10 Things To Do For Free in OKC

Introduction

Oklahoma City is a bustling metropolis with plenty of things to do, see, and experience. Whether you’re a resident of OKC or just visiting for a few days, there are plenty of things to do that won’t cost you a dime. From outdoor recreation to cultural attractions to unique shopping, you’ll find something to do that fits your budget. Here are 10 things to do for free in OKC.

1. Explore the Myriad Botanical Gardens

The Myriad Botanical Gardens is a lush, 17-acre oasis located in downtown Oklahoma City. With ponds, waterfalls, and more than a dozen specialty gardens, the Myriad Botanical Gardens is a peaceful place to spend an afternoon. The gardens are free and open to the public, and the grounds are wheelchair accessible. There are also guided tours available for a small fee.

2. Visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum

The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum is a somber but important place to visit. This memorial commemorates the victims of the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. The memorial, which is free to visit, includes a reflecting pool, a “survivor tree,” and 168 empty chairs, each representing a person who was killed in the bombing. The museum is open to the public and features interactive exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the bombing and its aftermath.

3. Take a Stroll Through the Arts District

The Arts District in downtown Oklahoma City is a vibrant, creative area with plenty of things to explore. The district is home to a variety of art galleries, museums, and performance venues, all of which are free to visit. You can also check out the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, which hosts free events throughout the year, or explore the Oklahoma City National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.

4. Spend an Afternoon at the Oklahoma City Zoo

The Oklahoma City Zoo is one of the city’s most popular attractions. The zoo is free to enter and features over 2,000 animals from all over the world. There are also interactive exhibits, educational programs, and a variety of special events throughout the year. The zoo is open year-round and offers a great way to spend an afternoon.

5. Visit the Oklahoma City Museum of Art

The Oklahoma City Museum of Art is one of the premier art museums in the state. The museum houses a permanent collection of over 9,000 works of art, with collections ranging from contemporary art to historical artifacts. Admission to the museum is free, and the museum also hosts special events like film screenings, lectures, and educational programs throughout the year.

6. Take a Tour of the State Capitol

The Oklahoma State Capitol is one of the most iconic buildings in the city. The Capitol is free to enter and offers guided tours of the building and its grounds. You can learn about the history of the state and explore the building’s architecture. The Capitol also hosts special events throughout the year, including holiday celebrations and outdoor concerts.

7. Enjoy the Outdoors at Lake Hefner

Lake Hefner is one of the most popular outdoor attractions in the city. The lake is a great spot for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. There are also several parks and trails surrounding the lake, and the lake is open to the public year-round.

8. Shop at the Oklahoma City Farmers Market

The Oklahoma City Farmers Market is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. The market features a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts. The market is free to enter and open seven days a week.

9. Take a Hike Through the Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge

The Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge is a 5,000-acre nature preserve located just outside of Oklahoma City. The refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, foxes, deer, and more. The refuge is open to the public and offers several trails to explore.

10. Catch a Performance at the Oklahoma City Philharmonic

The Oklahoma City Philharmonic is one of the city’s premier performing arts venues. The Philharmonic hosts a variety of concerts throughout the year, including orchestral, chamber, and choral performances. The Philharmonic also offers free student and youth tickets, making it a great way to enjoy a show without spending a lot of money.

Summary

Oklahoma City is a vibrant city with plenty of things to do, and many of these activities don’t cost a dime. From exploring the Myriad Botanical Gardens to catching a performance at the Oklahoma City Philharmonic, there are plenty of things to do for free in OKC. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, you’ll find something to do that fits your budget.