VisitNORMAN
OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE OF NORMAN, OK
INSIDE
p4 Attractions p12 Arts p24 Events p22 Map p30 Dining p34 Lodging
Proud partner of OU Athletics
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VISITNORMAN 424 W. Main St. Norman, OK 73069 405-366-8095 VisitNorman.com
from the desk of MAYOR LARRY HEIKKLA Welcome to Norman!
VISITNORMAN STAFF MEMBERS
Dan Schemm, President & CEO Taylor Wagner, Sales Manager Stefanie Brickman, Marketing & Communications Director Madelaine Base, Marketing Manager Ryan Smith, Digital Media Coordinator Trent Brown, Director of Norman Sports Katie Ringer, Norman Sports Event Coordinator
The Official Visitors Guide to Norman is a publication of VisitNorman, the Norman Convention and Visitors Bureau. Contents and design © 2023, all rights reserved. Reproduction without written permission is strictly prohibited. Every effort was made to ensure accuracy of the information in this guide as of press time. However, VisitNorman assumes no responsibility for errors, changes or omissions. VisitNorman makes no endorsement, representation or warranty regarding the suitability, quality or availability of any goods or services advertised or listed in this publication. Advertisements are provided by the subject companies, and VisitNorman shall not be responsible or liable for any inaccuracy, omission or infringement of any third party’s rights therein, or for personal injury or any other damage or injury whatsoever.
No matter the day or time of year, you are in store for some incredible events, arts, views or dining around any given corner. OU Game Days on Historic Campus Corner are an absolute must-do in Norman, the home of the University of Oklahoma! Find crimson-and-cream fashion, memorabilia and much more in all of the local shops and boutiques before heading to the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, National Weather Museum and Science Center or the Sam Noble Museum of Natural History. Our City of Festivals has multiple occasions to catch fireworks displays throughout the year, ride along in parades, enjoy brunch on the patio or listen to live music. Our newly designed Westwood Park features aquatics, tennis and golf, as well as the many recreation centers that feature year-long programming and different opportunities to get moving. The Well, in Downtown Norman, offers incredible classes and interactive engagements to promote health and wellness, while our Walker Arts District comes alive with tunes and talent monthly during the 2nd Friday Art Walk. Check out entertainment lineups at the Legacy Park ampitheatre in the livework-play University North Park district or venture further east to boat, camp, fish or bird watch at Lake Thunderbird State Park. Norman offers a perfect mix of relaxing leisure and entertainment for people of all ages; here you will find something fun for everyone. This Official Visitors Guide to Norman will provide you with everything you need to know about historic sites, attractions and happenings in Norman. There is much to explore, learn, create and enjoy! Mayor Larry Heikkila
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Where things are ‘Beyond Normal’
Contents attractions 4
day trips 10 arts & nightlife 12 sports & outdoors 16 shopping 20 maps 22 events & festivals 24 plan your trip 28 dining 30 history 32 lodging options 34
Whether it is your first time here or you are a regular visitor, there is always something new to do in Norman. Norman is home to the University of Oklahoma, and we have teamed up to present this combination Norman and OU guide. We hope you have time to stroll through Campus Corner, experience the excitement of a Sooner Game Day or take in the natural beauty of Lake Thunderbird. No matter what time of year, Norman offers exceptional museums, performing arts, colorful galleries, boutique shopping, fabulous restaurants, nearby casinos, four golf courses and exciting nightlife. Stop by and chat or just visit our website, VisitNorman.com, to find something for just about any interest; the VisitNorman App is available for free download in the iTunes store or Google Play.
Check out our itineraries on page 28 to make sure you experience the must-dos while in our city. Our knowledgeable staff of Certified Tourism Ambassadors will be happy to assist you in planning an unforgettable trip to Norman; the abundance of parks, affordable hotels and variety of local restaurants will make your expedition unbelievably easy. On the cover is the Sooner Theatre located in Historic Downtown Norman. The Spanish Gothic theater is the year-round host for concerts, movies, theatrical shows and productions and more. Your friends in Norman, VisitNorman Staff
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Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History
Norman Attractions If you have curious kids or grandkids or you are a curious kid at heart, then Norman has the kind of exploration young adventurers crave. SAM NOBLE OKLAHOMA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY Six breathtaking galleries give visitors an in-depth tour of more than 500 million years of Oklahoma’s fascinating natural history. Explore Oklahoma’s indigenous people, native landscapes and dinosaurs, including the world’s largest Apatosaurus and a Guinness World Record-holding Pentaceratops. Then enjoy the hands-on exploration and fun of the discovery room. Permanent galleries include The Hall of Ancient Life and The Hall of the People of Oklahoma. 2401 Chautauqua Ave. SamNobleMuseum.ou.edu THE NATIONAL WEATHER CENTER Experience the forces of nature by going behind the scenes and see the newest
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technology in action at the National Weather Center, where more than 550 scientists, meteorologists, climatologists, students and staff from OU and multiple federal and state agencies work together to improve the understanding of the Earth’s atmosphere and severe weather events. Tours are again available, check the website for availability. Typically, tours will require registration at least two weeks in advance. 120 David L. Boren Blvd. ou.edu/nwc NATIONAL WEATHER MUSEUM The National Weather Museum opened in 2016 and offers an opportunity to learn more about weather and science along
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with a gallery of historical meteorological instruments. Museum hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors, $4 for military personnel and $3 for children ages 3-17 and children under the age of 3 are free. 1200 W. Rock Creek Rd. nationalweathermuseum.com
Family Entertainment ESCAPE THIS Escape This, located on 24th Avenue NW between Main and Robinson streets, is a family-owned escape room providing a creative, family-friendly activity promoting teamwork and problem solving. The facility is open Wednesday and Thursday from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m., Friday from 4:30 to 9 p.m., Saturday from 1 to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 1-7:30 p.m. Admission: $24 per person Sunday through Thursday, regardless of group size; $26/person Friday-Saturday, with $2 discount per person with groups of six or more; and $14/person for the 30-minute Psycho Circus room. Kids 6 & under are admitted for free with a paid adult. 550 24th Ave., Suite C EscapeThisNorman.com THE PLAY PIT Opened in July 2022, The Play Pit is Norman’s sole indoor play place designed to engage children so that parents and caregivers may work, relax and network. It features two indoor play spaces, one for children crawling to 3 years old and the other for children up to 12 years old. The party space is available by reservation for birthday parties, private parties and special events. The Play Pit is closed Tuesdays. 227 E. Main St. PlayPitNorman.com GETAIR NORMAN GetAir is not your average trampoline park. Located in Sooner Mall, GetAir has a plethora of trampolines with a kiddie
Top Free Things
YOU MUST DO
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See the largest collection of Impressionst art at a public university at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, featuring complimentary admission.
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Check out the largest Apatosaurus at the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History on the first Monday of the month, when children 17 and under receive free admission.
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Stroll through Heisman Park and see statues of Oklahoma’s five winners, with two more statues on the way. Then, walk through The Switzer Center and see decades of Sooner football history, open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Walk through the Walker Arts District in Downtown Norman on the 2nd Friday of each month to see exhibits, displays, performances and much more.
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Visit the National Weather Center, the permanent home of Dorothy from the movie, “Twister.”
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More Attractions court, dodgeball and slam ball courts, and also has a slackline, foam pit, ninja course and fidget ladder. GetAir Norman Inside Sooner Mall, 3369 W. Main St. GetAirSports.com/Norman HEYDAY ENTERTAINMENT CENTER Voted as the Top Entertainment Center in North America by the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions, HeyDay is an almost 50,000 square foot indoor playground along with an 18-hole outdoor miniature golf course that provides something for everyone! Downstairs, HeyDay offers family-friendly environment with 16 bowling lanes surrounded by huge projection screens and a show of fog, lights, and music. The downstairs experience also includes the largest laser tag arena in Oklahoma, incorporating themed audio-visual shows and special effects. Finally, the first floor includes a large arcade and an overhead ropes course that provides thrills to all. Upstairs, guests will discover a 21(+) adult-only area featuring eight cherrywood bowling lanes, billiards, shuffle-
board, an outdoor patio overlooking the golf course and a full-service bar featuring local beer, wine and hand-crafted cocktails. Outdoors, guests can enjoy a landscaped 18-hole miniature golf course, both fun and challenging. Not to be outdone by the entertainment offerings, the food at HeyDay is amazing. HeyDay is the only location in Oklahoma which offers DoubleDave’s famous fresh-fromscratch hand-tossed pizza; the HD Grill offers the legendary Boomerang Chicken Tenders and Burgers, as well as amazing shareable appetizers, salads, fajitas, and wraps.3201 Market Place HeyDayFun.com/HeyDayNorman SOONER BOWLING CENTER Sooner Bowling Center is a one-stop bowling entertainment place to gather family and friends for fun. They offer 24 USBC-certified lanes in a smoke-free facility, conveniently located on 24th Avenue between Main and Robinson streets, east of Interstate 35. With a lane capacity of 144 bowlers and a facility capacity of 400, Sooner Bowling Center is perfect for groups of all sizes. Sooner Bowling Center’s Spare Meeting Room
HeyDay Entertainment Center
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Sooner B
Sooner Bowling Center
is great for meetings, parties and receptions.
Historical Sites
The Spare Time Grill inside has some of the best bowling burgers around as well as full-service menu offerings ranging from pizza, appetizers, team trays, salads and event catering so you can grab some delicious food and cold beverages before or after bowling. The Spare Time Grill also has a full alcohol license and a nice variety on their standard beers and wines menu. A newly updated on-site arcade with pool tables is fun for all ages.Sooner Bowling Center specializes in adult and youth leagues, large groups and fundraisers, and youth and adult birthday parties. 550 24th Ave. N.W. www.SoonerBowl.com
BOYD HOUSE The most recognizable Norman residence is Boyd House, also known as the President’s House. It is the official residence of the OU president. In 1976, the Department of the Interior added it to the National Register of Historic Places, citing the building’s “great contribution to the growth and development of Oklahoma.” Corner of S. University Boulevard & W. Boyd Street
SUMMIT The 12,000-square foot Summit is a modern indoor rock-climbing gym featuring Walltopia customized walls with a variety of climbing, including an expansive bouldering area, top-roping, lead climbing, toddler room, kids’ area and auto belays. All ages and abilities are welcome, with memberships available. Summit Gym offers youth programs, birthday parties, group rates and team-building activities, competitions, professional training by certified instructors and outdoor climbing trips led by experienced and certified guides. Enhance the experience with a yoga class in a dedicated studio with daily classes led by certified instructors. 2701 Washington Dr. summitgyms.com
CHAUTAUQUA HISTORIC DISTRICT Two historical districts in Central Norman are made up of approximately 150 historical homes, each built between 1910 and 1938, with the majority of the development occurring in the 1920s. The architecture and environment of the Chautauqua District represents a unique time period in Norman’s history. Stately residences reflect the character of the university deans, faculty and other prominent individuals who assisted in Norman’s development. The Chautauqua District is roughly bounded by Symmes Street on the north, Brooks Street on the south, Chautauqua Avenue on the east and Lahoma Avenue on the west. MILLER HISTORIC DISTRICT This primarily residential area is significant for the role it played in the urban development of Norman and for its collection of eclectic residential architecture built between 1910 and W W W.V ISI T NOR M A N.COM
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1938. The Bungalow, a nationally popular subtype of the Craftsman style, represents the predominate architecture. The majority of these homes were built in the 1920s. The district is roughly bounded by Symmes Street on the north, Classen Avenue on the east and Miller Avenue running northwest to southeast. THE HISTORY OF SCIENCE COLLECTION The collection, located within Bizzell Memorial Library, includes Galileo’s own copy of his work, which first used the telescope to support the Copernican theory, with corrections in his own handwriting. Some of the 90,000-plus volumes and most valuable books are kept in a temperature-controlled vault that can be viewed by appointment. 401 W. Brooks St. Libraries.OU.edu BIZZELL MEMORIAL LIBRARY While on campus, take in the majesty of Bizzell Memorial Library. Completed in 1929, it is an elaborate Cherokee Gothic building and is a National Historic Landmark of the United States. It is nationally significant for its association with the racial desegregation court case of George McLaurin, who was at first denied admission to OU’s law school solely on the basis of race and in which the Supreme Court ruled against the segregation. This was a precedent for the more famous 1954 Brown v. Board of Education case. 401 W. Brooks St. Libraries.OU.edu WESTERN HISTORY COLLECTIONS Another significant collection at the university is the Western History Collections, one of the largest and five most important collections of Western history documents, maps and photos in the United States. More than 2,000 manuscripts and 800,000 photographs, prints and negatives are securely kept and preserved for the public. The collection houses a rare multi-volume portfolio on the Indians of the United States and showcases the Noah H. Rose collection, which
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includes original photographs of great warriors, chiefs and civilized tribes. One of the newest additions is the manuscripts from the TV series “Maverick,” donated by the late Norman native James Garner. Monnet Hall 630 Parrington Oval, Rm. 300 MOORE-LINDSAY HISTORICAL HOUSE Constructed in 1899, the Moore-Lindsay House is the best example of late Victorian, Queen Anne architectural style in Norman. Stroll back through time when you tour this charming house of spindle work porches, opulent furnishings and glorious landscaping. Admission: $5 for visitors 13+; free for ages 12 and under, CCHS members and SNAP card holders. 508 N. Peters Ave. NormanMuseum.org DOWNTOWN NORMAN Home to the Walker Arts District, Downtown Norman features locally owned retail businesses, boutiques and restaurants along with galleries and live music venues; a historical walk through landscaped and paved Legacy Trail tells early Norman’s story with sculptures and points of interest. Along the way, marvel at the bronze sculptures, most created by Norman’s local foundry, the Crucible. View a 9-foot statue of film and television actor James Garner, an enormously detailed replica of the University of Oklahoma as it existed in 1942 and the historic clock tower. The trail runs parallel to the tracks in the downtown area. Main Street from Berry Road to Ponca Avenue. ORIGINAL UNIVERSITY SITE The marker designating the historic location is downtown, at the intersection of W. Main Street and Santa Fe Avenue. Downtown Norman THE DEPOT On the Legacy Trail is the Santa Fe Train Depot. Built in 1909, the Depot served
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Moore-LIndsay Historical House
continuously until passenger service ended in 1979. During the 1980s, a concerned group of citizens oversaw restoration of the Depot. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, The Depot resumed its original use when passenger service was restored to Norman in 2002. Events and exhibits stage inside the venue. 200 S. Jones St. NormanDepot.org
blackjack, three-card poker and Ultimate Texas Hold’em. 15700 E. State Highway 9 ThunderbirdCasino.net GOLDSBY GAMING CENTER Just south of the South Canadian River, the center offers a variety of electronic gaming and features a large bingo hall. 1038 W. Sycamore Rd. Chickasaw.net
Casinos & Gaming RIVERWIND CASINO Riverwind Casino’s pulse-pounding nearly 220,000-square-foot gaming floor features 2,700 electronic games, 55 poker and blackjack tables and a Racer’s Off Track Betting Parlor. The casino features a food court. 1544 W. State Highway 9 Riverwind.com THUNDERBIRD CASINO Thunderbird Casino offers electronic games along with table games such as
Riverwind Casino
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DAY TRIPS
More fun within 75 minutes Stay another day or two in Norman and experience more of Central Oklahoma, such as the Arbuckle Mountains or the culture of the Chickasaw tribe – all within 75 minutes of safe, convenient and affordable Norman. HEARTLAND FLYER Relax and enjoy the view of unwinding landscapes outside the windows of the Heartland Flyer traveling south to Fort Worth. With stops at nine locations, there is an assortment of culture, excitement and fun. Return that same day on the Amtrak train. For tickets and the daily schedule, visit: www.HeartlandFlyer.com 200 S. Jones Ave., Norman OKLAHOMA CITY NATIONAL MEMORIAL & MUSEUM The Outdoor Symbolic Memorial and the Memorial Museum offer a unique insight into the events of April 19, 1995, but to truly experience this place of honor and hope, we encourage you to visit both. In
fact, the outdoor grounds will be more meaningful and memorable after experiencing the entire story of the bombing as presented in the museum. 620 N. Harvey, OKC (22 minutes) OKLAHOMA HISTORY CENTER Interactive exhibits showcase 200 years of history and culture. See an authentic land run wagon, Oklahoma in the movies, a sunken 1838 riverboat and landmark inventions – the shopping cart, parking meter, trencher, Gemini 6 space capsule and pioneering aviation artifacts. Explore the historic past of Native peoples as well as experience contemporary Indian cultures of 39 Native American tribes currently associated with Oklahoma. 800 Nazih Zuhdi Dr., OKC (22 minutes) SKELETONS: MUSEUM OF OSTEOLOGY Skeletons: Museum of Osteology is a public museum devoted to the study of bones and skeletons. This museum is located in Oklahoma City and features skeletons from more than 1,000 species from animals all over the world. 10301 S. Sunnylane Road, OKC (20 minutes) BRICKTOWN Take a horse-drawn carriage ride along the brick-paved streets or a water taxi cruise down the river canal. Stop by the American Banjo Museum to learn the history behind the banjo and be in awe of the collections exhibited. The Bricktown Ballpark is home to the AAA Dodgers. Sheridan and Walnut, OKC (20 minutes)
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
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BOATHOUSE DISTRICT The Oklahoma River not only hosts an Olympic-caliber training facility but also
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Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
the chance to engage in stand-up paddleboarding and see one of the many boathouses that dot the river’s banks. Lincoln Boulevard, off Interstate 40 (15 minutes) FRONTIER CITY Oklahoma’s largest theme park with amusement rides for all ages, exciting rides, water rides, rides for the kids, action-packed shows and carnival games. 11501 N. Interstate 35 Service Road, OKC (28 minutes) ADVENTURE DISTRICT The Adventure District is home to some of the most outstanding attractions in the state. Explore science wonders at Science Museum Oklahoma. Make memories with the family at the Amateur Softball Association National Softball Hall of Fame Complex. Take a journey through the exciting world of the zoo. Learn about the Old West at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. Interstates 35 and 44, OKC (28 minutes) POPS / ROUTE 66 Thirsting for a quick adventure? Take a cruise to historical Route 66 and stop in Pops, with its 66-foot pop bottle. See more than 7,000 bottles of sodas. 660 W. Highway 66, Arcadia (45 minutes) PAULS VALLEY A guilty pleasure resides in Pauls Valley: The Toy & Action Figure Museum with more than 10,000 items and a behind-the-
scenes look at the world of action figures. Toy & Action Figure Museum. 111 S. Chickasaw (40 minutes) REGAL WARREN MOORE The Warren Theatre boasts not only a unique and luxurious theatrical experience on its 15 screens but an IMAX viewing opportunity as well. 1000 Telephone Road, Moore (10 minutes) CHICKASAW CULTURAL CENTER The largest tribal cultural center in America leads through a gripping interactive story of ancestors, mounds, artifacts, and the migration story of the split of the Chickasaw and Choctaw Nations. See the living history Traditional Village, which consists of replicas of Chickasaw homes and demonstrations of traditional games and dances. A theater features films about Chickasaws and their stories. 10 miles east of Interstate 35, Davis Exit, Sulphur (75 minutes) CHICKASAW COUNTRY Chickasaw Country is home to some very scenic and beautiful landmarks, including the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, Turner Falls, Arbuckle Mountains, Crossbar Ranch, Lake Murray State Park and the Texoma Lake region. Oklahoma’s premier exotic animal theme park, Arbuckle Wilderness, is located in the area, too. South on Interstate 35 to Sulphur (75 minutes)
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Sooner Theatre
Arts & Nightlife
From the contemporary artists of the Walker District’s galleries to the French Impressionists at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, an appreciation for the finer things is waiting just around the corner. THE FRED JONES JR. MUSEUM OF ART The University of Oklahoma’s Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art is one of the nation’s finest university art museums. The museum’s extraordinary collection includes major works by some of the most beloved artists of all time, such as Van Gogh, Degas, Renoir, Monet, Gauguin, Edward Hopper, Georgia O’Keeffe, Ansel Adams, Allan Houser, Fechin and Gaspard. The Stuart Wing houses the University of Oklahoma’s portion of the Eugene B. Adkins Collection. The James T. Bialac Native American Art Collection features more than 4,000 pieces. Admission to the museum is complimentary, thanks to a donation by the University of Oklahoma Athletics Department.
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555 Elm Ave. OU.edu/FJJMA THE CRUCIBLE FOUNDRY, GALLERY AND SCULPTURE GARDEN See a graceful mix of bronze sculptures by artists from around the country in the outdoor sculpture garden. The Crucible is responsible for casting some of Oklahoma’s most important art pieces, including The Guardian, which sits atop the state capitol building, and all 46 Land Run pieces located along Oklahoma City’s Bricktown Canal. The foundry was featured on the cable television series, “Monument Guys,” in early 2015. 110 E. Tonhawa St.
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JACOBSON HOUSE NATIVE ART CENTER Former home of Swedish-born Oscar Brousse Jacobson (1882-1966) who, with The Kiowa Five artists, mounted the seminal exhibits of American Indian fine art in the 1920s, the building is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and hosts year-round cultural exhibits. 609 Chautauqua Ave. JacobsonHouse.art WALKER ARTS DISTRICT Featuring a diverse mix of art galleries, performance spaces, business offices, retail establishments, local restaurants and more, Norman’s Walker Arts District captures the lively spirit of a college town while staying true to its historic roots. The district is home to a number of events throughout the year, including Norman Music Festival, Fall Fest, Jazz in June and more. The 2nd Friday Norman Art Walk, held year-round, brings together thousands from the community on a monthly basis. Live performances on the stage of The Sooner Theatre contrast a more intimate setting for music and poetry readings at The Depot. Gallery space at MAINSITE, home of the Norman Arts Council, and exhibitions at The Depot offer opportunities to view works by local, regional, national and international artists. Public art ranging from large-scale murals to artist-designed bike racks actively engage passers-by, while a 9-foot bronze sculpture of James Garner pays tribute to the actor’s legacy in his birthplace. District activities are coordinated by the Norman Arts Council. normanarts.org
Depot, the space features rotating gallery exhibitions along with live music and entertainment. Every Third Thursday at 7 p.m., The Depot presents Comedy Night. 200 S. Jones St. NormanDepot.org FIREHOUSE ART CENTER The Firehouse Art Center is the premier art center for visual arts education in Norman with art classes, exhibits and special events for all ages. Gift galleries feature paintings, glass work, pottery and more by local artists. 444 S. Flood Ave. NormanFirehouse.com OTHER VENUES: TRIBES 131 512 W. Main St. GALLERY 123 123 E. Main St. RESONATOR INSTITUTE 325 E. Main St.
Public Art in Norman The City of Norman and the University of Oklahoma have a combined collection of more than 130 works of public art, from sculptures to murals. Maps for self-guided walking tours are available for download at NormanArts.org/public-arts.
MAINSITE CONTEMPORARY ART GALLERY Located in Downtown Norman, MAINSITE Contemporary Art is the home of the Norman Arts Council and offers yearround exhibits. The gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. 122 E. Main St. MainsiteContemporaryArt.com THE DEPOT Located in the historic Santa Fe Train
James Garner Statue
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More Arts & Nightlife Performing Arts SOONER THEATRE In the heart of downtown Norman sits the Grande Dame of the city, the historic Sooner Theatre. The Spanish Gothic theatre is the year-round host for concerts, movies, theatrical shows and more. 101 E. Main St. SoonerTheatre.com CIMARRON OPERA For more information about seasonal performances, visit cimarronopera.org. NORMAN PHILHARMONIC Norman’s Philharmonic performs seasonally, including a holiday concert,
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an MLK Day Celebration and an Easter session. To check their performing schedule, visit NormanPhil.com. THE UNIVERSITY OF OKLAHOMA ARTS DISTRICT Showcasing more than 350 annual dramatic and dazzling presentations from students and faculty professionals, the Weitzenhoffer Family College of Fine Arts offers ballet and modern dance, dramas, operas, Broadway musicals, concerts, art exhibitions and recitals. The district is home to nine performance venues. OU.edu/FineArts SUMMER BREEZE CONCERT SERIES Taking place on alternating Sunday evenings from May through August, Lions Park plays host to a variety of musical performers presented by The Depot.
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Lions Park, 555 S. Flood Ave. NormanDepot.org
BLUEBONNET BAR 321 E. Main St.
RIVERWIND CASINO Features performances by national artists. Past headliners have included Collective Soul, REO Speedwagon, Lee Brice, Willie Nelson & Family, Jay Leno, Boyz II Men and Tony Bennett. 1544 W. State Highway 9 Riverwind.com
THE DELI 309 White Ave.
Other popular music venues include:
MIDWAY DELI 601 W. Eufaula St.
BISON WITCHES 211 E. Main St.
GUESTROOM RECORDS 125 E. Main St. HOLLYWOOD CORNERS 4712 N. Porter Ave.
THE OPOLIS 113 N. Crawford Ave. OTHELLO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 434 Buchanan Ave. RED BRICK BAR 311 E. Main St. REDROCK CANYON GRILL 1820 Legacy Park Dr. SERGIO’S ITALIAN BISTRO 104 E. Gray St. SECOND WIND COFFEEHOUSE 564 Buchanan Ave.
Wineries CANADIAN RIVER VINEYARD AND WINERY 7050 Slaughterville Rd., Lexington CanadianRiverWinery.com NATIVE SPIRITS WINERY 10500 E. Lindsey St. NativeSpiritsWinery.com
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Switzer Center
Sports & Outdoors Sports in Norman begins with football. When it comes to college football success, few schools can match the University of Oklahoma.
Jason White statue
HEISMAN PARK Seven heroic-size bronze statues honoring each Heisman Trophy winner from the University of Oklahoma are on display on the east side of Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Heisman Park. Heisman Park now features all seven of the Sooners’ Heisman Trophy recipients, including Billy Vessels (1952), Steve Owens (1969), Billy Sims (1978), Jason White (2003), Sam Bradford (2008), Baker Mayfield (2017) and Kyler Murray (2018). North of Lindsey Street on Jenkins Avenue THE SWITZER CENTER The three floors of Sooner tradition showcase numerous murals, awards, sculptures, national bowl trophies, interactive video and all five Heisman trophies won
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by Sooner players. The Switzer Center reopened in spring 2018 in a new stadium location. Check online or call VisitNorman at 405-366-8095 to see if the center has reopened to the public post-pandemic. SoonerSports.com/facilities/switzercenter.html LEGACY COURT/LEGACY LOBBY The area houses the history of Oklahoma men’s and women’s basketball, current players, stats, records (NCAA, conference), All-Americans’ pictures, memorabilia, and interactive screens to learn about past and current players. Complimentary admission. Inside the Bob and Ann Coleman Area of Lloyd Noble Center’s southeast entrance. The Legacy Lobby opens to the ticketed fans 90 minutes prior to tipoff. Lloyd Noble Center, 2900 S. Jenkins Ave.
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SUMMIT CLIMBING Summit Climbing is a local family-owned and modern indoor rock-climbing gym featuring Walltopia customized walls with a variety of climbing, including an expansive bouldering area, top-roping, lead climbing, toddler room, kids’ area and auto belays. All ages and abilities are welcome, and memberships are also available. Summit Gym offers youth programs, birthday parties, group rates and teambuilding activities, climbing competitions, professional training by certified instructors and outdoor climbing trips led by experienced and certified guides. Enhance the experience with a yoga class in a dedicated yoga studio that features daily classes led by certified instructors. The gym is 12,000 square feet and climatecontrolled. 2701 Washington Dr. summitgyms.com OU TENNIS CLUB OU Tennis Club is one of Oklahoma’s premier tennis clubs, offering family and individual memberships, adult and junior tennis programming, private lessons, events and tournaments. The club is open to the public for a daily guest fee and court fees. The club is composed of the Headington Family Tennis Center and the Gregg Wadley Tennis Pavilion, the same facilities where the OU men’s and women’s tennis teams practice and play. The facility features 12 outdoor courts, seating for fans, championship lighting and surface. The indoor facility features six indoor courts along with a fully equipped pro shop and OU-logoed attire. 500 W. Imhoff Rd. OKLAHOMA MOTOR SPORTS COMPLEX Have a “need for speed?” Oklahoma Motor Sports Complex offers a Moto Cross and Quad MX track, a Pit Bike track and a Sand Drag track. Try Super Moto and kart racing on the 0.7 mile, 13-turn asphalt track. 3501 S. Interstate Drive OklahomaMotorsportsComplex.com ATV GAMES PAINTBALL Combine paintball field games with the thrill of off-road vehicles for ATV Paintball.
Games are designed to maximize playing time. Speed games are designed for constant engagement and team strategy. 19000 E. State Highway 9 atvgames4x4.com LAKE THUNDERBIRD STATE PARK Lake Thunderbird State Park is 13 miles east of Downtown Norman and features 86 miles of shoreline fun. The park is popular throughout the year for water sports, hiking, running and biking trails, camping, eagle watches and hayrides. Deer archery and waterfowl hunting are available in specified areas during the season. CALYPSO COVE MARINA Calypso Cove Marina is located at Lake Thunderbird State Park. It is a full-service marina with fuel dock, wet/dry boat storage and watersport rentals, including pontoon boats. The Ship Store features weekly food specials, live bait and more. The marina is open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. during summer months; by appointment in the off season. 100 Calypso Cove Ave. CalypsoCoveMarina.com DISCOVERY COVE NATURE CENTER The Cove features displays of native snakes and animals, furs and artifacts. It offers programs throughout the year, including fishing clinics, Dutch oven cooking, trail hikes and animal tracking. A park naturalist is available for group programs outside of the park. Open five days a week, depending on the season. Eagle watches are offered every other Saturday. 1201 Clear Bay Ave. Lake Thunderbird WESTWOOD FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER Newly renovated and reopened in 2018, the City of Norman’s family water park features huge spiral and family slides, a lazy river, kid splash zone, and an area dedicated to toddlers ages 4 and under. Open seasonally, the municipal swimming pool has water slides, picnic areas, shelters and playground equipment in between dips in the water. Dedicated lap MORE SPORTS & OUTDOORS u
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More Sports & Outdoors swim time, river walking time and toddler time are available. 1017 Fairway Dr. NormanFun.com WESTWOOD TENNIS CENTER Westwood Tennis Center is considered as one of the top public facilities in the United States. In 2007, The U.S. Tennis Association recognized Westwood as the National Outstanding Facility. Currently, Westwood has 12 outdoor championship courts with four 36-foot youth courts. The Westwood Tennis Clubhouse is a fully equipped pro shop featuring tennis racquets, accessories and a lounge area with two flat-screen televisions. The tennis shop offers stringing services to its customers and the general public servicing not only tennis racquets, but also racquetball and badminton racquets. 2420 Westport Dr. NormanFun.com
Family-friendly venues NORMAN COMMUNITY DOG PARK Nestled between the George M. Sutton Wilderness Park and the Griffin Park Sports Complex is the Norman Community Dog Park, featuring a dedicated area for dogs and owners to experience nature. Near 12th Avenue N.E. and Robinson Street SUTTON WILDERNESS PARK Featuring a lake, gazebo and a jogging/ walking course in a natural setting full of wildflowers, the Sutton Wilderness Park is located adjacent to the Norman Community Dog Park, the disc golf course and the sports complex. 1920 12th Ave. N.E. KID-FRIENDLY PARKS Need to find a place to let the kids burn off some energy? The Norman Parks and Recreation Department manages more
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than a dozen parks. The biggest parks include: Ruby Grant Park, 3110 W. Franklin Rd. Andrews Park, 201 Daws St. Reaves Park, 2501 Jenkins Ave. Lions Park, 450 S. Flood Ave. Rotary Park, 1501 Boyd St. A complete list of parks may be found at: normanok.gov/parks/park-directory
Disc golf GRIFFIN COMMUNITY PARK Griffin Community Park, which also offers picnic tables, playground equipment and a jogging/walking course, features a disc golf course between the youth soccer complex and the dog park. 1001 E. Robinson St. COLONIAL ESTATES The Colonial Estates 18-hole course is perfect for beginners but offers challenging holes to keep the advanced competing for birdies. 1600 E. Lindsey St. LIONS COURSE The Lions Course features an 18-hole advanced course with lots of trees and water hazards. 1800 Northcliff Ave.
Norman Golf Courses BELMAR GOLF CLUB Located in northeast Norman, this semiprivate course winds through homes, native grasses, and several elevation changes, and captures the beauty of central Oklahoma farmland. 1025 E. Indian Hills Rd. www.ILoveThisCourse.com JIMMIE AUSTIN OU GOLF COURSE The course has been ranked one of the top 10 courses in Oklahoma and is the only public course ranked in the top 10. The course has also received a four-star
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2
2023 Sooner Football Schedule SEPT. 2 Oklahoma vs. Arkansas St. HOME SEPT. 9 Oklahoma vs. SMU HOME SEPT. 16 Oklahoma at Tulsa Away SEPT. 23 Oklahoma at Cincinnati Away SEPT. 30 Oklahoma vs. Iowa State HOME OCT. 7 Oklahoma vs. Texas Dallas OCT. 21 Oklahoma vs. UCF HOME OCT. 28 Oklahoma at Kansas Away NOV. 4 Oklahoma at Okla. State Away NOV. 11 Oklahoma vs. West Virginia HOME NOV. 18 Oklahoma at BYU Away NOV. 24 Oklahoma vs. TCU HOME
11 a.m. 5 p.m. 2:30 p.m. TBA* TBA* TBA* TBA* TBA TBA* TBA* TBA* 11 a.m.
*Check SoonerSports.com for game times as they are announced
rating from Golf Digest since the redesign by Robert E. Cupp. 1 Par Drive OUGolfClub.com THE TRAILS GOLF CLUB The private course is a 18-hole championship golf course that has hosted state Men’s, Women’s, Men’s Senior and Junior State Amateur Championships as well as collegiate and area PGA competitions. 3200 S. Berry Road TrailsGolf.com
THE WESTWOOD PARK GOLF COURSE Westwood was designed in 1967 by golf architect Floyd Farley and later redesigned by Tripp Davis in 2003. This 18-hole course spans over 6,200 yards and proves to be challenging but fair for both advanced and beginning players. Every July, the course hosts The Westwood Invitiation, a three-day, 54-hole, stroke-play tournament. 2400 Westport Drive WestwoodParkGolf.com
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Blush boutique
Shopping Districts A perfect outing in Norman is all about little discoveries, small indulgences and lots of shopping. Stroll down our historic downtown main street and experience the friendliness of a neighborly community. WALKER ARTS DISTRICT IN DOWNTOWN NORMAN Downtown Norman blends art, architecture, entertainment, shopping and dining. Enjoy charming antiques, an array of stores and a delicious variety of local restaurants. Main Street, Flood Avenue to Ponca Avenue DowntownNorman.com CAMPUS CORNER Soak up the nostalgic university atmosphere of Campus Corner with more than 75 retail, dining, and entertainment facilities in one convenient district. When the sun goes down, enjoy live music, dancing and fun at Campus Corner’s many hot spots. Boyd Street and Asp Avenue OUCampusCorner.com
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SOONER MALL All your favorite stores in an inviting, family-friendly environment. Featuring favorites American Eagle, Express, Francesca’s, Buckle and Old Navy to the trendy Hot Topic, Journeys, Torrid and Victoria’s Secret along with children’s favorites with Posh Kids and The Children’s Place plus GetAir trampoline space. Bath & Body Works or J’s Hallmark are great for gifts. El Chico and Great American Cookie Co. are food favorites. Anchored by Sun & Ski Sports, Dillard’s, JCPenney and others, Sooner Mall has something for everyone. W. Main Street and Interstate 35 SoonerMall.com BROOKHAVEN VILLAGE A Norman treasure with an array of restaurants and coffee shops, day spas, galleries and boutiques including The
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Bridal Boutique, Henry Home Interiors, White House/Black Market, Jos. A Bank, Loft, Chico’s and Wild Birds Unlimited. Robinson & 36th Ave. N.W. www.Brookhaven-Village. com THE MAIN DISTRICT The area is known for high-end shopping, furnishing and clothing boutiques that are locally owned such as Kidoodles, The Clothing Bar, Occasions and Cayman’s, located inside Carriage Plaza. Near Carriage Plaza are other specialty shops, including Mitchell’s Jewelry, Brockhaus Jewelry and Poppy. W. Main Street, from Interstate 35 to Mercedes Avenue
PARKWAY PLAZA AND REDBUD PLAZA National retailers, jewelers, and specialty home stores line this exciting shopping district with such fine stores as Barnes & Noble, Bed Bath & Beyond, Boot Barn and J’s Hallmark. Ed Noble Parkway, between Main Street and Lindsey Street, west of Interstate 35
Academy Sports, Dress Barn, HomeGoods, DSW Shoes, Michael’s and much more. Robinson and 24th Ave. N.W.
UNIVERSITY NORTH PARK New stores are continuously being added to this two-mile stretch, which is currently home to Mathis Brothers’ Sleep Center, Vintage Stock, Super Target, Kirklands, Kohl’s, Metro Shoe Warehouse, Versona Accessories, TJ Maxx, Ulta Beauty,
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Main St
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31
Boyd St
3
Acres St
23 Indian Hills Rd
36th Ave NW
Asp
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24th Ave NW
Ave
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Porter Ave BN SFRa ilroa d
24th Ave NW od
24thAve SW
1
Ave
StubbemanAve
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4
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Indian Hills Rd
Franklin Rd
Tecumseh Rd
Rock Creek Rd
Robinson St
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(3700 E. Robinson St)
Lindsey St
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Alameda Dr
14 22
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nB
Porter Ave Peters Ave
Uni vers
lvd ity
Asp Ave
le Nob Ed Pkwy
24thAve SW
Berry Rd
Blvd
Pete
Porter Ave e rs Av
Vicksburg Ave
24th Ave NE 24th Ave SE
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Indian Hills Rd
Franklin Rd
eda Alam
Dr
Lindsey St
Alameda Dr
Breakwater 2 Dr ea Ar ve ird Calyp A rb d so de R Cl Cove Ave un am ea Th D rB Av ay e
Lake Thunderbird 5 17
36thAve SW McGee Dr
Berry Rd Berry Rd
Chautauqua St 36thAve SW
Jenkins Ave
Berry Rd
McGee Dr
Chautauqua St
Clas sen
Berry Rd
Blvd
Jenkins Ave
12th Ave SE 12th Ave SE
12th Ave SE
96th Ave NE
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7
84th Ave SE
17 OU Motel
16 NOUN Hotel
15 NCED Conference Center & Hotel
14 Motel 6
13 La Quinta Inn
12 Holiday Inn Express
11 Hilton Garden Inn & Suites
10 Hampton by Hilton
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8 Express Inn & Suites
7 Embassy Suites & Conference Center
5 Courtyard by Marriott 6 Days Inn
4 Country Inn Suites
3 Comfort Inn & Suites
2 Best Western Plus
1 America’s Best Value Inn
LODGING
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7 University North Park
Tecumseh Rd
Rock Creek Rd
8
Dr
Robinson St
eda Alam
Lindsey St
5
120th Ave NE
St
Norman Regional Hospital
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Alameda Dr
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Lindsey St
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108th Ave NE
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ray
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72nd Ave NE
Jones Ave
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G 4 St ain 21 25 M 20 4
2 4
Vicksburg Ave
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Porter Ave
FloodAve
sse 18 5
3 5
12th Ave SE
Cla Acres St
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Symmes St
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16
12th Ave NE
25
Westheimer Dr
6
Lexington
12th Ave NW
3
12th Ave NW
Boyd St
St
9 2 6 24 2015 Brooks
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Porter Ave
Flo
Westheimer Airpark
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35
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Brooks St
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8 Cedar Lane Rd
Cons titution S t
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Timberdell Rd
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84th Ave NE
Ave 1
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Lindsey St
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See 9 University of 22 15 Oklahoma map on other side
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24th Ave NE
Pet Franklin Rd
Tecumseh Rd
Norman
Regional Healthplex
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12th Ave NE
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Rvi er
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35 Whittier Recreation Center
28 OU Soccer Complex 29 OU Softball Complex 30 Reaves Park 31 Sooner Bowling Center 32 Trails Golf Club 33 12th Ave Recreation Center 34 Westwood Golf Course, Tennis Center & Water Park
Cedar Lane Rd
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Cons2118titution St
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20 6 8 Timberdell Rd 9
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Main St
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Robinson St
Rock Creek Rd
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25 Symmes St
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21 Murray Case Sells Swim Complex
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11 Headington Family Tennis Center
22 Nature Center (Sutton Wilderness)
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23 Norman High School
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13 Irving Recreational Center
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14 Jimmie Austin OU Golf Course
25 Norman Optimist Gym 26 Oklahoma Motorsports Complex
24 Norman North High School 17 Lake Thunderbird & Marina
27 OU Rugby Complex
15 John Jacobs Track
18 Lions Park
16 L. Dale Mitchell Park
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SPORTS AND RECREATION 1 Andrews Park 2 ATV Games Paintball 3 Bart Connor Gymnastics Center 4 Belmar Golf Club 5 Calypso Cove 6 Cleveland County Family YMCA 7 Cobblestone Creek Golf Course 8 Feather Creek Horse Farms 9 Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium/Owen Field
18 Residence Inn (opening soon!)
20 Super 8
19 Sooner Suites
21 Surestay Plus Inn
24 Woodspring Suites
22 Thunderbird Lodge 24 23 Travelodge
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dd a Ave rd
424 W. Main St. Norman, OK 73069 (405) 366-8095 Open Weekdays 8 a.m.-5 p.m. VisitNorman.com
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72nd Ave NE
84th Ave SE
24th Ave SE
Indian Hills Rd
Franklin Rd
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36th Ave NW
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12th Ave NW 12th Ave NW
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StubbemanAve
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2 Norman Regional Hospital
Porter Ave
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Indian Hills Rd
Franklin Rd
Tecumseh Rd
Rock Creek Rd
FloodAve
Peters Ave
Uni ver
sity
Asp
36th Ave NW
12th Ave NE
24th Ave NE
24th Ave NE
Blv d
Pet
24th Ave NW
84th Ave NE
ATTRACTIONS
1 Catlett Music Center Cleveland County Fairgrounds Crucible Foundry and Gallery
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2
Indian Hills Rd
4 Firehouse Art Center 5 Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art 6 HeyDay Entertainment Center 7 Hollywood 14 Theatres Jacobson House Native Art Center Mainsite Gallery (Norman Arts Council)
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9
12 National Weather Center
11 Nancy O’Brian Performing Arts Center
10 Moore-Lindsay Historical House 11
13 Native Spirits Winery
Franklin Rd
14 Nature Center (Sutton Wilderness)
15 OU Visitors Center
22 The Depot
Tecumseh Rd
18 Sam Noble Okla. Museum of Natural History
17 Robinson Crossing 6 Theaters
16 Riverwind Casino
19 Sooner Theatre
20 Summit Climbing
21 Switzer Center/Heisman Park
23 Thunderbird Casino
25 VisitNorman
24 Western History Collection
1 Casa Bella
BED & BREAKFAST
3 The Manor
8
Rock Creek Rd
2 The Cutting Garden
4 The Montford Inn
5 Whispering Pines
SHOPPING
Dr
Robinson St
1 Brookhaven Village
2 Campus Corner
3 The Main District
4 Historic Downtown 5 Ed Noble Parkway
eda Alam
6 Sooner Mall 7 University North Park
108th Ave NE
120th Ave NE
Franklin Rd
Indian Hills Rd
Robinson St
Indian Hills Rd
Alameda Dr
13
24th Ave NE
t
4
Vicksbur
Franklin Rd
72nd Ave NE
1
12th Ave NE
Jones Ave
Indian Hills Rd
yS 10 Gra 3 1 t in S 4 19 Ma 9 22 4 23
12th Ave NE
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Porter Ave
25
Porter Ave
e Av
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Lexington Westheimer Dr
Acres St
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ers Franklin Rd
84th Ave NE
Flo
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16
72nd Ave NE
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Westheimer Airpark
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7 10 12 18 14
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7
24th Ave NW
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3 5 11 23 6
18 4
Symmes St
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Norman Regional Healthplex
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20 1
dd a Av rd e
Tecumseh Rd
Rock Creek Rd
Robinson St
1
Main St
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Go
36thAve S
24thAve S
Berry Rd
Ave
Porter A Ave
BN SFRa i
12th Ave NW
Porter Ave
72nd Ave NE
Annual Aviation Festival
Annual Events Calendar Norman’s Calendar of Events is full of festivals, concerts, theater performances, parades and major college athletics. Add to your Norman trip by taking in one or more of these special events. As dates could change, check VisitNorman.com for an up-to-date calendar. SEPTEMBER 7-10 CLEVELAND COUNTY FREE FAIR Everything you expect out of a fair – animals, carnival rides, a midway – along with magicians, a circus, Wild West Follies, chainsaw artists, Ball of Steel motorcycle show and the Great Little Bear Show takes place at the annual Cleveland County Free Fair from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Cleveland County Fairgrounds 615 E. Robinson St. ClevelandCountyFair.org
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23 AVIATION FESTIVAL The Annual Max Westheimer Airport Aviation Festival and Open House at Max Westheimer Airport includes an open house, static displays, tower tours, presentations, display areas, Westheimer history and a children’s activity area from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Max Westheimer Airport 1700 Lexington Dr. ou.edu/airport/events/ festival
OCTOBER 1 FARM GIRL FAIR Enjoy tasty food, crafty venues, traditional fair activities and live music at the Farm Girl Fair. Hosted as Sandy River Ranch, the fair showcases one-of-a-kind trade and talent. Each artist is chosen from among many talented and artistic applicants where he or she will showcase their own original work. Organizers seek to pluck the most creative and distinctive DIY-inspired artists that
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can offer unique and clever trade. 3500 72nd Ave. NW FarmGirlFair.com 14 NATIONAL WEATHER FESTIVAL Take in a tour of the National Weather Center, enjoy children’s activities, the storm chaser car show and hourly weather balloon launches from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Amateur radio operators will demonstrate the role they play before, during and after a tornado, hurricane or other disaster. National Weather Center 120 David L. Boren Blvd. NWCNorman.org 14 CHRISTMAS MARKET AT THE FARM Shop local vendors at the Wells Family Christmas Tree Farm from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. With food trucks, live entertainment, pet adoptions and shopping, the admission fee $5, with a portion going to the St. Francis Animal Resource Center in Norman. Wells Family Christmas Tree Farm 4091 E. Franklin Rd. wellschristmastrees.com 27 DOWNTOWN NORMAN FALL FEST The Annual Downtown Norman Fall Fest will make its return to the Walker Arts District after two years. From 6-9 p.m., Main Street transforms with little ghosts, goblins, witches and other costumed trick or treaters as they gather treats from local businesses along with the opportunities to participate in activities, take in performances from local arts groups as well as moon bounces and rides. Admission is free to the festivities. Walker Arts District Main Street, from Park to Porter avenues NormanFallFest.com DECEMBER 2 & 3 OKLAHOMA NUTCRACKER The Oklahoma Nutcracker, a holiday tradition, combines the history and beauty of Oklahoma with classical ballet. Nancy O’Brian Center for Performing Arts 1801 N. Stubbeman Ave. NormanBalletCompany.com 2 CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY PARADE The 2023 Norman Main Street Christmas Holiday Parade will feature bands, floats and horses beginning at 6 p.m. under holiday lights. Set in a festive spirit complete with a variety of Christmas Medieval Fair
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characters, this annual event will also feature an appearance by the man of the month, Santa Claus. The parade takes place in Downtown Norman, stretching across Main Street beginning at Pickard Avenue. NormanChristmasParade.com FEBRUARY 10 MARDI GRAS PARADE Sunset Norman is not the bayou, but it does know how to celebrate like The Big Easy. The only parade of its kind in Oklahoma celebrates Mardi Gras Oklahomastyle. Past parades have featured troupes of fire dancers, jazz bands, poi dancers, an electric guitar marching band, Flamenco dancers and Harleys circling Norman’s Downtown Main Street. Downtown Norman NormanMardiGrasParade.com MARCH 9 NORMAN WINE FESTIVAL The second annual Norman Wine Festival will stage at the Cleveland County Fairgrounds. The event features free admission and photo opportunities with the Easter Bunny. Cleveland County Fairgrounds APRIL 5-7 MEDIEVAL FAIR The fair is the state’s largest weekend event and the third-largest event in Oklahoma, and was selected by Events Media Network as one of the top 100 events in the nation. In addition to the era’s music, jousting, human chess and more, attendees can browse through the medieval village of more than 200 arts-and-craft booths offering unique and handcrafted wares. Offerings include pottery, woodcrafts, stained glass, armor, costumes, fairy wings, jewelry, leather crafts and hair garlands. Watch master crafters demonstrating their skills. Reaves Park MedievalFair.org 25-27 NORMAN MUSIC FESTIVAL More than 350 bands on 20 indoor and outdoor stages will perform over three days throughout the Walker Arts District in Downtown Norman with outdoor stages Thursday night along with Friday and Saturday from noon to midnight along a closed Main Street. The free MORE EVENTS & FESTIVALS u
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Japanese Breakfast at Norman Music Festival
More Annual Events festival, which began in 2008, features a sound for every ear. In 2014, The Huffington Post Travel blog named NMF as the one thing travelers must do while in Oklahoma. Downtown Norman NormanMusicFestival.com MAY 3-5 PRIDE WEEKEND With a parade and outdoor festival, Pride weekend festivities will be taking place over a three-day period throughout Norman. The kickoff party stages Friday night with an all-day festival Saturday and finishing up with a Sunday night parade finale. Walker Arts District NormanOKPride.org JUNE 19 JUNETEENTH The City of Norman and community stakeholders will be presenting a Juneteenth celebration at Reaves Park. NormanParks.com 20-22 JAZZ IN JUNE The free, three-evening Jazz in June
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Festival continues its tradition of bringing Oklahoma and national jazz and blues artists. The first two nights are presented at Brookhaven Village, while the final night is held at Andrews Park. JazzInJune.org JULY 4 FOURTH FEST The City of Norman Parks and Recreation Department hosts an Independence Day celebration annually at Reaves Park. Festivities begin at 4 p.m. and include live bands, food booths, baby crawl, moon bounces, pony rides and more before the fireworks that usually begin at 9:45 p.m. Reaves Park normanok.gov 18-20 SUMMER SIDEWALK SALE Dozens of Norman shops will be conducting a simultaneous sidewalk sale throughout Norman. Shop Campus Corner, Historic Downtown Norman, The Main District, Eastside Business Association, Lindsey Street merchants, Brookhaven Village, Sooner Mall and more. normanok.gov
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MONTHLY 2ND FRIDAY ARTWALK Stroll through the Walker Arts District in Downtown Norman to take a look at the art displays and exhibits throughout the historic area along with live music performances, food trucks and other special events. Downtown Norman 2ndFridayNorman.com THROUGHOUT THE YEAR FRED JONES JR. MUSEUM OF ART In addition to its permanent exhibits, the regular schedule at the museum includes Art Adventures at 10:30 a.m. Tuesdays and Tuesday Noon Concerts. The museum is open from 1-5 p.m. Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art 555 Elm Ave. OU.edu/fjjma DEPOT CONCERT SERIES The Depot Concert Series features the finest singer/songwriters performing in a listening room environment where you can really connect with the artist
at the Norman Depot, on select Sunday evenings, October through March. 201 S. Jones St. PASNorman.org SUMMER BREEZE CONCERT SERIES Taking place on alternating Sunday evenings from May through September, Lions Park plays host to a variety of musical performers, presented by The Depot. Lions Park, 555 S. Flood Ave. NormanDepot.org SOONER THEATRE Located in Historic Downtown Norman, the Sooner Theatre showcases a variety of performers and concerts. 101 E. Main St. SoonerTheatre.org SOONER SPORTS University of Oklahoma athletics teams participate in a variety of sports throughout the academic year. Use SoonerSports.com for complete schedules.
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Along with Lake Thunderbird for the outdoor experience, I enjoy taking visiting friends and family to experience a Norman Game Day during the fall. From Friday night through Sunday brunch, Norman comes alive on Sooner home football weekends. -Dan Schemm, VisitNorman Executive Director
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My pick for a great dinner is Legends Restaurant on Lindsey St. -Lawrence McKinney, President and CEO of Norman Economic Development Coalition
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One of my favorite places in Norman is Lake Thunderbird. Whether I’m looking to enjoy water sports, go for a hike, ride my mountain bike, take the family camping, watch migrating birds, or just seek some peace and quiet in nature; Oklahoma’s only urban state park is but a few minutes away from my front door. I can easily step into a whole other world without leaving my home town. -Scott Martin, Norman Chamber of Commerce President
I recommend a visit to the Farmers Market in its new home at The Well. (The Farmers Market is open from 4-7 p.m. Tuesdays and 8 a.m.-Noon Saturdays April through October.) -Casey Vinyard, KREF-1400 AM owner
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Legends Restaurant
Norman Dining
Explore the culinary wonders of Norman! From delectable delights to heartwarming home-cooked meals, Norman has endless options.
Asian & Sushi
The Moon Sushi Sweet Basil Thai Cuisine Thai Thai Asian Bistro Tea Café Volcano Sushi Bar & Hibachi
Bakeries & Desserts Apple Tree Chocolate The Baked Bear Dara Marie’s La Baguette Bakery & Café Rusty’s Frozen Custard
Bars & Breweries
405 Brewing Co. Taproom Black Mesa Brewery & Tap Room BIG Brewing The Brewhouse Das Boot Camp Equity Brewing Lazy Circles Brewing Legends Restaurant
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BBQ
Billy Sims BBQ Ray’s Smokehouse BBQ Van’s Pig Stand
Breakfast Carol’s Kitchen The Diner Juan Del Fuego Press & Plow
Brunch
Blu Fine Wine & Food El Huevo Mexi-Diner Neighborhood Jam Pub W Syrup Breakfast Boutique
Burgers
405 Burger Bar Classic 50s The Garage Burgers & Beer O’Connell’s Irish Pub & Grille Pub W
Cocktails & Wine Blu Fine Wine & Food Scratch Kitchen & Cocktails Blackbird Gastropub The Winston
Coffee
Gray Owl Beanstalk Coffee and Sno Stella Nova Press & Plow Yellow Dog Coffee Company
Ray’s Smokehouse BBQ
Italian
Benvenuti’s Ristorante Gaberino’s Homestyle Sergio’s Italian Victoria’s Pasta Shop
Mexican
Pepe Delgado’s El Sombrero Mexican Tarahumara’s Volcano’s Mexican Food
Pizza
New York Pizza Pinocchio’s Tavola Pizzeria Volare Pizzeria
Patio
Hollywood Corners Land Run Grill Midway Deli The Mont The Porch The Winston
Sandwiches
Bison Witches Greek House Midway Deli Land Run Grill Penny Hill Subs Tino’s Italian Treats & Sweets
Donuts
Donut King Gourmet Donuts Hurt’s Donuts Main St. Donuts
Fine Dining
Charleston’s Legends Restaurant Redrock Canyon Grill The Ranch Syrup: A Breakfast Boutique
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The Depot
Norman History
Norman’s rich and colorful history continues to shape the city as its citizens write new chapters in the history books. In 1870, the U.S. Land Office commissioned Abner E. Norman to survey the Unassigned Lands in Oklahoma Territory, in anticipation of the future settlement of the area. His surveying crew burned the words “Norman’s Camp” into an elm tree by the watering hole near their camp (which is now the intersection of Classen and Lindsey) to mock their young supervisor. In 1884, president Chester A. Arthur authorized the Santa Fe Railroad Company to build a railroad through Oklahoma Territory to connect Wichita to Fort Worth. It just so happens that the railroad tracks were laid two blocks from the engraved elm tree and the station that was later built along the track was given the name “Norman.”
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On April 22, 1889, the Oklahoma Land Run brought settlers streaming across the Kansas and Texas borders to claim their piece of land. In a single day, more than 150 people piled off the Santa Fe Railroad at the Norman station and spent their first night in makeshift camps on their newly established town site. The next morning, a downtown was already under construction. Almost immediately after Norman was established, two prominent businessmen, Delbert Larsh and Thomas Waggoner, began lobbying the territorial government to locate the first university in Norman. On Dec. 19, 1890, Larsh and Waggoner were successful with the passage of Council Bill 114, establishing the University of Oklahoma in Norman. The first 57 students arrived in September 1892 and
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attended classes on the second floor of a rented building in downtown.
and created the National Severe Storms Laboratory.
The first building on campus was completed a year later, but was destroyed by a fire in 1903. From these humble beginnings, OU now enrolls more than 31,000 students, has more than 2,500 fulltime faculty members and has 21 colleges offering 174 majors at the baccalaureate level, 191 majors at the master’s level, 86 majors at the doctoral level, eight majors at the doctoral professional level, nine undergraduate certificates and 72 graduate certifications.
Today, Max Westheimer Airport is home of the University of Oklahoma Aviation Department, which is one of only 28 programs in the world accredited by the Aviation Accreditation Board.
The city of Norman was formally incorporated on May 13, 1891, 16 years before Oklahoma Statehood. By 1902, the downtown district already had two banks, two hotels and a flour mill. By 1913, there were more than 3,700 residents living in Norman, when the Oklahoma Railway Company decided to extend its interurban street car from Oklahoma City to Norman, spurring additional growth. The rail lines eventually transitioned to freight during the 1940s as the U.S. highway system developed. The city population reached 11,429 in 1940.
The breakthroughs in radar technology sparked the development of the National Weather Center, a unique partnership of national and international agencies that issues all of the severe weather warnings in the country and predicts and tracks weather around the world from Norman, Okla. The center opened in 2008. History is still alive in Norman. There are 17 landmarks listed in the National Register of Historic Places, which includes the Cleveland County Courthouse, the Oscar Jacobson House, the Santa Fe Depot and the Moore-Lindsay House. The University of Oklahoma’s Bizzell Memorial Library is a National Historic Landmark, one of only 20 in the state.
In 1941, the University of Oklahoma and Norman city officials established Max Westheimer Field, a university airstrip, and the next year offered to lease it to the U.S. Navy as a training facility. During World War II, the airfield grew into the Naval Flight Training Center, commonly referred to as “North Base.” A second training center, the Naval Air Technical Training Center, known as “South Base,” was established south of OU’s campus along Highway 9, near the present-day location of Lloyd Noble Center. More than 9,000 Navy combat pilots were trained, along with thousands of other Navy officers. In the years following World War II the airstrip was transferred back to the university’s control. Researchers from the university and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration used the equipment at Westheimer to develop the first Doppler weather radar. This research led to the development of NEXRAD, the nationwide radar network used to predict weather
Bizzell Memorial Library
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NCED Conference Center and Hotel
Hotels
COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT
BEST WESTERN PLUS
(405) 701-8900 $$$, S, X, R, PO, BC, I
3100 Medical Park Place (405) 7245-4606 $$$, S, X, K, PO, BC, P, I
COMFORT INN & SUITES
840 Copperfield Dr. (405) 701-5200 $$, X, PO, BC, I
COUNTRY INN & SUITES
968 Ed Noble Parkway (405) 360-0240 $$, X, PO, BC, I
770 Copperfield Dr.
EMBASSY SUITES CONFERENCE CENTER & HOTEL 2501 Conference Dr. (405) 364-8040 $$$$, S, X, K, R, PO, BC, P, I
FAIRFIELD INN
2500 Conference Dr. (405) 928-5300 $$$,S, X, PO, BC, I
LA QUINTA INN & SUITES 930 Ed Noble Parkway (405) 579-4000 $$$, X, K, PO, P, I
NCED HOTEL & CONFERENCE CENTER
301 Norman Center Court (405) 447-1661 $$$, X, K, P, BC
2801 E. State Highway 9 (405) 447-9000 $$$, S, X, R, PO, I
HAMPTON INN & SUITES
NOUN HOTEL
2300 Conference Dr. (405) 310-3014 $$, S, X, PO, BC, I
HILTON GARDEN INN & SUITES 700 Copperfield Dr. (405) 579-0100 $$$,S, X, K, R, PO, BC, I
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HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS
542 University Blvd. (405) 501-5858 $$$, S, X, R, BC, I
QUALITY INN
2841 S. Classen Blvd. (405) 701-4011 $$, S, X, K, PO, BC, P
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SUPER 8
2600 W. Main St. (405) 329-1624 $, S, X, BC, PO, P, I
SURESTAY PLUS INN 309 Norman Center Ct. (405) 360-2100 $$$, S, X, PO, BC, I Montford Inn
Motels AMERICA’S BEST VALUE INN 100 26th Ave. SW (405) 364-5554 $, X, I
DAYS INN 2543 W. Main St. (405) 360-1234 $, S, X, K, PO, BC, P, I
MOTEL 6 1016 26th Ave. SW (405) 701-3300 $, S, X, I
OU MOTEL
TRAVELODGE
CUTTING GARDEN
225 N. Interstate Dr. (405) 329-7194 $, S, X, PO, P
927 W. Boyd St. (405) 329-4522 $$, K, P I
WOODSPRING SUITES
THE MANOR
5401 Huettner Dr. (405) 321-0005 $, S, X, K
3100 26th Ave. NE (405) 550-7882 $$, K, I
MONTFORD INN
Beds & Breakfasts
322 Tonhawa St. (405) 321-2200 $$$, K, I
CASA BELLA
WHISPERING PINES
642 E. Brooks St. (405) 329-2289 $$, K, I
7820 E. State Highway 9 (405) 701-4011 $$$, K, I
2420 S. Classen Blvd. 405-321-4670 $, S, X, K
SOONER SUITES 1775 Maple Ave., Suite 402 (405) 325-2270 $$, S, X, K, R, PO, I
THUNDERBIRD LODGE
1430 24TH Ave. SW (405) 329-6990 $, S, X, K, P, I
Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center
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VisitNORMAN OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE
Learn about campus tour options on page 4 to see which one is right for you!
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FOR WELL OVER A CENTURY, the University of Oklahoma has been a place of opportunity and excellence with a legacy of producing world-class scholars and leaders. All that we do at OU is driven by our fundamental purpose – We Change Lives – three small but powerful words that carry deep meaning.
IN THIS GUIDE: 3. 4. 5. 6.
Introduction to OU OU Tours & Events OU Athletics & Arts District OU Application & Enrollment Info
At the heart of our purpose is the student experience, shaped by our deliberate efforts to prepare students for a life of success, meaning, service and positive impact. In everything we do, we prioritize the needs of our students, equipping them to enter society as leaders who understand the world around them and who are motivated to make a meaningful difference. In each step of the OU journey, students are afforded a wealth of resources and a dedicated community to support growth and success. More than anything, our commitment to becoming a place of true belonging for all is what makes OU so special. Although our campus community comes from different places and backgrounds, we are one family, united by the traditions we hold dear and inspired by the shared values that let us dream and achieve together.
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EXPERIENCE SOONER NATION VISIT OUR NORMAN CAMPUS IN PERSON... CAMPUS TOURS are offered at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., Monday - Friday, and on select Saturdays at 9 a.m. Prospective students and their families can sign up at tour.ou.edu.
ACADEMIC TOURS may be available for specific colleges throughout the year. Visit tour.ou.edu to see the specialty tour options.
SELF-GUIDED TOURS are a great option for any campus visitor looking to explore OU. Find our self-guided tour sheet at ou.edu/visit.
EVENTS for prospective students and their families are offered throughout the year. Visit go2.ou.edu/events to see a list of upcoming events.
...OR ONLINE. Check out visit.ou.edu for tips to help plan your visit, things to do at OU and general campus tour information, including scheduling. If you are a prospective student, visit admissions.ou.edu to learn more about what OU can offer you.
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Need a campus map? Pull up our Google maps at ou.edu/map.
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Unable to visit OU in person? Check out our virtual tour and other resources at go2.ou.edu/virtual-tour. Our 360° tour shows many spots across campus, including our historic South Oval, the beautiful lobby of our Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History and even the OU stadium during game day!
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OU ATHLETICS We’re proud to support OU’s 21 intercollegiate sports teams. Visit soonersports.com
for detailed schedules and information on all of our sports.
While you’re on campus, make sure to stop by Heisman Park to get a taste of OU’s rich football history. All Oklahoma Heisman winners are honored with a statue in the park, located directly east of Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium.
OU ARTS DISTRICT OU’s performances and exhibitions are the laboratories where students put into practice what they learn in the classroom. Enjoy OU’s fantastic season of legendary musical theatre, classic and contemporary drama, stunning ballet and modern dance, sweeping symphonies and original artwork. See OU’s annual University Theatre schedule at theatre.ou.edu. The OU Fine Arts Box Office, located in Catlett Music Center at 500 W. Boyd St., is open 11:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday-Friday. Visit or call (405) 325-4101 for more Norman Visitors Guide 23-24.indd 41
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OU APPLICATION & ENROLLMENT
INFORMATION Students interested in attending OU should join our mailing list at go2.ou.edu/mailing-list because we will send valuable information about the process and deadlines via mail, email and text.
START THE OU JOURNEY OU’s Concurrent Enrollment program provides students the opportunity to take OU courses during high school. We offer classes both in person and online, and students do not need a test score to apply. Learn more about
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APPLICATION PROCESS Incoming freshmen can apply
one of three ways to OU, either through the OU Application at apply.ou.edu, the Common Application or Apply Coalition with Scoir. All applications are thoroughly read by an admissions counselor and are evaluated holistically regardless of application type: Academic rigor, including GPA, test scores (encouraged), class rank and course rigor Leadership experience, community involvement, etc. Writing and self-expression measured through an essay Up to three letters of recommendation (optional) The University of Oklahoma practices a test-optional admissions policy. Students do not need a test score to be considered for admission and scholarships. However, we do still encourage applicants to submit a test score if possible to ensure accurate course placement and maximize scholarship opportunities. Visit go2.ou.edu/test-scores to learn more.
IMPORTANT DATES for incoming freshmen: AUGUST 1 Application opens
NOVEMBER 1 Early action admission deadline
DECEMBER 15
FEBRUARY 1
MAY 1
Final scholarship admission deadline
Final admission deadline
Enrollment deposit due
IMPORTANT DATES for transfer students: AUGUST 1
OCTOBER 1
NOVEMBER 1
MARCH 1
APRIL 1
JUNE 1
Summer & fall applications open
Spring priority scholarship deadline
Spring application deadline
Summer & fall priority scholarship deadline
Summer application deadline
Fall application deadline & spring application opens
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