Cowboys, Chihuly and Curiosity

Music & Memorial

Four Days in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Hearing we were headed to Oklahoma people often inquired why. They would be surprised by how positive, educational and entertaining we’ve found our experiences. We came to Oklahoma City primarily to visit a couple of museum and become acquainted with the community. Mission accomplished.

Highlights:

• Edgar Cruz Concert – seeing this talented guitarist live in a casual setting was a real bonus; and, he’s as personable as he is talented. A  great evening.
• National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum – The reputation of this major facility was a major priority on the trip. We expected to spend at least a half day; instead, we arrived 1/2-hour after opening at 10am and where there until closing at 5pm. Many of exhibits deserved even more time.
• Oklahoma City Museum of Art – The large and comprehensive Dale Chihuly glass collection is a must see.
• Oklahoma City National Memorial – A sobbering tribute of the 168 innocent victims killed in the April 1995 bombing of the Murrah building. Our visit was too late in the day to also visit the museum but I’m sure it is also very moving.
• Science Museum Oklahoma – Hundreds of interactive exhibits and activities plus IMAX theater,planetarium, Science Live! presentations and two halls of fame. It seemed like every family in Oklahoma choose  the Science Museum for  the first day of spring break.
• Mama Roja’s Mexican Kitchen – When the wait Saturday night was 2 hours we went elsewhere; but returned Sunday to good food and margaritas and exceptional service.
• Staybridge Suites at Quail Springs – So comfortable we extended our stay – and, a great value on weekends.

Additional Activities:

• Dining on Persimmon Hill – Within the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, the restaurant offers either a lunch buffet or menu items.
• Swadley’s BBQ – Recommended by the hotel desk clerk; nothing fancy but tasty and reasonably priced.
• State Capitol Photos – Stopped by the Oklahoma capitol building Sunday morning for photos of the classical structure, on-site oil well and Allan Houser sculpture.
• Steak ‘n Shake in Edmond – A Steak ‘n Shake visit is always a step back to my youth.

If we hadn’t both been fighting colds and I was gimping around with a bad knee reminiscent of Chester on Gunsmoke we would have done even more. Perhaps next time!