14 Free Kids Activities in OKC From A Local Mom

Martin Park Nature Center, situated within a serene suburban setting, serves as an educational and exploration hub for nature enthusiasts of all ages. The center offers a variety of programs including guided hikes and an interactive learning center aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of nature and wildlife. Visitors are encouraged to adhere to the park's rules and follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the environment for future generations.

The park operates year-round, with opening hours extending from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. during Summer (April 1 - Sept. 30) and from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Winter (Oct. 1 - March 31). Amenities include 2.5 miles of woodland trails, a visitor center with a nature learning library and live animals, an ADA-accessible trail, a picnic pavilion accommodating up to 30 people, and a nature-themed playground, enriching the visit for those seeking both education and recreation in a natural setting.

Mitch Park, established in 1994 and sprawling over 280 acres, offers an abundance of recreational opportunities. With five miles of paved, multi-use trails detailed in the Mitch Park Trails Map, the park invites visitors to enjoy its scenic paths. For gatherings, pavilion rental information is readily available, catering to those looking to host events amidst nature's beauty. The park is equipped with various amenities including two playgrounds, a disc golf course, basketball and volleyball courts, an exercise station, a skate park, an amphitheater, and an athletic complex. Furthermore, conveniences such as ample parking, picnic tables, restrooms, and water fountains enhance the visitor experience, making Mitch Park a preferred destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Arcadia Lake is absolutely stunning, situated on the Deep Fork River. It offers amazing water activities like swimming, water skiing, and boating, as well as other fun options such as picnicking, camping, and disc golf. Plus, there's even fishing available year-round!

The Oklahoma State Capitol stands out as a unique educational destination, combining art, history, and government all under one roof. Managed by the Oklahoma Arts Council, it offers extensive collections of artwork across six rotundas, corridors, and galleries, earning the title of the state's largest public art museum. Tour programs, led by the Oklahoma Arts Council, feature a museum-quality docent program that highlights the Capitol's art and steeps visitors in a memorable exploration of The People’s House.

Guided tours, provided free of charge and led by trained volunteer docents, are available without reservation twice daily during the week, with the capacity for arranged tours subject to availability and requiring advance notice. For those preferring a self-led journey, the Capitol opens its doors for self-guided tours every day, with detailed maps available for download, facilitating an immersive experience into Oklahoma's rich legislative and artistic legacy.

Scissortail Park offers a variety of recreational activities including boat rentals, roller skating at Sky Rink, and a SplashPad area. Pedal boats and canoes are available for rent at Scissortail Boathouse from Friday to Sunday with park members enjoying one free rental per visit. The Sky Rink operates on select dates from June through October, offering skating sessions, including quad skates, with free admission for park members.

The Scissortail Sprayground is open daily from 9 am to 9 pm, providing a fun and safe water play area under the condition that all children are supervised, wear swim diapers if necessary, and use foot protection. The park strictly prohibits glass containers and alcoholic beverages at the Sprayground, alongside food, drinks, and pets in the water area. The facility underscores safety and cleanliness, ensuring the enjoyment and well-being of all visitors.

Lake Hefner, a central northwest gem in Oklahoma City, stands as a hub for diverse recreational activities and dining experiences. The lake's trails welcome walkers, runners, bicyclists, and skateboarders, offering stunning views and a perfect backdrop for Instagram photos, particularly at the East Wharf lighthouse. Enthusiasts enjoy sailing and kitesurfing, while the Lake Hefner Golf Course and dining options like Red Rock Canyon Grill and Mama Roja Mexican Kitchen enhance the lakeside experience.

Water activities at Lake Hefner include kayaking and paddleboarding with rentals available from RIVERSPORT Adventures during summer. Fishing is permitted for those with a license, although swimming is not. On land, nearly 10 miles of paved trails provide scenic routes for outdoor activities, and facilities like Stars & Stripes Park offer sports fields and play areas. The area's ease of access to different sports, combined with the picturesque lighthouse and quality dining establishments, make it a beloved spot for both locals and visitors.

The National Museum of Wildlife Art presents an exhibition that explores contemporary artists' use of animal imagery to examine the complex relationship between humans and the natural environment. Showcasing a diverse collection of works across multiple media, the exhibition delves into themes of interconnectedness with nature, emphasizing the profound conversations between wildlife and human existence.

Highlighting a broad spectrum of perspectives, this thought-provoking exhibition invites viewers to reflect on the intricate bond shared with the animal kingdom. By presenting a variety of artistic expressions, it aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the natural world and the urgent need for its conservation.

The Myriad Botanical Gardens' Crystal Bridge Art Gallery presents an exquisite collection of artwork by talented local artists from Oklahoma. Visitors can explore the gallery at no cost, available from Monday to Saturday between 9 am to 5 pm, and on Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm. The exhibition offers an inspiring variety of pieces that are available for purchase, showcasing the rich creativity found within the region.

The Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art at the University of Oklahoma houses an impressive collection of artwork, including Native American, European, American, and contemporary art. Known for its expansive Native American art collection, the museum also features pieces by renowned artists like Van Gogh, Degas, and Monet. The museum offers educational programs, exhibitions, and special events, making it a cultural hub for students and the public. It provides a rich, immersive experience for art enthusiasts and scholars alike, promoting the appreciation and understanding of diverse artistic traditions.

Different activities each day, visit their website to check for events!

Since its inception in 1957, the National Softball Hall of Fame has celebrated the sport's legends, inaugurating its museum in Oklahoma City in 1973 to showcase softball's significant achievements. Groundbreaking for the Hall of Fame occurred in December 1970, leading to its dedication in May 1973 and a grand opening two months later. The facility underwent two major expansions in 1976-77 and 1980, collectively adding over 9,500 square feet, culminating in a total of 28,406 square feet that includes the USA Softball Hall of Fame Complex. This esteemed institution continues to honor the game's history and its outstanding contributors.

On April 22, 1889, Oklahoma experienced a historic event as 50,000 people participated in the first Land Run, claiming over two million acres of the Unassigned Lands. Amidst chaos and confusion, settlers from diverse backgrounds surged into the territory at the sound of a cannon, leading to both triumph and dispute. The event, marked by a mix of hope and contention, laid the foundation for Oklahoma’s settlement and became a legendary part of its heritage.

Despite the tumultuous start, several more land runs followed, albeit more orderly. These runs, especially the memorable one in 1889, are a pivotal part of Oklahoma's narrative, with many tracing their lineage back to participants. A grand Land Run Monument in Oklahoma City, the largest sculpture series globally, is underway to honor this seminal event. Sculpted by Paul Moore, the monument pays homage to the pioneers with realistic representations, celebrating the enduring spirit and legacy of those early settlers.

The Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, nestled near Lawton/Ft. Sill in southwest Oklahoma, stands as a sanctuary of natural beauty and history, sprawling over 60,000 acres. This area, marked by ancient granite formations and lush mixed grass prairie, also features lakes and streams, conserving a habitat for diverse wildlife and providing a space for public enjoyment.

Renowned for its free-roaming bison, longhorn cattle, and Rocky Mountain elk, the refuge invites visitors to partake in a variety of activities. These include fishing, bird watching, wildlife photography, hiking, camping, and kayaking, making it a premier destination for those seeking to connect with nature and witness America's majestic wildlife up close.

Oklahoma's state parks offer a wide variety of adventures. Visit their website and find the right fit for your family. A single day trip or a camping excursion - the choice is yours!