A year ago this month, I challenged myself to begin a journey of connecting with my community.
I’ve lived in Oklahoma City (and nearly every suburb of OKC) my whole life, but yet I spent a good chunk of that life in a bubble at home. The reasons were common enough, I was married for a long time, raised two children, created a business from the ground up (which took me all over the world, ironically), and ran a home. I was indeed buried in my bubble because I had to be.
Today, I am in a new place. My children are older (19 and 11), I am a single woman, and my business is thriving. I also have a new-found curiosity about my state, city, and the people in it. I am fascinated by the evolution of Oklahoma City and where it continues to head. Our Mayor is a rock star. Our creative scene is exploding.
When I was a teenager, I remember the lengths it took to seek out unique spots, shops, and people in this town. Now, there are charms around every corner and it makes my hippie loving heart so very happy and full to see this unfolding.
A few weeks ago, I had the honor of partnering with Visit OKC (#SeeOKC) to dive in ever more so that I have thus far. The best part was that my dear friend Tammilee, from TammileeTips.com, was here to partner with Visit OKC on a girl’s getaway with me. Exploring my home city with this Washington state girl was definitely a treat!
OKC DISTRICTS
The OKC downtown area is divided into 14 “districts”. These districts are small land-wise, but each one has its own distinct vibe and “theme.” I will be breaking down each district in this post, so you will have the 411 on what to do in each one. Trust me, there is A LOT to do in each district. I’ve only scratched the surface here, but not to worry, I’ll be updating this post periodically. ✌🏻
OKC Districts: Western Avenue Uptown 23rd Stockyards City Plaza District Paseo Arts District Midtown City Center/Downtown Boathouse District Arts District & Film Row Asian District Adventure District Deep Deuce Bricktown Automobile Alley 1. Western Avenue
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“From upscale to accessible, contemporary to antique, the Western Avenue district has a little bit of everything. This district is your shopping and dining getaway to discovering local dives on Western Avenue to chic shops along Classen Curve.” – VisitOKC.com
When I was in a rock band, Western Avenue was where we would often play our shows. Venues like VZD’s, Sipango Lounge (or “The Sip”), and HiLo Club welcomed our loud music, bad singing, and unique weirdness. This part of town will always have a soft place in my heart and seeing its growth while keeping its original charm has been amazing to witness.
food and drinks:
Osteria – fresh pasta RePUBlic Gastropub – beer, upscale dining, and big TVs Stella Nova – crafted, small-batch coffee
shopping:
Antique Avenue – stylish vintage items Classen Curve – fashionable shops like Anthropologie, West Elm, and Lululemon Athletica The Drum Room – comfort food and bar for the soul Guestroom Records – new and old vinyl records Liberté – personalized styling services On a Whim – home decor, tabletop, fashion, kitchen, and personalized gifts The Wedge Pizzeria – artisanal brick oven pizzeria Weldon Jack – full-service barbershop coupled with a retail establishment
attractions & entertainment:
Will Rogers Theater & Event Center – trade shows, business meeting lunches or dinners, organization fundraising parties as well as celebrating families event such as birthday parties, and wedding receptions 2. Uptown 23rd
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“Uptown 23rd District is one of Oklahoma City’s premier business and entertainment districts that continues to grow. Uptown is located along historic Route 66 with many iconic landmarks such as the Tower Theatre, Gold Dome, the historic Milk Bottle, and Oklahoma City University’s gothic towers. Uptown stretches from Broadway to Pennsylvania on NW 23rd Street.” – Uptown23rd.com
Remember when I said about seeking out creative spots as a teenager? Uptown 23rd was the place for that and still is. Although Rainbow Records is no more (RIP my beloved Rainbow Records), 23rd Street is bustling with the best OKC restaurants and entertainment.
food and drinks:
Bunker Club – a unique bar with a cool atmosphere Cheever’s Cafe – casual elegance in a charming historic building with a full bar Cuppies and Joe – cupcakes, pie, other treats, and coffee HunnyBunny Biscuits Co – scratch-made biscuits, breakfast, and lunch Hurts Donut – donuts that break the rules Ponyboy – modern bar with music and dancing upstairs Syrup – impact-based brunch and breakfast boutique
shopping:
Craig’s Curious Emporium – unique and interesting finds
attractions & entertainment:
Tower Theatre – live music and movies in a restored 1937 theater 23rd Street Body Piercing – the original body and most notable body piercing and tattoo shop in OKC (and where I got my nose piercing) 3. Stockyards City
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“Located within historic Stockyards City, the Oklahoma National Stockyards is the largest stocker/feeder cattle market in the world. Check out the rush of an authentic (and free to attend) cattle auction every Monday and Tuesday, then explore other nearby iconic restaurants, shops, and attractions.” – VisitOKC.com
Stockyards City was one of my grandmother’s favorite places to take my brother and I as kids. When an outsider thinks of Oklahoma, this is possibly what they think of – cowboys, cattle, whiskey, and big juicy steaks.
food and drinks:
Cattlemen’s Steakhouse – oldest continually-operating restaurant in Oklahoma City, known for delicious steak, popular lamb fries and thick coconut cream pie McClintock Saloon & Chop House – old Western-esque saloon with plenty of whiskeys and upscale dining
shopping:
Joe’s Boots – cowboy boots galore Langston’s – all the western and cowboy clothing and accessories you’ll ever need Shorty’s Caboy Hattery – cowboy hats, including custom orders
attractions & entertainment:
Rodeo Opry – family-friendly country music entertainment 4. Plaza District
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“The Plaza District is home to galleries, studios, retail shops, restaurants, performance venues, and creative services. Choose from a variety of gourmet dining and drinking establishments and visit our retail shops featuring artist-made, vintage and retro clothing and home furnishings.” – PlazaDistrict.org
Of all of the OKC districts, I have spent the most time in the Plaza District. Why? Well, it helps that I have good friends who live in the district for one. Secondly, it’s a unique pocket of stellar restaurants, shopping, and art. In fact, The Plaza has outstanding, colorful murals throughout that warrant an annual festival (Plaza Fest) and brings in tourists from all over the country to see these unique murals in person. This small district is not so small when you see what it really offers.
food and drinks:
The Mule – hot melts and cold beer.
Indoor and outside seating along the busy 16th St of The Plaza.
Cheese curds (a must-get at The Mule) with ranch dressing and marinara dipping sauce. And a Moscow Mule, of course, because mule. Get The Mule’s menu.
Mexican Radio – tacos and cold drinks.
Outdoor patio with the most beautiful ceiling.
Dole Whip Margarita with a Fruity Pebbles rim – yum! Get Mexican Radio’s menu.
The Press – southwestern comfort food in a revamped old printing press building.
Chilaquiles: tortilla chips, red chili sauce, green chili sauce, jack cheese, avocado, over easy eggs with pork belly on top.
Full bar – this is a Tito’s and soda (my favorite drink) in a beautiful glass
Sweet Potato Fritters: sweet potato fritters tossed in cinnamon icing dusted with powdered sugar. Get The Press’ menu.
Aurora – stylish restaurant serving local foods made from scratch, craft coffee bar, and libations.
Get Aurora’s Menu.
Gorō Ramen – the BEST ramen in OKC*.
*according to me
Spicy Miso (my personal fav): rich chicken broth, roasted garlic miso, pork meatballs, corn, menma, ajitama, goma, negi.
Beautiful mural outside Gorō. See Gorō’s Menu.
Empire Slice House – huge slices of unique pizza with a “Frank Sinatra and David Bowie” hybrid decor Pie Junkie – each pie, whether flaky crust or graham cracker crusts are made from scratch Saint’s Bar & Lounge – Irish pub (keep in mind for St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, too) Roxy’s Ice Cream Social – cane sugar sodas, ice cream floats, ice cream cookie sandwiches, and classic ice cream flavors
shopping:
Out on a Limb Boutique – modern and boho-inspired clothing, jewelry, accessories, and home decor.
Dig It – unique and one of a kind art, jewelry, t-shirt designs, and vintage clothes. Also pinball, Pacman or Donkey Kong!
Tallulahlou – upscale clothing, accessories, and beauty products Bad Granny’s – vintage, retro, modern hip, and other curious goods
attractions and entertainment:
Plaza Walls – curated, rotating mural project in the Plaza District of Oklahoma City managed and produced by The Oklahoma Mural Syndicate (OMS).
Plaza District Festival – a collection of art, food, vendors, live entertainment, family-friendly activities, and updates on wall murals.
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For a small donation, I was able to write my name on the Plaza Walls with spray paint colors of my choosing. So cool!
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Check future Plaza District Festivals dates.
LIVE! on The Plaza – the Plaza District’s second Friday art walk. Each second Friday, Plaza District businesses stay open late with featured artists, live music, special events, local shopping and much more! See future dates on the calendar. DNA Galleries – an artist made retail shop and contemporary art gallery focusing on Oklahoma artists and artisans Lyric Theatre – nationally-recognized, Broadway-caliber theatre PhotoArt Studios – old Hollywood glamour, with an edgy urban feel of industrial studio chic, making it the perfect venue for many of OKC’s private parties, receptions, and corp events 5. Paseo Arts District
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“The Paseo is home to over 20 galleries and more than 80 vibrant artists all within walking distance of each other on the curved, two-block street that has maintained its Spanish revival architecture with its original stucco buildings and clay roof tiles. Intermixed with the galleries are restaurants, art schools, boutiques, and other businesses.” – ThePaseo.org
The Paseo is the tiniest of the districts, but there is no district like it in OKC. In the Paseo, you will feel like you are in a different state altogether, with its stucco buildings, art galleries, and music.
food and drinks:
Oso – tacos and baja tiki (a fusion of Mexican and Polynesian food and drinks).
Miami Vice with a banana dolphin – could it get any better?
Buttermilk – Buttermilk biscuits, buttermilk chicken, smoothie bowls, mimosas, Bloody Marys, and canned beers.
Hot Chicken: pickled mayo and shredded cabbage. Get the full Buttermilk menu.
FRIDA Southwest – American-Southwest dining Paseo Grill – American cuisine with an international flair Sauced on Paseo – pizza, pizza by the slice, appetizers, sketti night, great tap beers and fun specialty drinks
shopping:
Paseo Pottery – nationally published ceramic pottery Prairie Arts Collective – stained glass art, supplies and classes
attractions and entertainment:
The Art Hall – nontraditional, public gallery space Oklahoma Shakespeare in the Park – productions of Shakespeare and the classics PaseoArtWorks – eclectic collection of fine art 6. Midtown
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“Oklahoma City’s cozy Midtown community is located just north of the central business district in downtown OKC. It features shopping, restaurants, bars, housing, lodging, and many professional services. Midtown is known for its historic preservation, local and independent merchants, as well as diverse, welcoming neighbors.” – MidtownOKC.com
Ahhhh, we’re gotten to my favorite district – Midtown. This modern district houses the newest of OKC’s evolution with progressive coffee houses, boho shopping, farmer’s markets, and upscale dining. This is where Amy would like to live someday.
food and drinks:
Waffle Champion – amazing waffles, homemade desserts, breakfast cocktails, and craft sandwiches.
Cinnamon Roll Liege Waffle. See Waffle Champions’ full menu.
Great mural outside of Waffle Champion.
Hank’s Coffee – coffee shop with vintage charm.
Insomnia Cookies – warm, delicious cookies delivered until 3 am.
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↟↟ Tammilee and I had warm Insomnia Cookies delivered to our hotel room one evening!
Get the full Insomnia cookie menu.
The Collective – a collection of 11 kitchens (like a mall food court, but WAY cooler), huge bar, indoor and outdoor seating.
Oh Baby!, one of the kitchens in The Collective, serves both savory and sweet Dutch Babies.
Left: Strawberry Shortcake Dutch Baby || Right: Shakshuka Dutch Baby 🤤
O Bar – upscale bar boasting the best views of downtown so come for the ambiance on the top floor of The Ambassador Hotel.
You can also order delicious food from the bar, like this “Combo Board” with charcuterie & cheese with accouterments.
Cafe Cuvee – Approachable French food next door to The Ambassador Hotel.
Cafe Cuvee also provides room service for guests staying at The Ambassador. The Boeuf Bourguignon (shown above) is one of my personal favorites – Red Wine Braised Beef Short Rib. Served with Sautéed Vegetables, Braising Jus, and Horseradish Gremolata. Get the full menu.
Bleu Garten – a collection of food trucks, drinks and outdoor seating Cafe do Bazil – Brazilian cuisine that combines flavor, uniqueness, and comfort (Bossa Nova is on top of Cafe do Bazil with caipirinhas and Brazilian appetizers under the most beautiful Oklahoma City skyline) Elemental Coffee – coffee in its purest form GOGi GO! – Korean BBQ in a bowl The Hall’s Pizza Kitchen – wood fired pizza Kaiser’s Diner – authentic old-fashioned soda fountain and cafe
shopping:
Commonplace Books – a beautiful bookstore full of thoughtful selections.
Commonplace also has “The Kitchen at Commonplace” with delicious, fresh options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. See the full menu.
The Black Scintilla – novelty clothing, clothing and pet goodies Chirps & Cheers – greeting cards, custom invites, and office supplies mode – women’s boho fashion and accessories Twinkle Apothecary – natural body, skin, and hair care products made by one rock star single mom
attractions and entertainment:
Dustbowl Lanes – a retro-inspired tribute to the bowling alleys and lounges of the 1970s
hotels:
Ambassador Hotel – Located within the beautifully renovated Osler Building, Ambassador Hotel Oklahoma City, Autograph Collection embodies its 1920s boutique charm while providing a modern experience.
My all-time favorite OKC hotel, hands-down. Not only is this revamped historic hotel is modern and beautiful, but it’s smack dab in my favorite district – Midtown.
The Ambassador it sandwiched between Cafe Cuvee (room service is from Cafe Cuvee, too) and Waffle Champion, and to top it off, the O Bar is on the rooftop of the hotel. Within walking distance is Commonplace Books, Hank’s Coffee, mode, Twinkle Apothecary, and more.
7. City Center/Downtown
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“Marked by the skyscrapers that form Oklahoma City’s unique skyline, downtown is the center for business in OKC. Mixed in with the hustle and bustle are some of OKC’s top attractions, restaurants, and must-see museums.” – VisitOKC.com
City Center is where you will get a hybrid of the original roots of downtown OKC with its modern growth. You’ll see streetcars, buses, and all of the things a downtown environment has and more.
food and drinks:
Vast – fresh fare and cool cocktails, date-night dinners and leisure lunches on the top floor of the Devon Energy Tower.
Vast is located on the top floor of that there skyscraper (Devon Tower).
I had been to Vast for dinner before, but this was my first time enjoying their upscale buffet.
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The dessert selections themselves were lovely and worth the inexpensive $19.95 cost. Other selections on the buffet included freshly carved meats, salads, fresh bread, fruit, and grilled vegetables. And the views from Vast do not compare to any other restaurant in OKC. You can see the whole city, along with all 14 of the districts, from the top! Get the full Vast menu.
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You may also see a turkey vulture or peregrine falcon while you dine, as the staff told us they kinda like to perch on the building.
Kitchen 324 – seasonally inspired café, craft bakery, and coffee curator.
Modern farmhouse feels with fresh white walls and metal tables. I love the aesthetics of this place.
And then the food. THE FOOD. This SCRATCH BISCUIT WITH CHORIZO GRAVY was to die for! See Kitchen 324’s full menu.
Flint – upscale casual restaurant and lounge featuring contemporary American cuisine inside the Colcord Hotel.
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SXSW Benedict: Fried Green Tomatoes, Guacamole, Two Poached Eggs, Griddled English Muffin, Hollandaise. See the full breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner menu.
Mahogany Prime Steakhouse – the finest custom-aged U.S. Prime Midwestern Beef known for its excellence in marbling, texture, and flavor.
attractions and entertainment:
Scissortail Park – 70-acre public space created from funds generated by a penny sales tax.
During my OKC trip, Scissortail Park had its grand opening!
This downtown park has a children’s playground and water fountains, seasonal roller rink, dog park, picnic grove, restaurant, and performance stage with a great lawn. The grand opening was the first phase of many for Scissortail Park and I’m excited to see it develop!
Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum – a place to remember those who were killed, those who survived and those changed forever in the bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Building. Take a self-guided tour through the story of April 19, 1995, and the days, weeks, months and years that followed.
Like many Oklahomans, I remember the day of the Murrah bombing clearly. I was 20 years old and lived 10 miles south of the bombing site.
I heard the bomb. Since I lived near the airport, I chalked it up to a sonic boom. Weird, but plausible, but then the phone calls started coming in.
Although I have been to the Memorial many times over the years, I hadn’t been to the museum until my recent OKC trip. I was hesitant about reliving the trauma of the event, as I’m sure many locals are.
Here is what I took away after touring the museum:
it’s emotional, no doubt it’s one of the most thoughtful, impressive museums I have ever seen it reminded me how Oklahoma came together during the tragedy and the shift that took place (that is still taking place)
The respect I have for those who built this amazing tribute and archive of Oklahoma history is immense.
udander spa – modern full-service spa inspired by scandinavian simplicity.
I had a nice, long foot soak in a huge copper bowl full of natural herbs and warm water.
Oklahoma City Streetcar – The OKC Streetcar is a self-funded 4.8 mile modern streetcar system connecting the City’s central core with the EMBARK network. https://momspark.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/IMG_91882.mp4
Wheeler Ferris Wheel & OKC Sign at Wheeler Park – home to the historic Santa Monica Pier ferris wheel in OKC’s upcoming “Wheeler District.”
Photo heaven for OKC tourists and locals. Located south of City Center in the upcoming “Wheeler District,” but I’m plopping it into this section for the moment. Wheeler District is Oklahoma’s “next great neighborhood.”
Skydance Bridge – inspired by the state bird, the Scissor-tailed Flycatcher, this bridge expands over Interstate 40 and connects to Scissortail Park.
Myriad Botanical Gardens – an urban recreation wonderland, complete with a restaurant, interactive water features, a new children’s garden, dog release area, grand event lawn and more.
hotels:
Skirvin – 100 years of tradition, elegance, and luxury. This contemporary-classic hotel offers the finest in guest accommodations with 225 recently renovated rooms, upscale amenities, and 18,500 square feet of versatile meeting and event space.
The Skirvin has the most epic lobby of all the OKC hotels, with many of its early 1900 charm with modern finishes.
The Skirvin is where Tammilee spent most of our stay in OKC!
Colcord – When the Colcord Building was completed in 1910, at 12 stories, it was the first skyscraper in Oklahoma City. The original marble still adorns the columns and walls of the main lobby; the original nickel and bronze letterbox and elevator doors still shine; and the original ornamental plaster ceiling still crowns the space.
Stunning Colcord lobby.
Rooms are modern, yet classic.
Another lovely thing about the Colcord Hotel is that you can set coffee or tea to delivered to your room at any time that you set. That with a delicious french toast from Flint’s room service is pretty much perfection.
8. Boathouse District
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“Whether you want to train like an Olympian or just have some fun, the Boathouse District along the Oklahoma River is a hotspot for outdoor recreation. Located within walking distance of the Bricktown Entertainment District, it’s the official U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Site for rowing and canoe/kayak and hosts numerous regattas throughout the year.” – VisitOKC.com
attractions and entertainment:
Riversport Rapids & Adventures – Enjoy whitewater rafting and tubing at RIVERSPORT Rapids. Reach for the sky on the 80-foot SandRidge Sky Trail, then zip 700 feet across the Oklahoma River. Zoom down one of four Sky Slides, step off the six-story Rumble Drop free-fall, then get on the water in a kayak or stand up paddleboard, all in the Boathouse District downtown on the Oklahoma River. You’ll also find a youth zone, 13+ miles of trails for running or cycling, mountain bike trails and pump tracks.
This was my first-time river rafting EVER, so I had no idea what to expect.
I quickly found out that you have to lodge your feet into the raft to ensure you stay inside the raft – ha!
The waves were much bigger than I expected they would be, but I have to say…it was a whole lotta fun!
We definitely got VERY WET, so be prepared for that.
THE VERDICT: We did not fall out of the raft! And it was a whole lotta fun.
Oklahoma River Cruises – Oklahoma River Cruises offers public transportation along the 7 mile stretch of the Oklahoma River. Each vessel can accommodate up to 35 guests and has an air-conditioned cabin. In addition to comfortable seating, cocktail tables, and viewing decks, each vessel has onboard restrooms and bar/concessions area. 9. Arts District & Film Row
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“Equal parts historic and revitalized, the Arts District, including Film Row, was once home to the film distribution offices for Hollywood’s major studios. It’s now home to a mix of artistic businesses, locally-owned restaurants and more.” – VisitOKC.com
I was so thrilled to explore the Arts District (and Film Row) a bit during my trip because it’s been on my to-visit list for some time now. It did not disappoint!
food and drinks:
Jones Assembly – refined regional cuisine with a concert venue, full bar, and hip vibe.
Dagwood Dixie: The Jones Assembly’s take on an Old Fashioned – roasted pecan infused George Dickel rye, laird’s applejack, simple syrup, hella orange bitters, Jerry Thomas’ own decanter bitters.
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Jones Assembly makes the best wood-fired pizzas. Seriously. This one, in particular, is called the “Hot Rod” which includes habanero pork sausage, pepperoni, mozzarella, caramelized onions, fresno, jalapeño, spicy chicharrones, hot honey WITH PORK RINDS ON TOP. It was seriously one of the best pizzas that I’ve ever had in my life!
Get the full Jones Assembly menu.
Cafe Disco– a little shop specializing in French macarons and specialty coffee.
See the full flavor menu.
Stitch – neighborhood cafe with coffee, cocktails and food from morning to night Iguana Grill – authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex food made from scratch Flashback Pub – over 90 arcade games from the ’80s and ’90s, along with Nintendo NES, Super Nintendo, Sega, and N64 gaming consoles. The best part is all the games are always set on FREE PLAY! And what better to go with those games than a selection of over 100 craft beers from local and regional breweries, along with Signature Cocktails inspired by your favorite ’80s icons Mary Eddy’s Kitchen X Lounge – old and eclectic take on New American cuisine, in an art-filled, communal setting that honors the building’s industrial roots located in the 21c Museum Hotel
attractions and entertainment:
The Oklahoma Museum of Art (OKCMOA) – is the namesake visual arts organization of Oklahoma City. The Museum’s 110,000 square foot facility, constructed in 2002, is located in the heart of downtown and is an anchor for a growing cultural district of the greater metropolitan area.
The OKCMOA houses some of the most beautiful Dale Chihuly work that I have ever seen. It was a treat to see these displays of brilliant color!
Get tickets for DALE CHIHULY: Magic & Light.
Musical Swings – combining motion with melody through a unique art project that will travel through downtown OKC this Fall. The swings will be open to the public from Sept. 20 through Oct. 13, offering free access to family fun in music and play. https://momspark.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/IMG_91942.mp4
Bicentennial Park – breathtaking views of Downtown Oklahoma City. Located in front of the Civic Center, your event will have a fantastic 360 degree backdrop. Bicentennial Park boasts a performance stage, colorful fountain and a grand lawn Civic Center Music Hall – offering the best of ballet, theatre, Broadway, chorus and orchestra
hotels:
21c Museum Hotel – 21c Museum Hotel Oklahoma City is a contemporary art museum, a 135-room boutique hotel with spacious guest rooms reminiscent of a loft apartment in New York’s Soho neighborhood, a cultural civic center and the home of Mary Eddy’s Kitchen x Lounge 10. Asian District
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“Oklahoma City’s foodie scene is alive and well in the Asian District, where an influx of Vietnamese immigrants in the 1970s created a hub now known for its Asian fusion cuisine. Here you will find some of the best Asian restaurants in OKC, including authentic Vietnamese food that rivals any found this side of the Pacific.” – VisitOKC.com
Fun fact: I lived in the Asian District in my early 20s. Oh, the food, my friends. You will not find better Asian fare and markets than the this district.
food and drinks:
Cafe Kacao – authentic Guatemalan cuisine Lido – Vietnamese, Chinese & French cuisine (long-time favorite of mine) Pho Lien Hoa – pho and other Vietnamese dishes Red Cup – vegetarian and vegan menu with delicious coffee and hippie atmosphere TAJ – delicious Indian and Chinese food
shopping:
Rooted Barber Shop – inclusive barber + shop and community space
attractions and entertainment:
The Milk Bottle Building – 1930’s triangular building with an iconic “Braum’s” milk bottle structure on top 11. Adventure District
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“In this case, the name says it all – this district is full of adventure for the whole family.” – VisitOKC.com
The Adventure District is where you will find fun family-friendly activities, but plenty for adults-only, too.
food and drinks:
Bricktown Brewery – located inside Remington Park offering craft and local beers, as well as elevated comfort food.
Grilled cheese + pickles + bacon sandwich with a side of creamy tomato soup to dip it in!
Bricktown Brewery also has an amazing view of the race track while you drink and eat! See Bricktown Brewery’s locations and full menu.
attractions and entertainment:
Remington Park – 24/7 simulcast and live horse racing with exciting casino play, too. Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Gardens – Oklahoma’s largest and most popular cultural attraction, invites you to discover the wonders of wildlife and wild places. Enjoy world-class habitats including Great EscApe, Cat Forest/Lion Overlook, Oklahoma Trails and Sanctuary Asia where you will find the amazing animals of the Asian continent.
During our visit, I was fortunate enough to participate in the Elephants Wild Encournters, which allowed us to get up close and personal with the zoo elephants, including petting a young elephant!
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It was truly a magical experience. I recommend taking advantage of the Wild Encounters during your visit to the zoo. Learn more and get tickets here.
National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum – collects, preserves and exhibits an internationally renowned collection of Western art and artifacts while sponsoring dynamic educational programs to promote interest in the enduring legacy of the American West.
The Native American art and statues always blow me away at this museum. Simply beautiful.
Yes, I did wear cowboy boots during our museum tour. 🤠
Science Museum – formerly called the “Omniplex,” the Science Museum has eight acres of hands-on science experiences with thousands of space, aviation and cultural artifacts in the mix (and my son’s all-time favorite place in Oklahoma) Cinemark Tinseltown USA – affordable movie cinema with stadium seating, Cinemark XD, an arcade and birthday party rooms for special occasions 12. Deep Deuce
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“Deep Deuce is recapturing its glory days as a vibrant urban neighborhood. Today, Deep Deuce is a popular urban housing attraction and has several neighborhood hangouts.” – VisitOKC.com
food and drinks:
Anchor Down – craft drinks and gourmet corn dogs locateed inside shipping containers Deep Deuce Grill – American bar and grill with burgers, sandwiches, steaks, and Asian fare Leaf + Bean – good coffee, peoples, and vibes The Wedge Pizzeria – wood-fired pizzeria Wheeze the Juice – local, raw, handcrafted juice and smoothie bar located inside shipping containers
attractions and entertainment:
Artspace by Untitled – rotating art exhibits and creative workshops
hotels:
Aloft – classic convenience seamlessly merged with innovative, modern design.
Want an incredible view of the city? Book a suite at the Aloft.
13. Bricktown
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“Just a short walk from downtown hotels, event venues and attractions, this former warehouse district is filled with restaurants, nightlife and entertainment options.” – VisitOKC.com
Bricktown is what you would expect with the name “Bricktown.” Brick streets, urban feels, breweries galore, obscure murals, and a ton of things to do.
food and drinks:
Mickey Mantels – most extensive Wagyu selection of any local prime steakhouse in the metro, located on the Bricktown Canal.
HINT: get a steak there. 🥩
Anthem – OK craft brews with tour available COOP – quality people + quality beer The Mantel Wine Bar & Bistro – award-winning fine dining with seafood, steaks, and American fare Pinkitzel – gourmet cupcakes with the pinkest decor you’ll ever see
shopping:
Jumpin Jackalope – Oklahoma-inspired apparel, food, candy, and goods Painted Door – Oklahoma products, jewelry, home decor and furnishings, candles and more
attractions and entertainment:
Bricktown Canal – see Bricktown from a unique point of the view via a water taxi (2019 marked 20 years of showing tourists and locals alike the sights and sounds of Bricktown from a unique perspective, floating down the Bricktown Canal).
Brickopolis – family-friendly miniature golf, laser tag, arcade games and food Chesapeake Energy Center – big concert venue and home to OKC Thunder Basketball Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark – OKC Dodgers Baseball and event park HeyDay Entertainment – bar, lounge, bowling lanes, and arcade for all ages
hotels:
AC Hotel – sleek and trendy hotel with modern rooms, full bar in the lobby, and lavender sachets to help you sleep at night (true, ask about it) 14. Automobile Alley
“Diverse opportunities possibilities for anyone taking the road less traveled.” – AutomobileAllery.org
Automobile Alley is where some serious magic happens. Like, amazing shopping, food, and experiences.
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food and drinks:
Coffee Slingers – on-site roasted coffee Cultivar Mexican Kitchen – craft tacos, burritos, salads, and cocktails Eôté Coffee Shop – great conversations over great coffee Hatch – next level breakfast Kamps 1910 Cafe – delicious sandwiches and baked goods since 1910 Sidecar Barley & Wine Bar -neighborhood bar with a sliding garage door that welcomes outdoor seating
shopping:
OKcollective Candle Co. – women-owned and operated handmade soy candles. https://momspark.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Okcollective-Candle-Co.mp4
This is my favorite candle company in all the land and if you follow me on Instagram, you have already seen me share my love for these candles before.
Favorite scent: After the Storm (also a Mumford and Sons song, but who is counting, oh me).
Oklahoma Shirt Company – Oklahomies making shirts.
Oklahoma Shirt Company has this really cool “Shirt of the Month” subscription for $12/month, which I (of course) subscribe to. Soft fabrics, modern designs.
Cargo Room – mobile fashion boutique run out of a cargo trailer Perch’d – thoughtfully-sourced modern furniture, accessories, and goods Plenty Mercantile – sustainability and hospitality-minded goods and gatherings
attractions and entertainment:
Factory Obscura – art collective creating immersive experiences.
I know a description like “immersive experience” may sound a little odd but stick with me. This place is INCREDIBLE.
“Mix Tape” is the current Factory Obscura experience, which is a “20th-century take on the classic audio autobiography.”
There is something unusual and weird everywhere you look, as you can tell by the above photo. I was IN AWE.
If you ever wanted to dive into Wayne Coyne’s (Flaming Lips, OK native) brain, this is the attraction is for you.
Kids and adults alike are drawn into this 6000-square foot creative experience. Get the current exhibit info here.
OKC Energy FC Soccer – USL Championship League soccer
Get even more info, tips, and recommendation for OKC by visiting VisitOKC.com!
My trip was hosted by Visit OKC. Thoughts are my own.
IMG_99082.mp4 (3.0MB)
#Travel #Family #Okc #OKC #Oklahoma
