Heartland Hospitality: A Native's Handbook to Oklahoma City
As a proud OKC native, I'm thrilled to share my favorite spots and hidden gems in this vibrant city. Let's dive into what makes OKC so special, from mouthwatering eats to cultural hotspots and beyond.
HOTELS:
The Bradford House
Bradford House - With 36 individually designed guest rooms, whether you choose the Historic Home or Modern Guest House, you’ll be immersed in an environment filled with carefully curated charm.
Colcord Hotel - In the heart of downtown Oklahoma City this historical hotel is directly across from Myriad Botanical Gardens. Paycom Center and Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum are within walking distance.
The Skirvin - For over 95 years, the historic Skirvin Hotel has been synonymous with elegance and innovation hosting oil barons, dignitaries, political leaders and Presidents. The new Skirvin Hilton Oklahoma City hotel underwent a multi-million dollar renovation project to restore the original grandeur that made the Skirvin Hotel an Oklahoma City landmark.
The National - Part of Marriott's Autograph Collection, The National Hotel is on the Historic Register. It was once the largest building in Oklahoma. This 1.1 million square foot property has transformed into an Autograph Hotel, First National Residences, Stock and Bond Steakhouse, Tellers Restaurant, The Great Hall bar, The Gilded Acorn, The Library of Distilled Spirits (in the bank vault), the National Ballroom, a barbershop, a blowout bar, and many other retail shops. It truly is a city within a city where locals come to play and visitors have a local experience.
Omni Hotel - The newly opened Omni Oklahoma City Hotel is a true outdoor recreation, entertainment and culinary destination while paying homage to the heritage and modern progress of the city. The hotel features 605 luxurious guest rooms, inclusive of 29 suites, with dramatic views of the 70-acre Scissortail Park and the downtown skyline.
Fordson Hotel - Enjoy a remarkable getaway at Fordson Hotel, located in downtown Oklahoma City’s vibrant West Village District neighborhood. This boutique hotel makes its home in a spectacular century-old building and takes full advantage of its architectural scale. The public spaces and 135 spacious loft-like rooms and suites have been restored with contemporary finishes and luxury amenities that add luster to the historic setting. It’s walking distance to restaurants, shops and attractions, including the Paycom Center.
The Ellison - A Tribute Portfolio Hotel pays homage to Ralph Ellison, Oklahoman and author of 1952's "Invisible Man." This family-friendly hotel in Oklahoma City is a stylish, comfortable, 120-room boutique hotel located near downtown OKC and the Arts District.
Ambassador Hotel - Located within the beautifully renovated Osler Building, Ambassador Hotel Oklahoma City, Autograph Collection preserves its 1920s boutique charm while providing a modern experience.
Classen Inn - Built in 1963 and renovated in 2020, this quirky motor motel features nostalgic design that captures the building's original retro vibe.
Renaissance Oklahoma City Downtown Bricktown - This luxury hotel enjoys Bricktown's most compelling location, only 10 minutes from the Paycom Center, Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, Bricktown Canal, Riversports OKC Boathouse District, and Criterion performance venue.
RESTAURANTS
DINNER SPOTS
Nonesuch: Rated as one of America’s best new restaurants by Bon Appétit in 2018, Nonesuch makes meals that are inspired by memory, youth, taste, and the city and state that surround them.
Ma Der Lao Kitchen: This cozy joint serves up authentic Loatian cuisine that just made both the New York Times and Bon Appetit Top 50 new restaurants in the United States. Crispy rice is a must!
WAYGU Japanese BBQ: A Japanese Yakiniku style restaurant in NW OKC. I suggest the spicy tuna volcano, Kimchi Dolsot Bibimbap, Honey Garlic wings, lots of Tare Beef Toro, and s’mores to end the meal.
Jones Assembly: A 225-seat restaurant with both a full-service downstairs bar and elevated cocktail bar–The T Room on the mezzanine. The Jones Assembly also boasts a 1,600-person capacity for live concerts and one of Oklahoma City’s largest and most inviting patios.
Grey Sweater: A unique dining experience offering five-, seven-, and 10-course tastings with wine pairings available in different ranges plus a water menu. We suggest sitting at the chef’s bar!
Teller’s: Set in a historic bank building, this place serves up classic Italian dishes with a side of charm. Check out the speakeasy bar just downstairs in an old bank vault.
Cattleman’s Steakhouse: Step into this Western gem for hearty steaks and a side of classic Oklahoma charm.
Bradford House: Inside this Victorian-style home built in 1912, now transformed into a contemporary boutique hotel, you’ll find a restaurant, bar and patisserie serving a thoughtfully tailored three-course menu of seasonal fare and whimsical dishes.
Pizzeria Gusto: For when you are craving classic Neapolitan pizza.
BRUNCH SPOTS
FRIDA Southwest
Cafe Kacao: Breakfast hot spot featuring a menu full of homestyle Guatemalan favorites & Latin-themed cuisine. Referred to as “One Of The Top Places To Eat In America, Cafe Kacao Is A Must-Visit Restaurant In Oklahoma”. Local tip: on weekends make sure you get on the Yelp waitlist 2-3 hours ahead of time.
FRIDA Southwest: Contemporary, light-filled destination whipping up elevated Southwestern-inspired plates. You can’t go wrong with the beef short-rib empanadas, breakfast tacos, tuna tartare, and most importantly the legendary croissant french toast!
Harvey Bakery & Kitchen: Freshly baked goodies and hearty brunch fare await at this local favorite. The Harvey Latte is always a treat made with their signature homemade caramel milk.
Kitchen 324: Seasonally-offered cafe offering elevated comfort fare and artisanal desserts, served in a chic urban setting. Don't miss their giant buttermilk pancake.
Picasso Cafe: Artsy hangout & bar featuring live music, a farm-to-table menu with vegan options & Sunday brunch.
Neighborhood JAM: Dive into classic brunch favorites with a modern twist. The portions here are generous, to say the least. A great family brunch spot!
LUNCH SPOTS
Pho Lein Hoa
Pho Lein Hoa: Pho & other freshly made Vietnamese specialties draw diners to this no-frills cash-only eatery.
Burger Punk: Funky eatery featuring patties, mac & cheese, fries & shakes, plus craft beer, cocktails & a patio.
Riviere Modern Banh Mi: Midtown's newest Vietnamese restaurant and bar specializing in gourmet Banh Mi and other Asian fare.
Empire Slice Pizza: Serving New York style pizza by the slice or whole 20” pies. Pop Culture vibes with a full bar. Don’t skip out on the signature pink sauce!
Barrio’s Fine Mexican Dishes: Trendy, midtown venue serving Mexican eats with craft cocktails in airy, modern digs.
Iguana Mexican Grill: Fresh, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying. Their queso and margaritas never disappoint.
Swadley’s BBQ: Oklahomans are seriously loyal to this authentic local BBQ spot. Try it all! But don’t miss the fried okra.
Tamashii Ramen: Slurp-worthy noodles and savory broths await at this cozy ramen joint.
The Garage: Craving burgers and brews? Look no further. Their burgers are juicy and their beer selection is top-notch.
The Drum Room: Fried chicken, waffles & other comfort foods dished up in whimsical digs, with a late-night menu.
COFFEE SPOTS
Culture Coffee
Culture Coffee: Local, black-owned craft coffee shop in the heart of a historic Oklahoma City neighborhood. Check them out on Instagram where they always share new and unique drink concoctions.
Stitch Cafe: Converted, plant-filled garage with string lights serving espresso & tarts, both sweet & savory.
Elemental Coffee: Minimalist cafe preparing espresso & craft coffee from beans roasted in-house, plus tea & pastries.
Eôté Coffee Company: Ends Of The Earth Coffee Company goes to the ends of the earth to source the best coffee, whether it’s the small, landlocked country of Burundi in East Africa, or in the mountains of Matagalpa, Nicaragua.
COCKTAIL BARS & BREWERIES
Flamingo TIKI, Paseo Arts District
The R&J Lounge and Supper Club: Step back in time and enjoy craft cocktails in a retro setting. Don't forget to dress the part.
The Study: A cozy and casual place in historic Film Row where you can taste over 64 wines by the glass thanks to the largest cruvinet system in Oklahoma and throughout.
Beer City Music Hall: Best known for live music, craft beers and signature whiskey cocktails. Grab a craft beer from the extensive 16-tap bar, featuring beer by local Anthem Brewing, Coop Ale Works, Vanessa House and Lively Beerworks.
Anthem Brewing Company: Local craft brewery offering tours with tastings & a taproom serving house ales, stouts & pilsners.
Prairie Artisan Ales: Cool local brewery’s industrial-chic taproom in the 8th Street Market building, with bottles to go.
Sidecar Barley & Wine Bar: With the flagship location tucked away in an old auto dealership garage, wood and leather combine to create a comfortably industrial, mid-century vibe at Sidecar. The perfect urban, yet upscale neighborhood bar.
Flamingo TIKI: Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with their exotic cocktails and island-inspired vibes located in the historic Paseo Arts District.
The Collective Kitchens and Cocktails: Oklahoma City's first food hall featuring 11 kitchens, a 40 foot bar with 32 taps, a 95 person rooftop patio with views of downtown, and so much more.
The Pump Bar: Housed in what was once a Texaco service station, The Pump is a local-favorite outdoor patio on warm nights. What’s better than drinking quirky cocktails while playing cornhole with your buds?
Ponyboy: Cold drinks, live music, and a dance floor that can't be beat. Oklahoma City's newest and coolest live music venue.
The Eleanor: This one’s for the Instagram gals and guys who love whimsical drinks garnished with cotton candy, Trix cereal and pink glitter.
ART & MUSEUMS
Oklahoma Contemporary
Oklahoma Contemporary: Immerse yourself in cutting-edge exhibitions and interactive art installations.
Oklahoma MOA (Museum of Art): Catch a flick at the film theater or explore their diverse collection of artworks.
ARTSPACE at Untitled: From contemporary art to live performances, there's always something exciting happening here.
DNA Galleries: Monthly exhibitions spotlighting local artists, plus a shop for art & crafts by local designers.
First Americans Museum: Gain insight into the rich history and culture of Native American tribes in Oklahoma.
National Cowboy and Western Museum: Explore the stories of the American West through captivating exhibits and artifacts.
Science Museum: Ignite your curiosity with hands-on exhibits and mind-blowing discoveries.
Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum: Pay tribute to the lives lost and the resilience of the community in the aftermath of tragedy.
OKC DISTRICTS
Paseo Arts District
Paseo Arts: Wander through galleries and studios showcasing the vibrant art scene of OKC.
Film Row: Discover the city's cinematic history in this newly restored district.
The Plaza: Shop, dine, and unwind in this bustling entertainment district known for its eclectic vibe. The perfect spot for Austin, TX fans.
Midtown: Explore trendy eateries, boutiques, and cultural attractions in this vibrant neighborhood.
Asian District: Sample authentic Asian cuisine and explore bustling markets in this culturally rich area.
The Gayberhood on 39th St: Embrace LGBTQ+ culture and nightlife in this inclusive and vibrant community.
Chisholm Creek: After a date at Top Golf, indulge in shopping, dining, and entertainment at this newly built, modern lifestyle destination.
Bricktown: Experience the city's nightlife, dining, and entertainment scene along the scenic Bricktown Canal.
Automobile Alley: Stroll past historic buildings and trendy shops in this revitalized uptown district.
DAY TRIPS
Turner Falls, Oklahoma
Turner Falls: Turner Falls is a waterfall on Honey Creek nestled in the Arbuckle Mountains of south-central Oklahoma
Okarche: Take a drive west of the city to try the famous fried chicken and okra at Eischen's Bar.
Tulsa: Take a road trip to explore the attractions and culture of Oklahoma's second-largest city.
Grand Lake: Escape to nature and enjoy boating, fishing, and lakeside relaxation.
The Pioneer Woman Mercantile: Visit this beloved destination owned by Food Network star Ree Drummond for a taste of small-town charm.
Broken Bow Lake: Rent a beautiful cabin and enjoy outdoor adventures including hiking, kayaking, and scenic views in this natural paradise.
Little Sahara State Park: Experience thrilling sand dune adventures perfect for ATV riding and sand boarding.
ACTIVITIES
Myriad Botanical Gardens & Crystal Bridge Conservatory
Paycom Center Thunder Games: Cheer on our beloved NBA team, the Oklahoma City Thunder, at the Paycom Center.
Scissortail Park: Soak up the sunshine and enjoy concerts, festivals, and outdoor activities in this urban oasis.
Myriad Botanical Gardens & Crystal Bridge Conservatory: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature's beauty.
Dust Bowl Lanes & Lounge Bowling: Gather your friends and hit the lanes for a fun-filled bowling night.
Tower Theatre: Historic performance site built in 1937, offering a stage for live music, a movie theater & gallery.
The Criterion Concert Venue: Catch live performances by local and touring artists in this intimate concert space.
Civic Center Music Hall: Experience the arts with concerts, Broadway shows, and performances by local talent.
Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine: The shrine church built for the beloved Oklahoma Martyr is designed in the Spanish-mission style, mirroring Blessed Stanley’s church in Santiago Atitlán, Guatemala.
Factory Obscura: Immerse yourself in whimsical art installations and interactive experiences.
Oklahoma City Ballet: Support the local arts scene and enjoy world-class ballet performances.
OKC Philharmonic Orchestra: Treat your ears to classical music concerts featuring talented musicians.
Ride OKC Bike Tours: Explore the city on two wheels and discover hidden gems with guided bike tours.
So there you have it, my guide to experiencing the best of Oklahoma City like a true local. Whether you're a foodie, art aficionado, or outdoor enthusiast, OKC has something for everyone. So go ahead, explore, indulge, and make unforgettable memories in this charming city we call home.