
Oklahoma City was born in a single day, when the Great Land Run of April 22, 1889, allowed tens of thousands of people to race across the border on foot, horseback, wagon, and even bicycle to settle unclaimed land: What was just a solitary railroad station grew to a tent city of 10,000 residents overnight. In 1907, Oklahoma became a state, and 3 years later, Oklahoma City became its capital. But it was a tragic event -- the April 1995 bombing of a federal building that claimed 168 lives -- that catapulted the city to headline status on the international news front. Since then, Oklahoma City, with a population of more than 500,000 people, has reinvented itself with ongoing revitalization projects (such as the Bricktown entertainment district) that have transformed it into one of the state's most exciting destinations. Yet despite its push to modernity, its frontier heritage remains evident in attractions such as the must-see National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and the Oklahoma History Center, and in annual events such as Red Earth, the largest Native American festival in the world.
It's easy to explore the capital of Oklahoma with American Airlines flights to Oklahoma City. From discovering the region's Native American heritage to viewing fine art, there are many things to do in Oklahoma City. Plan your visit with highlights on a few of our favorites.
One of the most fascinating activities in Oklahoma City is delving into its Native American heritage. At the American Indian Culture Center and Museum, you can learn about the tribes of the area through exhibitions of art and continually changing special programs, such as those offering insight to Oklahoma's ancient moundbuilder cultures and the role Native American foods played in the state's agricultural development.
You can also learn about the region's traditional western roots by visiting the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, another of our favorite things to do in Oklahoma City. Its permanent collection includes an impressive array of sculptures, 19th century artifacts depicting prairie life, works by artists including Albert Bierstadt and more than 100 rare and historic firearms.
Visiting the Oklahoma City Museum of Art is another item on our list of top activities in Oklahoma City. Its collections include a fascinating range of works by artists from Pierre-August Renoir to Alexander Calder and Georgia O'Keeffe. Don't miss the significant glass installation by artist Dale Chihuly, which captures of light and color in a fantastic display.
One of the more offbeat things to do in Oklahoma City is a trip to the American Banjo Museum. It's the only museum of its kind in the country, and you can view more than 300 banjos and learn about the instrument's evolution through the years.
A visit here isn't complete without including one of the most moving things to do in Oklahoma City, and that's paying a visit to the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum. Built in honor of the victims of the 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, the Outdoor Symbolic Memorial is open every day of the year and admission is free. The museum spans 30,000 square feet and features interactive exhibits (there is an admission fee to enter the museum).
With such a wide range of attractions, this is one family-friendly destination. Fly to Oklahoma City with American Airlines and get ready for a trip full of discovery! Browse our convenient flight schedule and reserve your trip today.
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*Each way, based on round-trip purchase. Price includes applicable taxes and fees. |
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Kitchener
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$260* |
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Baltimore
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$171* |
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St. Louis
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$118* |
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