The Bricktown Canal is one of Oklahoma City's most popular tourist destinations. Loosely modeled after San Antonio's River Walk, this man-made canal runs through the historic, yet revitalized Bricktown district and it evokes an experience reminiscent of that popular stroll in the Alamo city. There are restaurants and attractions on both sides of the canal, some include the Bricktown Brewery, the quirky American Banjo Museum, the Myriad Botanical Gardens and within the neighborhood you'll find Chesapeake Energy Arena, home to the NBA's Thunder. While you are here, don't forget to take a trip on a water taxi, no trip is complete without it!
Oklahoma City's Boathouse District offers something for everyone, from families and kids to athletes and loafers. Located on the Oklahoma River, there are over 12 miles of beautiful trails for running, walking or cycling. The boathouses that line the river here house a variety of rowing teams and training centers, as this portion of the river hosts a variety of races throughout the year. Boat and canoe rentals are also available.
What started out as one of the first shopping districts in 1929 gradually evolved to become a haven for jazz musicians, students and small businesses by the end of the 1950s. The end of this era brought with it the counter-culture which determined the atmosphere of the Paseo in the 1960's, but it was only until the next decade that it became one of the country's finest art districts. It fell into some decay through the 80's, however today it has been revitalized and the shops host food, art and music festivals year-round. Don't forget the district's 'First Friday Art Walk', where everyone comes out to buy and sell local wares.
This district of town, known as Stockyards City, is home to the largest cattle market in the world. In fact, it was these stock yards that provided the impetus for the state's first major industry. Over the last century, the area had fallen into decline and decay since its inception in 1910, however today the area has been revitalized without losing its authentic 'Old-West' feel. A highlight of the stockyard is a stroll over a walkway that hovers above some of the massive beasts. The shops primarily focus on a variety of western wear, from cowboy hats and boots to Bolo ties and even spurs! It's also pretty accurate to assume that the restaurants in the district serve some of the best steaks in the Midwest, don't forget Cattlemen's Steakhouse. While this area could be considered "touristy," it remains an essential place to visit to get a true picture of 'Ol' OKC'.
With many of Oklahoma City's top attractions located within a two-mile radius, it is no wonder that the Adventure District is one of the area's top tourist destinations. In fact, each year over three million tourists visit this district. Attractions here include the Oklahoma City Zoo, the National Softball Hall of Fame, the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, and Remington Park Racing and Casino. With all of this entertainment in one place, it will be tough to ever leave!
Paw Park is located right by Oklahoma City's Lake Hefner and its the definitive favorite of the canine population of the city. This park has everything a dog (and its owner) could want with two different fenced in free run spaces for large and small dogs, trees, a swimming pond, water stations and even a fire hydrant. Paw Park has been repeatedly voted one of the Best Dog Parks in the United States by various reputable publications.
Route 66 Park sits along the beautiful Lake Overholser and its main feature is the three-story Cyrus Avery Observation Tower that overlooks the scenic lake. The park is the largest in the city's park system and it's full of fun activities for the whole family. In addition to the aforementioned tower, it has a small amphitheater, walking trails, ponds and a skate park. Don't forget to check out the historic map of the 'Mother Road' in the plaza before or after your visit, it displays the 34 landmarks from Illinois to California.