Norman, OK, is synonymous with Sooners and The University of Oklahoma, of course. Boomer Sooner! But there are also plenty of other things to do in Norman, and it has so much to offer for a fun day with kids.
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.
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 on the campus at OU, it features 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 that 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
This stretch in the heart of Norman has 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 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
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
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
- Check out Hideaway Pizza (an OKC favorite, too!). We recommend the Pollinator—Olive oil and 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 Ted’s or Chuy’s.
- Benvenuti’s has great Italian food for a “fancier” dinner.
