If you’re planning on moving to Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, you are in for a vibrant city with plenty to do! Nicknamed “The Big Friendly,” this city lives up to the hype and offers desirable weather, fun-filled activities and exquisite museums, and variety for food and drink! Check out these tips if you are planning a move to Oklahoma City.
Weather
Summers reach humid highs into the low 90s, and winter months see temperatures ranging from the 30s to the 60s. April and May are prime times for tornadoes in Oklahoma City, though the city, in general, is a hot spot for this kind of severe weather phenomenon–so take precautions if you are heading to a new place there.
Things to Do
The Oklahoma City National Memorial commemorates the victims and survivors of the 1995 bombing that took place inside a federal government building. The tragedy left 168 dead, but today there’s a touching and peaceful memorial to walk through, complete with a reflecting pool and various exhibits. For a more lighthearted excursion, stop by the Boathouse District and test your adrenaline levels on the Sandridge Sky Trail (featuring a 72-foot-tall slide, an 80-foot freefall or a 700-foot-long zipline). Art lovers can wander around the Oklahoma City Museum of Art and linger in front of one of the most extensive collections of glass artist Dale Chihuly’s fragile creations. Take a relaxing tour of the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory at the Myriad Botanical Gardens if you’re up for stunning indoor waterfalls and 750 varieties of plants. If you’re keen on a leisurely cruise, take a water taxi along the Bricktown Canal and hear about the city’s history. If you’re moving with children, there’s a zoo as well! For the cowboys and cowgirls at heart, pay a visit to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum.
Economy
Oklahoma City has proven to hold a healthy economy with many job opportunities, thanks to its oil, natural gas, and petroleum resources. There are also several colleges and universities that employ many residents and the Tinker Air Force Base. Raising livestock is also a popular business venture there.
Food & Drink
Make no mistake: Oklahoma City has some great eateries and excellent BBQ. The city’s oldest restaurant is a must-see: Cattlemen’s Steakhouse–and they’re famous for their lamb fries, so enter hungry! Captain Norm’s Dockside Bar is a great spot for drinks and nightlife. Try the Bricktown Brewery, Mickey Mantle’s Steakhouse, Bellini’s Ristorante & Grill, and Bleu Garten (with an outdoor ambiance to match its name!).
Are you a resident or planning to move to Oklahoma City? Leave any tips you might have in the comments section below!
(Flickr: jgoge123 / via CC)