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Oklahoma City, once known as the 'unassigned lands,' was opened for settlement on April 22, 1889. In just one single day, about 10,000 homesteaders created a tent city and settled in what is presently downtown Oklahoma City. Ranked as the seventh largest city in the United States, Oklahoma City is noted for being one of the top livestock markets in the world. The city is situated in the middle of an oilfield making it a hub for several natural gas companies.
Just like any other city, Oklahoma City has its own share of 'special sightseeing spots.' One of the most popular tourist destinations in Oklahoma City is the Bricktown Canal. Casually modeled after San Antonio's River Walk, this is a man-made canal that runs right through the historic Bricktown district. You can find shops and restaurants in close proximity all along the canal. You can also experience the new Bricktown Canal by taking a Water Taxi. These are flat-bottomed boats that are used by both tourists and locals. Once you have finished your ride, you can settle down for a great BBQ lunch alongside the canal.
If you have always been fascinated by the 'wild west,' the 'National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum' in Oklahoma City is the right place to fuel your excitement. In this 220,000 square foot museum you will find hundreds of sculptures and literally thousands of photographs, artifacts and paintings from the old west. The most recent addition is the Joe Grandee Museum, which showcases more than 5,000 artifacts from the artist's very own collection.
What is a city without a garden? Oklahoma City has its own beautiful 'Myriad Botanical Gardens.' Take a trip to these beautiful gardens at Reno and Robinson. At the Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory, you will discover plants from all around the world. You will also be enthralled by the beauty of the zebra long-winged butterflies. There is an Adventure Trail as well; the trail winds down under a 35-foot waterfall and up a vine-covered mountain. The sunken lake in the garden is filled with Japanese koi and native Oklahoma fish.
A visit to Oklahoma City is not complete without a trip to the 'Oklahoma City National Memorial.' The 19th of April, 1995, was undoubtedly one of the darkest days in the history of Oklahoma City. It was on this day that the 'Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building' was bombed. Here in the memorial, you will find 168 empty chairs; one for each of the victims of the bombing. You will also notice the Survivor Tree; this tree has turned into a symbol of hope to the people of Oklahoma City. Admission to the outside memorial is free, but the there is a charge to enter the museum.
At the National Softball Hall of Fame, you will find everything you ever wanted to know about the game, right from its inception to the greatest players that have played the game. The museum consists of the Hall of Honor and the Hall of Fame. Almost everyone interested in sport will find this venue a pleasure to visit.
