The generation raised with social media and 2-day delivery is now longing for more. This generation seems more open to tangible, in-person social experiences. I couldn’t be more excited to experience this part of life with my kids, even if I am just the chauffeur watching from afar. Here is a list of 50 things that teens and pre-teens can do around the OKC metro with or without you.
We all know there is no “one-size-fits-all” for teens. My goal is to give every type of family a starting point to finding ways to bond and give the independence our teens and pre-teens desire. Believe it or not, I have been through this phase four times already. Somehow, it feels new every time.
I went directly to the source, and they delivered a real insight into what kids and parents enjoy doing together. About 50 favorite places were agreed upon by a very diverse group of people, family structures, and values. You have everything from board game groups to batting cage adventures.
1. Movies
Whether you are dropping off or staying in the back row, movies are always a good way to hang out. Here are a few theaters that seem to be frequently mentioned.
Flix Brewhouse (OKC), Icon Cinema (Edmond, NW OKC), AMC (Quail Springs Mall, Penn Square Mall), Tinseltown (NE OKC)
2. Skating (roller and ice)
Whether you are in the mood for a group skate or a fun game of hockey, here are some of the top places for fun on the go.
Skate Galaxy (NW OKC), Yukon on Wheels (Yukon), Star Skate (Midwest City), Blazers Ice Rink (S OKC), Arctic Edge Ice Arena (Edmond)
3. Skate Parks (skateboarding, rollerblading, scooters)
Skate parks were always my favorite reading spots. I couldn’t stand to watch, but I also couldn’t say no. I read a lot of good books during those days. It seems not much has changed, and these skate parks are still causing stress to all the mamas out there.
Stars and Stripes Skateparks (OKC), Matt Hoffman Skateparks (SE OKC), Kiwanis Skatepark (Midwest City)
4. Theme Parks
For the thrill seekers, there is no shortage of places to go. With seasons changing, there is something for everyone.
Frontier City (OKC), Slick City Action Park (OKC), Celebration Station (OKC), IFLY (OKC), Main Event (NW OKC)
5. Water Parks
In my personal opinion, you can never lose with a water park. It’s the one place where I can let the teens run free and work on my tan and Vitamin D. We all know that sometimes the only thing that can save us is water in this Oklahoma heat. Just know, I will always want to call it White Water Bay. Out of respect, I will reference it as Hurricane Harbor. Here are some other fun options, too.
Okana Resort (OKC), Pelican Bay Aquatic Center (Edmond), Westwood Family Aquatic Center (Norman)
6. Golf
I never thought we’d have whole restaurants dedicated to the game of golf. If we are talking teens, hormones, and hitting an object as hard as you can, this may be better than therapy for some kids.
Top Golf (OKC), Brickopolis Mini Golf (OKC), Celebration Station (OKC), Glow Golf at Quail Springs (NW OKC)
7. Batting Cages
If you don’t have a tween who would rather spend their time practicing, I am sure you know a mom who does. Here are some cost-friendly and parent-friendly batting cages for your ball-loving kids.
D-Batt (OKC), The Grind (Bethany), Ace Batting Cage (Norman), Ballerz Academy (OKC), Curveball Kitchen (OKC)
8. Get Coffee
Nothing says independence more than hanging out and drinking coffee or anything that doesn’t involve an adult. Lucky for us, there are plenty of places for young teens to hang out, talk, and get the separation they crave, all while being in an environment we can trust.
Serve Community Coffee (Bethany), Elemental Coffee (OKC), Caboose Coffee (OKC)
9. Restaurants
Dining out without your parents is the right of passage into teenhood. Restaurants with unique themes make this time even more special.
Curveball Kitchen (OKC), Fuzzy’s Tacos (OKC, Midwest City), Dave and Busters (OKC), Pho3nine (Bethany), Top Golf (OKC)
10. Working Out
Much like sports kids, you have your kids who spend their free time getting gains and hanging out with friends at the gym. Their bodies are changing, and they are embracing it. Lucky for us, hours in the gym are fun for them, so it’s a great time to run errands. Some require memberships, others are pay-as-you-go. Just make sure you have a birth certificate and sign a waiver for them to have on file.
YMCA Gym (multiple over the metro), Colaw Fitness (OKC), Four Star (multiple over the metro), Planet Fitness (multiple over the metro)
11. Baking
Encourage your kids to invite their friends over, bake bread, or even try the newest food trend. If they are really serious, you could even consider baking classes so they can really wow their friends.
Francis Tuttle (OKC), Metro Tech (OKC), Sur la Table (OKC)
12. Attending a Game
Luckily, we live in a state where sports are a lifestyle, which makes every sports season a big deal and also leaves a year-round opportunity to support the sports of Oklahoma.
OKC Thunder (basketball), OKC Comets (baseball), OKC Energy Soccer (soccer), The Sparks (softball), Oklahoma Warriors (hockey), Oklahoma Rugby Football Club (rugby)
13. Concerts
The bigger OKC gets, the more entertainment we draw in. We have no shortage of great venues for bands to stop in. Some of the more tween and teen-friendly bands tend to play at all-age venues, which don’t make us old timers feel too out of place.
Zoo Amphitheater (NE OKC), The Criterion (OKC), Resonant Head (SW OKC), Diamond Ballroom (South OKC), Tower Theater (OKC)
14. Trampoline Parks
I have found that these are the go-to when you are juggling pre-teens and younger children. Everyone is happy, and everyone is entertained.
Ground Control (Yukon), Urban Air (Moore), Sky Zone (Edmond), Get Air Trampoline Park (Norman)
15. Pickleball
What started as a game for the older generation is quickly catching on with the younger generation. A game that allows you to socialize, have fun, and be competitive, all while going at your own pace.
Chicken and Pickle (OKC), Kickingbird Pickleball Center (Edmond), Hey Pickle Pickle (Norman)
16. Church Programs
Community can often be found in faith-based activities. Preteens and young teens feel safe when they are around like-minded kids and can be open and vulnerable. Many churches offer youth groups, mission trips, youth conventions, youth rec sports leagues, and more.
17. Archery
I am fascinated by archery, and I love that there is still a culture where young teens are learning such a disciplined skill. If your child likes the movie Brave and wants to try their hand at archery, here are some places to check out.
Archery Tradition of Oklahoma (Yukon), Choctaw Archery (Choctaw), Okie-Land Bowhunters (Norman)
18. Arcades
Kids will be kids, and the best place to do that is an arcade. They are timeless: a piece of our past we can pass down to our children.
Cactus Jacks (Bethany), Incredible Pizza (OKC), Dave & Busters (NW OKC), Round 1 Bowling & Arcade (Quail Springs Mall)
19. Unique Attractions
As our city grows, so do the fun attractions that are family-friendly and even a little unique. From interactive museums to having a coffee with a car.
Factory Obscura (OKC), Wheeler District Ferris Wheel (OKC), Meow & Mocha Cat Cafe (Norman), Don’t Stress Meowt Cat Cafe (OKC), Chaos Factory (Norman)
20. Museums
What once was a flyover state has turned out to be a hub for interesting history and real-time history being made. There is always something new to learn about Oklahoma and fun places for your kids to enjoy it.
Oklahoma Contemporary Arts Museum (OKC), Oklahoma City Art Museum (OKC), National Cowboy Museum (OKC), Science Museum (OKC), Museum of Osteology (OKC), American Banjo Museum (OKC)
21. Zoo
Do we ever really get too old for the zoo? What is not to love about animals, snow cones, and paddle boat rides on a nice summer day? If you don’t feel like walking around and would rather stay in your vehicle . . . we have options for you, too.
Oklahoma City Zoo (OKC), Tiger Safari Zoological Park (Tuttle)
22. Bricktown
At this point, Bricktown is a given. Between the restaurants, arcades, boat rides, and seasonal events, Bricktown is a default to have a good time with your young ones.
OKC Underground (OKC), Chickasaw Ballpark (OKC), Restaurants (Bricktown)
23. Lakes
Whether it’s winter, fall, spring, or summer, everyone loves the lake. Seasons don’t stop the fun, and neither should age!
Lake Arcadia (Edmond), Lake Overholser (OKC), Keystone Lake (Sand Springs)
24. Fishing
In a state where we have more lakes than we can count, fishing just comes as second nature. Whether you are fishing for fun, food, or trying to grab a catfish with your bare hand . . . there is absolutely no shortage of fun. And mamas, it’s ok to sit back and catch up on your latest book while the teens play.
Lake Overholser (OKC), Lake Hefner (OKC), Neighborhood Ponds
25. Girls’ Night In
Instead of leaving the house, have a girls’ night. Think self-care, karaoke, crafts, and all things girly.
26. Fun Photoshoots
In the age of social media, backdrops are everything. Exploring the city with your tweens and even being their paparazzi can set up a memorable night. Not only are they getting fire shots for the gram, but you are making core memories.
The Plaza Walls (OKC), Paseo Arts District (OKC), Bricktown Bridges (OKC), Wheeler District (OKC)
27. Go-Karts
For all the adrenaline junkies out there, maybe Go-karting is a plan for a fun Friday night with friends. More and more tracks are opening, and the need for speed amongst the youth is increasing.
Andretti Indoor Karting (OKC), Oklahoma Motorsport Complex (Norman), Celebration Station (OKC)
28. Give Back
For the younger generation that is passionate about giving back to their community in hopes of making a better future, you can turn volunteering into a group activity. Check with local food banks, soup kitchens, or outreaches that are age-appropriate.
Regional Food Bank of Oklahoma (S OKC), Habitat for Humanity (OKC), Hope Retreat Horse Ranch (Choctaw)
29. Sleepovers
Girls can have their girls’ night, but what about the boys? Sleepovers are not gender exclusive, but the messes may differ. Some fun things to do, weather permitting, would be backyard campouts, backyard ‘drive-in’ movies, and flashlight tag.
30. Neighborhood Gatherings
Just like it sounds, the kids come home when the streetlights go out. Community is created from front porch hangs while you watch your children get a glimpse of the childhood you grew up with. I’m talking about block parties and bikes in front yards. Sometimes things are worth bringing back from the past.
31. Bowling
Bowling is making its return. This is a surefire way to ensure a fun evening. Did you know that bowling alleys nationwide offer free summer bowling for kids? Find a participating lane near you.
Round 1 Bowling & Arcade (Quail Springs Mall), AMF Windsor Lanes (NW OKC), Bowlero Edmond (Edmond)
32. Bookstores
Sometimes you just need to read. And sometimes reading is just more fun when you are with your friends. OKC has a variety of bookstores with plenty of room to gather, read, and hang out with your closest book friends.
Garden Cafe at Full Circle Books (OKC), Barnes and Noble (All over metro), Commonplace Books (OKC)
33. Bike Trails
The wind in your hair as you and your friends bike trails together and explore nature; that is what teenage dreams are made of. The perfect balance of freedom and childhood. Also, if you are like me, you can just stay 10 feet behind to calm your nerves . . . or you can challenge them and show them that things do get better with age!
Lake Hefner Trail (OKC), Oklahoma River Trails (OKC), Bluff Creek Trail (OKC)
34. Chisolm Creek
Chisolm Creek is an up-and-coming area with a ton of restaurants, experiences, and shopping. Whether you want a delicious dessert or a fine dining experience, this is a great place for any teen or tween celebration.
Red Door Escape Room (OKC), Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt (OKC), Ramsey’s Kitchen (OKC)
35. Explore Nature
Spend some time exploring nature in a large city. Turn your adventure into a scavenger hunt for your young teens.
Martin Nature Park (OKC), Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge (OKC)
36. Choreographed Dances
Do you remember spending hours choreographing dances with your friends to show to absolutely no one? Were my friends and I the only ones who did that? Well, as we know, that has morphed into reels and videos on social platforms. This can be a scary and touchy subject when it comes to young children and social media. But allowing this to happen in your home with your supervision is a total game-changer. Also, don’t be afraid to join in. Here are some studios you could learn some great moves from.
Everything Goes Dance Studio (NW OKC), Dove Dance (Mustang), International Dance Studio (NE OKC)
37. Festivals
Whether you are looking for independent art vendors or the most delicious watermelon you could imagine, there isn’t a tween, teen, or parent who can turn down an Oklahoma Festival. Check out some popular ones around the city.
Paseo Arts Festival (OKC), Rush Springs Watermelon Festival (Rush Springs), Plaza Festival (OKC), Guthrie Renaissance Festival (Guthrie)
38. Shooting Range
Let’s face it, we live in Oklahoma. For my family, we taught our tweens gun safety and how to properly handle a firearm. I know this is not for everyone, but for those of you who are on the edge, check out these places for classes, ranges, and resources for your teens.
H&H Gun Range (OKC), Oklahoma City Gun Club (OKC), Wilshire Gun (OKC)
39. Cosplay
If you have a teen who is into LOTR, superheroes, or anime, then you know how much joy cosplay can bring. Stay up to date on the fairs and cons that will be traveling through our local areas.
Medieval Fair (Norman), GalaxyCon (OKC), SoonerCon (Norman)
40. Board Game Clubs
I didn’t know until recently that there are actually places you can go to play board games with other kids. Check out these places for times and games that they accommodate.
Gambits Toybox (Bethany), Kobold Lounge (OKC), Forgotten Labyrinth Game and Hobby Center (Moore)
41. Mini Road Trips
Grab a few friends and take a day trip. There is so much to see in our great state. You get to enjoy the experience while the teens learn some history without even realizing it!
Route 66 (OK), Alabaster Cavern State Park (Freedom), Blue Hole Park (Salina), Great Salt Plains State Park (Cherokee)
42. Botanicas
That is right! Teens and tweens enjoy learning how to grow and thrive off the land. The interest in agriculture is slowly creeping back. Also, let’s not forget to mention the great pictures they make for the gram!
Myriad Botanical Gardens (OKC), Will Rogers Gardens (OKC)
43. Arts District
If you are looking for somewhere with great shopping, fun art, and an all-around edgy feeling for your curious tween, these places are sure to leave an impression.
Paseo Arts District (OKC), The Plaza Arts District (OKC)
44. Drive-in Movies
The last standing Winchester Drive-in is in Oklahoma City. Let your teens and tweens get a final chance to experience watching your favorite movie outside, underneath the stars.
45. Thrifting
It’s back in, and it’s fun. Whether you are dropping off or shopping along, we can all get lost in the thrift store for hours. These are some of the favorite and unique thrift stores that we love to visit.
The Rink (Bethany), Bad Granny’s Bazarre (OKC), Goodwill (All Over), Retread Thrift (The Village), Pets & People Thrift (Yukon)
46. Aquariums
Consider taking your teen to some unforgettable experiences where you would least expect them.
Blue Zoo Aquarium in Quail Springs (NW OKC), Jenks Aquarium (Jenks), Science Museum (NE OKC)
47. Weird Science
If you have a kid who enjoys staying at home and learning, find some fun household science experiments you can do safely from your own home. Even better if they are outside and the neighborhood kids can join in.
48. Boba Tea Shops
Another opportunity to hang out without the parents and flex some independence. Boba is popular with the young crowd!
Babble Coffee and Boba Tea Bar (NW OKC), OK Boba Tea (Bethany)
49. Street Sports
Playing basketball games in a friend’s driveway. Throwing a baseball in the middle of a neighborhood street. Football in a friend’s front yard. These are things that not only bring nostalgia to us as parents but are an inexpensive and experiential way to entertain pre-teens and teens. Play until the streetlights come on!
50. Play at the Park
Let’s face it, most kids act like they grow out of the thrill of swings, but all of our mama hearts just know how untrue that is. If you happen to be in the Tulsa area, The Gathering is a great park for all ages.
Scissortail Park (OKC), Stars and Stripes Park (OKC), neighborhood parks
Don’t be afraid to join in or watch from afar. They may not want you next to them, but they will always want you there.
If you have any ideas, let us know in the comments! Every kid is different, and we value everyone’s input.
