oklahoma city capitol tour

State Capitol Tours

Located on more than 100 acres in ne oklahoma city, the oklahoma state capitol is the only capitol in the world surrounded by working oil wells. one is even named petunia #1, because it was drilled in the middle of a flower bed. the architecture is greco-roman and the structure comprises 650 rooms and 11 acres of floor space with murals, restored stained glass, tribal flag plaza and changing art exhibits. the current site was chosen in 1915 and construction was completed in 1917. construction of a dome was completed in 2002, a feature that was included with the original design plans of the building but never completed. a complete multi-year restoration of the historic capitol concluded in 2022. following the restoration, the oklahoma arts council reinstalled hundreds of artworks and installed 21 newly commissioned artworks throughout the building to create a new visitor experience., southeast of the capitol, the oklahoma veterans memorial is outside the oklahoma judicial center. four walls depicting the scenes of wwi, wwii, korea and vietnam wars are featured, along with a bronze sculpture standing eight-and-a-half-feet tall on a three-and-a-half-foot pedestal. , guided tours of the oklahoma state capitol are available at no cost weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. tours are provided by volunteer docents trained by the oklahoma arts council. for more information, visit arts.ok.gov/tours or email [email protected] . .

Oklahoma State Capitol

VISIT THE CAPITOL

Capitol Restoration Project Engraved Pavers - south side Friends of the Capitol

Ground Floor Food Service Bee Healthy Café Monday - Friday: 8:00 to 3:00. Phone (405) 600-6410

STATE CAPITOL OFFICES

Auditor and Inspector Election Board Ethics Commission House of Representatives Lt. Governor OMES Secretary of State State Senate State Treasurer

2300 N. Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, Oklahoma  73105

Walk-up tours available weekdays from 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. No reservation required.

Scheduled tours available weekdays 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reservation required.

405.521.6813   |   [email protected]

The Oklahoma State Capitol offers an incredible, one-of-a-kind experience in art, history, and government for thousands of school groups, residents, and visitors each year.

Tours of the Capitol are operated by the Oklahoma Arts Council. The state agency leverages staff expertise in leading a museum-quality volunteer docent program that brings to life hundreds of artworks throughout the Capitol and creates an unforgettable journey through history while touring The People’s House.

Guided tours are available at no cost. Walk-up tours are available weekdays at 11:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. and do not require reservations. Scheduled tours are available weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and reservations are required.

For more information, visit arts.ok.gov/tours or email [email protected] .

PARKING Parking is available in the SOUTH PARKING LOT. Parking is free, but the area can get crowded when the Legislature is in session (February through May).

Office of Governor J. Kevin Stitt

2300 N. Lincoln Blvd., Suite 212

Oklahoma City, OK 73105

Phone 405.521.2342

Open M-F; 8 am - 5 pm

Visit our Contact page for:

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Oklahoma State Capitol Building & Museum: Tour Oklahoma’s Political Heart

by John Marshall | Mar 13, 2023 | Attractions & Activities | 0 comments

📌  Map & Directions

📞  (405) 521-3356

📤  Museum Website

About The Oklahoma State Capitol & Museum

James Johnson, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Oklahoma State Capitol is a must-see destination for anyone interested in the history, culture, and government of Oklahoma. The Capitol building itself is an architectural marvel, with its majestic dome, grand hallways, and intricate decorations. But what sets the Capitol apart is the incredible museum located inside.

The Oklahoma State Capitol Museum offers visitors a comprehensive look at the state’s past, present, and future through a wide range of exhibits and displays. From the struggles of the Native American tribes who first inhabited the land, to the oil boom that transformed Oklahoma into an economic powerhouse, to the state’s ongoing efforts to promote education and innovation, the museum covers it all.

With knowledgeable staff, engaging programs, and interactive exhibits, the Oklahoma State Capitol Museum is an educational and inspiring destination for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

The Building and its History

The Oklahoma State Capitol serves as the administrative center of the state of Oklahoma. It is the home of the Oklahoma Legislature, as well as the Executive Branch and the Judicial Branch of the state government.

There were three distinct phases involved in the construction of the Oklahoma State Capitol.

• The first stage, which was finished in 1914, comprised of a central dome along with two wings.

• In the second stage, which was finished in 1916, the north and south wings were added.

• The third and final stage, which was finished in 1917, included the addition of the east and west wings, as well as the dome.

The architectural style known as Beaux-Arts was used for the construction of the Capitol, which is made of limestone sourced from quarries in the surrounding area.

F McGady, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Important Collections

The Capitol Collection, the Statehood Collection, and the Oklahoma History Collection are the three most significant collections found inside.

Each collection has a richness of artifacts, records, and other materials that tell the narrative of Oklahoma’s history.

Let’s take a closer look…

The Capitol Collection

Hallway leading to the OK Supreme Court Door: Serge Melki from Indianapolis, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Capitol Collection is the biggest of the three collections and has more than 5,000 artifacts that are connected to the Oklahoma State Capitol building.

The collection contains a variety of objects relating to the building of the Capitol, such as pictures, architectural designs, and blueprints.

In addition, there is a substantial amount of art in the collection. Some of the paintings, sculptures, and other forms of artwork that may be seen in the Capitol building are included.

The Statehood Collection

Almost two thousand artifacts and documents that pertain to the period before Oklahoma became a state are housed in the Statehood Collection. The collection contains a broad range of papers, some of which are relevant to the Oklahoma Territory, such as land grants and treaties.

Other materials in the collection are unrelated to the Oklahoma Territory. The collection also includes a significant number of pictures, maps, and other materials that illustrate daily life in the Oklahoma Territory during that period.

The Oklahoma History Collection

The Oklahoma History Collection is the smallest of the three collections, yet despite its size, it nevertheless includes a significant amount of material about the history of the state.

The collection contains materials that pertain to the Native American communities who formerly inhabited the state, as well as the Land Rush of 1889 and the Dust Bowl. The collection also includes several things that are connected to the oil sector in the state, such as drilling rigs, pipelines, and other pieces of machinery and apparatus.

Activities for Visitors:

Here are some sights and activities you may want to check out during your time at the museum:

State Senate Chamber: Cornellrockey, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Take a guided tour of the Capitol building: The museum provides guided tours of the Capitol building, which include visits to the governor’s office, the House and Senate chambers, as well as the dome.

Learn about Oklahoma’s history: The museum has exhibits that explore the state’s history from its Native American beginnings through its participation in the Civil War and the oil boom of the early 20th century.

See historical artifacts: Visitors will have the opportunity to see a variety of historical objects at the museum. These relics include rifles from the time of the American Civil War, Native American pottery and baskets, and oil industry equipment from the early 20th century.

Oklahoma Veterans Memorial: Located inside the museum, and honors those who have served their country in the armed forces in Oklahoma. The memorial comprises an exhibition of military uniforms, equipment, and medals.

Art collection: Visit the museum’s art collection, which includes paintings, sculptures, and murals that represent Oklahoma’s history and culture. The museum also showcases a collection of art that was created in Oklahoma.

Special events: Participate in one of the museum’s many special events: during the year, the museum puts on a variety of special events, such as concerts, seminars, and art exhibitions.

Visiting the Oklahoma State Capitol Museum provides guests with the opportunity to not only learn about the illustrious past and vibrant culture of the state of Oklahoma but also to see the breathtaking Capitol building itself!

Planning Your Visit:

About the guided tours.

Guided tours of the Oklahoma State Capitol Building offer visitors an opportunity to learn about the state’s history, government, and architecture. Trained guides lead visitors through the building, highlighting the architectural features and artwork, and sharing interesting facts and stories about the state’s history and government. The tours last around 45 minutes to an hour and are suitable for all ages. Groups of more than 15 must submit a request at least 30 days in advance.

Guided tours are free and are available Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 PM every hour, on the hour.

Take a Self-Guided Tour

With no prior notice required, visitors can embark on self-guided tours at their own pace and immerse themselves in the rich history and architecture of the Oklahoma State Capitol. Access to the building’s south entrance is recommended on weekdays while visitors must enter through the west entrance on weekends and holidays. Tour maps can be downloaded online for added convenience.

Visitors can take a self-guided tour on weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on weekends from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Are tours of the Oklahoma State Capitol Building free?

Yes, tours of the Oklahoma State Capitol Building are free.

Can I take pictures during the tour of the Oklahoma State Capitol Building?

Yes, you can take pictures during the tour of the Oklahoma State Capitol Building, but there are some restrictions. Flash photography and tripods are not allowed in certain areas of the building.

How long is a tour of the Oklahoma State Capitol Building?

The length of the tour can vary depending on the size of the group and the areas visited, but typically tours last around 45 minutes to an hour.

Is there parking available for visitors to the Oklahoma State Capitol Building?

Yes, there is free parking available for visitors to the Oklahoma State Capitol Building. There are several parking lots and a parking garage available.

Is the Oklahoma State Capitol Building accessible for visitors with disabilities?

Yes, the Oklahoma State Capitol Building is accessible for visitors with disabilities. There are elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms available.

How to Get to the Oklahoma State Capitol Building:

2300 N Lincoln Blvd, Oklahoma City, OK 73105 (405) 521-3356 Visit the Official Website

Concluding Thoughts:

The museum offers a wealth of knowledge about Oklahoma’s history, culture, and natural resources. Whether you join a guided tour or explore the building and museum on your own, you will discover interesting and educational exhibits and displays that are sure to leave a lasting impression.

So next time you’re wanting something fun and educational to do, be sure to check out this historic landmark that showcases the state’s government, art, and architecture.

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Guide to Oklahoma State Capitol Tour

BaumannPhoto / Getty Images

When in Oklahoma City , you can experience the history and impact of the entire complex with an Oklahoma State Capitol Tour. Operated by the Oklahoma Department of Tourism and Recreation, Oklahoma State Capitol Tours are available for visitors, residents, school field trips, or other groups. Guided tours can be scheduled in advance, or there are brochures available to assist you on a self-guided tour.

What to See

Trained volunteers take visitors on a 45-minute tour of the complex, giving pieces of fascinating Oklahoma history along the way, including the fact that it's the only capital with a working oil well on its grounds. The structure itself is of Greco-Roman architecture and includes 650 rooms. Take note of the marble floors and stairs, hand-painted ceilings, portraits of famous Oklahomans and other fantastic artwork, the newly added dome, and more.

Outside is the Oklahoma Veterans Memorial, celebrating those who fought in World War I, World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

Dining Options

The capital complex itself has no restaurants, but there are snack bars located in the basement and on the fourth floor. These snack bars serve items such as candy, soda, and sandwiches. Take NE 23rd west and find several excellent restaurants such as Cheever's Cafe, Pizzeria Gusto, and Tucker's Onion Burgers. Also, a number of fast-food places are nearby, and the many restaurants in Bricktown  or Midtown are only a short drive.

Nearby Hotels

Are you coming from out of town to take an Oklahoma State Capitol Tour? Here are some hotel options nearby:

• Ambassador Hotel 1200 North Walker Avenue
• Aloft Oklahoma City 209 North Walnut Avenue
• The Skirvin Hilton 1 Park Avenue
• Sheraton Hotel 1 North Broadway Avenue

Location & Parking

The Oklahoma State Capitol is located at NE 23rd and Lincoln Boulevard. Take I-235 and exit eastbound on NE 23rd. Signs will guide you on to Lincoln Boulevard and to the parking areas.

Administrators of the complex recommend the south parking lot for those scheduling capitol tours. Parking is free, but the area can get crowded when the legislature is in session.

Admission to the Oklahoma State Capitol is free, and self-guided tours are available each day. It is best to schedule guided tours in advance by calling ahead. Tours begin at the Welcome Center in the first-floor rotunda.

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House of Representatives

• Capitol Tours
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Oklahoma State Capitol

2300 n lincoln blvd oklahoma city, ok 73105 phone: 405-521-3356.

• Facility Amenities: ADA Compliant, Gift Shop
• General Information: Free admission
• Group Amenities: Bus/Motorcoach Parking
• Highway Corridors (within 5 mi.): I-35, I-40

House of Representatives Office Hours

Capitol building hours, info center & gift store hours.

Located on more than 100 acres in NE Oklahoma City, the Oklahoma State Capitol is the only capitol in the world surrounded by working oil wells. One is even named Petunia #1, because it was drilled in the middle of a flower bed. The architecture is Greco-Roman and the structure comprises 650 rooms and 11 acres of floor space with murals, restored stained glass, tribal flag plaza and changing art exhibits. The current site was chosen in 1915 and construction was completed in 1917. Construction of a dome was completed in 2002, a feature that was included with the original design plans of the building but never completed. A complete multi-year restoration of the historic Capitol concluded in 2022. Following the restoration, the Oklahoma Arts Council reinstalled hundreds of artworks and installed 21 newly commissioned artworks throughout the building to create a new visitor experience. Southeast of the Capitol, the Oklahoma Veterans Memorial is outside the Oklahoma Judicial Center. Four walls depicting the scenes of WWI, WWII, Korea and Vietnam wars are featured, along with a bronze sculpture standing eight-and-a-half-feet tall on a three-and-a-half-foot pedestal. Guided tours of the Oklahoma State Capitol are available at no cost weekdays from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Tours are provided by volunteer docents trained by the Oklahoma Arts Council. For more information, visit arts.ok.gov/tours or email [email protected] .

Please visit Oklahoma Travel & Tourism site for more information!

© 2024 All Rights Reserved. Oklahoma House of Representatives | Website Policies | Site Map | FAQs | Help | Home 2300 N Lincoln Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73105 | (405) 521-2711 | (800) 522-8502

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Oklahoma state capitol tours.

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Visit Oklahoma State Capitol

The Oklahoma State Capitol is the house of government in the state of Oklahoma. Explore public areas in the 650-room building and discover its fine collection of art and furnishings. The state capitol’s elaborate architecture and spacious grounds have a distinctive feature: this is the only state capitol complex in the United States with working oil wells on site. Learn the building’s history and find out about the momentous events that have taken place here.

The grand neoclassical and Renaissance-revival structure was completed in 1917 after a vote was held to change the capital from Guthrie to Oklahoma City. Take a moment to appreciate the building’s architecture. Note the locally sourced Oklahoma pink-granite base, which is accentuated by Indiana limestone. Due to budget constraints during the building’s construction, the dome in the original plans by Soloman Andrew Layton and S. Wemyss-Smith had to be omitted. Today, however, you’ll see a grand central dome rising up behind the neoclassical portico. The dome was added in 2002 to finally complete the architects’ original vision.

Enter the building to see its central staircase, which is made from local black granite. Find the museum and explore the state capitol’s historical exhibits. Learn about the history of the state government and the capitol building’s estate.

Take a self-guided tour or join a docent-led tour to explore some of the building’s rooms. In the west wing, you’ll find the offices and chambers of the Oklahoma House of Representatives. The offices and chambers of the Oklahoma Senate are located in the east wing. Visit the Oklahoma Veterans Memorial on the northern side of the complex or check out the tribal flag plaza. Restored stained-glass windows and fine art pieces are featured throughout the building. After your tour, visit the state capitol’s gift shop.

The Oklahoma State Capitol is located northeast of downtown Oklahoma City. Admission is free and self-guided tours are available daily. Docent-led tours are available six times a day from Monday through Friday. Reach the complex easily by car or bus from downtown Oklahoma City.

Plan a trip to see Oklahoma State Capitol

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Reviews of Oklahoma State Capitol

They are doing lots of renovations on it right now. Would probable wait until next year when some more of the work is completed. It was still okay for something to do. There was a man there (wish I could remember his name) that could tell we were just looking around and a little lost..lol..He ended up giving us our own tour. Very nice.

We didn't go here, but saw their beautiful capital. We visited the Harn Homestead nearby. Mr. Harn donated the land where the capital is built to the state of OK.

5/5 - Excellent

The Oklahoma memorial was totally worth seeing. I left with a changed renewed heart. Must see!

Popular places to visit

Oklahoma history center.

From ancient Native American nations to the cultural diversity you see today, this museum presents the long history and heritage of the State of Oklahoma.

Overholser Mansion

Join a guided tour to see the antique-filled interior of this historic chateau-inspired mansion, the former home of a prominent Oklahoma City businessman and philanthropist.

Paseo Arts District

This Spanish-revival strip is home to Oklahoma City’s first arts scene, a dynamic district where you’ll find galleries, studios, boutiques and eclectic cafés.

• Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum

Reflect on the history of the city at this sprawling park, which commemorates the victims, survivors and rescue teams involved in the Oklahoma City bombing of 1995.

Oklahoma Governor's Mansion

Learn about the local history of Oklahoma City with a stop at Oklahoma Governor's Mansion. Experience the great live music or attend a sporting event in this family-friendly area.

Mecham Park

Explore the great outdoors at Mecham Park, a lovely green space in Oklahoma City. Add the area's shops or notable monuments to your travel plans.

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State Capitol

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14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Oklahoma City

Written by Chloë Ernst and Lura Seavey Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

State capital Oklahoma City is a bustling hub on the southern Great Plains, roughly in the center of the oil-rich state. Known as "The Big Friendly," the city was settled during the 1889 "Land Run," though Native Americans lived in the region long before. In 1995, the capital sadly became famous when a bomb attack claimed 168 lives. A national memorial now remembers the victims and survivors of that tragedy.

Many of Oklahoma City's top attractions and things to do are set in the historic former warehouse district of Bricktown . Museums, event venues, and restaurants create a picturesque neighborhood on the Bricktown Canal with its small water taxis. And for a true taste of ranchland life, you can plan your trip to catch a stockyard auction.

Plan your next trip to the Oklahoma state capitol with our list of the best tourist attractions in Oklahoma City

See also: Where to Stay in Oklahoma City

1. Oklahoma City Zoo

2. science museum oklahoma, 3. myriad botanical gardens, 4. oklahoma city museum of art, 5. national cowboy and western heritage museum, 6. shop or dine in bricktown, 7. oklahoma city national memorial, 8. museum of osteology, 9. oklahoma history center, 10. take the kids to frontier city, 11. the oklahoma railway museum, 12. 45th infantry division museum, 13. tour the state capitol, 14. overholser mansion, where to stay in oklahoma city for sightseeing, map of things to do in oklahoma city, oklahoma city, ok - climate chart, more must-see destinations near oklahoma city.

In operation for more than a century, the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden engages tourists and families with more than 500 animal species, including rhinos, gorillas, lions, and tigers. Throughout the grounds, you can also see impressive displays of plants from Oklahoma and around the world.

Both kids and adults enjoy interactive experiences, such as lorikeet and giraffe feedings, sea lion shows, elephant demonstrations, a walk-through wallaby enclosure, and a stingray touch tank.

Budding zoologists can also get up close to animals like grizzly bears and Asian elephants at special behind-the-scenes experiences. Boat and train rides provide adventurous ways to explore the expansive park grounds.

Address: 2101 NE 50th Street, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Official site: www.okczoo.com

Packed with interactive exhibits, Science Museum Oklahoma presents ever-changing displays of science-themed topics intended to engage, entertain, and educate. Though kids are the main audience, adults, too, love learning and exploring here. Step into a tornado simulator, build with giant Legos, invent and test your own creations, walk a tightrope, and even learn to ride a Segway.

A theater and planetarium both present regular shows, and the expansive grounds are a lovely place to visit for a picnic, with a Japanese garden, children's garden, and lawn games.

Address: 2020 Remington Place, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Official site: http://www.sciencemuseumok.org

Covering 15 lush acres near the downtown center, Myriad Gardens is a wonderful place to visit for a quiet outdoor stroll amid flowerbeds and horticultural displays. Other features at these beautiful gardens are a children's playground, bubbling fountains, and jogging and walking paths. Even Fido is welcome at the off-leash dog park.

After a walk, dine at the garden restaurant and patio, or go ice-skating at the wintertime Devon Ice Rink .

One of the most stunning spaces is the Crystal Bridge Conservatory , an indoor tropical garden that features separate areas for wet and dry tropical flora. A $9.7-million renovation during the summer of 2022 added rotating exhibits and a second-story terrace with overhead views of the gardens.

There is a nominal fee to visit the conservatory, but access to the grounds is free.

Address: 301 West Reno, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Official site: http://www.myriadgardens.com/

The core collection at this Oklahoma gallery focuses on 19th- and 20th-century European and American art, but visiting works widen the scope. Touring national and international exhibitions complement permanent displays, like the bright art-glass work of the Seattle-area's Dale Chihuly.

Other featured artists in the permanent collection include luminaries like Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Henry Moore. The museum also runs a popular film program.

Address: 415 Couch Drive, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Official site: http://www.okcmoa.com/

Also known as the National Cowboy Hall of Fame, this large museum uncovers life in the Wild West with its large collections of historical materials, pictures, and sculptures. The Rodeo Hall of Fame features rodeo champions, but on-screen cowboys are also given a tip of the hat in their own hall of fame.

Children can test the ranch-readiness of their skills in the Children's Cowboy Corral.

To follow the cowboy theme, also plan a visit to the Oklahoma City Stockyards , where outdoor cattle pens fill for auctions every Monday and Tuesday.

Address: 1700 NE 63rd Street, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Official site: http://nationalcowboymuseum.org/

A fantastic example of a successful urban renewal project, Bricktown is the city's premier entertainment hub. The once-abandoned red-brick warehouses are now converted into funky shops, restaurants, entertainment venues, and attractions. In addition to enjoying all the fabulous shopping and dining opportunities, you can catch a baseball or basketball game at one of the sporting venues, attend a concert, see a movie, stroll along the river walk, or explore the American Banjo Museum .

Narrated cruises and dinner cruises along the canal are other popular things to do here. Be sure to stop by the impressive Centennial Land Run Monument , which commemorates the state's heroic settlers. Bricktown also makes a great base for exploring the city, with plenty of hotels nearby.

A different and fun way to explore the Bricktown area is on the Bricktown Water Taxi , which also provides narrated sightseeing information. In addition to the regular service, they offer dinner cruises and other themed specialty trips.

Official site: http://welcometobricktown.com/

This outdoor memorial is a tribute to the victims, survivors, rescuers, and others affected by the events of April 19, 1995, when the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building was bombed. The reflecting pool and field of empty chairs have become well-known symbols of the city, and visitors can walk through the solemn setting.

To find out more about the tragedy, you can tour the exhibits at the nearby Oklahoma City National Memorial Museum.

Address: 620 North Harvey Ave, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Official site: https://memorialmuseum.com

If this tourist attraction seems unusual, it's because it is. The bones of hundreds of animals make up the displays at the only skeleton museum in the United States.

Thoughtfully presented specimens span big mammals to small critters, from apes and kangaroos to snakes and penguins. Most of the specimens are in life-like poses, so you can see how the animals move. You can stand under a giraffe or elephant skeleton or see a sloth skeleton hanging from a tree. Fun activities like treasure hunts are geared towards curious kids.

Address: 10301 S. Sunnylane Road, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Official site: http://www.museumofosteology.org/

The Smithsonian-affiliated Oklahoma History Center displays an astounding diversity of fascinating exhibits covering all facets of Oklahoma history. It's also a hub for archival and research materials.

Exhibits cover everything from Native American history, pioneer life, and cowboys to the Crossroads of Commerce and even Oklahomans and Space. Excellent traveling exhibitions round out the collection, and plenty of interactive features keep little hands busy.

The center also offers lovely views of the domed Capitol building from its galleries. Outside, you can explore botanical gardens and stroll among beautiful sculptures and native plants on the Red River Journey, a quarter-mile walking tour that conjures the diverse terrain of Oklahoma's Red River Valley.

Address: 800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Official site: www.okhistory.org/historycenter

Operated by Six Flags theme parks, Frontier City is a favorite tourist attraction for families visiting Oklahoma City. The park offers a full range of rides, from high-thrill to kiddie, with a "Wild West" theme throughout.

Kids and kids-at-heart can watch a "gunfight" stunt show and check out a special behind-the-scenes look at how they perform their stunts, and all ages can test how quick their draw is at the electronic "shooting" gallery.

Thrill rides include several roller coasters, with two huge steel courses and a classic wooden coaster, as well as the crazy Gunslinger and other wild rides. Family rides include the classic Ferris Wheel and a carousel, as well as a flume ride and a mining train.

Hurricane Harbor water park is another popular Oklahoma City family attraction, located on the grounds of Frontier City. The water park features a range of refreshing diversions for all ages, a favorite being the Castaway Creek lazy river. Other rides include Renegade Rapids, Wild West Waterworks, and several waterslides, including one that ends in a 64-foot free-fall into the pool below.

Address: 11501 N I-35 Service Road, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Official site: www.sixflags.com/frontiercity

Train lovers of all ages will enjoy the Oklahoma Railway Museum, which features a steam engine and dozens of examples of passenger cars, freight cars, locomotives, and cabooses that visitors can explore. The oldest equipment on-site is an 1878 CB&Q caboose, a Hinkley 2-8-0 locomotive built in 1879, and a Velocipede made in the late 1800s.

The museum also features several historic train depots, which were moved to the property; a 100-foot Frisco Turntable built in 1920; and an impressive model train layout that is, of course, housed in one of the train cars.

Exhibits are housed in a former Pullman sleeper car originally used on the Saint Louis-San Francisco RR, which was saved from becoming scrap metal in 2001.

The museum offers free admission to view exhibits, and for a small fee, visitors can take a train ride on the 1 st and 3 rd Sunday of each month during the months of April through August. There are also seasonally -themed rides, as well as a hand-car ride experience, and the museum also hosts themed special events throughout the summer months.

Address: 3400 NE Grand Boulevard, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Official site: www.oklahomarailwaymuseum.org

The 45th Infantry Division Museum in Oklahoma City is a must-see for military history buffs. It's located in the Lincoln Park Armory, which dates to 1937.

Exhibits at the museum include uniforms and firearms displayed in an expansive facility that you can explore on a self-guided tour. The pieces tell the history of not only the 45th, established in 1920, but many worldwide conflicts. Perhaps most impressive are the dozens of military vehicles presented in a 15-acre outdoor park.

Address: 2145 NE 36th Street, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

The seat of government for the state, the Oklahoma State Capitol building was designed and built between 1914 and 1917, though its grand central dome wasn't completed until 2002. The classic Greco-Roman structure has an Indiana limestone exterior and an Oklahoma pink and black granite base.

Guided and self-guided tours are available daily. Government business keeps the campus a busy place.

Address: 2300 N Lincoln Blvd, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Founder of Oklahoma City, Henry Overholser built the first grand home in the city, and the lovely 1903 structure still stands as the Overholser Mansion. The three-story French chateau-style house features English carpets, French stained glass, and Antwerp fine oak paneling.

Visitors can walk through the furnished rooms. There are also tales of hauntings at the house.

Address: 405 NW 15th Street, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Official site: http://www.overholsermansion.org/

To explore the sights, the best place to stay in Oklahoma City is the city center, where there are several upscale neighborhoods, including Bricktown and the Business District. This is also where many of the city's attractions are located. Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient locations:

Luxury Hotels:

• Built in 1912, the 12-story Colcord Hotel Oklahoma City, Curio Collection By Hilton was Oklahoma's first skyscraper and today combines some of the original charms with updated, modern luxury. The hotel is centrally located near the Cox Convention Center and within walking distance of the Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum.
• The posh Ambassador Hotel Oklahoma City, Autograph Collection is in a 1920s Art Deco building in Midtown, just a short stroll from the Bricktown Entertainment District.
• In a fabulous, historic landmark building, The Skirvin Hilton Oklahoma City was recently renovated and restored and has a great central location in the downtown area.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In the heart of Bricktown, Homewood Suites by Hilton is an all-suite hotel with full kitchens, an indoor pool, fitness center, and business center.
• Nearby, the Aloft Oklahoma City Downtown Bricktown is a stylish, contemporary hotel with a small pool, large fitness center, and plenty of casual space for meeting other travelers.
• Near the Myriad Botanical Gardens, in the Business District, the Sheraton Oklahoma City Downtown Hotel is well positioned for sightseeing.

Budget Hotels:

• True budget hotels are found a short distance from the city center. A 15-minute drive outside the downtown area, the Holiday Inn Express & Suites , near the airport, is a great choice, with comfortable rooms and reasonable prices.
• Near the junction of I-35 and I-44, the Sleep Inn & Suites Oklahoma City North offers good value and is only about 15 minutes from downtown.
• South of the city center, off I-240, the Hampton Inn and Suites Oklahoma City-South features comfortable, spacious suites.

Oklahoma is the heartland of America, with charming small towns, as well as big-city bustle. About a 90-minute drive away from Oklahoma City, Tulsa lies on a legendary portion of Route 66. This iconic American driving route also runs through small towns and cities in Missouri , Texas , New Mexico , and Arizona . For more big-city excitement, Dallas lies about three hours south of Oklahoma City, and Wichita in Kansas is only 160 miles to the north, with a multitude of museums, shops, festivals, and fabulous restaurants.

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Oklahoma Capitol Tour

Join us as we tour the Oklahoma State Capitol on Thursday, December 7th at 5:30 p.m. Our tour will be led by Trait Thompson.

Executive Director Trait Thompson has led the Oklahoma Historical Society since January of 2021.

Thompson began his career with the state as policy director for former Oklahoma Senate President Pro Tempore Brian Bingman. During that four-year service, Thompson read every bill submitted to the senate, met with citizens from across the state and learned how to work with others to achieve shared goals. In 2014 he assumed the project manager role for the Oklahoma Capitol Restoration Project, shepherding the preservation and restoration of one of Oklahoma’s most important historical artifacts-the State Capitol. He is author of The Oklahoma State Capitol (2022).

Thompson is the co-host of A Very OK Podcast , which explores the interesting stories and fascinating personalities that make up Oklahoma’s unique history. Look for new episodes each month. OHS members receive updates from Thompson in each issue of Mistletoe Leaves , the bimonthly membership newsletter of the OHS.

Attendees will have a chance to win a copy of Trait's book, The Oklahoma State Capitol!

OCFA Members : Free Nonmember Guests: $15.00

REGISTER HERE

• OKLAHOMANMADE Photography Exhibit
• Timeless Treasures: A Look at OKC’s American House Styles
• OKLAHOMANMADE Photography Competition
• RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP TODAY!

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25th anniversary tour of 'Chicago' brings 'Razzle Dazzle' to OKC: What you need to know

More than 25 years after its wildly successful revival, the iconic musical "Chicago" has lost none of its "Razzle Dazzle."

While the themes are still as timely as ever, the Tony Award-winning tale of murder, greed and all that jazz is literally the stuff of legends: Fred Ebb and Bob Fosse wrote the book for the show, a sultry and sophisticated satire about the American press, criminal justice system and obsession with celebrity. "Chicago" boasts one of the all-time great musical theater scores , with music by John Kander and lyrics by Ebb, and it remains one of the most popular showcases for Fosse's distinctively jazzy choreography .

An add-on special to OKC Broadway's 2023-24 subscription season , the national tour of "Chicago" is playing Oklahoma City for the first time in a decade , with performances continuing through Sunday, April 14 at Civic Center Music Hall.

What is the musical 'Chicago' about?

The longest-running show currently playing on Broadway , "Chicago" is set in the 1920s and inspired by true events. Initially written as a 1926 play by journalist Maurine Dallas Watkins , the musical adaptation's original Broadway production bowed in 1975 and starred Chita Rivera , Jerry Orbach and Gwen Verdon . It ran for more than 900 performances and was nominated for 11 Tonys, but shut out by another dance smash, "A Chorus Line."

Starring Bebe Neuwirth, Joel Grey and Ann Reinking — a replacement performer from the original Broadway production who reprised the role and choreographed the show "in the style of Bob Fosse" — it was the 1996 Broadway revival that turned "Chicago" into an iconic song-and-dance extravaganza. It earned six Tonys, including best musical revival, and is being celebrated with the 25th anniversary tour now playing OKC.

The deliciously dastardly story follows Roxie Hart (2021 Oklahoma City University alumnus Katie Frieden ), a vain and ambitious housewife and nightclub dancer who dreams of becoming a vaudeville star. When her illicit lover, Fred Casely (Ed Gotthelf), tries to ditch her, hotheaded Roxie guns him down and tries to get her devoted but dim-witted husband Amos (Robert Quiles) to take the blame.

That doesn't work, so Roxie is locked up on the women's block in the Cook County Jail, where several "merry murderesses" are awaiting trial for killing their no-good husbands or boyfriends. The block is run by corrupt Matron "Mama" Morton (Illeana "illy" Kirven), who is happy to help the inmates use the charges against them to gain fame and fortunate — but only for a price.

Desperate to avoid being hanged for murder, Roxie sets out to outwit the public, the press and her rival cellmate, Velma Kelly (Kailin Brown), a cynical ex-vaudeville star rightly accused of slaying her cheating husband and sister in a jealous rage. Roxie enlists Chicago’s slickest criminal lawyer, Billy Flynn (Connor Sullivan), to both cast her as a sympathetic figure so she can avoid conviction and nab her enough scandalous headlines so that she can launch the show-biz career of her dreams.

How does the 25th anniversary tour of 'Chicago' measure up to all that jazz?

It's not hard to figure out why "Chicago" is the second-longest running title in Broadway history: The show boasts a tantalizing trio of iconic smashes with "All That Jazz," "Razzle Dazzle" and "Cell Block Tango," but there's not a single dud on the list of musical numbers.

And for dance fans, "Chicago" is arguably the ultimate musical theater experience. The 25th anniversary tour is directed by David Hyslop with choreography by Gregory Butler based on the original direction by Tony winner Walter Bobbie and Reinking's original Tony-winning choreography. Although it leaves out the finger snaps, it maintains the rest of Fosse's signature moves, from the sultry shoulder, hip and wrist rolls and the cheekily turned-in knees to the famous jazz hands and the canny use of chairs, walking sticks and bowler hats.

The minimalist set design by Tony winner John Lee Beatty puts the song-and-dance spectacle right up front: The stage is dominated by a multi-tiered riser showcasing the sizzling jazz orchestra under the direction of Cameron Blake Kinnear, who frequently interacts with the actors and mugs for the crowd.

The skilled and athletic ensemble clearly was assembled with a focus on making sure the dance sequences dazzle, with plenty of dizzying spins, high kicks and jaw-dropping lifts that often had the audience for the April 10 OKC performance audibly oohing and ahhing.

There were moments that it seemed like the show had sacrified vocal power in favor of dance prowess: The singers were occasionally drowned out by the musicians on challenging yet crowd-pleasing numbers like "Cell Block Tango" and "All That Jazz." But their dynamite dancing made it seem like a worthwhile trade-off.

Brown possessed both the skills and the style to wow on the tricky dance-centric number "When Velma Takes the Stand," but she and Kirven also delivered a duet on "Class" that was both vocally pleasing and ripe with irony. Quiles' turn as Roxie's sad-sack spouse never failed to provoke sympathy, especially on his stellar white-gloved rendition of Amos' ode "Mister Cellophane."

A graduate of OCU's Ann Lacy School of American Dance and Entertainment, Frieden proved she is a triple-threat in the making, delivering sharp dance moves, expressive acting and stalwart vocals on her big numbers "Roxie" and "Me and My Baby." She and Sullivan practically stopped the show with their excellent teamwork on "We Both Reached for the Gun," as Billy literally controls Roxie like a ventriloquist with a dummy during a pivotal press conference.

Starring Renée Zellweger, Catherine Zeta-Jones and Richard Gere, Rob Marshall's Oscar-winning 2002 film adaptation helped popularize "Chicago" and its songs. But for most musical theater fans (myself included), it's practically impossible for a movie to beat the energy of a live performance, especially when it comes to a show as razzle-dazzle as "Chicago."

• When : Through April 14.
• Where : Civic Center, 201 N Walker.
• Tickets : https://www.okcbroadway.com/chicago