South Travel Guide

Planning a trip to South in Oklahoma City? Read our comprehensive travel guide to know about the best things to do, places to visit, food to eat, and much more.


Introduction to South

Located in the Greater Oklahoma City, South is one of the must-visit districts. Given its location in Frontier Country in Oklahoma, South is surrounded by a unique blend of natural and cultural attractions. Its proximity to major cities like Dallas, Tulsa, and Oklahoma City makes it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway for locals and tourists alike.

List of Places to Visit in South

Here is a rundown of the top places to visit in South.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Oklahoma City Museum of Art: It exhibits a vast collection of contemporary and modern art ranging from European to American art.
  • National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of the American West with a massive collection of art.
  • Oklahoma History Center: It is dedicated to preserving, collecting, and sharing the history of Oklahoma.

Natural Attractions of South: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Oklahoma River: It offers a variety of outdoor activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and cycling.
  • Myriad Botanical Gardens: It is home to a tropical rainforest, arid desert, and various picturesque outdoor sculptures that make it an ideal picnic spot.
  • Lake Thunderbird State Park: It offers activities like fishing, boating, and camping while enjoying the scenic views of the lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of South

  • South Lakes Regional Park Trail: The trail is approximately 3.5 miles long and is ideal for hiking and biking.
  • Lake Thunderbird Clear Bay Trails: The trail is a mixture of terrain and distance that would suit those who want to hike or bike for different lengths.

Best Things to Do in South: Activities and Tours

  • Oklahoma River Cruises: It offers scenic and breathtaking views of downtown Oklahoma City from a boat cruise along the Oklahoma River.
  • Tres Suenos Vineyards and Winery: It is part of the Putnam Oklahoma region and is known for its divine wine and winery tour experiences.
  • National Softball Hall of Fame and Museum: The museum recognizes the achievements of fastpitch and slowpitch softball players.

Week-Long Itinerary for South

Day 1: Begin your trip by exploring Oklahoma City Museum of Art, National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, and Oklahoma History Center.

Day 2: Enjoy the outdoor activities offered at the Oklahoma River by renting a kayak or participating in a group yoga class.

Day 3: The day would involve Stargazing at The Kirkpatrick Planetarium and Stars and Stripes Park for a nice picnic.

Day 4: It is time to taste some exquisite wine at Tres Suenos Vineyards and Winery or join a special wine tasting session.

Day 5: Go hiking and biking at South Lakes Regional Park Trail and Lake Thunderbird Clear Bay Trails to enjoy the scenic views.

Day 6: Catch some live entertainment at the Riverwind Casino.

Day 7: Head back home with memories to last a lifetime.

Food and Drink Scene of South

If you are a foodie looking for great food and drinks, South has got you covered. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to add to your list.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fried Okra: A staple side dish in the South made from battered okra.
  • Chicken Fried Steak: A classic meat dish in which a tenderized steak is coated with seasoned flour and then fried.
  • Biscuits and Gravy: A breakfast classic dish made of buttermilk biscuits and sawmill gravy.

Local Beverages

  • Cherry Limeade: A refreshing and tangy drink made with lime juice, cherry syrup, and sprite.
  • Homemade Sweet Tea: Sweet tea is ubiquitous in the south, and it is made with iced tea mixed with sugar or sugar syrup.

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

South has a wide variety of accommodation options suited for different budgets. Here are some of the notable ones:

  • Aloft Oklahoma City Downtown-Bricktown: For those who enjoy a contemporary and urban hotel.
  • The Skirvin Hilton Oklahoma City: A plush hotel for those who enjoy luxury lodging.
  • Sheraton Oklahoma City Downtown Hotel: A hotel ideal for business travelers.

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

Here are some gifts and local items you can purchase to take home as a souvenir:

  • Sweetgrass Braided Basket: A beautiful and intricate basket made from sweetgrass is an ideal souvenir from any Southern state.
  • Oklahoma T-Shirt: A t-shirt or hoodie with a fun saying or a picture of a landmark is a must-have souvenir for any traveler.
  • Pecans or Pecan Pie: Pecans are a signature food item in the South. You can visit Local Farmers’ Markets to buy pecans or purchase a locally made pecan pie from a bakery.

Local Culture and Customs of South

The Southern culture is heavily influenced by Native American, African American, European American, and Hispanic American cultures. The locals place much importance on hospitality, high social standards, and respect among others. They are also known to strike up conversations easily and are always willing to assist in whichever way they can.

Best Time to Visit South

The best time to visit South is during the spring months from March to May or the fall months from September to November. You will avoid the sweltering heat waves of summer and the freezing winter temperatures. During these months, the temperatures are mild and comfortable.

Do’s and Don’ts of South

Do:

  • Be polite and courteous
  • Follow the dress codes especially at religious sites
  • Always ask before taking photographs of people or places

Don’t:

  • Be rowdy or rude
  • Discuss politics or religion.
  • Use profanity in public.

Safety and Health

Safety in South

South and Oklahoma City are relatively safe, although visitors should take caution and practice common travel safety tips. It is advisable to stay alert, avoid walking alone at night where possible, and avoid carrying valuable items.

Health in South

Food hygiene standards are high, and tap water is safe for drinking. However, visitors should ensure they have travel insurance that covers any medical emergencies that might arise.

Getting to South: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several options for getting to South, Oklahoma City, and the surrounding districts:

Airports Near South

  • Will Rogers World Airport: The airport is located about 10 miles southwest of downtown Oklahoma City and serves major commercial airlines.

Bus Stations Near South

  • Greyhound: Located at 1948 E Reno Ave Ste A, Oklahoma City, this is the nearest station to South that serves major cities.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Rental cars are available from Will Rogers World Airport or downtown OKC to explore the surrounding districts.

How to Get Around in South

The best way to explore South and the surrounding districts is by car or bike. Bikes can be rented from several bike rental companies located in Bricktown, Oklahoma City. Ride-share services like Uber and Lyft and taxis are also available.

Where to Go Next from South: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the nearby destinations and excursions from South can include:

  • Bricktown, Oklahoma City: Located just north of South, Bricktown is a great place to enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment.
  • Tulsa: Tulsa is about 100 miles east of Oklahoma City and is home to several museums, art galleries, and parks.

Conclusion

Southern Oklahoma City is a delightful blend of natural and cultural attractions making it an ideal destination for those looking for an affordable weekend getaway. With its diverse food, entertainment, and accommodation options, visitors are guaranteed a memorable experience. Begin planning your trip to South, Oklahoma City, today!