A good time is automatic in Automobile Alley
Almost as old as Oklahoma, itself, Automobile Alley brings an established essence to today’s downtown. Serving as the go-to destination for car dealerships in the 1900s, the district declined in 70s and 80s, before being revitalized in recent years.
Today, the district bordering Broadway Avenue provides a destination where residents from across the city are willing to drive. What was once filled with dealerships and service companies, now consists of office buildings, residences, restaurants, and retail shops – even a museum has made its’ way into the district:
Oklahoma Contemporary – This contemporary art museum moved into Automobile Alley in March of 2020. The chrome-colored structure resembles the wheels of the automobiles that got the district moving. The museum not only provides art in form of exhibitions, but through performances and community programs, as well.
Tesla – Following horse-and-buggies and the original automobiles, Tesla is continuing tradition through their service garage in the district. The electric vehicle company now operates out of what was once a Volvo dealership on the north end of Broadway Avenue.
Broadway 10 Bar & Chophouse – This restaurant and bar is a main attraction of Automobile Alley. Built into the bottom-level of the Buick building, with floor-to-ceiling windows, the chophouse will change the way you look at fine dining in Oklahoma City.
Midtown Renaissance – Founded in 2006, this Oklahoma City developer focuses on the details of design with their commercial and residential rentals. Buildings like The Marion – built in 1904 and awarded Best Small Scale Redevelopment by the Urban Land Institute – serve as examples of the company’s engineering efforts.
Twisted Spike Brewing Company – Incorporating OKC’s largest taproom, this brewery takes part in the district’s tradition of travel-inspired interiors by drawing comparisons to the nearby railcars. Not only is the name influenced by the railroad’s history, but the brewery uses one-of-a-kind twisted railroad spikes as taps, as well.
9th Street – A block away from the brewing company is a street lined with plenty to love. This secluded section of Automobile Alley includes street art, a woman-owned-and-operated gift shop in Common Dear, a shipping container turned candle company in OKCollective, a shaved ice location in Katiebug’s Sips & Sweets, and three restaurants: Iguana Mexican Grill, S&B’s Burger Joint, and Nashbird Chicken.
Factory Obscura – This collaborative art space captures the attention of most who visit ninth street. Incorporating immersive installations, this Chamber member works to create an environment that supports artists and inventors through freedom of expression and sustainable income.
Hideaway Pizza – Founded in the 1950s, this Oklahoma pizzeria made famous for their employee-painted Volkswagens, made its way into Automobile Alley as the area’s largest restaurant in 2011. The family-friendly restaurant offers a large indoor dining area, as well as a convenient carry-out system along the side of the building that allows drivers picking up pizzas to never leave their vehicle.
Vanessa House Beer Co. – This beer company was built on bringing friends together. Located within walking distance of the district’s main drive, you can find a number of stouts, seltzers, IPAs, and lagers to last until the night’s end.
8th Street Market – The city’s first market hall retail center provides the ambience of outside with large windows, skylights, and greenery as guests grab a bite to eat, a coffee, or ale. The building even houses a yoga studio to help you balance it all out.
Tin Lizzies – Providing gifts for any price point, this Chamber member partners with other Oklahoma owned boutiques and artists on pop-up, and in-shop experiences.
Plenty Mercantile – This Chamber member champions sustainability and hospitality through their place of commerce. Built in the original Chevrolet Dealership building, the shop sells locally sourced products and provides one of the most unique event spaces in downtown OKC.
Trek Bicycle – The Oklahoma City branch for Trek and Bontrager products is keeping the district’s history of service alive. This bike shop offers tune-ups for bikes of any brand and serves as a one-stop shop for gear and getting involved in local cycling events.
Parlor OKC – This parlor includes a collection of concepts that allow the back-and-forth of “where to eat” to take a backseat. Two bars, and seven restaurants, surround some of the city’s best spots to sit around with friends.
You can find a full list of businesses in Automobile Alley on the organization’s website.
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