A Family Weekend in OKC

Oklahoma City is a great city for a family weekend getaway. The central location makes it perfect for a road trip through the Southern USA. Along with the fact that it borders seven other states. OKC provides many family activities, but is small enough to not be overwhelming. A lot of the attractions are within walking distance of each other which therefore makes it really accessible. We enjoyed our weekend in OKC and look forward to visiting again in the future.

Disclaimer: We were guests of Oklahoma City and the Embassy Suites OKC NW, however as always, all opinions are my own.

Where to stay in Oklahoma City

The Embassy Suites by Hilton Oklahoma City Northwest is our recommendation for a place to stay when visiting OKC. It is located just 8 miles from downtown and overlooks Lake Hefner.

The hotel has recently been renovated, and is therefore fresh, modern and beautiful. Our suite had amazing views out towards the lake. The extra lounging space was more than adequate for our family of three. Included are a complimentary evening reception, free WiFi and the cooked-to-order breakfasts.

The hotel provides an indoor heated pool and a fitness center. There is also a Grand Ballroom that can accommodate up to 1,200 people for business and events. The outdoor patio area includes tables, chairs and fire pits, perfect for relaxing and unwinding. The bar inside has a smart-casual feel, therefore is ideal for happy hour or a quick bite to eat.

Things to do on a family weekend in OKC

Oklahoma City National Memorial

The Outdoor Symbolic Memorial stands on the grounds of the horrific Oklahoma City bombing that occurred on April 19, 1995. The towering gates on both ends of the Memorial frame the moment of destruction at 9:02 AM and provide official entrance into the Memorial. The 9:01 gate represents the innocence before the attack and the 9:03 gate symbolizes the moment healing began.

Gates of Time, Reflecting Pool and Field of Empty Chairs

Between the two gates, where N.W. Fifth Street was once located, is now a shallow depth of flowing water. The calming water provide a tranquil place for quiet thoughts and reflection. To one side of the pool stands 168 chairs representing those killed on that day. They stand in nine rows representing the floors of the Federal Building where the field is now located. Each chair displays the name of someone killed on that floor. Nineteen smaller chair stand for the children that perished on that day.

Survivor Wall and Survivor Tree

The only remaining wall from the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building stands on the east end of the Memorial. More than 600 names of those who survived the attack are inscribed on the salvaged granite. Across the pool from the chairs is the Survivor Tree. This American Elm withstood the force of the attack and witnessed the tragedy of that day. It therefore continues to stand as a living symbol of resilience.

The Rescuers’ Orchard includes a multitude of trees surrounding and protecting the Survivor Tree representing the people who rushed to help on that tragic day.

To the courageous and caring who responded from near and far, we offer our eternal gratitude, as a thank you to the thousands of rescuers and volunteers who helped.

The Museum

The Museum is located just behind the Survivor Tree and is filled with more than one million documents, artefacts and photographs. The museum tells the stories of those who were killed, the survivors, and those that were forever changed. The Museum provides a way to look back and to think forward from that tragic day. Because of the sensitive way the museum is organised, it makes a good learning opportunity for your young ones.

The museum is open 7 days a week excluding Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. Ticket prices are $15 for adults with discounts for Seniors, Military, students, and children. The last ticket is sold at 5pm each day.

Lake Hefner

Lake Hefner is located 12 miles northwest of downtown. The lake covers 2,500 acres and boasts 18 miles of shoreline. Lake Hefner is an excellent lake for bird watching and sailing. The multiple parks surrounding the lake include sports fields, playgrounds, picnic facilities, golf and extensive walking trails. Lake Hefner is the perfect spot to enjoy the outdoors when visiting Oklahoma City for the weekend.

Skydance Bridge & Scissortail Park

The Skydance bridge (‘scissortail bridge’) was inspired by Oklahoma’s state bird, the scissor-tailed flycatcher. The 380-foot-long pedestrian bridge spans over Interstate 40 and includes a 197-foot-tall sculpture. At night the bridge is illuminated in different colors.

Scissortail Park is located in downtown and includes something for everyone. There is a farmers market, a skating rink, a playground, beautiful gardens and more. The boathouse within the park provides rentals for pedal boats, canoes, and kayaks. The park is open to the public and is a popular location for events and concerts.

Myriad Botanical Gardens

The Myriad Botanical Gardens, located in downtown Oklahoma City, provide numerous attractions perfect for everyone in the family. The Crystal Bridge Conservatory is the centerpiece of the 15-acre gardens. This massive and beautiful indoor area includes 750 varieties of plants, a cascading waterfall and a sky bridge providing amazing views of the tropical forest.

The outdoor space includes the gardens, a children’s garden, a dog park, and water features. Seasonal activities include Mo’s Carousel, the Great pumpkin Patch, Devon Ice Rink, and the Children’s Garden Festival. The Botanical Gardens provides classes, memberships, youth programs, and event space.

Where to eat in OKC

Hefner Grill

There are many restaurants to choose from around Lake Hefner, four of them located on the waterfront. We chose Hefner Grill for dinner and it was fabulous. Offering indoor and outdoor seating and sunsets over the water, the views are breathtaking from any table. The extensive menu provides something for every palate. The food and service were both as spectacular as the views.

Bricktown

Bricktown is located adjacent to downtown Oklahoma City. This area is an industrial-chic lively entertainment area. The repurposed warehouses are now home to restaurants, nightlife and entertainment. This leads to an energetic vibe and a mix of shops selling everything from clothing to home decor, and speciality food items. The Bricktown Water Taxi takes passengers along the Bricktown Canal for tours and dinner cruises. Bricktown is also home to the Oklahoma City Dodgers.

Looking for great family city breaks? Try Indianapolis or the amazing Mall of America!

A Family Weekend in OKC

Oklahoma City is a wonderful location for a family weekend getaway. The Downtown and Bricktown area offer multiple attractions and restaurants within walking distance. Lake Hefner and Scissortail park provide plenty of outdoor space and activities, including the Oklahoma City Zoo and the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. The city is large enough to provide something for everyone, but not so large it can’t be seen in a weekend. Enjoy!

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