A guide to Oklahoma City's thriving creative scene

Once an Old West outpost for roving cattle ranchers, these days, you're more likely to see Oklahoma City locals in paint-splattered clothes than on horseback. Though most travellers will visit this state capital for its fascinating history, its thriving creative scene is equally worth exploring. Most of it unfolds along the 51.5 miles of Route 66 within the city's limits. This part of America's most famous highway — which marks its centennial in 2026 — is known for its quirky murals, neon sign-filled neighbourhoods and art deco architecture. Plus, the route is home to the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, which holds an impressive collection of art depicting the history and culture of the American West. Here are some must-see attractions along Oklahoma City's stretch of the 'Mother Road.'

1. The Britton District

Start getting your kicks in this up-and-coming neighbourhood just north of downtown, where a mural of the Route 66 shield logo is plastered on the side of a 20th-century redbrick building. Surrounding blocks are full of decades-old storefronts that once served local farmers. Today, many have been restored and hold hip shops, such as Orange Peel Vintage (selling second-hand clothing and accessories) and Alley Records (the place to find used vinyl, including some by Oklahoma musicians such as Woody Guthrie and Gene Autry). Funky gallery Hideout Art sells abstract paintings and hosts hands-on workshops. The Britton District also loves a good time: stop by Woodworks Distilling Co. to sample Oklahoma-made whiskey and vodka, or head to 89th Street, a nightclub hosting live punk, indie and rock bands and pouring local microbrews.

2. 39th Street District

Another zone in northern OKC, the 39th Street District is known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ bars and culture. Brightly painted murals dot this walkable stretch of Route 66. They include artist Nick Bayer’s ‘Summer of 66’, which depicts a retro car, roadside attractions and a rainbow city skyline painted on the District Hotel. The neighbourhood is full of lively restaurants, shops and clubs such as Angles — home to dance parties under an enormous disco ball — and Tramps, which hosts karaoke and drag shows.

3. Tower Theatre

Built in 1937 and adorned with a dramatic neon sign, the art deco-style Tower Theatre once screened classic Hollywood movies. Today, it’s a popular live music venue and the anchor of the Uptown 23rd District neighbourhood. Across the street from the theatre, an eight-foot-tall, 900-pound metal robot sculpture features a Route 66 logo on its front. Other throwback pleasures include the dive bar Bunker Club and Cheever’s Cafe, which serves southwestern dishes such as chicken fried steak and cheese enchiladas in a brick-walled former flower shop.

4. Oklahoma State Capitol

One of two US state capitol buildings along the original Route 66 (the other is in Illinois), the Oklahoma State Capitol dates back to 1917, though its 157ft-tall dome wasn’t added until 2002. Both inside and outside the neoclassical edifice, sculptures and paintings chronicle the story of the state’s people, culture and foundation. Highlights include a large oil painting of US president Teddy Roosevelt signing Oklahoma statehood into law; Indigenous artist Allan Houser’s outdoor sculpture, As the Waters Flow; and interior murals chronicling 19^th-century commerce and settlement (many works star American bison). Free guided tours of the building and the collection take place on weekdays at 10am and 1pm.