THIS POST WAS WRITTEN IN PARTNERSHIP WITH VISIT OKC. ALL OPINIONS ARE MY OWN.
Headed to Oklahoma City and looking for the best way to enjoy the city with your family? Look no further!
Over the weekend, we finally got the chance to visit the capital of Oklahoma…Oklahoma City! These days, Oklahoma City’s family scene is a mecca of emerging entertainment trends. It’s the perfect city to try new eats, explore local cultures and partake in some family friendly adventures.
The city is comprised of many different districts. These districts make exploring the city fun and easy to navigate. OKC is known for its unique past and it’s bright future and I felt it everywhere we ventured to.
A short drive from Texas, it makes for the perfect road trip. We had a great time visiting and can’t wait to return someday!
Keep reading for a city guide of OKC’s family friendly places to stay, eat and play!
Where To Stay
Right in the heart of downtown, Embassy Suites Downtown/Medical Center is the perfect place to stay for family’s. Be sure to opt for the premium suite. With this option you are a given a ton of snacks and beverages and the best part is that they are replenished each day! This is a really convenient way to cut down on store runs when your kids are screaming for a snack.
Embassy Suites is my family’s first choice when we travel because it affords family’s so much. Our stay here while in OKC was impeccable. The hotel was clean, modern and well kept! The amenities they offer is unmatched. From complimentary made-to-order breakfast, an evening reception with complimentary snacks, beverages and cocktails, a shuttle to anywhere within a 3-mile radius and most importantly an indoor pool. My children love to swim and thanks to Embassy Suites they can do so no matter what the weather is outside.
This hotel was also in close proximity to every place we wanted to explore, which we loved! I highly recommend this hotel as a convenient and highly accommodating place for family’s to stay when visiting Oklahoma city.
What To Do
Seek some thrills at Frontier City Theme Park
Frontier City theme park is a sure bet for all things thrills in OKC! The whole family will be entertained as you wonder through the well laid out amusement park that pulls you back in time with its frontier inspired decor in search of your next adventure. Ferris wheels, roller coasters, White Water Bay, whimsical eats and exciting carnival style games await you!
Be sure to check their calendar before you go. There is always something going on. From shows and concerts to Fright Fest and Holiday in the Park, you’re always guaranteed a ton of seasonal fun!
Go party like an animal at OKC Zoo
If you’re anything like my family, you love animals! So, go get your animal fix at the OKC Zoo. My family visit zoo’s pretty often during our travels and I must say that there are some unique offerings here that we have seen no where else.
For starters, they are home to a Red Panda! We have never seen a Red Panda at any other zoo we have visited. Also, while most zoo’s have a train, OKC Zoo has a train and a tram. The tram is a narrated ride that stops at four different access points throughout the grounds. So, it’s perfect for hoping on and off to explore! In addition, they also allow you to bring in coolers. I have never been to a zoo that allows you to bring in outside food. This is a great way for families to save money.
Be sure to purchase Zoo-It-All admission. It’s the most economical option and the best way to experience their zoo for sure! See my 5 tips for visiting the OKC Zoo!
Be a Scientist for the day at Science Museum Oklahoma
This is the best science museum we have ever been to! Jammed packed with over 350,000 square feet of hands-on science experiences, art, and history, Science Museum Oklahoma is the place to be! As a science mecca with two-levels of fun and entertainment for the whole family, it’s the perfect place to spend the day. From exploring your way through the eight whimsical neighborhoods in CurioCity to the ever so interesting Planetarium you’re sure to feed your curiosity.
The exhibits are interactive, hands-on and you learn so much through play. They truly inspire excitement for STEM learning and because everything is so much fun you hardly even notice the big educational experience you are gaining.
If I lived in Oklahoma City, i’m sure my family would visit here at least once a week!
Go explore the State Capitol Building
Oklahoma City is indeed the capital of Oklahoma! For me, the best part about visiting state capital cities is the ability to explore their state capitol buildings. My family has a goal of visiting every state capital in the United States. As a result, we were really excited to cross another one off of our list!
As a free opportunity to get a lesson in history and politics it never disappoints. From the detailed marble, unique molding and everything in between the uniqueness of capitol buildings across the world never seize to amaze me.
While I believe traveling should be fun, I never miss an opportunity to add in educational opportunities for my family!
Go see what’s in bloom at Myriad Botanical Gardens
Myriad Botanical Gardens is an urban oasis full of unique blooms and plush greenery right in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City! This Crystal Bridge Conservatory pulled on all of my senses as I smelled beautiful blooms, heard crisp waterfalls, and saw so many unique flowers and plants.
It’s perfectly kept grounds is the perfect place to stroll through when you want to escape the city and be transported to a tropical paradise.
It’s definitely a must-see for kids and adults alike!
Take a stroll at Lake Hefner
There are certain things I look for when I travel, and one is the closest body of water. So, when I found Lake Hefner, I knew I had to go! It’s 17-mile shoreline is the perfect place to picnic, go for a stroll, bird watch or even watch the sun set.
There are plenty of opportunities to for the entire family to be entertained. Grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants in the area. Follow the walking trail for a brisk workout. Rent a kayak or go stand up paddle boarding if you’re adventurous. Just relax and enjoy!
Go pay your respect at the Oklahoma City National Memorial
The National Memorial is a symbolism of those who lost their lives and also those who survived the 1995 bombing that took place at the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. It stands as a symbol of strength in the wake of unspeakable violence. This place of remembrance is a huge part of the heart of the city.
Go pay your respects and have a moment of silence for those who lives changed forever. The hope is that you leave with comfort, hope, peace and serenity knowing the impact of violence.
Go see the “And Jesus Wept” statue
Located just across the street from the National Memorial, this statue stands with its back to this place of remembrance. It stands here to memorialize the St. Joseph Old Cathedral that was severely damaged during the bombing and the old parish rectory that had to be demolished.
It serves as a great lesson on history for the entire family. You can feel the tone of the area and it’s a heartfelt recommendation for anyone visiting Oklahoma City to go see.
Go see the huge bronze statues at Centennial Land Run Monument
Follow the trial of the big bronze statues as you take a step back in time. It’s a collection that marks the opening of the land in Oklahoma Territory with the Land Run of 1889. The sculptures are absolutely amazing, the detail and depiction captured is realer than life and the walking trail and gardens that surround them are beautifully laid out for a stroll.
It’s another great way to step back in time and get educated as a family on Oklahoma City’s history!
Go take pictures with some cool street murals
My family loves street art! No matter where we travel to, it’s one thing that I always search for. I use it as a way to document my travels and I love to see how its unique to the city. After all, if you don’t have a picture, it didn’t happen right!?!
The “Greetings From OKC” mural is located at 320 NW 11th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73103
The “Keep Oklahoma Friendly” mural is located at 301 NW 10th St., Oklahoma City, OK 73103
Now go snap a picture for Instagram!
Go see the WOMB Gallery
This gallery is located in OKC’s Automobile Alley and is owned by Wayne Coyne from Flaming Lips. The kids will love all the bright colors! It’s also a great place to snag some cute pictures with fun, bright backgrounds. I didn’t venture inside because the eye-catching artwork that adorned the outside of the building was all that I needed in that moment. But it’s on my list for my next visit to OKC!
Go see it for yourself…
Where To Eat
Pizzeria Gusto // A cute vintage chic pizzeria located in the historic uptown district. It’s the first of its kind to the OKC area. The Cherry Tomato pizza and Gusto Hot Wings were absolutely delicious. The staff was extremely attentive, and atmosphere is dim and inviting.
They have a great assortment of bottled craft beers, wine and cutting-edge cocktails. This place makes for the perfect date night, night out with friends or a cozy dinner haven with your family.
Big Truck Tacos // What started out as a street truck serving street food with a twist is now taking the food scene by storm. They continue to grow in popularity, and it shows! Their tacos and quesadillas were to die for! Everything tasted fresh and the atmosphere is very family friendly.
I ordered the 5th Amendment and the excitement of not knowing what it’s going to be was almost too much to handle, yet it was surprising, delicious! The tacos are everything a taco should be, filling but messy and so very good. You name it, they have it. Burritos, tacos, quesadillas, salads, soup and chips & queso all await you.
Mama E’s // If you’re in the mood for soul food, Mama E’s is the place to be. This cute little cafe style restaurant boasts the perfect family atmosphere. Everything we ordered was seasoned well and well thought out. From the chicken to the mac and cheese, they definitely put some soul into their menu.
A buffet style feels with a came from your mama’s kitchen taste!
Tucker’s Onion Burgers // Juicy, made to order burgers that will melt in your mouth! These burgers have a distinct taste, and they are like no other. I’m just happy it’s not local to me or I would be patronizing this place more often than I should. Their shakes are pretty awesome too. I opted for a chocolate shake, and it was rich and creamy, just how I like it! Also, you get a ton of fries with your order so get ready.
They boast a pretty simple menu but there is something for everyone. The history of this place is pretty unique too and with several locations the popularity of this place is spot on!
Insomnia Cookies // Where else can you find an ice cream shop that’s open until 3am? Yes, you read correctly…3am! It’s a pretty popular city staple in a trendy part of town. Everything is made fresh, and the line was extensive. When the line is long, you know the place is good! The cookies were warm and gooey, and the ice cream was rich and flavorful. It’s a sure bet to fulfill the sweet tooth of any family.
What started out in a college dorm room has now grown to over 100 locations worldwide. The best part is that they even deliver! They truly have something for everyone, and this is proven with their gluten-free and vegan cookies.
Roxy’s Ice Cream Social // This cute little ice cream shop will definitely brighten your day! Everything from ice cream floats to ice cream sandwiches will pull on your taste buds. They are home to a ton of unique flavors and their ice cream is big on taste without all the additives.
Ice cream tasting anyone?
Still left on our Oklahoma City bucket list:
- Taking a water taxi to one of Bricktown’s many restaurants and then strolling the area afterwards.
- Grabbing brunch at Waffle Champion.
- Riding the Ferris Wheel in Wheeler District and then snagging a picture in front of the large white OKC sign for Instagram.
- Walking across the SkyDance Bridge in that resembles Oklahoma’s state bird.
- Catching an Oklahoma City Thunder game at Chesapeake Energy Arena.
- Take the kids to new heights at the youth zone in the Boathouse District.
Heading to OKC? Find more information to help you plan your visit HERE.
What’s your favorite thing to do in OKC?
What are you waiting for!?! GO OWN YOUR FANCY!!!
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