The Heartbeat of the Plains: Oklahoma City Metropolitan Area

• HelloHowdy
  [hahw-dee]
• GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
• YesYup
  [yuhp]
• NoNah
  [nuh]
• Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [pleez/noh problum]
• Thank youThanks
  [thaynks]
• Excuse me/SorryPardon me/My bad
  [pahr-dun me/my bad]
• How are you?Howdy
  [hahw-dee]
• Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [good. yuh?]
• Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speek ing-glish?]
• I don't understandI ain't got a clue
  [ahy aint got uh kloo]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [kan eye see thee men-yoo?]
• I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [ahy dohnt eet meet]
• Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseCheck, please
  [chek, pleez]

• Help!Help!
  [help!]
• Go away!Git!
  [git!]
• Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [kawl thee cops!]
• Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get uh dawk!]
• I'm lostI'm lost
  [ahym lost]
• I'm illI'm sick
  [ahym sik]

• I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [ahy wahn-uh buy...]
• I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just brow-zin']
• How much is it?How much?
  [how much?]
• That's too expensiveThat's steep
  [thats steep]
• Can you lower the price?Can ya do better?
  [kan yuh doh bet-er?]

• What time is it?What time is it?
  [what tahym iz it?]
• It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its wuhn]
• Half past (10)Half ten
  [haf ten]
• MorningMornin'
  [morn-in']
• AfternoonAfternoon
  [after-noon]
• EveningEvenin'
  [even-in']
• YesterdayYesterdee
  [yester-dee]
• TodayToday
  [toh-day]
• TomorrowTomorrow
  [toh-maw-row]
• 1One
  [wuhn]
• 2Two
  [too]
• 3Three
  [three]
• 4Four
  [for]
• 5Five
  [fahyv]
• 6Six
  [siks]
• 7Seven
  [sev-uhn]
• 8Eight
  [eyt]
• 9Nine
  [nahyn]
• 10Ten
  [ten]

• Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres thee...?]
• What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats thee uh-dress?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Show me on the map
  [show me on thee map]
• When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [whens thee nekst bus?]
• A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [uh tik-it (tuh ....)]

On April 22, 1889, the Land Run of 1889 brought thousands of settlers to the area that would become Oklahoma City. Within hours, the population of the area skyrocketed, and a tent city emerged. This event marked the founding of Oklahoma City, transforming it from unassigned lands to a bustling hub almost overnight.

Oklahoma was granted statehood on November 16, 1907. Oklahoma City was designated as the state capital in 1910, replacing Guthrie. The discovery of oil in the early 20th century spurred rapid economic growth, attracting businesses and residents, and leading to the construction of significant infrastructure.

The 1930s brought the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl, severely impacting Oklahoma City and its surroundings. The agricultural collapse and economic downturn led to widespread hardship, but also to significant federal investment through New Deal programs, which helped rebuild the economy.

Following World War II, Oklahoma City experienced a period of rapid modernization and suburban expansion. The construction of major highways facilitated growth, and the city saw the rise of new industries and a booming population. This era also saw the establishment of key cultural institutions.

The Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s had a profound impact on Oklahoma City. The city was a focal point for desegregation efforts, including notable sit-ins and protests that led to significant social change. These movements laid the groundwork for greater racial equality in the region.

On April 19, 1995, the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in downtown Oklahoma City was the target of a domestic terrorist attack. The bombing resulted in the deaths of 168 people and injured hundreds more. This tragic event deeply affected the community and led to the creation of the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum.

In recent decades, Oklahoma City has worked to diversify its economy beyond oil and gas. Investments in health care, aerospace, and technology have contributed to a more resilient economic landscape. The city's revitalization projects have transformed downtown into a vibrant area with cultural attractions and entertainment.

Oklahoma City has experienced a cultural renaissance in the 21st century. The development of districts like Bricktown has revitalized the urban core, attracting tourists and locals alike. The city now boasts a rich tapestry of arts, music, and culinary scenes, reflecting its diverse heritage and modern vibrancy.

Oklahoma City is serviced by Will Rogers World Airport (OKC), which is located about 6 miles southwest of downtown. The airport offers flights from major U.S. cities, making it easily accessible. For those driving, major highways such as I-35, I-40, and I-44 converge in Oklahoma City, providing convenient road access. Amtrak’s Heartland Flyer provides daily service between Oklahoma City and Fort Worth, Texas.

Oklahoma City has several transportation options. EMBARK provides public bus services throughout the metropolitan area. Streetcars, known as the Oklahoma City Streetcar, provide convenient travel within downtown and the Bricktown area. For more flexibility, rental cars and ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available. Biking is also an option with Spokies bike-share stations scattered throughout the city.

The currency used in Oklahoma City is the United States Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful, especially in downtown areas and shopping districts. It's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller vendors or in case of emergencies.

Oklahoma City is generally safe for tourists, but it is wise to stay vigilant. Areas such as the downtown and Bricktown are well-patrolled and popular with tourists. However, it is advisable to avoid certain neighborhoods such as Northeast Oklahoma City and parts of the Southside after dark, as these areas have higher crime rates. Always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places and be cautious when traveling alone at night.

In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Oklahoma City has several hospitals, including OU Medical Center and INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center, which are equipped to handle emergencies. Pharmacies are also widely available for minor health issues. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably, as the weather can vary. Casual attire is generally acceptable, but consider dressing up for fine dining or theater performances. Religion: Do be respectful when visiting religious sites. Some churches may request modest dress or covering your head. Public Transport: Do purchase tickets beforehand and be respectful to fellow passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. Oklahoma City residents are known for their hospitality. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies such as chicken fried steak and BBQ. Don't forget to tip, as it is customary in the U.S.

To experience Oklahoma City like a local, visit the Farmers Market District for fresh produce and unique finds. Explore the Paseo Arts District, known for its vibrant arts scene and monthly First Friday Gallery Walks. Catch a Thunder basketball game at the Paycom Center or visit the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum to dive into the local culture and history. Don’t miss the Myriad Botanical Gardens for a peaceful urban oasis.