Why Visit Norman, OK? Museums & Family Adventures

With a vision of inspiring appreciation of the earth and its peoples, the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History has been a part of the University of Oklahoma since 1899. The museum conducts scientific investigations to preserve and develop a greater understanding of human cultural heritage and natural resources.

Visitors of all ages can explore the exhibitions and programs developed from these findings. Over 50,000 square feet, the museum has over 10 million artifacts that trace over 500 million years of Oklahoma’s history. Some of the interesting specimens include a meteorite, two-foot wide dragonflies, and a walk-through limestone cave.

2401 Chautauqua Ave., Norman, OK 73072-7029, 405-325-4712

A part of the University of Oklahoma, the Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium opened in 1923, and it is one of the most recognized college football stadiums in the US. Ranked among the 15 largest on-campus facilities in the nation, the stadium also ranks as the largest sports arena in the state.

The stadium can hold 82,112 people, and visitors come from all over to attend numerous sporting events, from basketball and baseball to gymnastics and of course, football. Visitors can walk through the halls where Sooner legends once walked and view memorabilia and other displays dedicated to the many years of events the stadium has held.

180 E. Brooks St., Norman, OK 73019, 405-325-2424

The Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art started with one class, minimal supplies, and one man’s dream to direct an art school that would nurture students, allowing them to their fullest potential. Oscar Jacobsen, who became Director of the School of Art in 1915, began slowly collecting works of art as soon as he was able.

In 1935, the University of Oklahoma Museum of Art was officially founded after the acquisition of 750 objects of East Asian art through a generous gift, in addition to the 2,500 works of art Jacobsen had collected. Visitors can explore over 40,000 square feet of art and culture; current exhibitions include Galileo’s World: An Artful Observation of the Cosmos, which is accompanied by presentations and discussions with professors and curators.

555 Elm Avenue, Norman, OK 73019-3003, 405-325-3272

Recommended Activities for Families

Over 250,000 square feet, the National Weather Center consists of over 550 operational meteorologists, research scientists, climatologists, technicians, engineers, support staff, and graduate and undergraduate students of The University of Oklahoma.

Together with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the National Weather Center aims to better understand the Earth’s atmosphere and the natural events that occur. Visitors are invited to explore the center, from the National Severe Storm Laboratory or the NOAA/NWS Storm Prediction Center. There is also an outdoor classroom and weather observation deck for visitors to discover. Tours for visitors of all ages can be scheduled in advance to ensure a spot.

120 David L Boren Blvd., Norman, OK 73072, 405-325-3095

For a day of water sports and fun activities under the sun, visitors of Norman, Oklahoma can turn to Lake Thunderbird State Park. Boasting two marinas, the Calypso Cove and the Little River Marine, the park also has two beaches designated for swimming for those looking to cool off.

Other facilities include numerous boat ramps, RV sites, restroom facilities, campsites, playgrounds, an archery range, and picnic areas. Visitors can spend the day riding the equestrian trail, hiking, or mountain biking; there are designated areas for deer archery and waterfowl hunting for visitors to participate in during the appropriate seasons.

13101 Alameda Dr., Norman, OK 73026, 405-360-3572

Attractions for Couples

The Firehouse Art Center is a non-profit organization that has been offering Norman’s citizens and visitors an escape to fine arts and culture since 1971. The center provides visual art classes and gallery exhibitions, and visitors can also participate in classes such as ceramics, painting, drawing, sculpture, stone carving, jewelry construction, and fused and slumped glass.

Visitors are urged to explore the working studio spaces and get to know local artists and their work. It is also an opportunity for visitors to better understand an artist’s creative process and development. The center hosts an array of evolving gallery exhibitions throughout the year.

444 South Flood Avenue, Norman, OK 73069-5513, 405-329-4523

A much loved part of the city of Norman, the Historic Campus Corner District has been standing since 1917, and is known for its cluster of shopping outlets that feature some of the best local products in the region.

Aside from shopping, visitors here can experience a range of dining opportunities, as well as nightlife in the form of live music and a vibrant bar and cafe culture. There are events throughout the year such as art showcases and sports events that are twinned with the University of Oklahoma, which is located nearby, so if you want to witness a slice of local university life in Norman, then this is the perfect place to visit.

542 South University Boulevard, Norman, OK 73069, 405-1410-5821

Fun for all the family is nearer than you think with a trip to HeyDay Entertainment, which has everything you need for the perfect day out. There are bowling alleys if you want to get in a few games. If you want something more adventurous, then why not choose Laser Tag and try to tag as many opponents as you can?

You can test your agility on the rope course or the laser maze, or simply play all your favorite funfair games at the arcade. There is even a mini golf course for all age groups to enjoy, and if you get hungry after a busy day of fun and games, then you can choose from the range of dining options onsite. There is even a bar area called the Hangout if you fancy a cocktail.

3210 Market Place, Norman, OK 73069, 405-310-3500