Oftentimes, spring is a time when people want to get out and travel. Oklahoma has amazing spring tourist destinations because it comes alive in the spring with blooming flowers, pleasant temperaturesandavarietyof outdoor and cultural events.
Whether somebody is an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff or someone who enjoys music and festivals, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a look at the top 10 things to do in Oklahoma this spring.
The Oklahoma City Zoo in OKC is a must-visit in the spring, with many animals becoming more active as the weather warms. Special events include spring break activities, animal feeding, and interactive experiences with zookeepers.
Guests can also enjoy the lush gardens throughout the zoo, featuring a variety of spring blooms. For the guests with children, don’t miss the Children’s Zoo, where little ones can get up close to farm animals and smaller wildlife.
Some of the zoo’s highlights include, a sanctuary asia exhibit, home to red pandas, Komodo dragons and Asian elephants. The explorikeet adventure, is where guests can feed colorful lorikeets. and the sea lion presentations showcasing marinemammals’agilityand intelligence.
For a dive into the American West’s history, visit The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, in OKC. They are open year-round, butspringhasoutdoorevents and Western art exhibitions, live demonstrations and interactive exhibits where guestscanseecowboyculture come to life.
Themuseum’sgardensare also a highlight in the spring, featuring sculptures and native plants in full bloom. Some of the attractions are the “Prix de West” Art Exhibition featuring world-class Westernart,theCowboyHall of Fame, honoring legendary figures in rodeo and Western culture and the Prosperity Junction, a life-sized replica of a frontier town.
If festivals are the guests’ thing, then check out the Festival of the Arts in OKC April 22–27, 2025. One of the mostanticipatedeventsofthe year, the Festival of the Arts brings together painters, sculptors, musicians and culinary artists for a weeklong celebration. This free event in downtown OKC features hundreds of artists, along with live music performances and incredible food.
The festival is a great place to support local artists and discover unique handmade pieces, featuring over 140 visual artists showcasing their work, stages with live music from jazz to folk to rock and the international Food Row, featuring diverse dishes from local vendors.
For adventurers who like to hike, be sure to visit the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge, near Lawton, Okla. The best time to visit is between MarchandMaywhere adventure lovers will find stunning views, rugged trails and diverse wildlife. Spring is the best time for hiking becauseofmildtemperatures and vibrant wildflowers.
Hikers may even spot bison, elk and longhorn cattle roaming freely. One of the main attractions is the Elk Mountain Trail, a trail that is over two miles with a moderate difficulty level and great views.
The boulder trail is less than a mile. It’s an easier, more-scenic trail. The Charon’s Garden trail is longer and more challenging with incredible rock formation.
For adventure seekers who love to exercise and participate in outdoor competitions, there is the Redbud Classic in Nichols Hills, Okla. ThecompetitionisApril5and April 6 and features running and cycling races for all skill levels. Whether somebody is looking to compete in a 5K, 10K or a family fun run, this event promotes health and supports local charities.The route takes runners through beautiful tree-lined streets with blooming redbud trees. There will be a 5K and 10K Run, cycling tours - 10, 33, or 45 miles and a One-Mile Kids’ Fun Run.
Oklahoma boasts some of the prettiest flowers in the US, so flower enthusiasts should visit the Tulsa Botanic Garden to enjoy the breathtaking beauty, with thousands of tulips, daffodils and hyacinths in full bloom during the annual Tulsa Botanic Blooms event. The garden is perfect for a relaxing walk, photography or a picnic.
There is a Lakeside Promenade, featuring 120,000+ spring flowers, Children’s Discovery Garden with interactive exhibits and the Garden of Lights at night for a magical springtime experience.
For the ones who prefer some live entertainment, there is a free three-day music festival in Norman.. Featuring local and national artists, the festival has multiple stages showcasing everything from indie rock to hip-hop and folk music.
Guests can expect outdoor and indoor performances across multiple venues, food trucks and beer gardens and family-friendly activities. For the ones who want to journey backintime,besuretoattend the Oklahoma Renaissance Festival in Muskogee.
Theeventrunsthroughout the weekends in May and is held at The Castle of Muskogee. This immersive experience featuresjoustingtournaments, live performances and authentic medieval-style food and drinks. Guests can cheer for their favorite knight in joustingmatches,enjoyhandcrafted artisan goods and dress for success in themed costume contests.
The art enthusiast will enjoy the Philbrook Museum of Art in Tulsa, a stunning combination of art and nature, featuring galleries of Native American and European art, along with formal gardens that are spectacular in the spring. It hosts 13 acres of gardens with fountains and sculptures, renaissance and contemporary art exhibits and a special outdoor movie nights in the gardens.
Water lovers can slip down to the Chickasaw National Recreation Area in Sulphur. Knownforitsnaturalsprings, waterfalls and hiking trails, Chickasaw National Recreation Area is an ideal place to relax and explore nature.
Little Niagara Falls is a favorite for visitors wanting a cool dip in the fresh water. It boasts some of the state’s best, hiking and scenic drives, and swimming and fishing. Oklahoma in the spring offers something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to arts and cultural experiences.