Norman, OK is synonymous with Sooners and The University of Oklahoma, of course. Boom Sooner! But there are also plenty of other things to do in Norman, and it has so much offer for a fun day trip as it’s only a quick 30 minute drive south from OKC.
Norman holds a special place in my heart; it was my hometown nearly my entire life, and where I attended college. It boasts a cultural mixture of art, festivals, dining, collegiate events, and fun for families. You can surely fill a few days with fun activities to enjoy!
Things to Do with Kids in Norman, Oklahoma
Sam Noble Museum of Natural History
The Sam Noble Museum is a must-visit when you are in Norman! A wonderful museum nestled in the campus at OU featuring a wide collection of natural history exhibits. Children will really enjoy the prehistoric exhibit including dinosaur fossils!
Fred Jones Jr Museum of Art
This museum is for those who love artwork. Explore the beautiful building on the university campus with a large collection of Native American artwork.
OU Campus
Sooner fan or not, we can all agree major university campuses are fun to visit. Visit “campus corner” for an array of local shops, eateries, and events. Take a stroll around the campus grounds and admire the beautiful landscaping that OU is known for. Catch an OU sporting event and definitely stop to see “The Palace on the Prairie!”
Norman Firehouse Art Center
A quaint but wonderful gallery that features art exhibits, hosts instructional sessions, and partners to host events for the community.
National Weather Service
Norman is home to the head of the National Weather Service. Living in this area of the country, we love our weather, don’t we? Visit the center for a tour!
Downtown Norman
A stretch in the heart of Norman with wonderful local eateries, shops, and art galleries. Downtown Norman hosts an array of exciting events, such as the Farmer’s Markets and the Must-See, Norman Music Fest. Sooner Theatre is one to check out for local performing arts!
Riverwind Casino
A large casino with plenty of gaming, concerts and events, restaurants, and a posh hotel.
Norman Events
Norman boasts itself as a town of festivals, such as the famed Jazz in June. Check the schedule to see what’s going on around town!
Parks in Norman, OK
Ruby Grant Park: A new and upcoming park featuring a playground, dog park, trails and disc golf.
Andrews Park: A large park with lots to enjoy: splash pad and playground for the littles, basketball courts, skate parks, trails, and an amphitheater for special events.
Reeves Park: Another large park with plenty to explore. This park offers a playground, basketball and volleyball courts, trails, and picnic tables.
Outdoor Activities in Norman, OK
If you crave outdoor adventure, Norman also features Lake Thunderbird with a swimming area, plenty of hiking and biking trails, camping areas, and more. Be sure to check out Discovery Cove Nature Center for some outdoor artifact fun!
Favorite Eats in Norman, OK
- Check out Hideaway Pizza (an OKC favorite too!) – we recommend the Pollinator – Olive oil & garlic glaze, salami, spicy capicola, cup ‘n’ curl pepperoni, banana peppers, topped with Mike’s Hot Honey®. So delicious!
- The Surf Bar makes the most incredible acaí bowls. We love the Nu-Stella!
- The Garage has great burgers (again like OKC).
- For Mexican, try Tarahumaras or Tex Mex favorites Teds or Chuys.
- Tinos is a great Italian lunch spot!
- Benvenutti has great Italian food for a “fancier” dinner.
This article was originally written on Wichita Mom by Nicole.
