Day 1: Cultural immersion
Morning: Kick off your day with a feast at Harvey Bakery and Kitchen for a pastry and mimosa (or two) that will set you up for the day ahead. Sufficiently fortified, head over to Bricktown, OKC’s entertainment district, and hop on a water taxi. As you cruise along the canal, the driver will spin tales about the city’s lively history.
Afternoon: Oklahoma City’s First Americans Museum, located next to the OKANA Resort, offers a fascinating insight into the diverse cultures and histories of the 39 tribal nations who reside in Oklahoma state.
Though a sometimes heartbreaking story, a mixture of artifacts, video, and profiles of notable First Americans offers an invaluable insight to an undersung aspect of American history. Afterwards, settle in for lunch at the museum’s chic, newly refitted 39 Restaurant. The food is excellent and is Indigenous-inspired.
From there, it’s a short drive to the State Capitol. Opt for a guided tour of its accomplished art collection. The artworks tell the story of Oklahoma’s journey, providing a unique lens through which to understand the state’s heritage.
Evening: As evening falls, treat yourself to dinner and happy hour at the Jones Assembly. This multi-use space – part restaurant, part bar, part music venue – offers delicious dishes and many of the city’s most fashionable citizens. Check the listings to see what’s on, as its musical guests are uniformly brilliant.
Day 2: Western aesthetic
Morning: Begin with coffee and pastries at Bradford House before making your way to the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. This vast institution is unapologetically sincere about its subject matter, housing an extensive collection of Western art, rodeo memorabilia, and an entire indoor replica Western town. The guided tours are led by enthusiasts whose passion for the material borders on the evangelical, in the best possible way. Their storytelling brings the exhibits to life.
Afternoon: Stockyards City is authentically Oklahoma. Settle in for lunch at Cattlemen’s Steakhouse, a local institution since 1910. The interior evokes classic Western saloon aesthetics, and the steaks are superb. Surrounding shops offer every conceivable cowboy accessory.
From there, visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum. This moving tribute commemorates the 1995 bombing that claimed 168 lives. The outdoor memorial features empty chairs – one for each victim. The museum itself is thoughtfully curated and is essential viewing for understanding the city’s recent history.
Evening: Wrap up your whirlwind escapage at Tellers, formerly the historic First National Bank building, now a boutique hotel. The restaurant has retained the building’s original architectural grandeur – soaring marble columns, ornate awnings, and capacious vault. Sip cocktails in a former safe deposit box room to add a cinematic quality to the evening.
