Key Takeaways
- Unique landmarks define Oklahoma City’s character: The Oklahoma State Capitol stands out globally for being surrounded by active oil wells and showcasing art, history, and memorials that reflect the state’s heritage.
- Strong celebration of Western culture: The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum offers immersive, family-friendly experiences that highlight Oklahoma’s Western roots and cultural identity.
- High quality of life through diverse attractions: Oklahoma City provides a wide range of cultural, historical, and recreational activities that foster a strong sense of community.
- Positive outlook for real estate investors: The city’s amenities and attractions support long-term residency, leading to a strong rental market, consistent occupancy, and solid appreciation potential.
Oklahoma City is a vibrant city that blends natural charm with modernity, making it an appealing place for both residents and visitors. Its unique character comes from its mix of modern development, a rich and diverse culture, and the most scenic surroundings.
This creates an environment where individuals can enjoy a fulfilling lifestyle without feeling overwhelmed by the pace of a larger metropolitan area.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Oklahoma City offers a wide variety of activities that keep life engaging and dynamic. Whether you're seeking entertainment, relaxation, or simply a change of scenery, the city provides plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy. If you’re planning to visit or rent out a house in this beautiful city, you can rest assured you won’t get bored.
Want to learn more? Then keep reading! In this article, the Oklahoma Red Door Management team will go over the best things to do in OKC. Let’s dive in!
1. Oklahoma City Zoo
If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity in OKC, you should consider visiting the local zoo! The Oklahoma City Zoo is one of the biggest in the nation, with over 2,000 animals, more than 500 species, and extensive botanical gardens over 130 acres.
In addition to connecting with nature, you can partake in immersive activities, like getting up close to bears, tortoises, or elephants with the zoo’s “wild encounters,” or drive around the lit-up exhibits during the traditional wintertime “Safari Lights.”
The best part? It’s a budget-friendly activity! Admission is free for children under two. Tickets are $17 for children under 12 and senior citizens, and $20 for everyone else. So, if you’re looking for something fun to do that won’t break the bank, this is it!
2. Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
The state of Oklahoma is home to more than 500 museums, and a good chunk of those live in OKC alone! Ideally, you should try to visit all of them, but if you’re only visiting for a short trip, then the one you cannot miss is the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum.
This beautiful memorial site honors the victims, survivors, rescuers, and all who were affected by the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995. With interactive and powerful pictures and videos, this museum is a testament to the city’s strength and its community’s perseverance.
3. Myriad Botanical Gardens
If you’re a die-hard botanist or simply someone who enjoys spending time outdoors, you should visit the Myrian Botanical Gardens. With 15 acres of outdoor spaces, it’s the perfect place to connect with nature. It has something for everyone, from beautiful ornamental gardens with over 750 different plants and a peaceful lake to a playground, splash fountains, and an off-leash dog park. And the best part? It’s in the heart of downtown OKC!
Moreover, this is a 2-for-1 kind of deal. After making your way through the botanical gardens, you’ll get to the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory, a breathtaking bridge that gives you a full panoramic view of the gardens.
4. Wheeler District Ferris Wheel
There’s no better way to see Oklahoma City than from above! You can get a panoramic view of the city by riding on the famous ferris wheel in the Wheeler District. Before its adoption in 2008, this very same wheel used to be on Pacific Park on the famous Santa Monica Pier!
After this one-of-a-kind ride, you can then spend a day exploring Wheeler District. Known for its walkable and lively streets, you’ll be able to take a social media-worthy picture in front of the iconic OKC block letters, play lawn games, find cute shops, try unique restaurants, or walk along the Oklahoma River!
5. Bricktown
If you’re looking for something fun to do in downtown OKC, then you should walk to Bricktown. What was once an area filled with warehouses is not a lively entertainment district with ample things to do.
You can find cute restaurants, chic bars, live music venues, mini golf, and even a baseball stadium! Additionally, you can take a 40-minute ride through the canal by riding the Bricktown Water Taxi. This is a perfect way to learn more about Oklahoma City’s unique history.
6. Riversport Adventures
If you’re into extreme sports, you can get your pick of activities at Riversport Adventures. Located in the OKC Boathouse District, right by the Oklahoma River, this adventure activity center has a wide array of activities to choose from. This includes whitewater rafting or tubing, kayaking, surfing, skiing, mountain biking, rock climbing, and even esports activities.
7. Oklahoma State Capitol
You can’t truly say you’ve visited OKC without stopping by the Oklahoma State Capitol, a landmark unlike any other in the world. It’s the only capital building surrounded by active, working oil wells, creating a striking blend of history, industry, and architecture.
Designed in Greco-Roman style, the building features 650 rooms filled with murals, restored stained glass, a tribal flag plaza, and rotating art exhibits that showcase the state’s rich cultural heritage. Just north of the complex sits the Oklahoma Veterans Memorial, honoring service members with four engraved walls representing major 20th-century wars.
8. National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum
Oklahoma is well-known for its western heritage. If you want to learn more about this part of Oklahoma’s history, then you have to visit the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum.
It’s one of the best places in the nation to learn about Western history and culture. With seasonal exhibits, immersive experiences, live performances, and kid-friendly activities, it’s perfect for everyone!
Bottom Line
Oklahoma City is a lively area with a strong community feel and so many things to do. Its ample amenities and activities support the city’s high quality of life and ensure residents always have something engaging to enjoy.
This variety of activities also enhances the city’s real estate potential, as areas with plentiful recreational options tend to attract more long-term residents throughout the year. For investors, this means a stronger rental market, consistent occupancy, and greater appreciation potential. If you’d like to invest in Oklahoma real estate, contact Oklahoma Red Door Management! We'll help fulfill all your property management needs, from pricing to maintenance!