This great gallery is more like a collaborative workspace for artists of all types. Individual Artists of Oklahoma (IAO) emphasizes experimental art (either subject matter or technique) that is also socially relevant to those living in the state. Up-and-coming artists, as well as established professionals create and play here and have most of their works on display. IAO features all forms of art, including poetry, music, performance, sound, installation, photography, video, and much more. Entry is free.
Oklahoma has some of the most prohibitive and strict regulations on liquor in the entire country. Any alcohol with a content above 4%ABV (alcohol by volume) is sold at room temperature in state-licensed stores. So, the Coop Ale Works has to sell its beers at this temp because the ABV is over the limit. Unfortunately, you cannot buy these cold, but at the brewery located just north of downtown, visitors can come and taste some of the quality, handcrafted beers that are sold cold throughout restaurants and bars around the city. One other note, you cannot buy these beers in bulk here, to find them, check their website for a list of state-licensed retailers.
Adding to its artful and colorful repertoire, the 21c Museum Hotel chain can boast about yet another boutique wonder located in Oklahoma City. Featuring an art museum which showcases an extensive collection of works ranging from artworks to interactive installations, the hotel has been garnering widespread attention for its marvelous displays and exhibits. The fancy rooms are draped in every imaginable finery, and are equipped with some of the best and most convenient amenities. Sample some delectable snacks at the on-site restaurant which offers an ingenious twist to the traditional New American cuisine, or relax at the exquisite spa and rejuvenate yourself! The hotel provides a number of rooms which can be used for private events such as weddings and business conferences. If staying indoors is not your thing, you can explore the wonderful sites surrounding the hotel.
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!
For those that love trains, the OKC Railway Museum is the perfect place to visit. Here, train enthusiasts can see anachronistic dining or Pullman cars, freight cars, steam engines and everything that has to do with the great American railways. From April to September, visitors can take an actual train from Oakwood Depot to the nearby Zoo or towards downtown and rides usually take about 35 minutes. The museum can also be used as a venue for birthday parties and other themed events, especially during the holidays, Halloween, etc.
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.