Giving you the 411 on the 405

Oklahoma City joins Afar's 2025 list of lesser-visited destinations

AFAR magazine has released its annual “Where to Go” list for 2025, naming 23 destinations worldwide that offer a mix of cultural, natural, and emerging travel experiences. Among the destinations is Oklahoma City, which has undergone a major transformation in recent years. From a growing film industry to a revitalized dining scene, the city is drawing increased attention as an up-and-coming U.S. destination. 

Shop small for the little ones this holiday season

One of the most magical parts of the holiday season is watching our little ones open the special surprises we worked hard to find, wrap and share with them. It can also be exhausting to find those gifts. So, we’ve made a list of local Oklahoma City stores to help you easily discover the best gifts for your little one. 

Embrace Small Business Saturday for all your holiday shopping needs

With the holidays rounding the corner, now is the perfect time to embrace the spirit of giving and support the core of our community – local businesses. For this Small Business Saturday (Nov. 19, 2024), discover the unique, one-of-a-kind gems scattered across our vibrant city. To make it even easier for you, we’ve selected a few local shops in each OKC district. Happy shopping! 

MAPS 4 update – Projects in motion

Celebrate Thanksgiving locally: Open spots in OKC for a unique feast

This Thanksgiving, it’s time to let someone else do all the prep, cooking and cleaning! The following spots promise a unique and delightful celebration alongside a delicious menu.

2024 By the Numbers released

The 2024 By the Numbers report from the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber shows that the region continues to experience significant growth and economic expansion. From population increases to sector growth and improvements in workforce development, the report provides an updated snapshot of the area's ongoing development.

Oklahoma City awarded $975,000 to transform Classen Boulevard into modern transit corridor

Oklahoma City has received a $975,000 federal grant to plan transit-oriented development along Classen Boulevard, from NW 10th to NW 48th streets. The grant, awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation, will fund a plan to encourage transit-friendly development, affordable housing and improved pedestrian and bike access along the RAPID NW bus line.

Oklahoma City awarded nearly $2 million for sidewalk improvements near schools

Oklahoma City has been awarded nearly $2 million in grants from the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) to fund sidewalk improvements near five elementary schools. The funding is part of the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) and will help enhance pedestrian safety around schools identified as top priorities in the city’s bikewalkokc master plan.

FAME students enjoy new OSU-OKC manufacturing lab

The Advanced Manufacturing Lab represents a $1.4 million investment, partly funded by a $580,000 Workforce Advancement Initiative grant championed by Rep. Stephanie Bice and former Sen. James Inhofe. The space is flexible, allowing equipment to move freely between instructional areas to support diverse training needs.

OKC for Soccer Committee to guide city's pro soccer, entertainment vision

In a major follow-up to developments surrounding the future of professional soccer and an exciting entertainment district coming to downtown Oklahoma City, an advisory committee has now been established to help shape a representative vision for the community. The OKC for Soccer Committee, announced last week, includes 33 influential civic, business, sports and cultural leaders from the region.

Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center showcased on Smithsonian Channel’s "How Did They Build That"

In an episode of How Did They Build That (Season 3, Episode 2), Oklahoma Contemporary is revealed as a feat of modern engineering and design, pushing the boundaries of what architecture can achieve. The episode delves into the remarkable construction process behind the 53,916-square-foot center, dubbed “Folding Light,” designed by renowned architect Rand Elliott.

How a husband-and-wife duo transformed OKC's OAK with public art

Husband-and-wife duo Brad Oldham and Cristy Coltrin of Brad Oldham Sculpture, based in Texas, were brought in by OAK developer Ryan McNeill, who met the couple through a mutual business partner. Coltrin focuses on the character of each piece, while Oldham leads the sculpting. Together, they created a series of public art installations inspired by Oklahoma’s history and spirit.

Thunder season introduces fresh fan experiences, showcasing community growth

As the Oklahoma City Thunder prepares to kick off another exciting season, our community has plenty to look forward to, both on and off the court.

Meet the Oklahoma City Comets

The recent unveiling ceremony at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark marked the announcement of Oklahoma City’s Triple-A baseball team’s official rebrand to the Oklahoma City Comets.

Tommy Bahama to open first Oklahoma location at OAK in Oklahoma City

Tommy Bahama, a pioneer of the combined restaurant-retail experience, will make its debut in Oklahoma with the opening of a Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar at OAK in Oklahoma City, OK.  The Tommy Bahama Marlin Bar, scheduled to open on October 30^th, embraces the brand's easy, relaxed spirit with a casual new concept where guests can eat, drink and shop.  

Oklahoma City film industry spends $22M in FY24, led by feature films

‘Twisters’ drives major economic impact with $42.6M spent in Oklahoma City. “Twisters” exceeded expectations upon its release date, in which its box office performance doubled opening weekend projections, earning $81.25 million domestically.

OKC FAME: Nurturing talent with Climate Control Group for Oklahoma’s workforce

To help manufacturers in the Greater Oklahoma City region secure the talent needed to grow and maintain a national presence, the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber helped launch Oklahoma’s first chapter of the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) program.

Halloween in the 4-0-5

With Halloween just around the corner it's time to strategize for maximum candy collection! For those who want an early start on Halloween fun without the late-night candy rush on the 31st, here are some great options.

Last weekend for Pumpkinville

One of the staples of fall in Oklahoma City is Pumpkinville at the Myriad Botanical Gardens and this weekend is the last chance to experience the family fun for yourself this year.

OKC recognized as 19th most up-and-coming tech market in North America

Oklahoma City has earned a spot as one of North America's top 50 up-and-coming tech talent markets, ranking 19th in CBRE's latest “Scoring Tech Talent” report. The city is rapidly closing the gap with leading tech hubs like Omaha and Huntsville, thanks to a robust and growing workforce of 22,590 tech employees, recognized as the third largest among the markets identified in the report.

Oklahoma City ranks 17th among U.S. cities for small businesses

Oklahoma City has been ranked 17th in a new report highlighting the best U.S. cities for small businesses in 2024, reflecting its strong entrepreneurial spirit and supportive environment for business growth.

Oklahoma City ranks fourth lowest in unemployment among large metros

Oklahoma City ranked 4th lowest in unemployment among large metropolitan areas with populations over 1 million, reporting an unemployment rate of 3.3% in August, according to preliminary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Transforming manufacturing: OKC FAME students shape the future of local manufacturing

To help businesses in the Greater Oklahoma City region access the talent they need to grow, succeed and sustain a national presence, the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber helped establish Oklahoma’s first chapter of the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME) program. This national program combines academics and hands-on training to equip students with the skills needed for high-demand, globally competitive manufacturing careers.

Bradford House earns prestigious MICHELIN Key distinction

The Bradford House, a boutique hotel located in Oklahoma City’s vibrant Uptown district, has been recognized in the 2024 MICHELIN Guide as one of the country’s outstanding hotels, a first-time accolade for Oklahoma.

OKC Action Center is at your service

The Oklahoma City Action Center is a lifeline for residents to address concerns in and around neighborhoods and surroundings. The Action Center is a subdivision of the City of Oklahoma City to serve as your one-stop contact center to report confidential, non-emergency inquiries.

Spooktacular October: Halloween events in Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City offers a variety of events throughout October designed for Halloween enthusiasts and those eager to celebrate the fall season. From family-friendly events to attractions tailored to older audiences, Oklahoma City provides something for everyone.

Riversport announces grand opening of nearly $1 million Trailhead Bike Park expansion

This long-anticipated expansion will provide an inclusive, dynamic space for cyclists, skaters, and outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels. The park’s enhancements offer something for everyone, from novice riders to seasoned pros, ensuring that the trails can be enjoyed by the entire community.

Oklahoma City celebrates hotel grand opening, public art unveiling

Oklahoma City is celebrating a significant milestone with the grand opening of Lively Hotel at OAK, a new addition to the Tapestry Collection by Hilton.

Plaza District celebrates 25 years with annual festival, local art and music

The Plaza District will host its 25th Annual Plaza District Festival on Saturday, September 28, from noon to 10 p.m. at 1700 Block of NW 16th St. 

Oklahoma City ranks among best coffee cities in America

Oklahoma City has secured a spot on WalletHub’s recent list of the best coffee cities in America, ranking 49th out of 100 cities. This recognition highlights the city’s growing coffee scene, reflecting its commitment to providing residents with quality coffee experiences.