Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, and Oklahoma City offers a full lineup of ways to enjoy it. From family-friendly festivals and outdoor concerts to ballgames and nature trails, the city makes it easy to fill your long weekend. Whether you're planning a busy day out or looking for something more relaxing, here are some of the top things to do in OKC over Memorial Day weekend.
Festivals in OKC
The Paseo Arts Festival returns May 24–26 with free admission and daily entertainment from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday. Featuring more than 90 visual artists, live performances on two stages, local culinary vendors and a free children’s area, the festival supports both artists and businesses in OKC’s historic Paseo Arts District. A free shuttle will run from First Presbyterian Church of OKC throughout the weekend.
The Chuck Wagon Festival at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum returns May 24-25 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Guests can enjoy chuck wagon and Native American food samples, live entertainment, children’s crafts, face painting, rope making, Western reenactors and more. The festival also features Liichokoshkomo’, an interactive outdoor space with native dwellings and a pioneer village, along with access to Prosperity Junction and other museum galleries.
OKC Attractions
The OKC National Memorial provides a reflective space to honor the victims of the 1995 bombing. Pay a visit to the memorial to remember these victims with a peaceful experience.
For those looking to enjoy the water, RIVERSPORT Rapids & Adventures kicks off its summer season with whitewater rafting, kayaking and more. The OKANA Beach at OKANA Resort and Indoor Waterpark opens for the summer season, which runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The 200,000-square-foot outdoor waterpark features zip lines, a sandy beach and an adults-only swim-up bar, making it the perfect spot for both relaxation and excitement.
At the OKC Zoo, guests can see more than 1,900 animals from around the world, including endangered species. Exhibits include immersive environments and hands-on activities for kids. For sports enthusiasts, watch the OKC Comets in action at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, which includes an exciting baseball game followed by a fireworks display.
Outdoor Recreation
To get outdoors, head to the Boathouse District along the Oklahoma River to glide across the water on a stand-up paddleboard or kayak. Rentals are available for all skill levels, ranging from beginners to experienced paddlers. For a more leisurely water experience, visit Scissortail Park and rent a pedal boat from the park’s boathouse. This activity is ideal for families and couples alike.
For those wanting to explore on foot or bike, OKC has a wealth of green spaces and trails. Stroll through the lush grounds of the Myriad Botanical Gardens in the heart of downtown, where you'll find scenic pathways, seasonal blooms and a children’s garden filled with interactive features. Martin Nature Park offers a shady, wooded trail where wildlife sightings are common, and Bluff Creek Trail provides a winding, tree-lined route perfect for jogging, cycling or simply enjoying the fresh air.
This holiday weekend, make the most of your time off by exploring some of OKC’s top attractions—perfect for families, friends and solo adventurers alike. From peaceful parks to thrilling water activities, OKC’s natural beauty and vibrant outdoor spaces offer something for everyone. Whether you're looking for high-energy adventure or laid-back leisure, there's no shortage of ways to celebrate Memorial Day and kick off the season.
This article was originally published by VisitOKC. The original can be accessed here.
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