Greater Oklahoma City Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Greater Oklahoma City. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Greater Oklahoma City

Welcome to Greater Oklahoma City, a vibrant and lively city located in the heart of Frontier Country, Oklahoma. The city offers a unique mix of culture, history, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for travelers interested in exploration, adventure, and discovery.

Boasting a diverse array of attractions, experience the very best of Greater Oklahoma City, from exploring its many museums and historical sites to hiking along scenic trails. This comprehensive travel guide will provide you with everything you need to plan your trip to this remarkable city.

List of Places to Visit in Greater Oklahoma City

Here is a list of the top places to visit in Greater Oklahoma City:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
  • Oklahoma City Museum of Art
  • Science Museum Oklahoma
  • Oklahoma History Center
  • Myriad Botanical Gardens and Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory
  • Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum

Natural Attractions of Greater Oklahoma City: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Hefner
  • Martin Park Nature Center
  • Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge
  • Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge and Mount Scott
  • Bricktown Canal

Hiking/Biking Routes of Greater Oklahoma City

Here are some of the best hiking and biking trails in Greater Oklahoma City:

  • Lake Hefner Trail
  • Bluff Creek Trail
  • Overholser Trail
  • Mick Cornett Trail
  • Oklahoma River Trails

Best Things to Do in Greater Oklahoma City: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the top things to do in Greater Oklahoma City:

  • Watch a game at the Chesapeake Energy Arena
  • Take a Bricktown Canal Cruise
  • Visit the OKC Zoo
  • Check out Frontier City theme park
  • Oklahoma River Rafting and Kayaking
  • Try indoor skydiving at iFLY Oklahoma City

Week-Long Itinerary for Greater Oklahoma City

Day 1-2: Explore downtown Oklahoma City attractions such as the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum, and the Myriad Botanical Gardens.

Day 3: Hike at Martin Park Nature Center or take a bike ride on the Bluff Creek Trail, followed by an evening out in the Bricktown Entertainment District.

Day 4: Take a trip to the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge and take in the stunning views from Mount Scott.

Day 5: Visit the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, followed by an evening at the Chesapeake Energy Arena to watch the Thunder basketball team play.

Day 6: Take a day trip to the Lake Texoma area for boating, swimming and fishing.

Day 7: Visit the Science Museum Oklahoma and enjoy the interactive exhibits before heading to Frontier City theme park in the afternoon.

Food and Drink Scene of Greater Oklahoma City

Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages in Greater Oklahoma City:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicken fried steak
  • BBQ pulled pork sandwiches
  • Fried onion burgers
  • Fried okra
  • Bison burgers

Local Beverages

  • Prairie Artisan Ales
  • Anthem Brewing Company
  • COOP Ale Works
  • Cross Timbers Brewing Company
  • Oklahoma City Distillery

Where to Stay in Greater Oklahoma City: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From luxury hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses, here are some top accommodation options in Greater Oklahoma City:

  • Skirvin Hilton Oklahoma City: A luxurious hotel located in downtown Oklahoma City, with top notch amenities.
  • Colcord Hotel: A boutique hotel located in a historic building with a rooftop lounge and restaurant.
  • 21c Museum Hotel: A unique hotel featuring contemporary art throughout the building and a restaurant.
  • Sheraton Midwest City Hotel: A budget-friendly option with modern amenities and a location adjacent to the Reed Conference Center.

What to Buy in Greater Oklahoma City: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the best souvenirs to bring home from Greater Oklahoma City include:

  • Bison jerky and other meat products
  • Native American pottery and jewelry
  • Western-style clothing and accessories
  • Artwork and sculptures by local artists
  • Homemade jams and jellies from local farms

Local Culture and Customs of Greater Oklahoma City

Greater Oklahoma City is known for its friendly locals, cowboy culture, and love of sports. Visitors are encouraged to embrace the city’s laid-back vibe, and to show respect for Native American traditions and heritage.

Best Time to Visit Greater Oklahoma City

The best time to visit Greater Oklahoma City is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can bring cold temperatures and snow and ice storms.

Do’s and Don’ts of Greater Oklahoma City

Do:

  • Visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum to pay respects to those lost in the Oklahoma City bombing.
  • Take in a game at the Chesapeake Energy Arena.
  • Hike or bike the many trails in the area, including the Bluff Creek Trail and Lake Hefner Trail.

Don’t:

  • Don’t underestimate the weather - be prepared for hot summers and cold winters.
  • Don’t miss out on the opportunity to try some local dishes, such as chicken fried steak or bison burgers.

Safety and Health

Safety in Greater Oklahoma City

Greater Oklahoma City is a relatively safe destination, but visitors should take normal precautions to keep themselves and their belongings safe. Downtown areas can be busy and should be avoided late at night.

Health in Greater Oklahoma City

The healthcare system in Greater Oklahoma City is good, with several hospitals and clinics available to visitors.

Getting to Greater Oklahoma City: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some options for getting to Greater Oklahoma City:

Airports Near Greater Oklahoma City

  • Will Rogers World Airport (OKC)
  • Tulsa International Airport (TUL)

Bus Stations Near Greater Oklahoma City

  • Greyhound Station
  • Jefferson Lines Bus Station

Other Options

  • Amtrak: The Heartland Flyer train service from Fort Worth, Texas to Oklahoma City.
  • Car rental: Several car rental options are available at the airports and downtown Oklahoma City.

How to Get Around in Greater Oklahoma City

Getting around Greater Oklahoma City is easy with several transportation options, including the Oklahoma City Streetcar, the EMBARK bus service, and bike-sharing programs.

Where to Go Next from Greater Oklahoma City: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations to visit after exploring Greater Oklahoma City:

  • Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum in Oklahoma City
  • Tulsa, OK
  • Lake Texoma area
  • Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge

Conclusion

Greater Oklahoma City is a phenomenal travel destination with an abundance of cultural, historic, and natural attractions to explore. Whether you’re planning a week-long trip or just a weekend getaway, we hope this comprehensive travel guide has provided you with the information you need to make the most of your time in this captivating city.



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