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S/S 2012
THE POCKET GUIDE TO DINING & ENTERTAINMENT
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6
BRICKTOWN
10
FOOD & DINING
14
NIGHTLIFE
18
SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT SPORTS / CASINOS
24 28
CULTURE
40
CITY SPOTLIGHTS
42
MUSEUMS / PERFORMING ARTS
ACTIVITIES
STAY ACTIVE / GROUP ACTIVITIES / SHOPPING
NORMAN / EDMOND
EVENT CALENDAR
ON THE COVER: The Chesapeake Boathouse casts a dramatic nighttime glow across the newly revitalized Oklahoma River and serves as the visual anchor to OKC’s Boathouse District. 4 | OKCCONVENTIONER.COM | S/S 2012
Reflecting Pool & West Gate, Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
welcome As publishers of the Oklahoma City Conventioner, allow us to extend our welcome to OKC! We hope we can provide a glimpse of the diversity Oklahoma has to offer. We have everything you would expect in a major city...world class hotels, professional sports, full gaming casinos and race track, a zoo, historic museums, live music and theater. What you might not expect will be the taste of a uniquely rich cultural heritage formed from the red earth so abundant in Oklahoma. Historic Bricktown and the Western Heritage Museums will take you back to the Land Run Era of the Wild West via walking trails, water taxi, or on a river cruise up the rechanneled Oklahoma River. The Classen Curve area offers upscale dining and shopping against a uniquely modern backdrop. As OKC residents and business owners for over 36 years, we are eager to show you “our town.” We know you will enjoy the casual atmosphere and friendly people of OKC and find the dining, entertainment and shopping second to none. If you have any questions or need extra copies of the Oklahoma City Conventioner, don’t hesitate to call our office at 405.249.7097. We hope you enjoy your visit and invite you to return soon! Sincerely, The Matlock Family
©Copyright 2012, Matlock Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the consent of the publisher. The Oklahoma City Conventioner is published quarterly and is distributed at conventions and through concierge/information desks at major hotels in Oklahoma City, Edmond and Norman. For individual copies, please send your requests to sales@okcconventioner.com or to Oklahoma City Conventioner, PO Box 890753, OK 73189. Advertising Inquiries: S/S 2012 OKC, | OKCCONVENTIONER.COM | 5 Contact Marshall Matlock, marshall@okcconventioner.com, 405.249.7097
BRICKTOWN
Formerly a bustling warehouse district, Bricktown is now the beating heart of Oklahoma City’s downtown. As the sun sets and the lights come on along the mile-long canal, Bricktown’s nightlife comes alive. Home to a multitude of locally owned restaurants covering a broad spectrum of cuisines, you won’t have to venture far to find what you crave. Unwind after a day of meetings over a handcrafted beer at one of Bricktown’s breweries or old-style pubs. More in the mood for a cocktail? Try one of the area’s laid-back ultra lounges or stay current on your home sports team’s action at one of several sports bars. If you’re looking for a more upbeat evening, Bricktown has several highenergy night clubs offering a chance to mingle with locals and fellow convention goers. Get your live music fix seven nights per week at one of the many bars and restaurants featuring live, local musicians. A quieter evening can be
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ENTERTAINMENT DISTRICT
The Bricktown Fountain, Oklahoma City.
spent catching a movie at the state of the art theater facility located within walking distance from many downtown hotels. Bricktown is the place to be on game nights, home to several professional sports venues including the Thunder’s Chesapeake Energy Arena. Regardless of how you like to spend your evenings, Bricktown has you covered. And don’t worry about transportation, your hotel is just a short walk, taxi, pedicab or water taxi ride away.
The Bricktown Canal at night.
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DOWNTOWN MAP OKC Natl Memorial
N Robinson Ave
N Harvey Ave
N Hudson Ave
N Walker Ave
N Dewey Ave
NW 5th St
N Lee Ave
N Shartel Ave
NW 6th St
NW 4th St
Dean A McGee Ave
NW 3rd St
Robert S Kerr Ave Couch Dr
OKC Museum of Art
Civic Center
Park Ave Colcord Dr W Main St
W Main St
Sheraton Devon Colcord Tower Hotel
W Sheridan Ave
Cox Conve
W California Ave Myriad Botanical Gardens
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S Robinson Ave
S Harvey Ave
40
S Hudson Ave
SW 3rd St
270
S Walker Ave
SW 2nd St
S Dewey Ave
W Reno Ave
Chesapea Energy Ar
OKLAHOMA CITY
e
235
Ce nt
rr
Av
en nia
N Walnut Ave
Ha
lE xp y
Ga ylo rd Bl vd N Mickey Mantle Dr
NE 2nd St
Renaissance Hotel
NE 1st St
American Banjo Museum
E Sheridan Ave Painted Door
Hampton Inn
Bricktown Water Taxi
Coca Cola Bricktown Events Center
Joe Carter Ave
S Oklahoma Ave
Courtyard Marriott
Russell M Perry Ave
EK
N Central Ave
N NE 3rd St
Skirvin Hilton
ention Center
ake rena
N Oklahoma Ave
N Broadway Ave
NW 3rd St
n iso
RedHawks Field at Bricktown
Bricktown Canal
Johnny Bench Drive
E Reno Ave
RedPin Bowling
Residence Inn
SE 2nd Ave Harkins Theatres 270
40 Bricktown Riverwalk Park OK Centennial Land Run Monument
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FOOD & DINING Whether you’re the type to save your per diem and stock up on snacks for your hotel room [head to Whole Foods Market (wholefoodsmarket.com) at NW 59th & Western] or to go big on the expense account, the OKC restaurant scene has you covered.
FEATURED DINING DESTINATIONS Cattlemen’s Steakhouse Cattlemen’s is the real deal, located in the heart of Stockyards City and currently the oldest continuously operating restaurant in Oklahoma City. The atmosphere is what you want in a good steakhouse: low-lit leather booths, dark wood and sprawling western landscapes on the walls. The steaks are dry aged and seared at high heat over a charcoal fire. They pair well with the house salad dressing and a big, yeasty dinner roll. The chicken fried steak is also excellent. Cattlemen’s has a great banquet facility and can host your group event for up to 120 guests. TIP Don’t leave without ordering a slice of homemade pie for dessert.
1309 S. Agnew Ave., Stockyards City 405.236.0416 / cattlemensrestaurant.com
Chelino’s Mexican Restaurant Chelino’s offers a solid mix of traditional Mexican and Tex-Mex menu items. From bottomless chips, salsa and queso to complimentary sopapillas, the service is as excellent as the beer is cold. The Bricktown location has a giant upstairs space that can accommodate your group event for up to 300 guests. TIP Try the Guiso Especial, tender Mexican beef tips simmered in tomatoes, onions & peppers, then topped with a fried egg.
15 E. California Ave., Bricktown +11 other Metro locations 405.235.3533 / chelinosmexicanrestaurant.com Crabtown Roll up your sleeves and throw down on Crabtown’s Cajun Crab & Shrimp Boil: a sheet of butcher paper and a pile of crab legs, shrimp, Andouille sausage, corn and potatoes. Specializing in seafood and Cajun cuisine and located in Bricktown just a half mile from the Cox Convention Center, Crabtown is a great spot to begin a night out on the town. They also feature several banquet facilities to host your private event, from 40 to 200 guests. 10 | OKCCONVENTIONER.COM | S/S 2012
If you’re in the mood for spicy, go for the Tabasco TIP Caesar Salad & Crawfish Etouffee.
303 E. Sheridan Ave., Bricktown 405.232.7227 / pearlsokc.com
Louie’s Grill & Bar Louie’s is a great place to unwind after a full day of meetings. The casual atmosphere and plentiful array of flat screen televisions make it the ideal spot to grab a beer, tuck into a 100% Angus burger and take in a ballgame. Check the Louie’s Facebook page for special offers and events. Order the Fried Green Beans with chipotle ranch TIP dipping sauce.
1215 N. Walker, Midtown +11 other Metro locations 405.230.1200 / louiesgrillandbar.com
Ludivine Chefs Jonathon Stranger and Russ Johnson maintain an ambitious, seasonal farm-to-table menu at this delicious homage to Oklahoma producers. Ludivine is all about finding the highest quality local ingredients and preparing them respectfully. What’s not to love? Ludivine has a great bar with knowledgeable bartenders. Come before your dinner reservation during happy hour and enjoy half-price appetizers Tue-Fri 5-7pm.
TIP
Don’t miss Ricky’s $10 Blue Plate Mondays 805 N. Hudson Ave., Midtown 405.778.6800 / ludivineokc.com
Nonna’s Euro -American Ristorante & Bar Situated in a century-old warehouse on the corner of two of Bricktown’s main thoroughfares, Nonna’s features an eclectic menu highlighting fresh ingredients among refined surroundings. The enormous second floor patio dining space overlooks Redhawks Field at Bricktown and offers an excellent view of the OKC skyline. Nonna’s is a great place to host a dinner meeting, featuring several private dining suites that can accommodate up to 40 dinner guests. Stop by for happy hour at Purple Bar on the second floor for half-price appetizers Tue-Sat 3:306:30pm. Grab one of Avis’ desserts from the patisserie on TIP your way out for a late night treat back in your hotel room.
1 Mickey Mantle Dr., Bricktown 405.235.4410 / nonnas.com S/S 2012 | OKCCONVENTIONER.COM | 11
FOOD & DINING CONT.
Republic Gastropub, Classen Curve.
Other Local Favorites 1492 New World Latin Cuisine 1207 North Walker Ave. Midtown 405.236.1492 1492okc.com
Earl’s Rib Palace 216 Johnny Bench Dr. Bricktown 405.272.9898 earlsribpalace.com
Big Truck Tacos 520 NW 23rd St. Uptown 405.525.TACO (8226) bigtrucktacos.com
Hideaway Pizza 901 N. Broadway Automobile Alley +6 other Metro locations 405.796.7777 hideawaypizza.com
Bolero Spanish Grill & Tapas Bar 200 S. Oklahoma Ave #140 Bricktown 405.602.0652 bolerotapasbar.com
Iguana Mexican Grill 9 NW 9th St. Automobile Alley 405.606.7172 iguanamexicangrill.com
Cheever’s Café 2409 N. Hudson Ave. Uptown 405.525.7007 cheeverscafe.com
In The Raw Sushi 200 S. Oklahoma Ave. #130 Bricktown 405.702.1325 intherawsushi.com
Coolgreens 204 N. Robinson (City Place Tower), Downtown 405.600.6444 mycoolgreens.com
Irma’s Burger Shack 1120 Classen Dr. Midtown 405.235.IRMA (4762) irmasburgershack.com
Deep Fork Wood Grill & Seafood 5418 N. Western Ave. Western Ave. Corridor 405.848.7678 deepforkgrill.com
Iron Starr Urban BBQ 3700 N. Shartel Ave. Crown Heights 405.524.5925 ironstarrbbq.com
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Jazmo’z Bourbon Street Café 100 E. California Ave. Bricktown 405.232.6666 bourbonstreetcafe.com
Redrock Canyon Grill 9221 Lake Hefner Pkwy. Lake Hefner 405.749.1995 redrockcanyongrill.com
La Luna Mexican Café 409 W. Reno Ave. Downtown 405.235.9596 lalunamexicancafe.com
Republic Gastropub 5830 N. Classen Blvd. Classen Curve 405.286.4577 republicgastropub.com
The Mantel Wine Bar & Bistro 201 E. Sheridan Ave. Bricktown 405.236.8040 themantelokc.com
Rococo Restaurant & Wine Bar 2824 N. Pennsylvania Ave. Uptown 405.528.2824 rococo-restaurant.com
Matthew Kenney 5820 N. Classen Blvd. Classen Curve 405.842.1050 matthewkenneycuisine.com
Stella Modern Italian Cuisine 1201 N. Walker Ave. Midtown 405.235.2200 stellaokc.com
Mickey Mantle’s Steakhouse 7 S. Mickey Mantle Dr. Bricktown 405.272.0777 mickeymantlesteakhouse.com
Sushi Neko 4318 N. Western Ave. Western Ave. Corridor 405.528.TUNA (8862) sushineko.com
Musashi’s Japanese Steakhouse 4315 N. Western Ave. Western Ave. Corridor 405.602.5623 musashis.com
Ted’s Café Escondido 2836 NW 68th St. +2 other Metro locations 405.848.8337 tedscafe.com
Mutt’s Amazing Hot Dogs 1400 NW 23rd St. Uptown 405.525.DOGS (3647) mutts-hot-dogs.com Pachinko Parlor 1 NW 9th St. Automobile Alley 405.601.8900 sushiokc.com RED Primesteak 504 N. Broadway Ave. Automobile Alley 405.232.2626 redprimesteak.com
Texadelphia 200 S. Oklahoma Ave. #110 Bricktown 405.208.4000 texadelphia.com Trattoria Il Centro 500 W. Main St., Ste 100 Downtown 405.601.5858 trattoriailcentro.com The Wedge Pizzeria 230 NE 1st St. Deep Deuce 405.270.0660 thewedgeokc.com
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NIGHTLIFE
Whether you’re looking for a craft beer and a barstool to watch the game, a glass of wine and live music, or a cocktail lounge with a dance floor, you won’t have to venture far to quench your thirst.
FEATURED NIGHTLIFE DESTINATIONS Bricktown Brewery Since 1992, Bricktown Brewery has been serving up their house-brewed craft beers alongside a diverse menu of great food. Housed in an old candy factory, the Brewery recently underwent a complete remodel and can easily accommodate your large group. Try the 46 Star Oklahoma Amber Ale, Wiley One-Eyed Wheat or one of the seasonal beer offerings. They also have a location on the casino floor at Remington Park. Both lunch and dinner feature daily first-come, TIP first-served Blue Plate Specials.
1 N. Oklahoma Ave., Bricktown 405.232.2739 / bricktownbrewery.com
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The Bricktown Canal at night.
James E. McNellie’s Public House Inspired by the public houses of Dublin, McNellie’s is a neighborhood gathering place focusing on a welcoming atmosphere, reasonably-priced cuisine and a wide selection (350+) of draught and bottled beers. McNellie’s can also accommodate private group events from 2 to 200. Check their website for more information, monthly specials, featured beer pairing dinners, beer tastings and more. If you’re into Belgian-style dark ales, try a bottle of TIP Unibroue Maudite.
1100 Classen Dr., Midtown +1 location in Norman 405.601.PINT (7468) / mcnelliesokc.com
Nonna’s Purple Bar On the second floor of Nonna’s Euro-American Ristorante & Bar is Nonna’s Purple Bar, a sleek and modern space bursting with color. The bar features large windows and ample patio seating for great views of Bricktown. Don’t miss happy hour at Purple Bar for half-price appetizers Tue-Sat 3:30-6:30pm. Purple Bar has live music on Friday and Saturday TIP evenings from 8-11pm.
1 Mickey Mantle Dr., Bricktown 405.235.4410 / purplebarokc.com S/S 2012 | OKCCONVENTIONER.COM | 15
NIGHTLIFE CONT.
Patio seating along the Bricktown Canal offers a great atmosphere for your evening on the town.
Tapwerks Ale House & Café Designed to emulate the style of the Olde English pub, Tapwerks is Oklahoma’s oldest tap house. They feature 212 taps and over a 100 bottled beers on the menu as well as a wide selection of pub fare. Many nights of the week feature live music, trivia or some other activity. Check their website for details. Tapwerks’ second and third floors can also be rented out for private events. The downstairs bar is a great place to get a propTIP erly-poured Guinness in a smoke-free setting.
121 E. Sheridan Ave., Bricktown 405.319.9599 / tapwerks.com
Other Local Favorites 51st Street Speakeasy 1114 NW 51st St. Western Ave. Corridor 405.463.0470 51stspeakeasy.com Belle Isle Restaurant & Brewery 1900 NW Expressway Belle Isle Corridor 405.840.1911 belleislerestaurant.com Biting Sow – Live Blues Music 1 E. California Ave. Bricktown 405.232.2639
BRiX Restaurant + Sports Lounge 27 E. Sheridan Ave. Bricktown 405.702.7226 brixokc.com Coach’s Bar & Grill 20 S. Mickey Mantle Dr. Bricktown +1 location in Norman 405.232.6224 coachsrestaurants.com
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Cock O’ the Walk 3705 N. Western Ave. Western Ave. Corridor 405.524.0304 cockothewalk.net Drinkz Bar and Lounge 115 E. Reno Bricktown 405.231.8660 drinkzbar.com Drunken Fry 5100 N. Classen Blvd. Western Ave. Corridor 405.226.5030 drunkenfry.com Edna’s 5137 N. Classen Blvd. Western Ave. Corridor 405.840.3339 ednasokc.com Flip’s Wine Bar & Trattoria 5801 N. Western Ave. Western Ave. Corridor 405.843.1527 flipswinebar.com JJ’s Alley 212 E. Sheridan Ave. Bricktown 405.605.4543 The Lobby Café & Bar 4322 N. Western Ave. (inside Will Rogers Theatre) Western Ave. Corridor 405.604.4650 willrogerslobbybar.com
Red Piano Lounge 1 Park Ave. (inside the Hilton Skirvin) Downtown 405.702.8555 redpianolounge.com Red Pin Restaurant & Bowling Lounge 200 S. Oklahoma Ave. Bricktown 405.702.8880 bowlredpin.com Skky Bar Ultra Lounge 7 Mickey Mantle Dr. Bricktown 405.272.9222 skkybar.com VZD’s Restaurant & Club 4200 N. Western Ave. Western Ave. Corridor vzds.com West 6714 N. Western Ave. Western Ave. Corridor 405.607.4072 westbar.com Wormy Dog Saloon 311 E. Sheridan Ave. Bricktown 405.601.6276 wormydog.com
The Mantel Wine Bar & Bistro 201 E. Sheridan Ave., Bricktown 405.236.8040 themantelokc.com
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SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT
SPORTS & ENT
Home to the OKC Thunder, the recently remodeled Chesapeake Energy Arena provides an exciting setting to catch some NBA action.
Since the 20 08 arrival of our new NBA franchise the OKC Thunder, the level of excitement downtown on game nights has skyrocketed. The NBA isn’t the only game in town, though. OKC has several successful sports franchises that can provide an exciting evening on the town. BASKETBALL The major sports buzz around OKC these days is around NBA’s young Western Conference powerhouse, the Oklahoma City Thunder (thunder.nba.com). The hype is justified. All Stars Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook and the talented role players around them are a joy to watch live. The team’s home court in the Chesapeake Energy Arena has earned its “Loud City” moniker. When the Thunder is rolling, there’s no other place you’d want to be. Check the Thunder Schedule on p. 42 or visit their website for game times and ticket information. 18 | OKCCONVENTIONER.COM | S/S 2012
TERTAINMENT
SPORTS / CASINOS
HOCKEY The OKC Barons (okcbarons.com) play their hockey in the Cox Convention Center. The Barons are the top AHL affiliate to the NHL’s Edmonton Oilers and rank among the leaders of the AHL’s Western Conference. If you haven’t experienced live hockey, you owe it to yourself to check out a game. Tickets start at $14 and can be purchased through Ticketmaster outlets or the team’s box office at the Cox Convention Center. BASEBALL The Oklahoma City Redhawks (oklahomaredhawks.com) occupy the nationally renowned Redhawks Field at Bricktown. The Redhawks play in the Pacific Coast League as the Houston Astro’s A A A affiliate. Redhawks Field offers everything you love about the ballpark experience with tickets starting at $11. Visit the Redhawks website to purchase tickets or visit the ticket office at Redhawks Field at Bricktown.
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SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT CONT.
A bronze sculpture of Oklahoma-born Mickey Mantle stands outside the RedHawks Field at Bricktown.
In addition to Redhawks baseball, Redhawks Field at Bricktown also plays host to Bedlam Baseball in early May between the Oklahoma State Cowboys and the Oklahoma Sooners and The Phillips 66 Big 12 Baseball Championship in late May.
Casinos The Oklahoma City area has several casino and gaming options within a short distance from downtown. Whether you’re seeking horse racing, table games, slots, or poker, you’ll have no problem finding your game. Your entertainment options aren’t limited to gambling, though.Each of the casinos below features several dining and nightlife options and frequently host big name musical and comedy acts.
Firelake Grand Casino Just 20 minutes east of Oklahoma City on I-40, Firelake Grand Casino offers 125,000 square feet of luxurious surroundings for their 1800 Vegas-style slot machines, poker, blackjack craps and Oklahoma’s only Keno lounge. Dining options include a massive buffet, sports grill and an upscale steakhouse.
777 Grand Casino Blvd., Shawnee 405.964.7777 / firelakegrand.com
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Be her leap From hospital room to Ballroom. Within every one of us is the power to heal. it’s called marrow, and thousands of patients could potentially be saved by a marrow transplant. Join the Be the match® marrow registry and fight for those with life-threatening diseases. Who knows? You could be the one to save a life. take the first step at Bethematch.org.
©2012 National marrow Donor program
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2/7/12 1:30 PM
SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT CONT. Lucky Star Casino Northwest of the Metro is Lucky Star Casino. Try your luck at poker, blackjack or their 1,500 themed electronic games. Lucky Star is known for attracting big name acts to their 3500-seat concert venue. Past performers include B.B. King, Willie Nelson, REO Speedwagon, Snoop Dogg and many others. Check their website for more information.
7777 N. Highway 81, Concho 405.262.7612 / luckystarcasino.org
Remington Park Head to OKC’s Adventure District to test your handicapping skills at Oklahoma’s only major league horse racing attraction. In addition to live seasonal horse racing and daily simulcast races, Remington Park’s casino floor offers 750 electronic gaming machines and features the Bricktown Brewery at Remington Park and Henry Hudson’s Pub. Remington Park is open daily until midnight or later. Visit their website for directions, hours and race details.
One Remington Pl., Adventure District 405.424.1000 / remingtonpark.com
Riverwind Casino Riverwind Casino is located in Norman, just a quick 20-minute drive south on I-35 from downtown Oklahoma City. Riverwind is a Vegas-style hotel and casino whose modern amenities occupy a massive 219,000 square feet. They offer poker, blackjack, baccarat and more than 2700 electronic games. They also feature an exclusive poker room and an Off Track Betting Lounge. In addition to a variety of dining and lounge destinations, Riverwind’s luxurious 1500 seat Showplace Theatre plays host to nationally-recognized entertainment, MMA fights and more.
1544 W. State Highway 9, Norman 405.322.6000 / riverwind.com
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Fraser, James Earle. End of the Trail. 1915. National Cowboy & Western S/SCity. 2012 | OKCCONVENTIONER.COM | 23 Heritage Museum, Oklahoma
CULTURE
The widespread rejuvenation initiatives around downtown Oklahoma City in recent years have brought with it a resurgence of interest in the arts and the venues in which they’re housed. Take some time between meetings to explore our diverse cultural offerings. Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum The Memorial features a museum and monument erected in remembrance of the April 19, 1995 bombing of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building. Open 24/7, the Outdoor Symbolic Memorial is a powerful place as night falls and the Field of Empty Chairs begin to glow. Take some time to walk the grounds and contemplate how hope rose from such a horrific event. A free guided video tour is available by searchTIP ing iTunes or YouTube for “Outdoor Symbolic Memorial Walking Tour” on your smartphone (length = 17:56). 620 N. Harvey Ave., Downtown 405.235.3313 / oklahomacitynationalmemorial.org 24 | OKCCONVENTIONER.COM | S/S 2012
MUSEUMS / PERFORMING ARTS
Field of Empty Chairs, Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
Oklahoma City Museum of Art The OKCMOA’s extensive collection is highlighted by works from O’Keefe, Calder and Renoir to name a few. The museum has also received wide acclaim for its comprehensive collection of glass sculpture by Dale Chihuly spanning three decades of his finest work. Chihuly’s 55-foot tall Eleanor Blake Kirkpatrick Memorial Tower in the museum’s atrium can even be appreciated from the exterior if you find yourself in the neighborhood after hours. The newly updated interior of the Museum Café is an excellent lunch or dinner option as well. OKCMOA screens indie, foreign and classic TIP films every Thursday –Sunday evening.
415 Couch Dr., Downtown 405.236.3100 / okcmoa.com
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum Known for their extensive collection of classic and contemporary western art, the museum features well known works by Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell, among countless others. Perhaps its most iconic piece is sculptor James Earle Fraser’s 18-foot plaster tribute to the Native American people, The End of the Trail. It’s easy to spend hours combing through this tribute to the American West, S/S 2012 | OKCCONVENTIONER.COM | 25
CULTURE CONT.
The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Musuem, founded in 1955, is America’s premier institution for Western history, art & culture.
but it’s worth seeing the grounds and statues if you only have a short time to explore. The gift shop has some great lost-wax cast bronze TIP replicas of Frederic Remington’s western sculptures.
1700 NE 63rd St., Adventure District 405.478.2250 / nationalcowboymuseum.org
American Banjo Museum Located in the heart of Bricktown, the museum boasts the largest collection of instruments on public display in the world. If you have even a passing appreciation for the banjo, it’s well worth a few minutes to stop by and have a look. 9 E. Sheridan Ave., Bricktown 405.604.2793 / americanbanjomuseum.com
Performing Arts Originally opened in 1937, the restored Art Deco style Civic Center Music Hall (okcciviccenter.com) is Oklahoma City’s premier performing arts venue. It plays host to Oklahoma City Ballet (okcballet.com), Oklahoma City Philharmonic (okcphilharmonic.org), Oklahoma City Repertory Theatre (cityrep.com) and the Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma (lyrictheatreokc.com). Check our Event Calendar or the Civic Center’s website for upcoming performances, tickets and location information.
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Dale Chihuly’s Eleanor Blake Kirkpatrick Memorial Tower in the lobby of the OKCMOA.
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ACTIVITIES
It’s a struggle to maintain an active lifestyle while on the road. Your hotel pool or treadmill is a good start, but here are a few options near downtown OKC where you can get your blood pumping while enjoying a change in scenery. CLIMBING Located just south of Bricktown, Rocktown Climbing Gym (rocktowngym.com) is the city’s premier climbing destination. Formerly a grain elevator, Rocktown offers indoor and outdoor climbs up to 90 feet, including top rope, lead climbs and bouldering. It’s recommended that you bring a partner to climb/belay with, but singles options are also available. Rocktown is open every weekday until 10pm, 8pm on Saturdays and 6pm on Sundays. Visit their website or call 405.319.1400 for more information. 28 | OKCCONVENTIONER.COM | S/S 2012
STAY ACTIVE
Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory, Myriad Botanical Gardens
RIVER SPORTS Take advantage of the new high-end facilities in OKC’s Boathouse district on the newly revitalized Oklahoma River. In addition to the 13 miles of mixed use trails along the river, Oklahoma City RIVERSPORT (riversportokc.com) offers $10 day passes to the Chesapeake Boathouse’s fitness center, locker rooms, yoga and indoor rowing classes. For $25, you can gain access to kayaks, paddle boards and bicycles in addition to the above amenities. Visit their website or call 405.552.4040 for more information. CROSSFIT Are you a CrossFit junkie? OKC has several CrossFit affiliates near the downtown area where you can get your WOD on. Just one mile north of the Cox Convention Center is CrossFit 405 (crossfit405.com) in Midtown. Visit their website to get directions, view their class schedule and sign up online.
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ACTIVITIES CONT.
The Myriad Botanical Gardens underwent a $42 million renovation in 2011.
Opened in 2006, CrossFit OKC (crossfitokc.com) is the Oklahoma City area’s original CrossFit gym. Owner/head coach Jason Boag is a pioneer of the CrossFit movement in OKC and many of the boxes that have sprung up around the state began from a relationship built at Jason’s Edmond location. Visit their website or call 405.313.6996 for information, class schedules and directions. HIKING / RUNNING / BIKING In addition to the 13 miles of multi-use trails along the Oklahoma River, both Lake Hefner and Lake Overholser (see map on p. 38) boast several miles of scenic trail and are only a short drive away. If you’d rather stick close to your hotel, take a walk or a run through the newly renovated open spaces and cascading waterfalls of the Myriad Botanical Gardens. YMCA After the previous facility was destroyed in the bombing of the Murrah Federal Building, the new Downtown YMCA (ymcaokc.org/downtownymca) was built in 1998 as a stateof-the-art facility including an indoor pool and track, fitness center, gymnasium and group exercise studio. The Downtown YMCA is located near the corner of Broadway and 4th St, just a half mile north of the Cox Convention Center. Visit their website or call 405.297.7700 for more information.
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The modern band shell plays host to seasonal concerts at the newly renovated Myriad Botanical Gardens.
The New Centennial Land Run Monument stands along the Bricktown Canal.
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ACTIVITIES CONT.
Don’t be content hiding out in your hotel bar. Round-up a group of your fellow convention goers and build some team camaraderie during your downtime while partaking in some of downtown Oklahoma City’s exciting group activities. OKL AHOMA RIVER CRUISE Enjoy unique views of OKC’s downtown skyline and the pristine Boathouse District aboard an Oklahoma River Cruise (okrivercruises.com) on the revitalized seven mile stretch of the Oklahoma River. Single-trip tickets are available for $6 and weekend Sunset and Live Entertainment cruises start at $29. Oklahoma River Cruises can also arrange a private chartered cruise for your group. More information is available at their website or 405.702.7755.
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GROUP ACTIVITES
The Bricktown Water Taxi
BOWLING Gather the crew and head over to RedPin Restaurant and Bowling Lounge (bowlredpin.com) for an upscale bowling experience amidst hip, modern furnishings. RedPin isn’t a bowling alley…it’s a cool lounge and restaurant that also features ten state of the art bowling lanes. The attentive waitstaff serves items from the full bar and restaurant right to your lane. Check RedPin’s website for Happy Hour specials, lane rates and directions. They also offer event packages and private event space to host your group. Call 405.702.8880 for more information. INDOOR K ART RACING Strap in for some high speed racing action at Pole Position Raceway (polepositionraceway.com). These are not go-karts…this is indoor karting; electric-powered highperformance karts capable of 45mph speeds with one inch of ground clearance. It’s said to be the closest a civilian will get to the experience of actual racing. Compete head
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ACTIVITIES CONT.
Harkins Theatres, Bricktown.
to head with your coworkers on Pole Position’s ¼ mile Euro-style road course for bragging rights back at the home office. All helmets and equipment are provided; just bring your competitive spirit. Individual admission starts at $19.95. Group packages and private meeting space is available. Visit their website or call 405.942.2292 for more information. BRICKTOWN WATER TA XI Hop aboard a Bricktown Water Taxi (bricktownwatertaxi. com) and cruise along the Bricktown Canal for a water-level view of the Bricktown Entertainment District and the new Centennial Land Run Monument. Water Taxis run continuously in-season from 10am-10pm. Bricktown Water Taxi also offers private lunch, dinner and cocktail cruises for your group. More information can be found on their website or at 405.234.8294. MOVIE Had enough networking for one day? Walk, ride or drive over to Bricktown’s state of the art Harkins Theatres Bricktown 16 (harkinstheatres.com), kick back in one of their rocking stadium seats and catch the latest release. To check showtimes or purchase online tickets, visit their website or call 405.231.4747.
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Williford, Hollis. Welcome Sundown. 1988. National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma City. S/S 2012 | OKCCONVENTIONER.COM | 35
ACTIVITIES CONT.
Whether you’re looking to kill some time between meetings, pick up a souvenir or replace that buffalo wingstained shirt from last night, Oklahoma City has a variety of shopping destinations near the downtown area. Painted Door (painteddoor.com) in Bricktown on the ground floor of Nonna’s Euro-American Ristorante & Bar is a unique specialty shop with an eclectic collection of clothing, hand-crafted pottery, fragrances and home items to name a few. Painted Door also features a selection of “Made in Oklahoma” food and gift items, the perfect way to take a piece of our state home with you. Just west of the Metro on I-40, the newly completed Outlet Shoppes at Oklahoma City (theoutletshoppesatoklahomac-
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SHOPPING
©2012 Hilton Hotels & Resorts
ity.com) covers 348,000 square feet of retail space and offers great deals on such brands such as Ralph Lauren, Coach, Michael Kors, Brooks Brothers, Saks 5th Avenue and more. Check their website for a full list of retailers and hours. Located 6 miles north of downtown, the upscale Penn Square Mall (simon.com/Mall/?id=811) houses Oklahoma City’s only Apple Store, a wide range of apparel and specialty shops, a movie theatre and the city’s premiere designer clothing retailer, Mr. Ooley’s (mrooleys.com). Looking to add a little Western flare to your wardrobe? Head over to Oklahoma City’s historic Stockyards City district for a wide variety of Western shops. Browse the aisles of boots, hats and pearl snap shirts at Langston’s (langstons.com), the oldest Western Wear Store in the state. If you find yourself hungry after shopping, you’ll be right across the street from the longest continuously operating restaurant in Oklahoma City, Cattlemen’s Steakhouse (see pg. 10). S/S 2012 | OKCCONVENTIONER.COM | 37
METRO MAP W Hefner Rd N May Ave
John Kilpatrick Turpike
Lake Hefner
No
rth
N Council Rd
we
st E
xpy
NW 39th St
66
N MacAuthur Blvd
N Rockwell Ave
Lake Overholser
L a ke H e f n e r Pk w y
Wiley Post
44
44
NW Suburban
W Reno Ave 40
40
SW
44
Wi l l
SW 44th St
Airport Rd
S Meridian Ave
SW 29th St
R o g er
s Expy 240 Will Rogers World Airport
2 mi 2 km
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44
1
OKLAHOMA CITY
Broadway Extension Hwy
W Britton Rd
Nichols Hills
EDMOND
E Wilshire Blvd
NW 63rd St
NE 63rd St
N Lincoln Blvd
N Classen Blvd
NE 50th St
NE 36th St 35
235
10th St
NE 23rd St
OKLAHOMA CITY
hS
o ah
R ma
r ive
Ok
l
See Downtown Map, p. 8
E Reno Ave
t S Western Ave
15t
35
40
S Sooner Rd
35
SW 59th St
NORMAN
SW 89th St 35
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CITY SPOTLIGHTS NORMAN Only 20 minutes south of downtown OKC, Norman retains an eclectic and cosmopolitan feel thanks to the erudite influence of the University of Oklahoma. The presence of so many students means that after a day of meetings, there are a multitude of interesting options for your evening. Many head to Campus Corner for its vibrant concentration of restaurants, bars and live music venues. Or try the renovated downtown along Main St. where you’ll find an eccentric collection of locally owned galleries, pubs and restaurants. If you crave higher stakes action, Riverwind Casino (see pg. 22) should be your destination. Norman has many hidden gems. We recommend that you start exploring with the list below.
Dining & Nightlife Favorites Benvenuti’s Ristorante 105 W. Main St. benvenutisristorante.com
Logan’s On the Corner 749 Asp Ave. 405.801.2321
Bison Witches Bar & Deli 211 E. Main St. bisonwitches.com
McNellie’s The Abner Ale House 121 E. Main St. mcnelliesnorman.com
Blackbird Gastropub 575 S. University thegoodlifeok.com/blackbird
Misal of India 580 Ed Noble Pkwy misalofindia.com
Café Plaid 333 W. Boyd St. cafeplaid.com
The Mont Restaurant 1300 Classen Blvd. themont.com
Coriander Café 323 White St. coriandercafe.com
O’Connell’s Irish Pub & Grill 769 Asp Ave. oconnellsnorman.com
Interurban 1150 Ed Noble Pkwy interurban.us
Seven47 747 Asp Ave. seven47.com
Legend’s Restaurant 1313 W. Lindsey St. legendsrestaurant.com
Victoria’s Pasta Shop 327 White St. 405.329.0377
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EDMOND A regular on numerous national “Top Places to Live” lists, Edmond is an upscale community just north of OKC proper. In addition to world class golf courses and an excellent restaurant and nightlife scene, Edmond has gained national acclaim for its efforts to engender city-wide adoption of public art initiatives. The resulting collection of over 100 works adds a flourish of charm to the city. After the sun sets, head downtown. A large cluster of Edmond’s best dining and socializing spots concentrate around Broadway and Boulevard St. to the west of the University of Central Oklahoma’s campus. Here are a few of Edmond’s best to get you started.
Dining & Nightlife Favorites Café 501 501 S. Boulevard cafe501.com
Othello’s 1 S. Broadway othellosofedmond.com
Coach’s Restaurant & Brewery 3005 S. Broadway coachsrestaurants.com
Sumo Japanese Steak House 1801 S. Broadway sumoedmond.com
Boulevard Steakhouse 505 S. Boulevard St. boulevardsteakhouse.com
Vin Dolce Wine Bar 16 S. Broadway vindolcewinebar.com
Dan McGuinness Pub 3005 S. Broadway danmcguinnesspub.com/Edmond
Signature Grill 1317 E Danforth Rd. signaturegrilledmond.com
Kang’s Asian Kitchen 2080 E. 2nd St. kangsasiankitchen.com
The Sushi Bar 1201 NW 178th St. thesushibarok.com
Let’s Do Greek 180 W. 15th St. Suite #150 letsdogreek.com
Zarate’s Latin & Mexican Grill 706 S. Broadway zarateslatingrill.com
Louie’s Grill & Bar 1389 E. 15th St. louiesgrillandbar.com
Zen Asian Dining 3209 S. Broadway, Ste 127 zenasiandining.com
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EVENT CALENDAR
Billed as “the bank of tomorrow” when designed and built in 1958 by Robert B. Roloff, the “Gold Dome” cost over $1 million to complete.
march SPORTS Thunder Basketball Chesapeake Energy Arena thunder.nba.com
Barons Hockey Cox Convention Center okcbarons.com
13 16 18 21 23 25
13 23 24 25
– – – – – –
vs vs vs vs vs vs
Houston, 7:00 San Antonio, 8:30 Portland, 8:30 LA Clippers, 7:00 Minnesota, 7:00 Miami, 7:00
– – – –
vs Rockford, 7:00 vs Texas, 7:00 vs Grand Rapids, 7:00 vs Grand Rapids, 7:00
MUSIC 12 – Of Montreal - ACM @ UCO (ACM-UCO.com) 12 – California Guitar Trio - UCO Jazz Lab (ucojazzlab.com) 13 – El Ten Eleven - Opolis, Norman (starlightmints.com/opolis.html) 16 – G eorge Thorogood & The Destroyers - Lucky Star Casino, Concho (luckystarcasino.org) 18 – Peter Case - The Blue Door (bluedoorokc.com) 25 – A lison Krauss & Union Station – Civic Center Music Hall (okcciviccenter.com) 25 – Stoney LaRue - Grady’s 66 Pub, Yukon (gradys66.com) 28 – Tech N9ne - Diamond Ballroom (diamondballroom.net) 30 – Travis Linville - Grady’s 66 Pub, Yukon (gradys66.com) 31 – Jay Quinn - VZD’s (vzds.com)
CULTURE 8-25 – G ypsy - OKC Theatre Company - Civic Center Music Hall (okcciviccenter.com) 13-18 – STOMP - Civic Center Music Hall (okcciviccenter.com) 24 – T he Screwtape Letters - Rose State Live! PAC (rose.edu/rose-state-live)
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april SPORTS 29 - Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon – Downtown (okcmarathon.com) Thunder Basketball Chesapeake Energy Arena thunder.nba.com
OKC Redhawks Baseball Redhawks Field at Bricktown oklahomaredhawks.com
1 – vs Chicago, 12:00 2 – vs Memphis, 7:00 8 – vs Toronto, 6:00 11 – vs LA Clippers, 7:00 13 – vs Sacramento, 7:00 24 – vs Sacramento, 7:00 25 – vs Denver, 7:00
5 – 4/7 – vs Memphis, 7:05 8 – vs Memphis, 2:05 9-12 – vs Nashville, 7:05 21 – vs Albuquerque, 7:05 22 – vs Albuquerque, 2:05 23-24 – vs Albuquerque, 7:05 26-28 – vs Round Rock, 7:05 29 – vs Round Rock, 2:05
Barons Hockey Cox Convention Center okcbarons.com 3 – vs Hamilton, 7:00 6 – vs Peoria, 7:00 7 – vs Chicago, 7:00 13 – vs Houston, 7:00 TBA - 2012 Calder Cup Playoffs MUSIC
6 – Willie Nelson - Lucky Star Casino, Concho (luckystarcasino.org) 6 – All American Rejects - Diamond Ballroom (diamondballroom.net) 7 – Lady Antebellum - Lloyd Noble Center, Norman (lloydnoblecenter.com) 10 – B ela Fleck and the Flecktones - Rose State Live! PAC (rose.edu/rose-state-live) 13 – Foreigner - Lucky Star Casino, Concho (luckystarcasino.org) 17 – Blue October - Diamond Ballroom (diamondballroom.net) 21 – Cake - Diamond Ballroom (diamondballroom.net) 26 – Zac Brown Band - Chesapeake Energy Arena (chesapeakearena.com) 26 – Split Lip Rayfield - The Conservatory (conservatoryokc.com) 28 – Red Dirt Rangers - The Blue Door (bluedoorokc.com) 29 – Joe Bonamassa - Civic Center Music Hall (okcciviccenter.com)
CULTURE 6-7 – The Sunshine Boys - Civic Center Music Hall (okcciviccenter.com) 12-29 – O ne Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, OKC Theatre Company Civic Center Music Hall (okcciviccenter.com) 20-22 – T he Wizard of Oz, OKC Ballet - Civic Center Music Hall (okcciviccenter.com) 24-29 – F estival of the Arts - Downtown (artscouncilokc.com/festival-of-the-arts) S/S 2012 | OKCCONVENTIONER.COM | 43
ADVERTISERS BUSINESS NAME
ADDRESS
Be The Match
bethematch.org
21
The HALO Foundation
haloworldwide.org
45
Suburban Contemporary Furnishings
201 N. Portland Ave. suburbancontemporary.com
BC
SERVICES Apple Store 1901 NW Expressway Penn Sq. Mall 405.767.6600
St. Anthony Hospital ER 1000 N. Lee Ave. 405.272.6137
AT&T Store 2131 Northwest 23rd St. 405.606.7035
Verizon Store 5401 N. Penn Ave. 405.843.9113
Best Buy 3333 N. May Ave. 405.949.9911
Walgreens 535 NW 9th St. 405.231.2133
Broadway Wine Merchants Liquor Store 824 N Broadway Ave. 405.231.0031
Walgreens (24 Hour) 5120 N. May Ave. 405.942.2471
Independent Cab Company Taxi okctaxicab.com 405.603.4222
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PAGE
YOUR BUSINESS CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR CHILDreN IN NEED
HALO ALLIANCE
Kenya Uganda Mexico Nicaragua India U.S.A.
Through the HALO Alliance program, local businesses have aligned together to support orphanages in Kenya, Uganda, Mexico, Nicaragua, India and the U.S. One by one, these businesses help to provide a safe haven for deserving children in need. Together, we can give these children hope for a brighter future.
The chance to grow your brand and bring new hope to children in need both at home and around the world begins with your partnership in the HALO Alliance program.
the
HALO
foundation helping art liberate orphans
Visit www.haloalliance.org or call 816.472.4256 to learn more and sign up S/S 2012 | OKCCONVENTIONER.COM | 45
An oil derrick stands outside the OK State Capitol as a tribute to the important role that oil has played in the state’s history.
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