Start
your love affair with the Wild West in OKC!
I-40 stretches out through miles of farmlands,
forests and foothills. Distant mountains lend a sense of majesty to the
landscape that has been inhabited by cowboys and by Indians even longer. It
follows the well-worn track laid out by the pioneers through the prairie and
desert, leading to an endless view of the Pacific. It traverses some of this
nation’s most spectacular scenic wonders. And, while early settlers have gone
before us to build comfort and civilization from the wilderness and desolation
that was
THE WEST,
the romantic wilderness that the
“Old West” evokes in our minds is still present every inch of the way.
(Adapted from a tribute
to the Mother Road written by Irvin S. Cobb
in the Amarillo Globe News, 7/20/1938)
Entering Oklahoma
City from the East,
it’s hard not to notice the striking array of brick buildings that gleam in the afternoon sun. I-40 casually skirts the downtown which has been embraced and brought back to its original glory as “Bricktown,” OKC’s vibrant and unique entertainment district.
www.visitokc.com
Above: this particular mosaic mural sits at the west
end of the Bricktown canal. It was
created by students at a local college for the Oklahoma Centennial in 2007 and
colorfully portrays significant state symbols.
Left: the Bricktown Santa Fe Railway wall mural.
The creation of Bricktown--a cool, young restoration of the downtown—has helped revive the area and provide a plethora of restaurants and activities for the traveler to enjoy.
The creation of Bricktown--a cool, young restoration of the downtown—has helped revive the area and provide a plethora of restaurants and activities for the traveler to enjoy.
and the Bricktown
Ballpark—home of the Oklahoma City
RedHawks.
For an enjoyable and relaxing tour of the area, take a ride on
the Water Taxi. Friendly guides will
narrate points of interest as you cruise the canals.
««««««««««
“Oklahoma City has it
all—from the
historic Old West in Stockyards City
to the vibrant energy of
Bricktown,
the city’s lively entertainment district. …
Choices abound for an experience
you’ll cherish!”
Be sure
to check out this great visitor’s guide site for detailed trip-planning,
coupons, specials and events.
««««««««««
THERE’S SOMETHING
ABOUT THE WEST.
Travelers seeking the rich culture of the American
West
will want to
spend some time exploring:
·
The
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum: This is America’s premier institution of
Western history, art and culture. Its exhibits masterfully present the enduring
legacy of our American West, “a region and history that permeates our national
culture.”
·
The
Oklahoma History Center: The
Smithsonian-quality exhibits and artifacts will enable you to experience OK’s
inspiring and adventurous past. “Located on 18 acres across from the Capital
building, the History Center is a beautifully designed, self-guided exploration
of Oklahoma—past to present.” Road-trippers will want to stretch their legs on
the Red River Journey—a walking tour of the valley featuring historical
locations and machinery used in OK oil explorations. www.okhistorycenter.org
·
Stockyards
City: Visit this
fascinating town which began in 1910 as the location of the Oklahoma National
Stockyards Company. Shopping, great food and lively entertainment await you in
a town “deeply rooted in Oklahoma’s pioneer heritage.” If you’re heading west,
it’s time to gear up! Shop Main Street for hats, boots, jewelry and even
saddles!
o
Cattlemen’s
Steakhouse: A lucky
roll of the dice landed this restaurant on the map for visitors from all over
the world to enjoy. A steakhouse with a fun story and fantastic Old West
ambiance has fed cowboys, ranchers and more than a few celebrities over the
years; stop by for one of their famous perfectly-aged steaks and you’ll soon
know why!
o
Rodeo
Opry: A
community center of sorts, this unique concert hall is committed to providing a
platform for young, talented artists and musicians while offering exciting
entertainment to the public. Check their website in advance for upcoming shows.
(Ntl Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum)
For Fun:
Frontier City: OKC’s fun-filled theme
park with great shows and western-themed rides (“Silver Bullet,” “Hangman,” and
the “Rodeo Round-up”) provide hours of lively entertainment and thrills! www.frontiercity.com
Rawhide: This
family business, rich with firsthand experience in ranch life, will delight you
with their love for all things western. Whether you’re buying or just browsing
the clothing, furnishings and fun accessories, you’re sure to enjoy your
experience. Located just a few blocks from the Grandison Inn. www.shoprawhide.com
POPS: Need
a “Route 66” fix? POPS, located along
historic Route 66 just north of Oklahoma City in Arcadia, OK, is the coolest
place to sample sodas and enjoy classic shakes and burgers. A blast from the
past with a fresh twist, POPS is a gas station that hearkens to the glory days
as a modern Route 66 must-see landmark. www.pops66.com
For Food:
1492:
Only
a short walk or drive from The Grandison
Inn at Maney Park, this restaurant serves up “New World Latin” cuisine, a
classy twist on Texmex. Must try: the special 1492 Queso Appetizer; it will knock your socks off! www.1492okc.com
Cheever’s: Serving “contemporary comfort food,” this
local favorite specializes in American cuisine with a Southwest influence and
is also a hit with Grandison Inn
guests. www.cheeverscafe.com
Toby Keith’s ILTBG: Located in Bricktown, this is the “best honky-tonk in town.” A fun atmosphere
and live music will liven up your meal. www.tobykeithsbar.com/restaurant-locations/oklahoma-city-bricktown
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