The first time I visited Oklahoma City in the 1980s, I have to admit that I was underwhelmed. I didn't feel there was much to do, and apart from some Art Deco architecture, I found little to distinguish it from any other Midwest city. But it has gone through a major renaissance over the past decade.
People often associate Oklahoma City with the '95 bombing. However, the one silver lining on this very dark event is that it forced the city to renew its image and take steps towards bringing back tourism and business. A lot of money has been poured into the city as a result. The newly-renovated Myriad Convention Center, along with a bunch of new hotels and restaurants, has helped O.C. regain its status. This is a reasonably priced place, which is reflected in the hotel rates: average hotels range between $45 to $85. The money you save here should definitely be spent on a mouthwatering meal; this is one of the top steak cities in America. If you prefer your livestock alive and kicking, I highly recommend checking out at least one honest-to-goodness rodeo in your lifetime, and believe me, this is the city to see one in.
Good News for Collectors
Oklahoma City is also an antique collector's dream. There's the AMC Flea Market Mall with over 600 booths, enough to keep you busy for days. Another must-see is Rodeo Theatre Antiques. The building itself has as much history as the things for sale inside. It was built in 1912 as community center, and gave out free food during the Depression. Then, from 1925 through 1969, it served as a local cinema. Today, it houses the largest western vintage-collectible store in Oklahoma, including Native American art and photos of bygone cowboy movie stars.
After seeing the city's revived spirit and the strides that businesses and residents have taken towards revitalization, I have eaten my words. Oklahoma City has everything you could want in a vacation or business destination. There is cutting-edge and classic architecture, great food, warm people, and lots of culture and events to choose from.
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