Exploring Oklahoma City's Surroundings: A 2023 Adventure Guide
Unwind at the Tranquil Myriad Botanical Gardens
Experiences to Cherish at the Gardens
Step into the serene world of the Myriad Botanical Gardens, where a harmonious blend of native and exotic plantings provides a respite from the bustling city life. Revel in the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory, an iconic structure housing thousands of tropical and desert flora. Attend an array of events throughout the year, from outdoor concerts to seasonal festivals, all set against the lush backdrop of meticulously landscaped grounds.
Proximity to Downtown Oklahoma City
Located at the heart of downtown, the Myriad Botanical Gardens offer an urban oasis that is easily accessible on foot from numerous city landmarks and accommodations. This verdant paradise is a short stroll away, allowing visitors to pair their botanical exploration with other downtown attractions seamlessly.
Thrills and Fun at Frontier City Theme Park
Dare to Ride: Top Attractions
Ride | Thrill Level | Minimum Height |
|---|---|---|
Silver Bullet | High | 48" |
Wildcat Roller Coaster | Medium | 42" |
Quick Draw | Low | No minimum |
Renegade Rapids | Medium | 36" with adult |
How to Get There from OKC
Embark on an adventure to Frontier City Theme Park, the epicenter of thrills in Oklahoma City. Just a 20-minute drive along I-35 North from downtown, the amusement park beckons with its roller coasters and live entertainment. Public transportation options are also available, offering a convenient and eco-friendly route to a day full of excitement.
Step Back in Time at the Oklahoma Railway Museum
All Aboard: Exhibits and Train Rides
All aboard for a journey through railroad history at the Oklahoma Railway Museum! Discover a trove of vintage locomotive engines, rolling stock, and memorabilia that tell the story of the state's railway heritage. Kids and adults alike can indulge in the delight of a historic train ride, available on select days, for a full-sensory embrace of the past.
Map Your Route: Museum's Location
The museum, nestled just northeast of Oklahoma City's center, becomes a delightful detour for those looking to delve into a historical narrative on rails. With a drive under 15 minutes from the capitol building, history enthusiasts can effortlessly align their visit with other urban explorations.
Embrace the Wild at Oklahoma City Zoo
Must-See Animal Exhibits
The Oklahoma City Zoo, a sanctuary for wildlife, is brimming with exhibits that awe and educate. Trek through the lush Great EscApe habitat, home to intelligent apes and primates. Marvel at the majesty of the African savanna, teeming with zebras, giraffes, and lions. Visit the Butterfly Garden to encounter a burst of colorful wings, and don't miss the noble elephants at Sanctuary Asia, a showcase of the zoo's commitment to conservation.
Travel Tips: Zoo Distance and Arrival
With its doorstep just a stones' throw from the city, visitors can reach the zoo within a 10-minute drive from downtown OKC. Public transportation and rideshares offer an alternative for those preferring to leave the car behind, making it accessible for all to spend a day among nature's most intriguing species.
Rev Up Your Engines at the Oklahoma City Boathouse District
Water Sports and Outdoor Activities
River adventurers and adrenaline enthusiasts, the Oklahoma City Boathouse District calls your name. Plunge into a world of high-speed dragon boating, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. For those less inclined towards aquatic thrills, enjoy the land-based pursuits of cycling or take on the challenge of the SandRidge Sky Trail.
Setting Sail: Navigation from the City Center
Positioned just a quick drive or ride from downtown, the Boathouse District offers a nautical escapade within easy reach. Follow the signs from the city center taking you down Lincoln Blvd or opt for a leisurely cycle along the picturesque Oklahoma River Trails to dock at your waterfront destination for the day.
Catch a Show at the Civic Center Music Hall
Current Season Highlights
The Civic Center Music Hall stands as a beacon of performing arts in Oklahoma City. Hosting a diverse array of theatrical productions, symphony concerts, and ballets, its current season touts Broadway hits and local artistry alike. Check the online schedule for mesmerizing shows that are sure to captivate hearts and stir imaginations.
Accessibility and Distance from OKC
A cultural hub situated within the center of the city, the music hall is a gem easily enjoyed by all. Wheelchair accessibility and sign language interpretation are available upon request, ensuring everyone can partake in the magic of live performance. Its downtown location means a leisurely walk from many Oklahoma City hotels and eateries is all it takes to join the audience.
Entertain the Family at the Science Museum Oklahoma
Interactive Exhibits for All Ages
Science Museum Oklahoma offers a world of exploration with hands-on exhibits that engage and inspire. Venture through the CurioCity, where learning mimics play in this 20,000-square-foot wonderland. Stand in awe beneath the towering skeletons in the Hall of Ancient Wonders, and provoke your curiosity in the Science Live auditorium, where experiments come to life.
Directions from Central Oklahoma City
Located within a mere 15-minute drive northeast of downtown, the journey to Science Museum Oklahoma is straightforward – head east on I-40 and take the exit towards the museum. Alternatively, opt for the public buses that offer a direct route to unlock the doors of discovery for the entire family.
Savor Local Flavors at the OKC Farmers Market
Market Stalls and Seasonal Produce to Look For
The OKC Farmers Market bursts into life with vibrant stalls offering the freshest produce, picked straight from Oklahoma's fertile fields. Keep an eye out for heirloom tomatoes, crisp apples, and artisanal cheeses. Seasonal changes usher in new delights, ensuring each visit offers a unique experience for your taste buds.
Vendor Variety and Market History
Beyond fruits and vegetables, discover a medley of vendors selling everything from homemade preserves to freshly baked bread. The market's illustrious past spans more than a century, evolving from a farmers' co-op to a bustling hub for community and cuisine.
Finding Your Way to the Farmers Market
Located in the heart of the historic Farmers Market District, navigating to this foodie paradise is easy. A brief drive southwest of downtown OKC will have you relishing in local fare and artisan goods. Public transit and bike-friendly paths also offer sustainable routes to this cornucopia of Oklahoma's agricultural best.
Art and History Collide at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
Cultural Exhibits and Galleries
Immerse yourself in the spirit of the American West at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Its galleries boast spellbinding collections of art and historical artifacts that paint a vivid picture of cowboy life, Native American culture, and frontier history. Not to be missed are exhibits such as the Prosperity Junction, a re-created turn-of-the-century cattle town, and the poignant Western Performers Gallery.
Planning Your Journey from OKC
A mere 20-minute drive north from downtown, reaching the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is a simple journey along I-44. Those opting for public transport will find that buses run regularly, offering a hassle-free trip to this treasured chronicle of the Wild West.