Family Fun and Things To Do In OKC

RIVERSPORT is dedicated to promoting a healthy, active lifestyle through its array of outdoor and recreational offerings, aiming to turn extraordinary experiences into accessible everyday activities for individuals aged 8 to 80. Emphasizing fitness and lifelong engagement in sports, RIVERSPORT offers lessons and leagues in rowing, kayaking, surfing, and skiing for beginners through to high-performance levels. Notably, it's a US Olympic & Paralympic Training Site, offering elite athlete training while also focusing on youth and community outreach through its Thrive Outside program and Youth Rowing League.

Expanding beyond sports training, RIVERSPORT Adventures provide a wide range of outdoor urban activities for all ages, from whitewater rafting and surfing to adventure courses and biking, open seasonally. It hosts festivals, race events, and summer camps, enriching community engagement. Purchases of RIVERSPORT passes or memberships support its nonprofit goals, assisting youth programs and Olympic hopefuls. Thus, RIVERSPORT not only fosters personal growth and enjoyment through sports but also contributes significantly to community development and the nurturing of future athletes.

The Skeletons: Museum of Osteology is dedicated to showcasing the structure and purpose of the skeletal system through a remarkable collection of over 450 genuine skeletons from around the globe. This unique museum offers both an entertaining and educational experience for visitors of all ages, emphasizing the importance of conservation through awareness and understanding of the natural world. Its exhibits span a diverse range of subjects, including Oklahoma Wildlife, Reptiles, Human Anatomy & Forensics, and more, providing a comprehensive look at the skeletal adaptations and evolution across various species. Through its mission, the museum strives to ignite a passion for learning and conservation in the hearts of its visitors, making it a pivotal institution for educational groups and families alike.

The Devon Lawn and Band Shell, sets the stage for unforgettable concerts and performances. Its proximity to intriguing venues like the Wave Fountain's serene water dance and the intimate Sheridan Lawn enhances its appeal for special events. The Meinders Terrace offers a tranquil escape with its lush Oklahoma landscapes and panoramic views, while the Seasonal Plaza adapts to offer vibrant activities year-round. The Park House Event Center's panoramic venue suits a wide array of events, promising unique experiences amidst beautiful surroundings.

For animal lovers, the off-leash Dog Release Area is a haven for urban pets to play, whereas plant enthusiasts will find the renovated Crystal Bridge Conservatory a treasure trove of tropical flora and educational opportunities. The Water Stage and Thunder Fountain offer unparalleled settings for celebrations and family fun, respectively. Children will find delight in the explorative spaces of the vibrant Children’s Garden. Dotted with artistic sculptures such as the “Gateway” and 'Goldfish,' the Gardens weave together nature, art, and urban architecture, creating a cohesive and inviting environment for all visitors.

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.

The Oklahoma City Museum of Art offers a rich cultural experience for visitors of all ages. Boasting an extensive collection of American and European art, including pieces by renowned artists such as Georgia O'Keeffe and Dale Chihuly, the museum provides a journey through various artistic movements and styles. From contemporary exhibitions to classical masterpieces, visitors can immerse themselves in diverse forms of visual expression.

Moreover, the museum hosts engaging educational programs and events, catering to both art enthusiasts and novices alike. Interactive workshops, guided tours, and film screenings offer opportunities for deeper exploration and appreciation of art. With its vibrant exhibitions and dynamic programming, the Oklahoma City Museum of Art serves as a hub for creativity, inspiration, and cultural enrichment in the heart of the city.

Science Museum Oklahoma offers an immersive journey through science, art, and history across its vast 390,000-square-foot space. At the heart lies the Science Floor, brimming with interactive exhibits like Segway Park and the resonant pendulum, designed to marvel and educate visitors of all ages. The Tinkering Garage merges engineering with creativity, inviting guests to invent and explore, while the striking outdoor sculpture 'Finity' by Tom Shannon provides a reflective connection to Oklahoman skies.

Notable attractions include the CurioCity for playful learning, the upgraded Kirkpatrick Planetarium with live shows, and smART Space where art meets science in thought-provoking displays. KidSpace caters to younger explorers with engaging activities, while the Aviation Gallery and Oklahoma Aviation and Space Hall of Fame celebrate the state’s contributions to air and space travel. Unique experiences extend to the energy-focused exhibits, Mighty Mouth’s dental health lessons, and Elemental Worlds' interactive digital art, highlighting the museum's dedication to blending education with entertainment.

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.

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!

Located in the vibrant downtown Oklahoma City's entertainment district, Bricktown Water Taxi provides guided tours that present a novel perspective of the area. These tours allow visitors to intimately experience the canal’s highlights, encompassing historical monuments, vivid murals, and noteworthy local landmarks. Guests are invited to delve into the rich tapestry of Bricktown's history, experiencing a blend of its historical roots, contemporary culture, and visions of its future, thereby offering an engaging exploration of what is termed the Modern Frontier.

Brickopolis is establishing itself as a leading entertainment center, offering a variety of activities for visitors. Indoors, there's an arcade and laser tag. Outside, you can enjoy mini-golf, a climbing wall, and a bungee trampoline with views of the canal.

In addition to entertainment, Brickopolis also provides food options like pizza and burgers, along with beer for adults. It aims to be more than just a place for fun—it's designed to be an all-around experience for families and individuals to enjoy together.

The Mollie Spencer Farm in Yukon, Oklahoma, serves as a vital educational resource, fostering animal welfare, historical preservation, and community spirit. Through meticulously maintained historical sites, including the 1894 Spencer Homestead, the farm honors its namesake's significant contribution to Oklahoma and the Chisholm Trail's history. It stands as a sanctuary for farm animals and local wildlife, emphasizing the importance of their health and humane treatment.

Additionally, the farm enriches the community by functioning as an open-air classroom, offering agricultural, environmental, and cultural learning experiences. It bolsters local pride by hosting a variety of activities, festivals, and events that celebrate the farm's historical legacy. This approach not only educates but also strengthens the community’s connection to its heritage and environment.

The Kirkpatrick Planetarium invites visitors for a unique exploration of the cosmos, offering personalized tours of the galaxy guided by astronomy experts. With cutting-edge digital technology and a direct connection to NASA, the Planetarium provides unparalleled glimpses into the universe, bringing the latest scientific discoveries directly to its audience. Highlighting the significant upgrades thanks to an anonymous donation, the experience promises an unmatched planetarium journey included with general admission.

As part of an ambitious Planetarium Capital Campaign, attendees are encouraged to contribute towards the ongoing development for an even more immersive experience. The upgrade includes state-of-the-art enhancements ensuring every show is a distinct and memorable adventure across the stars. To ensure the best experience, seating is on a first-come, first-served basis, with a strict no-late-admissions policy to maintain optimal viewing conditions free from light pollution.

Adventurers of all ages are invited to explore a variety of engaging activities throughout the zoo's expansive grounds, available for purchase on-site or online alongside admission tickets. With offerings that range from camel rides, ensuring an elevated view of the surroundings, to the intimate Elephant Presentation free of charge, the zoo promises a diverse array of experiences. The Camel Rides, accommodating children under 6 with a paying adult.

Additional attractions include the Elephant Express Tram, Explorikeet Feeding, and unique feeding experiences with giraffes, flamingos, and even a rare Indian Rhino, each designed to provide guests with memorable interactions at various costs. Moreover, the Gorilla Trek VR introduces visitors to the jungle's gorillas via a 360-degree film for $8 per person, meeting specific age and height criteria. With activities like the Endangered Species Carousel and the immersive Stingray Bay, alongside premium offerings such as the $200 Safari Cart Tour, the zoo ensures a comprehensive and enriching experience for visitors keen on connecting with wildlife.

The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, located in Oklahoma City, stands as America's leading institution dedicated to the preservation and celebration of Western history, art, and culture. This esteemed museum houses an internationally acclaimed collection of Western art and artifacts, ensuring visitors can explore the rich tapestry of the American West through its diverse galleries.

Throughout the year, the museum also plays host to a variety of temporary and traveling exhibitions. These carefully curated displays aim to further enrich visitors' understanding by delving into the evolving history and cultures of the American West, showcasing the museum's commitment to education, preservation, and interpretation of this iconic era.

The First Americans Museum (FAM) in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, stands as a tribute to the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of 39 distinctive First American Nations current in the state. This museum highlights the cultural diversity of these nations and honors their ancestors, including the Apache, Caddo, Tonkawa, and Wichita, among others. FAM is strategically located at the intersection of major interstates, making it a central hub for exploring First American attractions throughout Oklahoma.

FAM's mission is to serve as a dynamic center promoting awareness and educating the public about the First Americans' unique cultures, diversity, history, contributions, and resilience in Oklahoma today. Embodying core values of respect, reciprocity, relationships, and responsibility, the museum aims to foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of the First American Nations' enduring legacy and historical significance. Through its location and educational efforts, FAM invites visitors worldwide to learn about and engage with the narratives of the First Americans.

Threshold Climbing, Fitness + Yoga welcomes everyone to their world-class facility and aims to create an inclusive, supportive and fun community for all. With a passion for rock climbing, they encourage people of all ages, abilities, shapes and sizes to try climbing and exercise for overall health.

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 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.

The Oklahoma History Center, a prestigious 18-acre, 215,000-square-foot facility, serves as a dynamic learning hub that spans the rich tapestry of Oklahoma's history, from its indigenous cultures and pioneering days to its advancements in aviation and commerce. Esteemed as a Smithsonian Affiliate and accredited by the American Alliance of Museums, the center provides an in-depth exploration of the state's heritage. Among its current attractions, the 'Into the Mirror' exhibit stands out, showcasing the artworks of 20 Native American artists from the museum's collection, highlighting Native culture through vibrant illustrations.

Visitors can delve into the state's past through various galleries, including the Inasmuch Gallery, ONEOK, Inc. Gallery, Kerr-McGee Gallery, and the temporarily closed Sam Noble Gallery due to renovations. The grounds feature engaging outdoor exhibits such as sculptures, the Devon Energy Oil and Gas Park, and the Red River Journey, enriching the visitor experience. The center also offers an enriching audio tour available in multiple languages, allowing guests to uncover the stories behind artifacts and exhibits either on-site or remotely.

BlocWorks presents a unique blend of high-quality indoor climbing experiences catered to all skill levels, alongside a dedicated co-working space, fitness equipment, and inviting outdoor patios. Designed as a second home for individuals keen on movement, connection, and climbing, BlocWorks stands out for its mix of warm hospitality and vibrant bouldering atmosphere. This facility aims to provide more than just a climbing destination; it seeks to establish a welcoming community where everyone can find what they're looking for.

Escape games serve as a versatile option for family-friendly entertainment, engaging players in a variety of puzzles and tasks. Teams are challenged to think collaboratively to escape or achieve a specified objective within a 60-minute timeframe. These games not only foster teamwork but also offer a unique and interactive experience. The playing environment is meticulously designed with Hollywood-level detail, transforming players into the stars of the show. Each game setting is enriched with period-appropriate props and carefully selected scents to enhance immersion.

This form of entertainment is beneficial for mental engagement, combining logic puzzles and dexterity challenges to provide both a mental break and a rigorous workout for the brain. Escape games are ideal for a wide range of groups seeking a modern team-building activity, including families, friends, corporate teams, and church groups. It is an opportunity to step away from everyday life and dive into a captivating, interactive theater experience. Recommended for teens and adults, for those under 14, be adult supervision is required.

The Sam Noble Museum, situated at the University of Oklahoma, opened its doors to the public on May 1, 2000. Recognized globally as a top-tier natural history museum, it offers visitors over 50,000 square feet of exhibits that narrate over 500 million years of Oklahoma's natural and cultural saga. Established in 1899, the museum houses an impressive collection of 10 million specimens and artifacts spanning the life, earth, and social sciences, showcased in detailed permanent exhibit galleries such as the Hall of World Cultures, Hall of Ancient Life, Hall of Natural Wonders, Hall of People of Oklahoma, and the Conoco Oil Pioneers of Oklahoma Plaza.

Besides its rich, permanent displays, the museum continually refreshes its offerings with new exhibits, activities, and events, ensuring that each visit can offer new insights and experiences. This engaging venue not only celebrates the state's vast historical tapestry but also serves as an educational and cultural hub, making it an invaluable resource for both locals and visitors seeking to deepen their understanding of Oklahoma's and the world's natural and cultural heritage.

Public Ferry cruises are slated to operate daily, facilitating transportation across four designated landing sites along the Oklahoma River. Passengers have the convenience of paying their fares directly upon boarding, using the Token Transit app for advanced purchases, or visiting the Regatta Park Landing ticket booth for in-person payments. This service aims to provide an efficient and flexible option for traversing the scenic riverbanks, enhancing access to various local destinations.

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.