June 25, 2019
Only 3.5 hours from Dallas, Texas, I’m always surprised at how a trip to Oklahoma City is closer than a trip to San Antonio and about the same as a trip to Austin or Houston. On top of that, there are so many incredibly fun things to do in Oklahoma City, from urban whitewater rafting to sleeping in a Conestoga wagon, experiencing a Scandinavian spa, and more. Keep reading to see all of the unique things to do in Oklahoma City!
No, you don’t have to drive far outside of OKC for this adventure activity. Oklahoma City actually has a man-made whitewater rafting center at Oklahoma River Sports right in their city, which is the only of its kind. As someone who has never gone whitewater rafting and was nervous, I felt so much safer learning in a controlled environment. Even regulars will have fun, as my husband, who has gone before, had a blast learning to surf the rapids and more.
Oklahoma River Sports is also introducing alpine skiing and snowboarding to Oklahoma City through a new indoor slope, Ski OKC. This is ideal for individuals looking to build confidence before venturing onto outdoor slopes and offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional skiing.
Additionally, it provides a fantastic workout opportunity for enthusiasts.
Escape to the tropics at Myriad Gardens. This domed tropical oasis is filled with color, and I loved learning about the cinnamon trees, palm oil plants, and more. The highlight? The Crystal Bridge – a tropical paradise with palm trees, breathtaking waterfalls, and singing birds! It felt like stepping into another world.
Explore beautiful gardens, a fun children’s area, Shakespeare in the park, and even a splash pad to cool off. Myriad Gardens: nature, beauty, and unexpected surprises all in the heart of Oklahoma City.
This indoor botanical garden is beautiful anytime of the year. Even during the cold winter months when the trees are bare, the atmosphere remains warm and vibrant. In late winter (February-March), they host an orchid exhibit to add even more color to the experience.
What is a vacation without a little relaxation? Indulge in a Scandinavian spa at Udander with the Finnish dry sauna, Eucalyptus steam room, and soaking tubs.
In addition to getting to ride the Wheeler Ferris Wheel, the beautiful space is lined with hammocks for relaxing and people come out to enjoy an evening there. I could have easily dozed off in a peaceful nap with the clouds rolling by. It’s a perfect spot for a picnic.
People also brought out footballs, soccer balls, and other games for so much fun.
Sometimes traveling is more than just experiencing amazing things. It’s also about respecting and remembering. In 1995, Oklahoma City experienced a devastating domestic terrorist attack at the Federal Building. Walking through the interactive exhibits, you enter into the pain that the city suffered and how they came together as a community to rise from the pain stronger than ever.
The OKC National Memorial & Museum is a must to understand the city and a chance to pay your respects to the lives that were affected.
Bricktown is like a city of its own, filled with restaurants, nightlife, beautiful boutiques, and plenty of things to do. It’s surrounded by water, so the best way to experience it is by water taxi! They run every 1/2 hour and can take you to all parts of Bricktown. Tickets are all day long, and they share fun facts along the way.
Fun fact: Every 3-5 years they empty the river to clean it out. The most-found item? High Heels! After a long night of dancing, I guess ladies get tired of wearing those heels (not that I blame them) and they end up at the bottom of the river.
Turns out you can find a beach in Bricktown! Sure it’s missing the water, but it’s perfect for volleyball games!
Get some shopping done at Painted Door Boutique! This place is like the Neiman Marcus of OKC with the beautiful outdoor displays and a little bit of everything! It’s the cutest place to stop by with everything from beautiful fashion finds, OKC themed items (towels, jewelry, etc.), fun gifts, and more.
I love getting to check out local businesses and supporting small business owners.
Plaza District is another beautiful artsy district found in Oklahoma City. The walls are covered in art work and it’s a great place to check out galleries, grab lunch, and go thrift shopping.
If you love retro or unique finds, Plaza District is like a thrift paradise! Admittedly, I typically stay away from thrift shops because they’re either over-priced or you have to do a little too much digging. However, the gift shop at Plaza District is carefully curated and reasonably priced. It might be the perfect place to start your thrift addiction!
DNA Galleries is another must stop shop in the Plaza District! Half boutique/ half art gallery, it’s such a unique place to walk through.
There are always unique events to check out in OKC on the weekend. With a large Native American presence, we had the pleasure of visiting the Red Earth Festival in June with local artwork, powwows, and more. Missing this event?
Check out the Visit OKC calendar for more fun events.
I’ve stayed in a tipi, but a wagon is a whole new experience! At Orr Family Farm you can sleep in these glamorous wagons equipped with AC, a mini fridge, and all the luxuries you need for a unique and comfortable experience.
In addition to getting to sleep in a Conestoga wagon, the Orr Family Farm is a park filled with cool activities and those who stay the night get to explore the park when it’s closed! You can read all about this unique OKC glamping experience and the Orr Family Farm park.
21C Hotels in OKC was by far one of the coolest hotels I’ve stayed in. It operates as an art museum and as a hotel. The bottom floor is accessible by everyone and is a regularly rotating gallery. However, there’s even more to see on the upper floors, and the rooms themselves are gorgeous with high windows for plenty of natural light and a unique architectural design.
Read all about 21C and the mystery behind the purple penguins.
The flavors in OKC are intense! I was not prepared for how much of a foodie town OKC was, but every neighborhood has its own flavor from the oldest craft brewery in Oklahoma in Bricktown to colorful vegan finds, a famous Guatemalan restaurant and more!
Read all about the best places to eat in Oklahoma City this weekend!
Oklahoma City’s Stockyards City is a full-on Western adventure! I felt like I walked into a movie set. Langston’s Western Wear and Shorty’s Caboy Hattery had me suited up in national cowboy style, followed by a delicious ribeye at Cattlemen’s Steakhouse. Exploring the Oklahoma National Stockyards offered a glimpse into Oklahoma’s ranching past, while the street performers added a touch of unexpected fun.
A mouthwatering BBQ and toe-tapping live music at The Oklahoma Opry and the coffee shop completed the perfect Western experience. This weekend, head to Stockyards City for cowboy clothes, a western history lesson, delicious food, country fun, and unique finds!
Found this cool plant shop, Plant People Shop, in Midtown Oklahoma City. Packed with all kinds of plants, from tiny succulents to big leafy things. There were fun pots too, and even art with a planty vibe. The people working there were super nice and helped me pick the perfect plant for my home. This place is worth a visit for the nature lovers.
Walked into the City and Stars boutique and it was like a mini beach vacation! Flowy dresses, breezy pants – everything had that perfect “coastal escape” feel. I bought a cute cover-up for my trip, and they even have adorable sun hats. They have everyday clothes too, all with a relaxed vibe.
This weekend, go to the City and Stars for a touch of coastal style in Oklahoma City!
Staycation time! I treated myself to a luxurious stay at The National, Autograph Collection in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City. The chic lobby felt modern and stylish, and my room – so cozy! Seriously comfy bed, huge bathroom, and floor-to-ceiling windows with stunning city views. The best part? The hotel’s rooftop pool.
Sipping cocktails under the Oklahoma sky with those city lights twinkling below was a pure bliss. They even have a spa for an ultimate relaxation. This weekend, book a stay at The National! It’s the popular spot for a getaway, offering modern luxury, stunning views, and a rooftop pool that’s pure magic.
Oklahoma City far exceeded my expectations! It serves as a great spot to enjoy girls weekend (Bachelorette party anyone?), family trip, or romantic getaway! Kayak down rapids at Riversport or soar on the Wheeler Ferris Wheel for breathtaking cityscapes. Immerse yourself in the Myriad Botanical Gardens’ calming beauty or soak up the sun by The National’s rooftop pool (luxury hotel with a sky-high oasis, wink wink). Discover a quirky plant friend at Plant People Shop or unearth a cool souvenir at Stockyards City.
The city is full of fun places and color, and I can’t wait to come back!
Planning a future trip? Pin these images so you can come back to this guide when you are ready to plan.
Hi, I'm Jessica! I'm a Texas-based travel creator blending colorful style with local eats, nature escapes, weekends, road trips, and practical tips to help you make the most of where you live.
More About MeLast Updated 2 weeks ago ago by Jessica Serna | Published: June 25, 2019
