Downtown Travel Guide

Explore the vibrant Downtown district of Oklahoma City with our comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, activities, accommodations, dining options, and more.


Introduction to Downtown

Located in the heart of Oklahoma City, Downtown is a bustling district that encompasses 130 blocks of historic buildings, modern skyscrapers, and vibrant cultural attractions. With world-class museums, art galleries, theaters, restaurants, and shops, Downtown offers a diverse range of activities and experiences for both locals and visitors.

List of Places to Visit in Downtown

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Oklahoma City Museum of Art: Home to a vast collection of American and European art, the museum is also known for its film screenings, lectures, and special events.
  • National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum: Featuring one of the most comprehensive collections of Western art and artifacts in the world, this museum offers an immersive experience of the American West.
  • Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum: A tribute to the victims of the 1995 Oklahoma City bombing, this museum and memorial offers a poignant reminder of the resilience of the community.

Natural Attractions of Downtown: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Myriad Botanical Gardens: A lush urban oasis featuring a variety of plant species, walking trails, and a serene pond.
  • Bricktown Canal: A picturesque waterway surrounded by trendy restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
  • Scissortail Park: A sprawling green space with playgrounds, walking paths, and outdoor performance venues.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Downtown

  • Oklahoma River Trails: A 13-mile path along the Oklahoma River, offering scenic views of the downtown skyline and access to various parks and attractions.
  • Core-to-Shore Trail: A 3.5-mile trail connecting the former site of the Oklahoma City Boulevard with the Riverfront Redevelopment Area.

Best Things to Do in Downtown: Activities and Tours

  • Oklahoma City Thunder basketball game: Catch a game at Chesapeake Energy Arena and experience the excitement of NBA basketball.
  • Oklahoma City Segway tour: Explore the city’s highlights and hidden gems aboard a Segway.
  • Oklahoma River cruise: Take a relaxing boat tour along the Oklahoma River and enjoy the scenic views of Downtown.

Week-Long Itinerary for Downtown

Day 1
Breakfast at Kitchen No. 324
Visit the Oklahoma City Museum of Art
Lunch at Cafe Cuvee
Stroll through the Myriad Botanical Gardens
Dinner at The Jones Assembly
Day 2
Breakfast at Hatch Early Mood Food
Take a Segway tour of Downtown
Lunch at Bricktown Brewery
Visit the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
Dinner at Stella Modern Italian Cuisine
Day 3
Breakfast at Waffle Champion
Walk along the Bricktown Canal
Lunch at Earl’s Rib Palace
Visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
Dinner at Mahogany Prime Steakhouse
Day 4
Breakfast at Scissor-tail Park Cafe
Enjoy a morning jog at Scissortail Park
Lunch at The Union
Visit the Oklahoma City Zoo
Dinner at The Melting Pot
Day 5
Breakfast at The Social Order
Explore the shopping options on Automobile Alley
Lunch at Fassler Hall
Visit the Oklahoma History Center
Dinner at Vast

Food and Drink Scene of Downtown

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicken-fried steak: A classic Oklahoma dish, made with tenderized steak that’s breaded and fried to golden perfection.
  • Fried catfish: Another Southern staple, catfish is lightly breaded and fried until crispy.
  • Barbecue brisket: Slow-smoked and seasoned to perfection, Oklahoma barbecue is a must-try.

Local Beverages

  • Prairie Wolf Vodka: Made with locally sourced ingredients, this award-winning vodka is distilled in Guthrie, just north of Oklahoma City.
  • Anthem Brewing Company: Known for its wide range of craft beers, Anthem Brewing Company offers tours and tastings at its location in Oklahoma City.
  • Choc Beer Co.: Producing fine ales since 1919, this historic brewery in Krebs, Oklahoma, offers a selection of craft beers that reflect the flavors and traditions of the state.

Where to Stay in Downtown: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • 21c Museum Hotel: A luxurious boutique hotel that doubles as an art museum, featuring contemporary works by emerging and established artists.
  • Sheraton Oklahoma City Downtown: A mid-range option located in the heart of Downtown, just steps away from top attractions and restaurants.
  • Hampton Inn & Suites: Offering comfortable and affordable accommodations, this hotel is a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.

What to Buy in Downtown: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Oklahoma Beef Jerky: Made from prime-cut beef and slow-smoked to perfection, Oklahoma beef jerky is a savory and satisfying snack.
  • Native American Art & Crafts: From turquoise jewelry to pottery and beadwork, Downtown offers a rich selection of Native American art and crafts.
  • Merchandise from Top Attractions: From T-shirts to coffee mugs, make sure to grab a souvenir from your favorite Downtown attractions.

Local Culture and Customs of Downtown

  • Friendliness and Hospitality: Downtown residents are known for their warm and welcoming nature, and visitors can expect to be treated like family.
  • Love of Sports: From the Oklahoma City Thunder to college football, sports are a big part of the culture in Downtown.
  • Pride in History and Heritage: Residents of Downtown take great pride in the city’s rich history and cultural heritage, and visitors are encouraged to learn about Oklahoma’s unique past.

Best Time to Visit Downtown

The best time to visit Downtown is from March to May and from September to November, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer months can be hot and humid, and winter months can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Downtown

Do:

  • Do explore on foot or by bike: Downtown is a walkable and bike-friendly area, and it’s the best way to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
  • Do try the local cuisine: From chicken-fried steak to barbecue brisket, Downtown offers a variety of delicious Oklahoma specialties.
  • Do attend a sporting event or concert: With top-rated sports teams and music venues, Downtown is known for its exciting events.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to tip: Tipping is standard practice in the United States, and it’s customary to leave 15-20% at restaurants and bars.
  • Don’t leave valuables in your car: Car break-ins are common in big cities, so it’s best to avoid leaving valuables in your car.
  • Don’t underestimate the Oklahoma weather: Whether it’s hot and humid or cool and windy, make sure to dress appropriately for the weather.

Safety and Health

Safety in Downtown

Downtown Oklahoma City is generally safe for visitors, but it’s always important to take precautions when exploring new areas. Make sure to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night, and avoid walking alone in isolated areas.

Health in Downtown

Downtown Oklahoma City has a number of hospitals and urgent care clinics, including the OU Medical Center and St. Anthony Hospital. It’s always important to have adequate health insurance when traveling, and to seek medical attention if needed.

Getting to Downtown: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Downtown

  • Will Rogers World Airport: Located 7 miles southwest of Downtown, this airport offers non-stop flights to major U.S. cities.

Bus Stations Near Downtown

  • Greyhound Bus Station: Located in Downtown Oklahoma City, this station offers intercity bus service to a variety of destinations.

Other Options

  • Rideshare services: Uber and Lyft operate in Oklahoma City and can be used to get around Downtown and the surrounding areas.
  • Renting a car: Several car rental companies operate out of Will Rogers World Airport and provide convenient transportation options for visitors.

How to Get Around in Downtown

Downtown Oklahoma City is a walkable and bike-friendly area, and many attractions and restaurants are located within a short distance of each other. The OKC Streetcar also provides a convenient and affordable means of transportation in the downtown area.

Where to Go Next from Downtown: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Route 66: Follow the iconic “Main Street of America” and explore a variety of American roadside attractions.
  • Chickasaw National Recreation Area: Located 90 minutes south of Downtown, this park offers hot springs, lakes, and hiking trails.
  • Talimena Scenic Byway: Head east from Downtown and take in the breathtaking views along this 54-mile drive through the Ouachita Mountains.

Conclusion

Downtown Oklahoma City offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, and modern amenities, making it a must-visit destination for travelers of all interests. With its rich selection of museums, natural attractions, food and drink options, and outdoor activities, Downtown has something for everyone and is the perfect base for exploring the wider Oklahoma City region.

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