Go explore the metro safely and start with Norman
We here at The Better Life Blog HQ love all things Oklahoma City. But the joy of living in a large metro is there are plenty of nearby cities with lots of fun things to do, too, especially if you’re seeking that small-town charm. We asked the directors of the visitors’ bureaus in Norman, Yukon, Shawnee and Edmond to tell us the top five things to do in their towns so we could share it with you. This week, we’re starting with Norman. Check back each week to learn more about another nearby city.
During this time, be sure to double check that places are open and get up to speed on their safety protocols. Many of the museums are pretty big so it will be easy to stay away from people. And of course, take your mask and wash your hands a ton while you’re out and about.
Norman
Located 20 minutes south of Downtown OKC, Norman is home to The University of Oklahoma, world-class museums, the only urban state park and walkable destinations offering shopping, dining and the arts. Here are five things to note as you think about visiting Norman:
- Two must-see museums are the Fred Jones Jr. Of Art, which houses the largest collection of Impressionist paintings at a public university including works by Degas, Renoir, Van Gogh and others, and the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History which has been presented with the Institute of Museum and Library Sciences medal as one of the top five museums honored in 2014.
- Lake Thunderbird State Park is located within Norman's city limits and about 10 miles from downtown Norman. The park is prime for boating, fishing, water skiing, hiking, biking, camping and much more.
- Historic downtown Norman is a destination with dining, shopping and the Walker Arts District. With new restaurants opening frequently, a couple of can’t-miss experiences include The Diner, which has been featured twice on The Food Network, and Benvenuti’s Ristorante for fine dining. Live music may be heard seven nights a week.
- Historic Campus Corner offers restaurants, shopping and nightlife. With outdoor experiences including The Porch, Volare Pizzeria, 747 and Logie’s plus unique dining at Tea Café and Pepe Delgado’s along with treats at Apple Tree Chocolate and The Baked Bear, Campus Corner is a true Norman experience.
- Finally, a trip to Norman must include a stop at The University of Oklahoma. The state's flagship university opened in 1890. The Bizzell Memorial Library is listed as a National Historic Landmark for its Cherokee Gothic architectural style and its Great Reading Room is an iconic image. The Switzer Center (currently closed during the pandemic) and Heisman Trophy Park are favorites of sports fans.
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