How to Spend a Day (or Less) in OKC

by Sabrina Adams

Got just a few hours or a full day to explore Oklahoma City? You’re in luck. Even a short stop in OKC can leave a big impression. This city is full of charm, culture, and unexpected fun—whether you're passing through, on a long layover, or just have a packed schedule. Here's how to make the most of it.

⏱ If You Only Have a Few Hours…

Start with a visit to the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum. It’s a powerful and peaceful place that honors the lives affected by the 1995 bombing. The outdoor memorial is beautiful, and the museum walks you through that historic day in a thoughtful, moving way.

From there, you’ve got options:

OKC Museum of Art – European and American classics, plus one of the world’s largest collections of Chihuly glass.
First Americans Museum – A stunning tribute to the 39 tribal nations that call Oklahoma home.

Need a breather? Head to Scissortail Park—OKC’s downtown green space filled with trails, public art, a lake with pedal boats (seasonal), and skyline views you’ll want to snap a pic of.

Wrap up your quick tour with a relaxing cruise on the Bricktown Water Taxi. It’s a narrated ride through the heart of our entertainment district and a great way to see the city without rushing.

🚶‍♀️ Got Half a Day? Explore OKC's Unique Districts

OKC is made up of some seriously cool neighborhoods—each with its own vibe.

Bricktown: Restaurants, nightlife, mini golf, and more.
Midtown: Trendy spots to eat, drink, and hang. Local favorites include Harvey Bakery, Stella Modern Italian, and R&J’s Lounge.
Paseo Arts District: Art galleries, boutique shops, adobe-style buildings, and a fun, artsy vibe.
Plaza District: Home to local shops like DNA Galleries and Bad Granny’s Bazaar, plus cool hangouts like RADBAR and The Margarita Garden.
Uptown 23rd, Wheeler District, and the Asian District are also worth checking out if you have time. Don’t miss the historic Ferris wheel in Wheeler!

🌇 Got a Full Day? Here’s the Perfect Itinerary

Morning – Soak in Some Culture:

Dive into history at the National Cowboy Museum, Museum of Osteology, or the quirky American Pigeon Museum.
Check out contemporary art at the striking Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center.
Want something more interactive? Don’t miss Factory Obscura’s Mix-Tape, a hands-on art experience unlike anything else.

Lunch – Fuel Up:

Keep it casual with breakfast tacos at Stitch, a slice at Empire Slice House, or a burger at Spark.
Craving BBQ? Head to Edge Craft or Iron Star.
For a fancier vibe, try Vast (with skyline views), The Jones Assembly, or authentic Laotian flavors at Ma Der Lao Kitchen.

Afternoon – Get Outside:

Myriad Botanical Gardens is a gorgeous place to wander and reset.
Hop on the OKC Streetcar for a fun, easy way to explore downtown.
Feeling adventurous? Try Riversport OKC for rafting, zip-lining, or even surfing!
Or enjoy a peaceful walk or bike ride along the Oklahoma River trail system.

Evening – Catch a Show or a Game:

Live music and shows? Check out Tower Theatre, The Jones Assembly, or The Criterion.
For something grand, try the Civic Center Music Hall—home to OKC Ballet and Philharmonic.
Or catch the OKC Thunder in action at the Paycom Center.

🚋 Getting Around

It’s easy to get around OKC. Use the OKC Streetcar, hop on a Lime Scooter, or grab a ride on the EMBARK bus. Parking is usually a breeze downtown, too.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re here for hours or a whole day, Oklahoma City has something to offer. Between the museums, neighborhoods, food, and outdoor adventures, you might just find yourself planning your next trip before you leave.

Ready to experience OKC for yourself? Let’s make it happen. ✨