Oklahoma City (OKC) is buzzing with energy, and if you haven't visited recently, you haven't seen the real OKC. As of today, December 12, 2025, the city is concluding its massive "Downtown in December" holiday celebration and preparing for a landmark year filled with major openings, historic anniversaries, and an influx of new dining and entertainment venues that solidify its status as a top-tier travel destination.
From groundbreaking new resorts to cultural milestones and a dynamic arts scene, the list of must-do activities has completely changed. This guide cuts through the noise to bring you the freshest, most compelling, and unique OKC attractions and OKC activities for 2025, ensuring your visit is packed with the best unique OKC experiences the 405 has to offer.
The Biggest New Attractions and Developments for 2025
Oklahoma City is undergoing a massive transformation, with several high-profile projects reaching completion or celebrating major milestones in 2025. These are the must-see destinations that didn't exist, or weren't fully realized, just a few years ago.
- Experience the OKANA Resort & Indoor Waterpark: One of the most anticipated openings, the OKANA Resort is set to redefine luxury and entertainment in the region. It features over 400 rooms, a resort day spa, a massive outdoor adventure lagoon, an amphitheater, and an indoor waterpark, alongside 13 distinctive food and beverage options. This Choctaw Nation development promises to be a destination in itself.
- Visit the New OG&E Coliseum at the OKC Fair: Opened in April 2025, the OG&E Coliseum is a state-of-the-art facility boasting 7,000 seats and first-class amenities. It's a new hub for the Oklahoma City Fair and a site for various sporting and entertainment events, making it a key OKC attraction.
- Explore the First Americans Museum's New Exhibit: The First Americans Museum (FAM) is a cornerstone of Oklahoma's cultural landscape. A new immersive exhibit, which opened in September 2025, offers a unique, fun-filled learning adventure designed for all ages, from three to 103. This is a profound cultural OKC activity you should not miss.
- Walk Through Plaza Calle Dos Cinco: Historic Capitol Hill's new multicultural gathering space, Plaza Calle Dos Cinco, opened in September 2025. This vibrant public area celebrates the neighborhood’s rich heritage and provides a beautiful spot for community events and relaxation.
Cultural Milestones and Must-See Arts & Entertainment
Beyond the new construction, OKC’s cultural calendar is packed, especially with major anniversaries and world-class performances. These events offer deep dives into the city's history and its thriving arts scene.
- Commemorate the OKC Bombing 30th Anniversary: April 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing. The Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum will host a series of commemorative events, offering a powerful and essential experience for all visitors to reflect on this formative moment in the city's history.
- Run the 25th OKC Memorial Marathon: Coinciding with the anniversary, the 25th OKC Memorial Marathon is a significant event, known as the "Run to Remember." Participating or cheering on the runners is a great way to engage with the community and the city's spirit.
- See the Ansel Adams Exhibition: Pencil in a visit to the Oklahoma City Museum of Art (OKCMOA) in June 2025 for the "Discovering Ansel Adams" exhibition. Featuring over 100 photographs, this is a major art event for the region.
- Get Lost in Factory Obscura: For a truly unconventional unique OKC experience, check out Factory Obscura. This immersive art experience, built by a local arts collaborative, is housed in the building formerly known as The Womb and offers a psychedelic journey through art and sound, including the popular "Mix-Tape" exhibit.
- Catch a Show at the Paycom Center: The Paycom Center remains the city's premier venue for major concerts and sporting events. Check the schedule for the latest shows and the Oklahoma City Thunder games.
Explore OKC's Hottest Neighborhoods and Nightlife
Oklahoma City is a collection of distinct districts, each with its own flavor, from historic charm to modern culinary hotspots. Exploring these areas is the best way to uncover the city's true personality and find the best OKC nightlife and dining.
Bricktown and Downtown Delights
Bricktown is often cited as the city's hottest 'hood, packed with entertainment, shops, and restaurants. Downtown, directly adjacent, offers a mix of urban green space and high-end dining.
- Stroll the Bricktown Canal: A classic things to see in OKC, a walk or a water taxi ride along the Bricktown Canal is a relaxing way to take in the area.
- Skate at the Devon Ice Rink: If you're visiting during the winter months, the Devon Ice Rink is the centerpiece of the "Downtown in December" holiday OKC events.
- Dine at Vast Restaurant: For the best restaurants with a view in Downtown OKC, Vast, located high above the city, offers fresh cuisine, cold cocktails, and an amazing panorama.
- Relax at Scissortail Park: This massive urban park connects the downtown area to the Oklahoma River, offering a beautiful space for outdoor activities, concerts, and relaxation. The North Shore neighborhood is right next door, providing easy access.
The Paseo, Midtown, and Automobile Alley
These districts are the heart of OKC’s independent spirit, known for their walkable streets, art galleries, and innovative culinary scenes.
- Discover The Paseo Arts District: As one of OKC's original arts districts, The Paseo is home to numerous galleries, studios, and unique shops. Don't miss Picasso Cafe for a great meal, with The Other Room bar next door for a post-dinner drink.
- Check Out Midtown's New Dining: Midtown is a highly recommended area for dining. The 2025 influx of new restaurants includes hotspots like Elisabetta, Bar Sen, and Lorena, offering a fresh take on the OKC food scene.
- Enjoy Automobile Alley: Known for its beautiful historic buildings and neon signs, Automobile Alley is a great place for boutique shopping and features popular spots like The Jones Assembly for drinks and live music.
- Sip Cocktails at The Vault or Bar Arbolada: For a sophisticated night out, check out The Vault at The National or the trendy Bar Arbolada, two of the top cocktail bars in the city.
Oklahoma City is a vibrant metropolis that constantly reinvents itself. With major developments like the OKANA Resort and the cultural significance of the 30th Anniversary events, 2025 is the perfect time to explore this dynamic city. Whether you're interested in art, history, unique dining, or simply finding the next great Oklahoma City attraction, the 405 has a fresh adventure waiting for you around every corner.
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