Best Landscapes in Oklahoma

Oklahoma Landscapes

Are you ready to explore some of the most beautiful landscapes Oklahoma has to offer?

Nelson Landscaping’s is happy to provide you with our Landscape Directory that contains a list of must-see landscapes such as:

• The Gathering Place
• Myriad Botanical Gardens
• Tulsa Botanic Garden
• Martin Park Nature Center
• Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge
• Arcadia Park Overlook
• Scissortail Park
• Chisholm Creek
• Bricktown Canal
• Oklahoma State Capitol
• Bicentennial Park
• Devon Tower
• Library Lawn – Oklahoma State University
• South Oval – The University of Oklahoma
• Lake Shore Park
• Hefner Lighthouse
• Paseo Arts District
• Plaza District
• OKC Boathouse District
• Chesapeake Energy Arena
• University of Central Oklahoma
• OKC Outlet Shops
• Lake Murray
• Turner Falls Park

Oklahoma Landscapes & Attractions Map

Oklahoma is home to several widely recognized landscapes and destinations that everyone can enjoy. Catch some sun at any of these outdoor attractions this state has to offer. These locations offer ample opportunity to spend time with loved ones whether that be by finding prime fishing spots, sliding down dunes, or experiencing the thrills of hunting. Not sure where to start? No worries, we’ve compiled a list of some of Oklahoma’s top landscapes and attractions!

Gathering Place – Tulsa, Oklahoma

One of the must-visit attractions in Tulsa, Oklahoma has to be The Gathering Place. This attraction is fit for all ages and does not require an entry fee. Visitors are encouraged to bring their bike, skateboard, or best walking shoes to explore 70 acres of family-friendly activities. After walking around stop by either of the three onsite restaurants for refreshments. Guests can also book a storytime, concert, or other entertainment events. Come see what all The Gathering Place has to offer! 

“The facility is amazing and one of a kind, but the programming the team continues to put together — always seeking ways to make the park inviting and accessible to all Tulsans — in the midst of a global pandemic has been extraordinary.” – Mayor G.T. Bynum (Source).

Myriad Botanical Gardens – Oklahoma City, OK

The Myriad Botanical Gardens centered in downtown Oklahoma City is a beautiful display of plant life. Connecting the community to nature. Plan a day trip to explore or just stop by for a stroll if you’re in the neighborhood. If you want to be able to walk through the Crystal Bridge Conservatory make sure to plan around their hours. The conservatory is open Monday and Tuesday, 10 am-5 pm; Wednesday-Saturday, 9 am-5 pm; Sunday, 11 am-5 pm. Myriad Botanical Gardens Outdoor Grounds Open daily: 6 am-11 pm. Whether you are just stopping by for a quick trip or want to plan an entire day, the Myriad Botanical Gardens is a great place to just relax and enjoy the view. 

Quote “ “Myriad Botanical Gardens is a treasure our city has embraced. The annual display of spring blooms brings great joy to many of our citizens and visitors. Jil and I personally have supported this effort on our own and through the Robert Glenn Rapp Foundation, where we serve as trustees. We are truly honored to have been a small part of this effort.” – Tony Boghetich (Source).

Tulsa Botanic Garden – Tulsa, Oklahoma

Catch beautiful views of the Tulsa Botanic Gardens’ seven-acre lake and surrounding gardens that include roses and other flowers. From the Amphitheater on the north side to the Children’s Discovery Garden, A.R. and Marylouise Tandy Floral Terraces, and Inspiration Gardens on the west, to a Chapel, tropical Conservatory, and Edible Gardens on the east, these gardens will highlight the worldwide importance of plants. Whether you’re catching garden events, like the Boozy, Brunch Dog Days, walking the trail, or hosting your wedding – the Tulsa Botanic Garden will provide you with beautiful blooms! The Garden is open Tuesday-Friday, 10 am – 5 pm; and Saturday – Sunday, 9 am – 5 pm; early weekend hours are from June – September.

“This garden’s special to Tulsa,” Bumgarner said. “It’s growing, as most gardens do, and it’s expanding and its future is going to be very bright. -John Bumgarner (Source)

Martin Park Nature Center

Tucked away in 140 acres of woods and lush grasslands, Martin Park Nature Center makes for the perfect escape from urban life. With more than 3 miles of trails wandering through the wildlife sanctuary and rocky streams, visitors can explore and learn about the surrounding nature. This hub space is an ideal spot for nature lovers of all ages with its guided hikes, hands-on educational facility, and recreational area. Come explore the beauty of all Martin Park Nature Center has to offer!

Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge

Stinchcomb Wildlife Refuge- a 1,000-acre serene haven popular for kayaking, bird watching, fishing, and hiking. The refuge is surrounded by swamps and forests which make it the ideal place for wildlife. Bring your bicycle and ride through Stinchcomb’s trails or explore the area on foot to get up close and personal with nature. Kayaks and canoes travel on the North Canadian River/Oklahoma River through interwoven marshes and brush. Experience the great outdoors without leaving OKC limits!

Arcadia Park Overlook

Arcadia Lake – the place for every season! Located on the Deep Fork River, the lake features water recreation opportunities, campgrounds, and equestrian trails. The Park Overlook is a great place for healing and gathering. Visitors can participate in various activities like fishing, kayaking, and archery. Vacationers can stop by during the summer months to enjoy fun in the sun!

Scissortail Park

Scissortail Park is one of Oklahoma City’s newest additions, a beautiful park in the heart of downtown. 70 acres of a public park that stretches from downtown to the Oklahoma River. There are activities of all kinds to keep you busy. The park has its playground, dog park, and a lake! There is even an outdoor skating rink that is open seasonally. Needless to say, anyone can find an activity that they enjoy.

Quote “ I think the idea of having the gardens as a center of a redevelopment was quickly understood as a potential to drive the whole redevelopment of the downtown,” he said. 

-James R. Tolbert III, a member of the Myriad Gardens Foundation (Source).

Chisholm Creek

From delicious food to fun activities. Chisholm Creek is a gorgeous place for a night out with your family. It seems like there is always a new place to explore with new businesses joining the Chisholm Creek community all the time! Eat at some of the best restaurants Oklahoma City has to offer. Walk off your meal afterward on the vast amounts of trails taking you around the property and its amazing landscape.   

Quote “We are excited to have an opportunity to be a part of Oklahoma City and the Chisholm Creek planned development. The Medallion Group has done an incredible job creating a live-work-play environment, and (it) will be a great location for our future residents,” said Will Smith, vice president of development. (Source).

Bricktown Canal – Oklahoma City, OK

The Bricktown Canal is a beautiful part of downtown Oklahoma City and has been around for over 20years. Visitors and tourists can take a water taxi tour around Bricktown. You can also travel on foot alongside the canal which passes by dozens of restaurants and bars. 
Quote “One of the biggest surprises that I’ve seen here is the fish and the size of the fish,” said Scott Copelin, who heads the cleanup efforts. “Last time we emptied it, we had about 70 catfish that were 2 feet long or longer in the canal.” – Reporter Perris Jones (Source).

Oklahoma State Capitol

Oklahoma’s State Capitol was built in the early 1900s. The dome that completes the capital was finished in 2002. The build itself is surrounded by gardens. One unique feature unlike any other state capital anywhere else the Oklahoma capital has working oil rigs located around the property. 

Quote “The Oklahoma State Senate dedicated artwork Tuesday depicting two of Oklahoma’s most beautiful landscapes, the Wichita Mountains and the Arkansas River.” (Source).

Bicentennial Park

What once was a freight yard for St. Louis and San Francisco Railroad, is now a gathering place for festivals and other outdoor activities. The BiCentennial Park is located in front of the Civic Center and has a gorgeous 360-degree view of Downtown Oklahoma City. Visitors can enjoy full access to the park and its amenities throughout the entire day. The new design was made to connect public buildings through parks. Make sure you check out the interactive art installation of the musical swings. Take a walk around this grand lawn and explore all that Downtown Oklahoma City has to offer!

“Imagine creating beautiful sounds and melodies instantaneously with a complete stranger, and all you have to do is swing,” said Nancy Anthony, Oklahoma City Community Foundation president. (Source).

Devon Tower

From its announced construction back in 2008, The Devon Tower is now the metro’s tallest buildings. The 50-story glass tower reaches new heights far above the surrounding of the metro area and is tied with Park Tower in Chicago as the 62nd tallest building in the United States. Since its completion, the building has been the focal point of a resurgence in Oklahoma City. The architectural design has won several awards due to its three-sided structure, spacious and modern lobby, and amazing lighting during the night. At the top of the tower, visitors can find “Vast-” a restaurant on the 49th floor with an incredible view and fine dining experience. If you’re ever downtown Oklahoma City, be sure to stop by the Devon Tower. It’s hard to miss!

Library Lawn – Oklahoma State University

Looking for a beautiful afternoon sit? Visit Oklahoma State University’s Library Lawn. This beautiful and spacious lawn has a fountain, garden, and pond all in one area. As you walk around the area, you’ll find neatly trimmed hedges and well-kept flower beds. There are also entertainment opportunities like Shakespeare on the Lawn. Visit Library Lawn’s website for more information on upcoming events!

South Oval – The University of Oklahoma

The South Oval is where The University of Oklahoma first rose out of the vast prairie to become its present-day masterpiece of education, architecture, and horticulture. If you’re ever in the area, be sure to visit the campus and surrounding landscape!

Lake Shore Park

Lake Shore Park is the perfect place to take a morning walk or bike ride around Lake Hefner. Located in the northwest corner of Oklahoma City, Lake Shore Park offers trails and secluded spots to watch the beautiful sunrise. Don’t be surprised when you see a swarm of seagulls! They usually emerge in the early morning hours to feed on the fish. Visitors can use the dedicated bike lanes for running or cycling. The best times to go are usually in the mornings, that way you can beat the traffic.

Hefner Lighthouse – Oklahoma City, OK

Lake Hefner is a popular spot among the locals, especially the lighthouse. When visiting the lake you’ll find cyclists, runners, and people dining at the lakeside restaurants. An ideal time for photographers to catch a beautiful shot is either at sunrise or when the sun starts to set. For those who love water sports or fishing, Lake Hefner offers ample opportunities for sailing and secluded spots for fishing. Towards the south side of the lake, you’ll also find the Lake Hefner Golf Course. Regardless of the season, this area is always bustling with life!

Paseo Arts District – Oklahoma City, OK

Paseo Arts District is one of the most unique neighborhoods in Oklahoma City. If you like art, pizza, or live music this is the place for you. Visitors can explore different galleries and locally-owned shops. After enjoying all of the wonderful art exhibits you can stop at Sauced for a slice of its famous pizza. If you plan your visit during the beginning of the month you can experience the First Friday festivities hosted on the first Friday of each month.

Plaza District – Oklahoma City, OK

The Plaza District is a strip of locally owned businesses. These businesses include restaurants, tattoo shops, bars, and so much more. These businesses work together to thrive as a community. Its mission is to enhance the urban experience in Oklahoma City. 

Quote “This area has shops and restaurants and looked nice. It was Sunday so many of the shops were closed. There is a great ice cream place – I found graham cracker ice cream, a real treat as few places make this flavor. We needed a walk and this was just the place to wander.” -Rochelle F (Source).

OKC Boathouse District

Just along the Oklahoma River is The OKC Boathouse District – also the official U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Site. Since its establishment in 2006, it has grown to offer exciting outdoor activities such as RIVERSPORT Rapids, whitewater rafting, and kayaking center. The Boathouse has become a hotspot for athletes and families from all around. Visitors can look forward to rowing, paddling, and biking around the area. For those looking for more art and architecture, check out The Compass Rose sculpture at the entrance of The Boathouse District. Whether you’re there to train or just enjoy some family fun, there’s something for everyone! 

“For not a lot of money, you can come down and go whitewater rafting, and have the kind of experience that you would have to spend hundreds of dollars or even thousands of dollars to do elsewhere,” says Mike Knopp, executive director of the OKC Boathouse Foundation Executive Director. (Source).

Chesapeake Energy Arena

Home to the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Chesapeake Energy Arena is a hot spot for NBA basketball games, live concerts, and world-class events. Located just off Interstate 40 in downtown Oklahoma City, the arena welcomes more than one million guests each year. Chesapeake Energy Arena is owned by the City of Oklahoma City and managed by ASM Global, a venue management powerhouse. Since its opening, the arena has hosted more than 1,200 events and over 10 million fans. Be sure to check out their latest events here.

University Of Central Oklahoma – Edmond, OK

Located in the heart of Edmond the University of Central Oklahoma has been around since 1890. With over 200 acres of beautiful landscape. Broncho lake is named after the University mascot and is home to dozens of gorgeous koi fish. Take a relaxing walk around the campus and stop by the lake to enjoy the view of the water fountain.

OKC Outlet Shops

OKC Outlets is located just 10 minutes from downtown Oklahoma City. As the only outlet center in Oklahoma, you’ll find unique brands and merchandise that you love all in one location. Visitors and locals can shop for brands such as Kate Spade New York, Nike Factory Store, Michael Kors, Tommy Hilfiger, and much more!

Lake Murray

Beautiful spring-fed Lake Murray features 5,700 surface acres and is one of the clearest lakes in Oklahoma. The fishing opportunities are great and have been known for largemouth bass fishing. The lake itself is a hotspot for water skiing, wakeboarding, and jet skiing. Visitors can also enjoy plenty of hikes on nature trails, horseback riding, and miniature golf. Come visit Lake Murray for your next getaway! 

Texas Today host Kristin Dickerson said  “Lake Murray is a paradise for all things that love the water. With almost 6,000 surface acres of fun! It does not disappoint.” (Source).

Turner Falls Park – Davis, Oklahoma

Turner Falls Park in Davis, Oklahoma is an adventurous and family-friendly annual destination nestled in the Arbuckle Mountains. From Dr. Collings’ Rock Castle to the 77ft waterfall and more, Turner Falls Park offers unforgettable fun for the whole family. It’s also a convenient and entertaining stop for those passing through with picnic areas, RV hook-ups, and camping locations. So swing on down to Turner Falls Park and take advantage of the cool springs and rugged wilderness activities.

OKC Landscaping Service

Nelson Landscaping is a full-scale landscaping company for residential and commercial properties in Edmond and the greater Oklahoma City metro. Over the years, we’ve expanded our service area and staff to provide the best possible experience for our customers. Get a jump on your next landscaping project by reaching out to us! Our experts can help alleviate any worries you may have and provide you with a landscape that reflects your personal style and vision. We specialize in landscaping and landscape design, outdoor living, inground pools, sod installation, sprinkler installation, Christmas lights, and more. Learn more about our landscaping services today.