Neighbourhoods & Districts: Discovering Oklahoma City

Bricktown

Once an historic warehouse district, Bricktown has transformed into Oklahoma City’s premier entertainment hub. Just a short walk from downtown hotels, the area is filled with shops, restaurants and attractions that cater to all tastes. Cruise along the Bricktown Canal on the iconic water taxis, enjoy family-friendly fun at Brickopolis with its miniature golf, laser tag and arcade games, or catch a Comets baseball game at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark. In the evenings, the district comes alive with music and nightlife, from lively duelling pianos at Michael Murphy’s to the buzzing bars of the nearby Deep Deuce neighbourhood. Bricktown offers the perfect mix of history, activity and vibrant atmosphere. 

Midtown

Midtown links downtown energy with the charm of historic neighbourhoods, offering a delightful blend of dining, shopping and entertainment. Explore unique boutiques such as Mode, Black Scintilla and the book-filled Commonplace Books, or stop at the whimsical Chirps and Cheers stationery shop. The neighbourhood also features a retro-inspired twelve-lane bowling alley underneath Fassler Hall, where guests can bowl a few frames before enjoying beers and bratwursts in the German-style beer garden upstairs. Food lovers will enjoy Barrios Mexican Kitchen with its inviting outdoor fireplace, The Hall’s Pizza Kitchen or the vintage vibes at R and J’s Supper Club. Midtown is a perfect spot for those seeking a leisurely stroll, delicious food and a taste of local culture.

Plaza District

The Plaza District is a hub for creativity, filled with galleries, independent shops and eclectic restaurants. Named for the historic Plaza Theatre, now home to the nationally recognised Lyric on the Plaza, the area has become a magnet for artists and trendsetters alike. Savour comfort food favourites such as grilled cheese and beer-battered fries at The Mule, enjoy late-night pizza at Empire Slice House, or indulge in salted caramel ice cream at Roxy’s Ice Cream Social. Pie Junkie offers an array of sweet and savoury treats, while boutiques such as Dig It, DNA Galleries and Out On A Limb showcase affordable art, clothing and gifts. With its lively, creative energy, the Plaza District is an inspiring place to explore on foot.

Paseo Arts District

North of downtown, the Paseo Arts District is Oklahoma City’s artistic heart, with nearly eighty working artists and twenty studios. The area is especially lively during the First Friday Gallery Walk on Every third Friday of the month from 5 PM - 9 PM, when you can explore new collections, enjoy street performances and engage with the local arts community. The neighbourhood is dotted with cosy cafés and restaurants such as Paseo Grill, Picasso Cafe, Oso, Flamingo Tiki and Sauced, offering the perfect break between gallery hopping. With its mix of historic charm, vibrant energy and artistic expression, the Paseo Arts District provides an inspiring and unforgettable experience. 

Stockyards City

For a taste of Oklahoma City’s Western roots, Stockyards City offers a genuine cowboy experience. Explore the Oklahoma National Stockyards, home to the world’s largest feeder and stocker cattle market, with live auctions taking place every Monday and Tuesday. The district’s culinary highlight is Cattlemen’s Steakhouse, the oldest continually operating restaurant in the city, famous for its steaks, lamb fries and coconut cream pie. Browse boots, hats and Western wear at Langston’s, Little Joe’s and Shorty’s Cowboy Hattery, while McClintock Saloon and Chop House offers an upscale saloon experience with 170 types of whiskey and modern cuisine. Stockyards City is where tradition and authenticity meet modern hospitality.

Auto Alley

Auto Alley, located just north of downtown, blends historic charm with modern culture. The district preserves original neon signs from its 1920s car dealership era, giving it a unique character while hosting an emerging hub of art and entertainment. Explore the imaginative Factory Obscura Mix-Tape or the striking exhibits at the Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center. Dining options are equally exciting, from inventive burgers at S and B’s to wood-fired cuisine and cocktails at Broadway 10 Bar and Chophouse. Beer enthusiasts will enjoy Prairie Artisan Ales Taproom, while Sidecar Barley and Wine Bar serves wine, cocktails and gourmet bar food. Auto Alley is a lively mix of creativity, nightlife and history. 

Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill offers a vibrant glimpse into Oklahoma City’s Latino culture. The district’s historic buildings house a variety of restaurants serving authentic cuisine, locally owned shops and boutiques offering everything from custom boots to unique local goods. The annual Fiestas de las Americas in September every year. This celebrates culture, food and music, adding energy to the streets and inviting you to experience the neighbourhood’s warmth and charm. Capitol Hill is a colourful, welcoming destination that highlights the city’s diverse heritage.

Uptown 23rd

Stretching along historic Route 66, Uptown 23rd is an historic district filled with unique shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. The area features iconic landmarks such as Tower Theatre, the Gold Dome, the Milk Bottle building and the Gothic towers of Oklahoma City University. Enjoy classic American cuisine at Cheever’s, wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas at Pizzeria Gusto, or craft beer and creative dishes at Guyutes. For drinks, the Bunker Club and Ponyboy provide retro-inspired cocktails and coffee creations, while The Escape OKC offers live escape room adventures. Uptown 23rd blends historic charm, modern entertainment and a vibrant local atmosphere, making it a must-see neighbourhood.

Museums

Oklahoma City is home to an impressive array of museums and cultural attractions. The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum, First Americans Museum, Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum, and Science Museum Oklahoma offer rich insight into the city’s history, resilience and creativity. Art lovers can enjoy nationally recognised galleries with past exhibitions from Van Gogh, Andy Warhol and Jim Henson, while aviation enthusiasts will find the 99s Museum of Women Pilots near Will Rogers World Airport particularly inspiring. Bricktown also hosts the American Banjo Museum, celebrating the craft and history of this iconic instrument.