Oklahoma City is a great place to bring your tweens and teens. With its vibrant culture and diverse attractions, there’s something for everyone. And best of all, many activities are budget friendly and can be enjoyed without spending a dime!
From museums and parks to outdoor adventures and family-friendly restaurants, we’ve rounded up 28 free things to do in Oklahoma City for families that are sure to please everyone according to their travel love language. So grab your older kiddos and come explore Oklahoma City together – with no admission fee!
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Free Things to Do in Oklahoma City
I’ve called Oklahoma City home for more than twenty years and I’m always inspired by the city’s spirit of fun and adventure. I’m here to help you plan an awesome day out in Oklahoma City that won’t break the bank. If you’re a family with teenagers like mine, you’re probably always on the lookout for fun activities that aren’t a playground or children’s museum. Well, look no further because I’ve got you covered with a list of free things to do near me in Oklahoma City.
Visit the Bricktown Entertainment District
Bricktown is a popular entertainment district in Oklahoma City that’s full of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Wander the streets and explore the variety of stores, see live music at one of the local venues, or walk alongside the Canal to see the murals and art installations. Just be sure to bring your walking shoes as this is an area best explored on foot.
During the month of December, Bricktown transforms into a winter wonderland with festive decorations, holiday activities, and free Water Taxi rides. In years past the Bricktown Water Taxi has been free during December courtesy of Downtown Business Improvement District on Sundays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays
Recommended Bricktown Hotel Nearby: Renaissance Oklahoma City Downtown Bricktown
Visit the Centennial Land Run Monument
Located in Lower Bricktown, the Centennial Land Run Monument is a set of larger than life statues depicting land run settlers on horseback and in wagons. This artwork honors the nearly 10,000 people who participated in the 1889 Oklahoma Land Run and symbolizes the courage and perseverance of those settlers.
Bass Pro Shops Bricktown
Bass Pro Shops Bricktown is an outdoor-themed shopping venue located on the east side of Bricktown. The store has regularly scheduled events such as workshops and seminars, as well as interactive displays featuring wildlife, hunting equipment, and fishing gear.
Recommended Bricktown Hotel Nearby: SpringHill Suites by Marriott Oklahoma City Downtown
Take a Hike at Martin Park Nature Center
Martin Park Nature Center is a 144-acre nature preserve located in northwest Oklahoma City. With its winding trails, lush green space, and tranquil ponds it’s the perfect place to spend a day away from the city. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or an educational experience, Martin Park has something for everyone.
The nature center provides free guided hikes on certain days of the week as well as self-guided walks and exploration of the many wildlife habitats. Pack a picnic, grab your binoculars, and take off on an adventure to explore the outdoors!
Recommended NW OKC Hotel Nearby: Hampton Inn & Suites Oklahoma City Quail Springs
Visit Exhibit C Gallery
The Exhibit C Gallery in Bricktown OKC is an amazing place to explore. The gallery features a wide variety of artwork from local, national and international artists, including painting, sculpture, photography, printmaking and more. What sets the Exhibit C Gallery apart is its unique focus on exhibiting art created by Oklahoma-based artists.
Soak Up Some Sun at Lake Hefner and Park
Lake Hefner is an outdoor paradise located just minutes from downtown Oklahoma City. Home to one of the largest lakes in the area, this area is a great spot for fishing, paddle boarding, kayaking, biking, hiking and so much more. If you have ever wanted to watch kitesurfing, this is the perfect spot! You’ll find windsurfers out on the NE side of the lake.
Related: If you enjoy kayaking, see these great kayaking in Oklahoma spots
Visit the American Pigeon Museum & Library
This museum is one of the more unique family activities in OKC. Located in the OKC Adventure District near Science Museum Oklahoma and the Zoo, this museum is dedicated to highlighting the history of homing pigeons. The museum features a variety of interactive exhibits that teach visitors about the importance and impact of these birds in our culture. Admission is free so be sure to check out this unique museum when you’re in town!
Recommended Adventure District Hotel Nearby: The Ellison, Oklahoma City
Visit the Plaza District to See Plaza Walls
The Plaza District is a vibrant arts district in the heart of Oklahoma City. It’s home to a variety of restaurants, galleries, and independent shops as well as free outdoor public art displays. Take time to explore the murals at Plaza Walls, located on the brick walls behind the shops along 16th Street. These Oklahoma City Murals are constantly changing and offer a unique opportunity to experience the city’s public art at no cost.
Bring your camera, take lots of photos, and take in the vibrancy and creativity that make Oklahoma City so special. While you are there, treat yourself to a slice of delicious pie at Pie Junkie or a waffle cone with your favorite ice cream from local Roxy’s Ice Cream.
Stroll through the Paseo Arts District
This funky, artsy neighborhood in Oklahoma City is full of galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. It’s a great place to walk around and soak up the creative vibes. Stop by one of the galleries to take a look at some of the works of local artists. There are also plenty of great restaurants in the area with food options to please any palate.
Walk the Grounds of the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum
This memorial and museum are dedicated to the victims of the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in downtown Oklahoma City. This Oklahoma national park is managed by the National Park Service and is a somber and moving experience that’s both educational and emotional.
You can walk the grounds and view the outdoor memorial, which is free and open to the public. The outdoor area includes Field of Empty Chairs, Survivor Tree, Reflecting Pool, and Gates of Time. Take time during your visit to complete the Oklahoma City National Memorial Junior Ranger Book and recognize the courage and strength of those impacted by this tragedy.
Recommended Downtown OKC Hotel Nearby: Skirvin Hilton Hotel
Take a Stroll through Scissortail Park
Scissortail Park is a beautiful, 70-acre park located in downtown Oklahoma City. It’s home to lush green meadows, an interactive water fountain, walking paths, picnic areas, and more. The park is free to explore and provides a variety of activities for families of all ages.
Head to the newer Lower Park section of Scissortail Park and play a game of pickleball or futsal on the free outdoor courts. There are also soccer fields and basketball courts that are first come.
The park also hosts free concerts and movie nights throughout the year ideal for the whole family. So when you are looking for free things to do in OKC this weekend, be sure to check their calendar for upcoming events.
Recommended Downtown Hotel Nearby: Omni Oklahoma City
Farmers Market at Scissortail Park
April through October, the Farmers Market at Scissortail Park features local farmers, artisans, and makers with a variety of fresh produce, handmade goods, live entertainment, and more. The market is free to attend and open every Saturday morning from 8 am-2 pm and Wednesdays from 5-8 pm.
Visit the Myriad Botanical Gardens
This 15-acre botanical garden and urban park is located in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City. It’s a lush, green oasis with a variety of gardens, fountains, and walking paths. The outdoor areas are free to enjoy while there is a fee for admission to the indoor Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory.
Grab your yoga mat and check out the free classes in the park! Held Tuesdays at 6 pm and Saturdays at 9 am, inside the Water Terrace Room (winter months). Once it’s nice out again, classes are held outside on Devon Lawn.
During the summer months, the park also offers free outdoor movies and live music. Plus every third Friday, May through August, Brenda & Jorge Hernandez with Tango PR host dancing demos and lessons in the Seasonal Plaza starting at 7pm. Be sure to check out their events calendar for upcoming shows and screenings!
Check out the Oklahoma Contemporary
The Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Center is a great place to explore the visual arts. This museum showcases art from local, national, and international artists. From paintings to sculptures, there is something for everyone here.
At the time I’m writing this, the Art of Food exhibit (runs through May 22, 2023) is the museum’s current exhibit. It’s a thoughtful collection of over 100 artworks that explore food, its production, and its effects on culture.
Explore the Oklahoma City Museum of Art
The Oklahoma City Museum of Art is a great place to explore if you’re looking for an enriching cultural experience. The museum features both permanent and rotating exhibitions with works from all around the world. My favorite exhibit is the Chihuly collection, featuring beautiful blown glass sculptures by artist Dale Chihuly.
While adult admission to the museum isn’t free, all children (ages 17 and under) receive free admission thanks to generous support from The Chickasaw Nation, The Ann Lacy Foundation, Cresap Family Foundation, and Chuck and Renate Wiggin. If you are an Oklahoma City resident with a Metro Library card, you can also pick up free passes for up to 4 people at a local branch.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: 21c Oklahoma City
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Take a Tour of the Oklahoma Railway Museum
The Oklahoma Railway Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the railway in Oklahoma. Visitors have the chance to explore a variety of locomotives, cars, cabooses, and other artifacts.
Take a Tour of the State Capitol
The Oklahoma State Capitol is a beautiful, neoclassical building that’s worth a visit. The Capitol’s art collection covers six floors making it the state’s largest public art museum.
The Oklahoma Arts Council offers free guided tours of the art galleries on weekdays between 9 am to 3 pm or take a self-guided tour any day of the week.
Go Wild at the Oklahoma City Zoo
Admission to the zoo isn’t usually free, but in the summer of 2022, the zoo announced free admission afternoons. On weekday afternoons from noon to 2 pm, guests could explore the zoo and its many animal exhibits without spending a dime. We await confirmation if this returns in 2023.
If you are interested in a splurge experience, check out these OKC Zoo animal experiences.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Oklahoma City North
Visit the 45th Infantry Division Museum
The 45th Infantry Division Museum is one of several free museums in OKC. This one is dedicated to preserving the history of the 45th Infantry Division. The museum has a large collection of artifacts, photos, and other items that explore the division’s history.
There’s a large collection of machinery and equipment outdoors, including tanks and armored vehicles. Inside the museum has a surprisingly vast array of World War II artifacts and exhibits ranging from paintings and photos to uniforms, and weapons.
View Art at 21c Museum Hotel Oklahoma City
21c Museum Hotel Oklahoma City is a contemporary art museum and hotel that has free admission to its galleries, which feature rotating exhibitions of national and international artwork. The museum offers guided tours during certain times of the week and also hosts events such as artist talks, film screenings, music performances, and more.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: 21c Oklahoma City
Visit the Oklahoma City Public Library
Oklahoma City’s Metropolitan Public Library system is made up of several branches located throughout the city. While it isn’t technically a museum, many of these locations have special exhibits and events that explore the history and culture of Oklahoma City. Check out their self-guided history tours here.
Check the calendar for local events like book signings, artist talks, and lectures. If you’re feeling creative, the library also offers classes in a variety of topics such as cooking, photography, and painting.
Explore the Oklahoma River Trails
The Oklahoma River Trails are 13-mile paved trails that run along the north and south side of the Oklahoma River. It’s a great place to walk, run, or bike while enjoying the scenic views of the river and the city. The trail connects to several parks and other attractions, making it easy to incorporate into your sightseeing activities.
If you are really interested in outdoor activities, check out OKC Riverports (paid admission). It’s an expansive faculty on the river that offers inland white water rafting, tubing, elevated obstacle course, flatwater kayaking and SUP, indoor skiing, and more.
Step Back in Time at Stockyard City
Stockyard City is a National Historic District that celebrates the city’s history as a major livestock center. Tour the area and visit original brick buildings dating back to 1907, including the Cattleman’s Stockyards Exchange Building, which was constructed in 1929 and still stands today.
If your family is really into western heritage and the old west, also plan a visit to the National Western Heritage and Museum (paid admission) formerly known as the National Cowboy Hall of Fame. Their outdoor exhibit, Liichokoshkomo’, exhibits live re-enactments of authentic cowboy life. You’ll get a chance to watch and learn about how Native Americans lived.
Related: Save more money on indoor trampoline parks, roller skating, and axe-throwing experiences with the Venture Pass.
Play through the Wheeler District
The Wheeler District is a newer development in Oklahoma City that features a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. It’s a great place to walk around and enjoy the vibrant community.
The focal point of this district is the Wheeler Ferris Wheel, a 200-foot-tall ferris wheel that offers fantastic views of Oklahoma City. There is a fee to ride, but the park in front of the ride offers free family activities like lawn games, public art, and access to the riverside walking trail.
Related: This is near some of my favorite brunch spots in OKC.
Visit the Oklahoma City Hall of Fame
The Oklahoma City Hall of Fame is dedicated to honoring the achievements of Oklahomans in a variety of fields. It features a variety of exhibits and artifacts, as well as several educational programs and events.
Admission is generally not free, but you can access a printable free admission voucher here on their website.
Stroll through the Flowers at Will Rogers Park
Will Rogers Park is home to beautifully manicured gardens and a number of sculptures honoring the legendary cowboy actor, Will Rogers. This is a popular spot for picture-taking and a wonderful place to take a walk or just sit and enjoy the scenery.
There are plenty of benches located throughout the grounds for visitors who’d like to relax in the shade. Bring a picnic or feed the ducks on the large pond. Don’t forget your camera!
Explore the Inasmuch Foundation Art Gallery
The Oklahoma City Community College’s Inasmuch Foundation Gallery offers a variety of no-cost exhibits and art collections throughout the year. It’s a great place to view and appreciate the work of local and regional artists. See their calendar for current exhibitions.
Travel Down Historic Route 66
Route 66 is a historic stretch of road that runs from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California. Oklahoma has the largest stretch of road and the route goes through several metro communities. It’s honestly one of the best weekend getaways in Oklahoma. Along this route in the Metro area, you can find iconic attractions the Arcadia Round Barn and Pops 66 in Arcadia, The Gold Dome Building, and Milk Bottle Building in OKC, and the Oberholser Bridge in Bethany.
Recommended Hotel Nearby: 21c Oklahoma City
OKC Scavenger Hunt
If you love a good scavenger hunt, then sign up for the free Modern Frontier Attractions Pass from Visit OKC. It’s free to sign up for and use. Best of all, you earn points towards free prizes. Many of the free attractions listed above are in the app. Simply check-in and collect points to be redeemed towards stickers, swag bags, and Factory Obscura Mix Tape tickets.
In Conclusion
There are plenty of free family things to do in Oklahoma City when you have teenagers and tweens. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone.
From exploring the city’s museums and parks to attending free concerts and events, Oklahoma City offers plenty of opportunities for fun and adventure.
Be sure to check out our other (paid) things to do in Oklahoma City for a visit you won’t forget. So, grab your family and start exploring all that this vibrant city has to offer!
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Ready to Start Planning Your Trip? Use These Helpful Links to Book Your Trip!
- AIRFARE
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- ROAD TRIP/CAR RENTAL
- Take the scenic route and rent an RV from RVShare
- Get packed for an epic road trip and don’t forget the Road Trip Games to Play in the Car Need more space? Get a rental car thru Discovercars.com.
- LODGING
- From hotels to private homes, find the perfect accommodation with Hotels.com or booking.com.
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- PACKING
- Travel in style with a suitcase, carry-on, backpack, or handbag from Away and Eagle Creek.
- For packing cubes, we love these from Eagle Creek and these reusable silicon bags for a 3-1-1 bag from Stasher.
- TRAVEL PLANNING
- Looking to start travel hacking and want a place to keep track of it all? There’s the free TravelFreely site.
- For budgeting help, get our road trip budgeting tips here.
- ATTRACTIONS/ACTIVITIES
- Save on tickets to attractions, sightseeing tours, and more with
- Tiqets for cultural events, museums, Broadway shows, etc.
- CityPASS for multi-day attraction passes at up to 55% off in select cities
- Get Your Guide and Viator for guided tours/excursions, day trips, and activitties
- Groupon for discounted local attractions and event tickets
- Undercover Tourister for discounted theme park tickets
- Find guided outdoor activities led by local guides at 57Hours.
- Find information on local trails with the AllTrails App.
- Save on tickets to attractions, sightseeing tours, and more with
- LEARN A FOREIGN LANGUAGE
- We use and recommend Rosetta Stone to learn a new language. We bought the $179 lifetime option with unlimited access to ALL 25 of their languages.
- Need something else to plan your perfect trip? Visit my travel resources page for more trusted partners.
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