The Boathouse District is a side of Oklahoma City that can surprise first-time visitors. Just outside downtown, the Oklahoma River has been developed into a centre for rowing, paddling, fitness and outdoor recreation.
The striking boathouses along the river immediately signal that this is more than an ordinary urban waterfront. The area has hosted high-level rowing and canoeing activity while also offering experiences aimed at ordinary visitors.
Get active near downtown
What you can actually do depends on the season, weather and current programme, so this is one place where checking ahead matters. Activities may include paddling and other adventure-oriented experiences rather than simply watching the river.
If you prefer to stay on land, the river trails still provide a reason to visit, particularly if you enjoy cycling, running or walking.
Part of modern OKC
I like the Boathouse District because it challenges the image of Oklahoma City as purely highways, cowboys and oil. The redevelopment of the river has created an outdoor recreation area surprisingly close to the city centre.
Combine it with nearby attractions rather than making a long cross-city journey for a quick photograph. With the right activity booked, however, it can become one of the more memorable parts of an Oklahoma City trip.