While it’s definitely a more under-the-radar tourist destination compared to many other cities in the South, Oklahoma City is worth more than a quick stopover.
With a rapidly-growing population, a combination of modern shops, restaurants, and breweries finding new life in the city’s old industrial districts, and a surprising number of ways to enjoy The Great Outdoors, you’ll find no shortage of cool things to do in OKC.
Best Time to Visit Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City has a fairly mild climate, so it’s always a good time to visit. The winters aren’t super cold and while summers get hot, it usually isn’t miserable. Still, spring and fall are the most popular times to visit due to more predictable and pleasant weather.
Of course, a major concern when visiting OKC is tornadoes. Tornado season officially runs from April through June, but May and June are the peak months — more reason to visit in spring or fall! The fall and spring months also tend to be when most festivals and special events are held, as well as other cool things to do in OKC.
Cool Things to do in OKC
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
At a glance: The country’s biggest museum dedicated to cowboy and Western heritage, with more than 28,000 Western & Native American artifacts.
If you’re a history buff or fan of Western culture, you’ll find this among the best cool things to do in OKC. This museum has an extensive collection of artifacts that tell the story of the American West and how it was won.
The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum encompasses everything from the iconic cowboys of the Wild West and ancient Native American art and artifacts, to the country’s largest collection of rodeo photographs, trophies, memorabilia, and equipment.
Catch an OKC Thunder basketball game
At a glance: Catch an NBA game alongside some of the most passionate fans in the country.
The OKC Thunder fanbase really blossomed when the team moved from Seattle in 2008 and it’s never stopped growing. Being the only professional sports franchise in the entire state, Thunder fans are very passionate about cheering on their home team!
Going to the arena for a Thunder game is one of the coolest things to do in OKC. There’s really nothing quite like that fiercely competitive and spirited atmosphere!
Even if you can’t catch the game in person, head to one of the several local bars or restaurants that regularly show home games. The next-best thing to being at Paycom Center is enjoying a cold one alongside locals cheering on the Thunder!
Visit Orr Family Farm
At a glance: Experience glamping with a Western twist or enjoy a day at the farm with more than 20 family-friendly activities — right in town.
Orr Family Farm is a fantastic place to take kids (and kids at heart!) to burn off some energy and enjoy wholesome, fun, family-friendly farm activities. Think pony rides, a petting zoo, free play areas, mini-train rides, a ropes course, and a zip line. In the fall, you can also take a hay ride or pick your own pumpkin from the patch.
Whether you’re planning to take part in the farm activities or just looking for a unique getaway in the city, Orr Family Farm also offers glamping experiences. Choose from authentic Lakota-style teepees or Western Conestoga wagons, both of which come with comfy beds, A/C, and heat. Each unit also has a dedicated restroom with a shower, so there’s not much “roughing it!”
Free Things to do in OKC
Scissortail Park
At a glance: Enjoy a free concert, support local businesses at the farmers market, or rent a pedal boat on the lake.
70-acre Scissortail Park is located in the heart of downtown and offers several fun, free things to do in OKC. During the spring and summer, the park regularly puts on free concerts (bring your own blanket or lawn chair and maybe a cooler!).
There’s also a small lake in the park where you can rent pedal boats, kayaks, and canoes. Note that while Scissortail Park is free for all to enjoy, watercraft rentals cost a nominal fee.
On Saturday mornings from April through October, the park hosts a lively farmers market. You can find fresh produce, meats, baked goodies, artisanal crafts, and more. Best of all, OKC’s unique streetcars make stops at the park!
Stroll Bricktown Riverwalk
At a glance: Take a walk along the canal in the old warehouse district, now laden with some of OKC’s best food and shopping options.
One of the best free things to do in OKC is take a leisurely stroll along the Bricktown Riverwalk. A former industrial warehouse neighborhood, this area was converted into an entertainment district brimming with charming eateries, cafes, shops, breweries, and bars right in the heart of Oklahoma City.
The riverwalk’s walkability allows you to park and easily explore the whole neighborhood. Not only will you find plenty of great shopping, restaurants, and bars lining the canal, you’ll also have the opportunity to experience OKC as the locals do.
Enjoy one of OKC's many lakes
At a glance: OKC has a surprising number of lakes (and even some beaches!) for boating and fishing.
Oklahoma City is home to several great lakes, perfect for enjoying a day on the water. In fact, Oklahoma itself has well over 11,600 miles of shoreline — a shocking amount considering it’s an interior state!
Depending on what type of lake day you’re looking for, OKC has a body of water for you. Bring your own boat or rent a kayak or canoe, fish in one of the city’s several stocked lakes, swim, go paddleboarding, or lounge on a sandy beach soaking up rays.
Keep in mind that while enjoying some time on the water is one of the best cool things to do in OKC, you’ll need a valid boating permit and/or fishing license.
Whatever your interests are, there are plenty of fun and cool things to do in OKC. And whether you're from here or planning to visit, you'll want a unique way to honor your adventures!
That's where The Wander Club's Shop Travel Tokens come in! We have a massive selection of City Tokens, US State Tokens, and so many others, including 100% custom options (consider adding the date of a visit!). Pick your favorite, enjoy your time exploring cool things to do in OKC, and be safe!
