Right about now it’s about that time...to get outside!

If you’re itching to kick off the summer season early, you’re not alone! Oklahoma City has some made-for-being-outside activities and venues to choose from. Whether if you’re seeking a new adventure, family activities around town or someplace fresh to wine and dine, we have a cheat sheet for you below to help spark those ideas and plans. It’s never too late and never too soon to unwind and get outside!

Water parks and sports:
Take a dive in the water at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor OKC or binge on your favorite rides at Six Flags Frontier City. These two venues are staples in Oklahoma City – the staff at Six Flags will lead you screaming fun throughout the summer season. RIVERSPORT OKC is another popular choice for all adventure and thrill-seekers. RIVERSPORT is the premier place in the OKC metro that offers activities such as kayaking, surfing and tubing (and many more). They offer daily, season and annual passes and memberships. Also, as announced on VeloCity, make plans to attend and cheer on world athletes at the International Canoe Federation (ICF) Super Cup hosted by RIVERSPORT in August 2022., make plans to attend and cheer on world athletes at the International Canoe Federation (ICF) Super Cup hosted by RIVERSPORT in August 2022.

Outdoor concerts:
Live outdoor concerts in OKC returns in full force! Scissortail Park (Love’s Travel Stops Stage & Great Lawn) starts off a free concert series in May. Scheduled performances by Amythyst Kiah (May 8) and LeAnn Rimes (May 21) headline the series. Tell your friends and family about this and make plans today! The Zoo Amphitheatre is also primed and ready to welcome you back with scheduled concerts and events on their website. Come see some of your favorite artists – buy your tickets early and prepare yourself for times you won’t forget!

The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum:
We all remember April 19, 1995. The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum was thoughtfully designed to remember and honor the 168 lives lost on that tragic day here at home. As you walk through the gates and around the reflecting pool, a sense of strength and peace is profoundly felt to the core – you want to pay tribute and learn more about the lives of the individuals. This is a somber and crucial part of our city’s history. It’s a timeless masterpiece that will signify the spirit of Oklahoma forever.

OKC dining:
The food culture in Oklahoma City has grown tremendously over the years. Dining options have become more complicated from a food lover’s pun and delight. The pandemic threw many challenges for everyone, especially those in the food and hospitality business. Even before these challenges, there were a number of local restaurants with patio and outdoor dining experiences. The districts we live in defines our neighborhoods and the collective culture we bring adds flavor to the restaurants we’re surrounded by and support. VisitOKC.com has you covered with their new, interactive Dining By District section – made to order for all foodies and tourists of Oklahoma City!

Gardens:
The Myriad Botanical Gardens and Will Rogers Gardens are two attractions available in our city. Not only do they feature internationally rare and new botanical pieces, but also classes and seminars on getting started or ideas on how to take your gardening skills to the next level. Also, be sure to take a brief tour and check on venue scheduling and rates if you’re planning a formal occasion or event.

Family:
A guaranteed and safe pick for a family outing has got to be the Oklahoma City Zoo. The Oklahoma City Zoo is consistently ranked among the best zoos in the country. Activities and shows at the zoo appeal to people of all ages – with the Great EscApe, safari exhibits, the Children’s Zoo and more for you to see. If heading south near Moore is on your radar, Orr Family Farm is a can’t miss spot for kids! With ‘"Baby Animal Days’" approaching in mid-May, Orr Family Farm offers seasonal and holiday activities and passes of every adventure level. Want to expand your grocery options or competing in your family’s “Chopped” competition? The Scissortail Park Farmers Market in Oklahoma City is one to check out if you’re looking for fresh, local vegetation and produce. The primary base location of the Farmers Market is 311 S. Klein Avenue – also note The Farmers Market is held every Friday at Scissortail Park for the season until further notice.

Parks:
We highlighted a few local city parks from last week’s The Better Life blog. In continuation for the topic of getting outside, we should mention Mat Hoffman Action Sports Park. This is a cross-platform park created to intrigue skaters and BMX riders in having both a meeting place and home to showcase their skills. Spectators are welcome at the park to see our future stars and talent (plus amazing runs and tricks) here in OKC.

Sports:
Who says you have to wait until the fall to see a live sporting event here in Oklahoma? The PGA Championship returns to Southern Hills Country Club in Tulsa on May 19-22. You’ll get to see the world’s best golfers compete for a major title here in Oklahoma (the most recent PGA Championship played at Southern Hills was 2007). The Women’s College World Series is held annually at the USA Softball Hall of Fame Complex in Oklahoma City. The tournament is slated for June 2-10 with participating teams to be determined as the season progresses (not to jinx, but both OU and OSU softball teams are having fantastic seasons!).

There are lots of summer outdoor options here in OKC. If we missed anything, our family from the Oklahoma City Convention and Visitors Bureau has you covered with all the latest events, resources and happenings in our city.