Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1528810
WHEN PLANNING AN EVENT IN THE SOUTHWEST REGION EXPLORE THE NEWLY IMPROVED OKLAHOMA CITY B Y B U C K S A M U E L S Every destination has a story and Oklahoma City's story is defined by an openness and enterprising nature. OKC is a young, down-to-earth city that's steeped in Western heritage. And, with an all-new convention scene on the rise, OKC offers the whole package for meet- ings and conventions of all sizes. With new hotels, a brand-new down- town convention center with 340,000 square-feet of meeting space, a modern streetcar system, a 70-acre downtown park, a booming culinary and arts scene, and plenty of attractions within walking distance—there's never been a better time to meet in OKC. OKC offers a wide range of price points and amenities including 25 down- town hotels within walking distance of the Oklahoma City Convention Center and the Bricktown Entertainment District. The modern streetcar system links the downtown convention center complex with more than six miles of major attrac- tions, restaurants and districts. The stunning new Oklahoma City Convention Center is a total of 500,000 square feet and includes a 200,730 square foot exhibit hall, which is divisible into four halls. The 29,874 sq. ft. ball- room has 5,000 sq. ft. pre-function space and terrace overlooking Scissortail Park. There are 27 meeting rooms and nearly 45,000 sq. ft. of meeting space that includes 9,726 square foot Junior Ballroom. No matter what you choose to do at the new downtown park, you're bound to have a good time. Scissortail Park is open from 6 am-11 pm daily, with the Children's Park area closing at dusk. The park will feature a plethora of native prairie grasses, lush flower gardens and tree-lined walkways, so explore all the foliage by taking a stroll through the 40- acre park. For adventure seekers, head to the boathouse on Scissortail Lake to rent pedal boats or catch a concert on the Great Lawn at the six-acre outdoor venue. Just a short walk from downtown hotels, event venues and attractions, The Bricktown Entertainment District is filled with restaurants, nightlife and entertain- ment options. From taking a cruise along the Bricktown Canal to catching an Oklahoma City Baseball Club game at the Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, Bricktown is a favorite destination for visitors and locals alike. Just north of Bricktown is his- toric Deep Deuce, where you can find more great restaurants and nightlife options. Oklahoma City has a 13.8% Black population and is a vibrant hub of Black History and Culture, offering a wealth of experiences year-round. While Black History Month brings a spotlight to this heritage in February, the array of cultural events, celebrated Black-owned restau- rants and significant historical sites ensure that the spirit of this community is alive and thriving in every season. Oklahoma City boasts a profound and resonant Black history, with landmarks and luminaries that have shaped not just the city but the nation. The Calvary Baptist Church stands as a testament to this rich heritage, a place where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once preached and where Oklahoma City's Civil Rights move- ment found its voice and strength. Journey through the Deep Deuce District, once the heart of African- American culture and commerce in the city, humming with jazz rhythms that defined an era. This neighborhood was a nurturing ground for the legendary Charlie Christian, an influential jazz gui- tarist whose music reached far beyond OKC's borders. B M & T ••• November/December 2024 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 67 AREA GUIDES • • • STATS • • • HOTEL ROOMS The National OKC 182 Fairfield Inn & Suites Oklahoma City Downtown 133 Renaissance OKC Downtown Bricktown Hotel 146 EXHIBITION FACILITIES Oklahoma City Convention Center Total Meeting Space 200,730 sq. ft. Largest Hall 45,000 sq. ft. Largest Ballroom 29,874 sq. ft. Meeting Rooms 27 WHO YOU GONNA CALL? Visit OKC – (800) 225-5652 www.visitokc.com Oklahoma City Convention Center O K L A H O M A C I T Y photo credit: Oklahoma City C.C