Memorial & Museum, Vibrant Bricktown Awaits in Oklahoma City
Tips on renting in Oklahoma City
Getting Around
What to Pack
Must-Try Activities
Smart Spending Tips
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, seamlessly blends luxury with family-friendly adventure, making it an irresistible destination for discerning travelers with children. Start your day at the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden, where over 2,000 animals representing 500 species await. Young explorers will delight in the Children’s Zoo, where close encounters with Galápagos tortoises and flamingos spark wonder, while the Great EscApe exhibit immerses families in a lush, tropical world filled with gorillas and orangutans. Next, retreat to the Myriad Botanical Gardens, a 15-acre urban sanctuary featuring the iconic Crystal Bridge Conservatory, inviting families to wander through vibrant rainforests and enjoy seasonal festivities.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find Lake Hefner a scenic haven, perfect for biking, sailing, and fishing. The 9.5-mile multi-use trail encircling the lake is ideal for leisurely family strolls or invigorating bike rides, offering panoramic views of sparkling water and the city skyline. In the summer months, Bricktown Beach beckons with its annual transformation, featuring soft sand, comfortable lounge chairs, and lively volleyball courts in the heart of the city.
For a distinctive indoor outing, the Skeletons Museum of Osteology captivates with hundreds of animal skeletons from across the globe, creating an educational playground for inquisitive minds. The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum enchants with interactive exhibits such as the Children’s Cowboy Corral, where kids can dress up and dive into hands-on activities. With a vibrant population of over 650,000, Oklahoma City is a dynamic destination where urban sophistication meets natural beauty, promising families a truly unforgettable getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to see what Oklahoma City has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is a poignant and reflective destination, honoring the 168 lives lost in the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. The Outdoor Symbolic Memorial, dedicated on April 19, 2000, features the Gates of Time, a Reflecting Pool, and 168 empty chairs on a grass lawn, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. Visitors can also explore the Memorial Museum, which offers detailed narratives and personal stories, making it a powerful tribute to resilience and compassion.
-
To launch your boat at Lake Stanley Draper, head to one of the public boat ramps located on the east side of the lake behind the boat house or on the south end by the dam. These ramps offer easy access to the lake, which is Oklahoma City’s only skiing lake, perfect for waterskiing, jet skiing, and other boating activities. Be sure to obtain a City boating permit, available at the Lake Draper Marina, before you set off.
-
For a scenic hiking experience around Lake Hefner in Oklahoma City, the Lake Hefner Trail is a standout, offering a 9.4-mile loop with stunning views and easy terrain. This trail is perfect for biking, running, or walking, with numerous lookouts and picturesque spots like Hobie Point to watch sailboats. The shorter Bert Cooper Trail, a 1.9-mile path around Stars & Stripes Park, is another gem, ideal for families and those seeking a leisurely stroll. Both trails are accessible year-round, but they are particularly enjoyable during the spring and fall seasons.
-
For a breathtaking sunset experience in Oklahoma City, head to Lake Hefner, where the iconic lighthouse and serene lake views create a stunning backdrop as the sky transforms into a kaleidoscope of colors. This spot is particularly beloved by locals and visitors alike, with its trails, restaurants, and scenic vantage points making it an ideal evening outing. Another notable spot is the Oklahoma River Cruises, offering a unique perspective on the city’s skyline as the sun dips below the horizon.
