Things to Do with Kids in and Around Oklahoma City

November 19, 2021

Far more than a mere overnight stop along Route 66, Oklahoma City and its surroundings are packed full of great things to see and do, including tons of family-friendly activities and attractions.

The Oklahoma capital is a favourite stopover for those traversing the iconic road trip highway, yet spend any length of time here and you’ll soon discover that its appeal extends far beyond geographical convenience. If you’re planning a trip to Oklahoma City with kids, here are 12 great ideas to add to your itinerary.

Blue Zoo Aquarium

Kids can get up close and personal with over 200 species of aquatic life at this acclaimed aquarium. Spread over two floors at Quail Springs Mall, the venue is extremely interactive, with visitors able to touch and even feed many of the marine animals that reside here including stingrays, starfish and sea urchins.

Other popular features include a hands-on reptile room and a bird exhibit, while the aquarium also hosts regular family-friendly events such as dive shows, pirate shows, shark feedings and mermaid shows. They also offer birthday parties, before/after events and corporate parties.

Location: Quail Springs Mall, 2501 West Memorial Road Suite 125A, Oklahoma City
Hours: Mon–Thu 11am–7pm, Fri–Sat 11am–8pm, Sun 12pm–6pm

National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum

The Hollywood, music and literary ideal of the American West has helped ensure the cowboy remains an iconic figure in American culture. In Oklahoma, visitors of all ages can immerse themselves in cowboy culture at this fascinating museum dedicated to the preservation of Western art and artefacts.

Highlights include the museum’s exhibition wing, which houses a turn-of-the-century town and interactive history galleries focusing on the American cowboy, rodeos, Native American culture, Victorian firearms, frontier military history and Western performers.

Location: 1700 Northeast 63rd Street, Oklahoma City
Hours: Mon–Sat 10am–5pm, Sun 12pm–5pm

Ride OKC Bike Tours

Exploring Oklahoma City by bike is a fun and memorable way to discover the city. Organized tours offer fascinating insights into the city’s history, culture and hidden spots you might otherwise miss.

Popular themed tours include Art & Architecture tours, Bikes & Brews tours and even cookie-themed tours that guide visitors to some of the city’s best sweet treats. Bike rentals and custom tours are also available.

Science Museum Oklahoma

Situated near the city zoo, Science Museum Oklahoma is one of the largest science museums in the United States. Spread over more than eight acres of hands-on experiences and exhibits, it offers endless educational fun for kids and adults alike.

Visitors can explore the planetarium, watch live science demonstrations and wander through a whimsical science village filled with imaginative neighborhoods designed to inspire curiosity.

Location: 2020 Remington Place, Oklahoma City
Hours: Mon–Fri 9am–5pm, Sat 9am–6pm, Sun 11am–6pm

Riversport Adventure Park

For families looking for excitement, Riversport Adventure Park offers adrenaline-filled outdoor activities including whitewater rafting, kayaking, zip-lining and rope courses.

Located along the Oklahoma River in the Boathouse District, it’s a fantastic destination for active families. Kayaks, canoes and stand-up paddleboards are available to rent, with options for children as young as five.

Location: 800 Riversport Drive, Oklahoma City

Lake Hefner

About 15 miles north of downtown Oklahoma City, Lake Hefner provides a relaxing escape from the bustle of the city.

Although swimming and camping aren’t allowed, families can enjoy bird watching, playgrounds, sports fields, picnic areas and scenic walking trails. Sailboat races frequently take place on weekends.

Frontier City

This Wild West-themed amusement park celebrates the region’s cowboy heritage with more than 30 rides and shows. Attractions range from gentle rides for younger children to thrilling rollercoasters and a large Ferris wheel with views across the city.

During hot summer days, guests can also cool off at the park’s adjoining water park, which is included with admission.

Location: 11501 North I-35 Service Road, Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City Zoo

Oklahoma City Zoo is one of the region’s most popular family attractions, spanning around 120 acres with world-class habitats for animals from across the globe.

Visitors can explore areas such as Cat Forest, Sanctuary Asia and Great Escape while learning about wildlife through daily talks hosted by animal experts. Younger children can enjoy a train ride, carousel and tram.

Location: 2000 Remington Place, Oklahoma City
Hours: Mon–Sun 9am–5pm

Myriad Botanical Gardens

These beautiful botanical gardens offer a peaceful place to explore tropical plants, waterfalls and lush landscapes. The tropical conservatory houses exotic plants and animals, while outdoor gardens feature walking paths and art installations.

Children often enjoy photographing the scenery, exploring the gardens and discovering hidden corners throughout the park.

Location: 301 West Reno Avenue, Oklahoma City
Hours: Mon–Sun 6am–11pm

Oklahoma State Firefighters Museum

Few sights capture a child’s imagination like a fire truck. Founded in 1967, this museum features historic artefacts and beautifully restored fire engines that tell the story of firefighting in Oklahoma.

Highlights include a replica of the first firehouse in Indian Territory and a memorial honoring firefighters who have served communities throughout the state.

Location: 2716 Northeast 50th Street, Oklahoma City
Hours: Mon–Sat 9am–4:30pm, Sun 1pm–4:30pm

The Wheeler Riverfront Plaza

This lively riverside plaza is one of Oklahoma City’s most vibrant gathering spots. Families come here to relax in hammocks, enjoy outdoor games and grab snacks from local food vendors.

The area is also home to the historic Santa Monica Pier Ferris Wheel, which was relocated here and now towers above the downtown skyline, lifting riders high above the riverbank.

Location: 1701 South Western Avenue, Oklahoma City

Brickopolis

Brickopolis is a modern entertainment complex offering three floors of family fun. Highlights include a large arcade, an 18-hole miniature golf course and an immersive laser tag arena where players battle alien invaders.

Outside, kids can dig for gems and climb the quirky Klime Wall for an extra dose of adventure.

Location: 101 South Mickey Mantle Drive, Oklahoma City
Hours: Mon–Sun 11am–11pm

By Paul Joseph