Your guide to Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City highlights
Cattle country
You’ll discover on your trip that Oklahoma City’s agricultural roots are not a thing of the past. Historic Stockyards City, where thousands of cattle are auctioned weekly, houses Western-wear shops, a famed steakhouse and a saloon with a 15-metre-long wooden bar. Put it in context at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, home to a world-renowned collection of Western art and artefacts.
One place, many nations
The First Americans Museum is one of Oklahoma City’s most vital new additions. The museum’s wealth of historical artefacts and modern artworks by Indigenous artists chronicle the history and culture of 39 First American nations in modern Oklahoma. Don’t skip the Thirty Nine Restaurant, whose menu honours Indigenous flavours and culinary traditions, or the FAM store, which is stocked with goods designed by First American artists.
Where to stay
Downtown Oklahoma City rubs elbows with Bricktown. Staying in either of these neighbourhoods will put you in close proximity to restaurants and nightlife, as well as the city’s convenient street car. For a more bohemian vibe, look for rooms in the Paseo Arts District, where the streets are lined with galleries.
Oklahoma City: Know before you go
| Language | English |
|---|---|
| Currency | United States dollar ($) |
| Time zone | UTC-6 (CST) and UTC-5 (CDT) |
| High season | June - August |
| Low season | January - February |
Things to do in Oklahoma City
Take in the culture
Oklahoma City’s museums range from traditional to highly specific. Get your fill of classic and cutting-edge works at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art and the Oklahoma Contemporary Art Center. Visit the Museum of Osteology to see hundreds of skeletons, from rhinos to whales. Or dig deep into niche subjects at the American Banjo Museum or Porcelain Art Museum.
Places to eat
Oklahoma City’s culture is closely tied to agriculture, and that shows in the food scene. You’ll find a farm-to-table ethos at many restaurants, both casual and upscale, plus meat-driven menus serving steak, burgers and fried chicken done right. The city also pops with international cuisine from all corners of the globe — it’s especially famous for its Vietnamese food.
Nightlife
Oklahoma City knows how to kick up its heels. The vibrant Bricktown neighbourhood is packed with restaurants, bars and entertainment venues. Get the lay of the land via water taxis on the Bricktown Canal. Head to the Paseo Arts District to dabble in immersive experiences, or dance your feet off at art collective Factory Obscura.
