enable location-based alerts
- Learn outdoor warning siren sounds - steady tone means tornado warning, take shelter immediately
- Ask hotel staff about shelter locations upon check-in
- Keep shoes and phone near bed during severe weather season for quick shelter access
- If driving when tornado warning issued, do not shelter under overpasses; seek sturdy building or lie flat in ditch as last resort
Personal Security
- Lock hotel room doors and use deadbolts and security latches
- Don't leave ground-floor hotel windows open, even when inside
- Be aware of surroundings when using ATMs; use machines inside banks or well-lit areas
- Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, cameras, or large amounts of cash
- Keep a copy of passport and important documents separate from originals
- Share your itinerary with someone back home and check in regularly
Bricktown Entertainment District
- Bricktown is generally safe but becomes crowded on weekend evenings; stay aware of surroundings
- Use the buddy system when bar-hopping; never leave drinks unattended
- Stick to well-lit main streets; avoid shortcuts through empty areas or parking lots
- Keep valuables secure in cross-body bags or front pockets
- Use rideshare or designated drivers - parking can be difficult and expensive
- Most restaurants and bars close by 2 AM; plan transportation in advance
Health and Wellness
- Carry prescription medications in original containers with pharmacy labels
- Stay hydrated - Oklahoma's dry climate and heat cause rapid dehydration
- Apply sunscreen regularly - UV index is high year-round
- Be aware that altitude (1,200 feet) may affect some visitors initially
- Pollen counts are very high in spring; bring allergy medications if sensitive
- Many restaurants serve large portions; don't feel obligated to finish everything
Money and Valuables
- Use credit cards instead of cash when possible for better fraud protection
- Notify your bank of travel dates to prevent card blocks
- Use hotel safes for passports, extra cash, and valuable electronics
- Be cautious at gas stations - card skimmers occasionally occur; check card readers before inserting
- Tipping is expected: 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, $2-5 per bag for hotel staff
- Keep small bills for tips and small purchases; many places don't accept bills over $20
Cultural Awareness
- Oklahoma City has strong Western and Native American heritage; be respectful at cultural sites
- The Oklahoma City National Memorial is a somber site; maintain respectful behavior and quiet voices
- Southern hospitality is common - friendly greetings from strangers are normal, not suspicious
- Dress is generally casual; only upscale restaurants require business casual attire
- Gun ownership is common and open carry is legal; don't be alarmed by visible firearms in some establishments
- Sunday alcohol sales are legal but some counties nearby have restrictions
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Oklahoma City is generally safe for women travelers, including solo female visitors. The city has a friendly, welcoming atmosphere with strong Southern hospitality traditions. Women should exercise the same precautions as in any American city - awareness of surroundings, avoiding isolated areas after dark, and using common sense regarding alcohol consumption and interactions with strangers. The tourist areas of Bricktown, downtown, and major attractions are well-patrolled and safe during normal hours.
- Solo women can safely explore main tourist areas during daylight hours; Bricktown, Midtown, and downtown are well-populated
- Use rideshare apps rather than walking alone after dark, even for short distances
- When dining or drinking alone, sit at the bar where staff can keep an eye out rather than isolated tables
- Trust your instincts - if a situation feels uncomfortable, leave immediately
- Keep phone charged and share location with trusted contacts when out in evenings
- Hotel staff are generally helpful and can recommend safe areas and transportation options
- The OKC Streetcar is safe during operating hours and provides free transportation in tourist areas
- Avoid accepting drinks from strangers; order directly from bartenders and keep drinks in sight
- Dress is casual and comfortable; no special clothing requirements except at upscale venues
- Join group tours for activities like Bricktown walking tours or brewery visits to meet other travelers
- Women-friendly accommodations are plentiful; major hotel chains in Bricktown and downtown are reliable choices
- Gyms and running trails like the Oklahoma River trails are popular with women during daylight hours
LGBTQ+ Travelers
LGBTQ+ rights in Oklahoma are protected at the federal level following the 2015 Supreme Court ruling legalizing same-sex marriage nationwide and 2020 employment discrimination protections. However, Oklahoma state law provides limited additional protections, and the state's political climate is generally conservative. Same-sex couples have the same legal rights as opposite-sex couples regarding marriage, hospital visitation, and federal protections.
- The 39th Street District (between Shartel and Classen) is the historic LGBTQ+ neighborhood with welcoming bars, restaurants, and businesses
- Oklahoma City Pride occurs annually in June with parades, festivals, and events - a welcoming time to visit
- LGBTQ+-friendly venues include The Boom (nightclub), Frankie's (bar), and various establishments in 39th Street District
- Plaza District and Midtown areas are generally progressive and welcoming to LGBTQ+ visitors
- Major hotel chains in tourist areas are LGBTQ+-friendly and accustomed to diverse guests
- Exercise discretion with public displays of affection outside clearly LGBTQ+-friendly areas
- Research restaurants and venues in advance; LGBTQ+-owned businesses are marked on apps like Yelp
- The Oklahomans for Equality organization provides resources and information for LGBTQ+ visitors
- Some suburban and rural areas outside Oklahoma City proper may be less accepting
- Transgender travelers should be aware that Oklahoma requires court orders for ID changes and public accommodation laws are limited
- Dating apps are widely used and generally safe, but meet in public places and inform friends of plans
- Healthcare providers at major hospitals are professional, though finding LGBTQ+-specialized care may require research
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for all visitors to Oklahoma City, especially international travelers. The United States has the most expensive healthcare system in the world with no universal coverage. A single emergency room visit can cost thousands of dollars, and serious medical issues can result in bills exceeding $100,000. Additionally, Oklahoma's severe weather, particularly tornadoes, can cause trip disruptions, cancellations, and emergencies. Travel insurance provides essential financial protection against medical emergencies, trip cancellations, weather-related disruptions, and lost belongings.
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