We love Oklahoma City. It has proven to be an amazing city to raise our children, enjoy culture and sample plenty of delicious cuisines. The growth over the last several years has been incredible, with tons of new developments and even more to come. We are proud to call this city our home and want to share with you some of our favorite family dates in Oklahoma City!
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Martin Park Nature Center quickly became an immediate favorite of ours. There is SO much to do. You feel surrounded by the beauty of nature, in the middle of the city – which is a perfect getaway. There’s a small park right at the entrance and a huge pond always full of turtles. The education center is small, but has plenty of resources as well as an opportunity to cool off amidst Oklahoma heat! Scarlette’s favorite thing to do is bring her “binofucarcars” (yes, we’re working on that word).
There are three trails, all very easy to navigate with children of any age. Our favorite area is a large rocky opening with water to play and splash in, so bring an extra change of clothes!
We typically head over to Cafe 7 to grab a cheap and delicious lunch afterwards too. Their cookies are a family favorite.
We are season pass holders to the Science Museum Oklahoma and won’t be able to say enough awesome things about the new CurioCity exhibit in the museum. We’ve always loved the Science Museum, but CurioCity takes it to a whole new level. My personal favorite room is the circus room, complete with a tight rope, a carousel, and a carnival game that my husband and I love to compete on. The Girl Foster’s favorite area is the splash area (of course) and The Boy Foster loves the sand section where the kids can dig for treasures.
You could easily spend an entire day there, so plan accordingly! I know there are varying opinions, but I believe this place is fantastic for any age. Our 2.5 and 8 month old love their time there, and there’s something for both of them to do!
We recommend grabbing breakfast at one of our favorite nearby places, Shartel Cafe, then enjoying as much time as possible at the museum. Get the pancakes and a side of bacon!
The Myriad Gardens have really transformed into an integral part of our city. We can generally spend a few hours there and not ever get bored. The playground has a variety of age appropriate activities and is especially our favorite place in the fall when it is transformed into Pumpkinville!
The Thunder fountain is a staple for a reprieve in the middle of the summer. We play there weekly and love all the different noises and water works (don’t forget the sunscreen!) All summer long the porch has walk-up activities from 10-12. All throughout the year there are movie nights, concerts and more. There’s always something to do!
For this day – we recommend grabbing an infamous Nic’s burger and a delicious root beer float from the Ice House. There’s another smaller splash area the kids can play in while you eat. Win, win.
Here are several events that happen throughout the year, but are obviously not available unless it is during the scheduled time. None-the-less, we still aim to make it to these events as frequently as possible, because they are TONS of fun!
First Fridays in Paseo – every first Friday of the month the Paseo District comes alive with all the art galleries open and people perusing. We like to grab a slice of pizza at Sauced, then walk around until our kiddos are worn out.
H&8th – the last Friday of every month, midtown comes alive during the always popular, H&8th event. There’s live music, all the best food trucks in town (we have PLENTY!) and people watching GALORE. This can get a little crazy, so the bravest of parents should try their hand at this event.
Festival of the Arts – we look forward to this EVERY year. Late April brings the arts festival, which is our first sign summer is on the way. We enjoy the crowds and live music as often as possible. I’m drooling thinking about the strawberries newport…
Live! on the Plaza – if you haven’t made it to the plaza district yet, well now’s the time. We frequent the area to eat at our favorite pizza place in the city, Empire Slice House and follow it with Roxy’s Ice Cream. It’s the perfect combination.
Every second Friday of the month, the plaza district comes alive with live music, art and often planned activities for kids. You don’t want to miss it!
We LOVE our city. I could add 20 more ideas just as easily. We’re always looking for new and exciting things to explore – so tell us what your family’s favorite thing to do is!
