The South gets a bad rap more often than not. There’s a lot more here than a bunch of hicks letting life slip by on their front porch.
Yes, there are definitely some podunk towns you can easily skip, but there are also some really cool cities well worth exploring.
Since southern cities are often overshadowed, the element of surprise is all the more alluring.
Rather than take selfies with Chicago’s ‘Bean’, New York’s Statue of Liberty or one of many scenic California beaches, it’s okay to steer away from what you know and give new places a chance.
One such city is giving you a head start after seeing over 24 million visitors, becoming the trendiest new destination in the South. (Sorry, Dallas!)
Oklahoma City: The South’s Biggest Surprise
Ever heard of someone vacationing in Oklahoma City?
Perhaps not, and that’s okay.
That’s partly because it’s an up-and-coming destination and if Rome wasn’t built in a day, how can we expect the same for OKC?
Well, if you were to look back on this city’s growth on a time-lapse, it would certainly seem that way.
OKC used to be nothing special – a coin flip between here and Tulsa for the state’s go-to “metropolis”.
But now it’s thriving and beginning to steal some of the spotlight away from nearby cities such as Dallas, a trendy destination in its own right.
Between vibrant neighborhoods, buzzing restaurants, and a diehard sports community, OKC is full of surprises.
Bricktown: The Heart Of The Action
Seems as if every city has a go-to place. In OKC, there’s no doubt it’s Bricktown.
Nestled along the scenic Oklahoma River, it’s not exactly Venice, but hey, people down here are simple folk.
Truth be told it’s very pretty and makes for an excellent backdrop amidst the busiest district of the city and you can book a fun water taxi, but sadly no gondolas.
This historic part of town has been revamped and rightfully named Bricktown after breathing new life into old buildings in desperate need of a makeover.
Despite being a new “it” destination, some might actually say this area is too touristy with escape rooms, etc.
But this is where locals come to let loose too. There are lively bars and award-winning restaurants ready to welcome you, such as Grey Sweater.
No Need To Resist The Urge To Splurge: OKC Is Very Affordable
Trendy southern cities such as Austin and Dallas aren’t nearly as affordable as they used to.
That’s where OKC steps in to say, “hold my beer”.
There’s no need to resist the urge to splurge here as a tourist. Many people actually move here for cheaper real estate, but you can take advantage of very affordable stays.
For example, the 4-star Wyndham Grand is in the $100 range. Try scoring that in just about any other major city!
Dining out also won’t break the bank with reasonable prices, especially ‘happy hours’ at some of the more popular bars like JJ’s Alley Bricktown Pub.
Better yet, many museums are free to enter, such as:
- Edmond History Museum
- Charles B. Hall Air Park
- Oklahoma National Guard
- Jim Thorpe Museum, Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame
- Oklahoma State Capitol & Museum
Don’t forget this is cowboy country, and as a cowboy, they tend to consider themselves as southern gentlemen.
As such, there are ample museums taking a deep dive into the fascinating ‘blazing saddles’ culture that would make Yellowstone fans blush, but not for free unfortunately.
Although, the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum is only $20 for admission.
A Big City With Small Town Vibes
Oklahoma City has a population of roughly 700,000 people, but many say its down-home charm gives it a small town feel.
Before OKC became a trendy hotspot, Oklahoma’s claim to fame was delightful getaways like Broken Bow, college football games, or casino towns like Durant, home to local favorite Choctaw Casino & Resort.
OKC hasn’t gotten too big for their britches and remembers their roots. Coming here is a nice balance between big city amenities and small-town charm where ‘southern hospitality’ still holds true.
Well, until the rowdy crowds of the Thunder games get the best of them…
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