Have family and friends visiting from out of town and need ways to entertain them in your neck of the woods? Use this list for inspiration!
9000 E. Second, Arcadia
405-216-7470
Why we love it: If the weather cooperates, load up the crew and explore some natural beauty with your company. Arcadia Lake, situated on the scenic Deep Fork River, is a great choice. The trails at the lake traverse 13 miles of beautiful landscape. Close proximity to Oklahoma City and Edmond makes it ideal for a quick hike or an afternoon of fishing. If you are lucky, you might catch a glimpse of a bald eagle as they start arriving each year in late November and nest throughout the winter months. Plus, it never hurts to work off some of the treats with a walk in the great outdoors.
725 S. Lincoln Blvd.
405-552-4040
Why we love it: Breathtaking views and stellar attractions make this a wonderful place to take visitors. It’s home to RIVERSPORT Adventures, a grand obstacle course complete with climbing walls, zip lines and an impressive slide, and RIVERSPORT Rapids, a white-water rafting center. Buy an adventure pass and climb to the top of the course as a family, or simply visit the area to take advantage of the free playground and the beautiful views of the Oklahoma River and downtown skyline. Seasonal activities including skiing, surfing, skating and more.
25 NW 9th St
Why we love it: While sophisticated art galleries might feel off-limits for families, Factory Obscura welcomes visitors of all ages to explore an immersive art experience with touchable art that encourages exploration and imagination. If you really love your guests, be sure to take them next door to enjoy a sweet treat at Katiebug’s Sips & Sweets (7 NW 9th St).
659 First Americans Blvd
405-594-2100
Why we love it: The much-anticipated First Americans Museum invites visitors to learn about the shared history of the 39 tribal nations in Oklahoma today. Utilizing art, architecture, first-person narratives, food and multi-media experiences, the 40-acre complex guides families through the cultural diversity, authentic history and contributions of First Americans. Most of the museum grounds are free to access including the FAM Theater, 39, the museum’s restaurant that serves Native-inspired dishes and Indigenous ingredients and the museum store that carries authentic Native-made items.
The large mound that wraps around the back of the museum pays tribute to the mound-builder civilizations who lived in Oklahoma dating back to around 500 A.D. Visitors can walk to the top of the mound to see beautiful views of downtown.
301 W Reno
405-445-7080
Why we love it: The Myriad Botanical Gardens is a 15-acre natural escape in downtown Oklahoma City that offers endless reasons to visit. Enjoy seasonal activities and events such as spring bulb displays, concerts and movies, classes, annual children’s festivals, and more. The Gardens also include ornamental gardens, an outdoor ice rink in the winter, water features, off-leash dog park, classic carousel, and a children’s garden and playground with adaptive equipment.
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
1700 NE 63rd St.
405-478-2250
Why we love it: Well-known for its extensive collection of Western art and artifacts, The Cowboy brings the legacy of the American West to life! Popular with families of all ages, Prosperity Junction is a replica turn-of-the-twentieth-century cattle town. Walk through a railroad depot, one-room schoolhouse, sheriff’s office and more, lining a main street. Then, head outside to explore t Liichokoshkomo, the museum’s outdoor play space. Grind corn, load a pioneer wagon and explore native structures including a Puebloan cliff dwelling, Kiowa tipi and a Chickasaw council house.
Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum
620 N Harvey
(405) 235-3313
Why we love it: Honoring the remembered, survivors and those changed forever from the Oklahoma City bombing, The Outdoor Symbolic Memorial is a place of quiet reflection. The museum is a thoughtful display of interactive exhibits and video presentations that tell the story of one of the nation’s most tragic events in history. The narrative leaves you with a message of hope and survival and community coming together.
11 NW 11th St
405-951-0000
Why we love it: Oklahoma Contemporary houses internationally relevant exhibitions, live performances, art experiences and special events, most of which are free. With indoor galleries and outdoor art spaces, there is always something new to see. On the second Saturday of each month, the museum invites families for an afternoon of family-focused art talks, hands-on art-making and themed activities that highlight the art and artists on display.
Skeletons: Museum of Osteology
10301 S. Sunnylane Rd.
405-814-0006
Why we love it: The metro area is packed with award-winning museums, but your guests will be hard-pressed to find a museum like this one anywhere outside Oklahoma City. The Museum of Osteology is home to more than 300 skeletons and 400 skulls, making it an awe-inspiring destination for out-of-towners.
NW 10th & Harvey Ave
405-609-2333
Why we love it: Food halls are a growing trend and The Collective OKC was the first to open in the metro. Variety is the hallmark of a food hall and that is exactly what makes The Collective a great match for out-of-town guests. Choose food from a selection of eleven kitchens serving up unique dishes and enjoy your meal indoors or outdoors on their dog-friendly patio. The Collective also has a rooftop patio offering beautiful views of downtown.
7650 W Reno Ave
405-7261022
Why we love it: Escape games are a fun, challenging option for family friendly entertainment. All Escape games include puzzles and games that make your team think and work together to escape or complete a larger goal. The technology and period appropriate props set The Sanctuary apart for a truly immersive experience.
1701 S Western Ave
405-655-8455
Why we love it: Is there a better way to introduce your guests to OKC than with incredible downtown views from atop the Wheeler Ferris Wheel and the insta-worthy pics snapped in front of the iconic OKC? Not many others come to mind! The Wheeler District offers a relaxed hangout space with hammocks, yard games and picnic spaces.
“Beautiful building and grounds. Exhibitions are interesting, thought provoking, and educational, especially with the more difficult topics. Well done!” – Heather, First Americans Museum
“Go, just go. Very powerful and a must-see experience. Very beautiful place and does a fantastic job of explaining the events.” – Jim, Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum
For even more ideas to entertain your guest, check out this list of the 20 most iconic OKC attractions.
