The Vibrant Paseo Arts District: A Creative Haven in OKC

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Paseo Arts District

Nestled in the heart of Oklahoma City, the Paseo Arts District is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood renowned for its rich artistic culture and bohemian charm. This enchanting enclave, originally developed in the 1920s, retains its Spanish Revival architecture, characterized by stucco buildings, clay-tiled roofs, and picturesque courtyards. As you stroll down the narrow, tree-lined streets, you'll be greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors, murals, and sculptures that reflect the creativity of the local community. The Paseo Arts District is home to over 20 galleries and more than 80 artists, making it a haven for art lovers. Each gallery showcases a unique blend of contemporary and traditional art forms, including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. The district's vibrant art scene comes alive during the First Friday Gallery Walks, where visitors can explore the latest exhibits, meet the artists, and enjoy live music and refreshments. This monthly event is a must-see for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the local art culture. Beyond its artistic allure, the Paseo Arts District offers a variety of dining options, from cozy cafes to upscale bistros. Visitors can savor a diverse array of cuisines, including farm-to-table fare, international dishes, and locally-inspired menus. The district also boasts a selection of boutique shops, offering everything from handmade jewelry to vintage clothing and unique home decor. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a foodie, or a shopaholic, the Paseo Arts District promises a memorable and enriching experience.

Local tips in Paseo Arts District

Visit during the First Friday Gallery Walks to experience the best of local art and live entertainment.
Parking can be limited; consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services.
Check out the local event calendar for special festivals and art shows happening throughout the year.
Many galleries and shops are closed on Mondays; plan your visit accordingly.

File:Paseo Arts District - Oklahoma City, OK USA - panoramio (2).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Oklahoma City, OK - The Paseo Arts District - Paseo Gallery One (b. 1900 U.S. National Register of Historic Places) - panoramio.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Oklahoma City, OK USA - The Paseo Arts District - panoramio (9).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Paseo Arts District

Discover the artistic heart of Oklahoma City at Paseo Arts District, where creativity and culture come alive in a vibrant neighborhood.

Plaza Walls

Discover the stunning murals and contemporary art at Plaza Walls in Oklahoma City, an open-air modern art museum that captivates and inspires.

Paseo Gallery One

Explore contemporary art and local creativity at Paseo Gallery One in Oklahoma City, a vibrant hub for art enthusiasts and cultural seekers.

Paseo Arts and Creativity Center

Explore the vibrant art scene at Paseo Arts and Creativity Center, showcasing local talent and creative innovation in Oklahoma City.

Oklahoma City Festival of the Arts

Discover the Oklahoma City Festival of the Arts, a vibrant celebration of art, culture, and community in the heart of Oklahoma City, perfect for all ages.

In Your Eye Studio & Gallery

Discover the vibrant local art scene at In Your Eye Studio & Gallery, showcasing unique works by talented Oklahoma artists in a welcoming atmosphere.

Studio Six Studio & Gallery

Discover contemporary art at Studio Six Studio & Gallery, a vibrant hub for creativity in Oklahoma City's Uptown district.

Paseo Arts Association

Immerse yourself in creativity at the Paseo Arts Association, Oklahoma City's vibrant hub for local art, culture, and community events.

Little D Gallery

Discover the heart of Oklahoma City's art scene at Little D Gallery, featuring contemporary works from local and national artists in a vibrant setting.

Unmissable attractions to see

OKC Underground

Explore the hidden gems of Oklahoma City at OKC Underground, where culture meets creativity in a unique subterranean experience.

Oklahoma City Festival of the Arts

Experience the Oklahoma City Festival of the Arts: A vibrant celebration of local creativity, art, food, and culture in the heart of Oklahoma City.

Oklahoma Museum of Telephone History

Discover the captivating history of communication at the Oklahoma Museum of Telephone History, showcasing the evolution of telephony through unique exhibits.

Abstract Passages

Explore Abstract Passages in Oklahoma City, a vibrant tourist attraction showcasing stunning art installations that inspire and engage visitors of all ages.

Essential places to dine

Gorō Ramen

Discover the taste of Japan at Gorō Ramen in Oklahoma City – where authentic flavors meet modern dining experiences.

Cheever's Cafe

Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Cheever's Cafe in Uptown Oklahoma City—where every meal is a celebration.

Picasso Cafe

Discover the vibrant flavors of New American cuisine at Picasso Cafe in Oklahoma City—where culinary artistry meets local charm.

Sauced on Paseo

Experience delightful pizzas and a lively atmosphere at Sauced on Paseo in Oklahoma City—perfect for food lovers seeking quality dining.

Paseo Grill

Experience the vibrant flavors of American cuisine at Paseo Grill in Oklahoma City – where great food meets artistic ambiance.

FRIDA southwest

Discover authentic Southwestern American cuisine at FRIDA southwest in Oklahoma City – where every bite tells a story.

Burger Punk - Paseo Arts District

Discover Burger Punk in Oklahoma City's Paseo Arts District - where gourmet burgers meet artistic flair for an unforgettable dining experience.

The Drake

Discover exquisite seafood dining at The Drake in Oklahoma City's vibrant Uptown area—where fresh flavors meet culinary excellence.

Red Rooster

Discover Red Rooster in Uptown Oklahoma City - where delicious vegetarian cuisine meets vibrant bar culture.

The Roosevelt Room

Discover The Roosevelt Room in Oklahoma City: A cozy cocktail bar offering innovative drinks and delicious small plates in an inviting atmosphere.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Craig's Curious Emporium

Explore Craig's Curious Emporium: A unique gift shop in Oklahoma City offering diverse treasures, from books to metaphysical supplies.

Plenty Mercantile - Gift Shop & Venue

Explore Plenty Mercantile, a unique gift shop and event venue in Oklahoma City, showcasing local arts, crafts, and community spirit.

OKCMOA Museum Store

Shop unique art-inspired gifts and local artisan creations at the OKCMOA Museum Store in Oklahoma City's vibrant Arts District.

Dig It Boutique

Discover a unique blend of retro fashion at Dig It Boutique in Oklahoma City, where every piece has a story and every visit is an adventure.

Shop Good

Explore Shop Good in Oklahoma City for unique gifts, local crafts, and a vibrant shopping experience that captures the essence of local artistry.

The Black Scintilla

Discover unique gifts and local treasures at The Black Scintilla in Oklahoma City, a must-visit destination for tourists seeking memorable keepsakes.

Out on a Limb Boutique

Explore Out on a Limb Boutique for unique gifts, stylish clothing, and home decor in the heart of Oklahoma City.

Painted Door

Discover the charm of Painted Door, a unique gift shop in Bricktown, Oklahoma City, offering locally crafted goods and memorable souvenirs.

Folk.Life

Explore Folk.Life, a unique gift shop in Oklahoma City offering locally crafted treasures and souvenirs that celebrate the spirit of Oklahoma.

Common Dear

Explore the charm of Common Dear, your go-to boutique gift shop in Oklahoma City, offering unique clothing, home goods, and accessories.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Pump Bar

Experience the lively atmosphere and delicious grill cuisine at The Pump Bar, a top destination for food and drinks in Uptown Oklahoma City.

Cookie's

Experience the vibrant energy of Cookie's Karaoke Bar in Oklahoma City, where music, laughter, and friendly faces come together in a delightful night out.

Bunker Club

Discover the eclectic charm of Bunker Club, a unique bar in Oklahoma City known for its vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails.

Ponyboy

Experience the vibrant energy of Ponyboy, a trendy bar in Oklahoma City offering craft cocktails and a lively atmosphere for tourists and locals alike.

The Other Room

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Other Room in Oklahoma City, where craft cocktails and local art create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Flamingo TIKI

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and handcrafted cocktails at Flamingo TIKI, Oklahoma City's top tiki bar, where every drink is a tropical delight.

the daley

Experience Oklahoma City's vibrant cocktail scene at The Daley, where handcrafted drinks and a lively atmosphere await every visitor.

The Roosevelt Room

Discover the charm of The Roosevelt Room, Oklahoma City's premier cocktail bar and small plates restaurant, perfect for an unforgettable night out.

Bungalow 23

Experience the lively atmosphere of Bungalow 23, a premier beer garden in Uptown Oklahoma City, offering craft beers, delicious food, and live music.

Downtime

Discover the lively atmosphere of Downtime, a top bar in Uptown Oklahoma City, known for its craft cocktails and vibrant music scene.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Paseo Arts District

Discover Paseo Arts District with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloHowdy
  [haʊ-di]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [siː jə]
- YesYep
  [jɛp]
- NoNah
  [nɑː]
- Please/You're welcomePlease and thank ya
  [pliːz ænd θæŋk jə]
- Thank youThanks a bunch
  [θæŋks ə bʌntʃ]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [pɑːrdən miː]
- How are you?Howdy, how y'all doin'?
  [haʊ-di, haʊ jɔːl ˈduːɪn]
- Fine. And you?Jus' fine. How 'bout y'all?
  [dʒʌst faɪn haʊ ˈbaʊt jɔːl]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [jə spiːk ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ]
- I don't understandI ain't catchin' on
  [aɪ ənt ˈkætʃɪn ɑːn]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMind showin' me the menu?
  [maɪnd ˈʃoʊɪn miː ðə ˈmɛnjuː]
- I don't eat meatI don't touch meat
  [aɪ doʊnt tʌʧ mit]
- Cheers!Bottoms up!
  [ˈbɑtəmz ʌp]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI reckon it's time to settle up
  [aɪ ˈrɛkən ɪts taɪm tuː ˈsɛtl ʌp]
- Help!SOS!
  [ɛs oʊ ˈɛs]
- Go away!Git!
  [ɡɪt]
- Call the Police!Ring up the Law!
  [rɪŋ ʌp ðə lɔ]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [ɡɛt ə dɑk]
- I'm lostI'm all turned around
  [aɪm ɔːl tɜrnd əˈraʊnd]
- I'm illI'm feelin' poorly
  [aɪm ˈfiːlɪn ˈpʊrli]
- I'd like to buy...I'm fixin' to purchase...
  [aɪm ˈfɪksɪn tuː ˈpɜrtʃəs]
- I'm just lookingJus' browsin'
  [dʒʌst ˈbraʊzɪn]
- How much is it?How much fer that?
  [haʊ mʌtʃ fər ðæt]
- That's too expensiveThat's highfalutin
  [ðæts ˈhaɪfəˌlutɪn]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya do it for less?
  [kæn jə du ɪt fɔr lɛs]
- What time is it?What's the time of day?
  [wɑts ðə taɪm ʌv deɪ]
- It's one o'clockIt's one in the mornin'
  [ɪts wʌn ɪn ðə ˈmɔrnɪn]
- Half past (10)Ten-thirty
  [tɛn-ˈθɜrti]
- MorningMornin'
  [ˈmɔrnɪn]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [ˌæftərˈnun]
- EveningEvenin'
  [ˈivnɪn]
- YesterdayYestiddy
  [ˈjɛstɪdi]
- TodayToday
  [təˈdeɪ]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [təˈmɔrəʊ]
- 1One
  [wʌn]
- 2Two
  [tuː]
- 3Three
  [θriː]
- 4Four
  [fɔːr]
- 5Five
  [faɪv]
- 6Six
  [sɪks]
- 7Seven
  [ˈsɛvən]
- 8Eight
  [eɪt]
- 9Nine
  [naɪn]
- 10Ten
  [tɛn]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the... at?
  [wɛrz ðə æt]
- What's the address?Where's that located?
  [wɛrz ðæt ˈloʊˌkeɪtɪd]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out (on the map)?
  [kæn jə pɔɪnt ɪt aʊt ɑn ðə mæp]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus comin'?
  [wɛnz ðə nɛkst bʌs ˈkʌmɪn]
- A ticket (to ....)A pass (to ....)
  [ə pæs tuː]

History of Paseo Arts District

The Paseo Arts District, established in the early 1920s, began as a residential neighborhood that featured Spanish Colonial Revival architecture. Designed by prominent architect John P. McAuliffe, the area was initially intended to be a fashionable suburb of Oklahoma City. The Paseo was named after the Spanish word for 'path' or 'walk', reflecting its intended design as a pedestrian-friendly community.
By the 1970s, the Paseo Arts District underwent a significant transformation as artists and creatives began to settle in the area. This shift was marked by the establishment of numerous galleries, studios, and art spaces, turning the Paseo into Oklahoma City's first arts district. The district became known for its vibrant arts scene, attracting local and regional artists who contributed to its growing cultural identity.
Since 1977, the Paseo Arts Festival has been a hallmark event celebrating the arts in the district. Held annually over Memorial Day weekend, this festival showcases local artists, musicians, and performers, making it one of the premier cultural events in Oklahoma City. The festival draws thousands of visitors and fosters a sense of community and pride among residents and artists alike.
In the 1990s, the Paseo Arts District faced challenges related to urban development and potential neglect. However, community leaders and residents rallied to preserve the area's historic character. The district was designated as a Historic Preservation District in 1994, ensuring that its unique architectural styles and cultural heritage would be protected for future generations.
Today, the Paseo Arts District is recognized as a thriving cultural hub within Oklahoma City, featuring a blend of art galleries, studios, restaurants, and shops. The area hosts numerous events throughout the year, including art walks and exhibitions, reinforcing its status as a central point for artistic expression and community engagement in the region.

Paseo Arts District Essentials

The Paseo Arts District is conveniently located just north of downtown Oklahoma City. You can easily reach it by car via the Broadway Extension (US-77) or I-44. Public transportation options include the EMBARK bus system, which provides routes that connect the district to other neighborhoods, including Bricktown and Midtown. The nearest airport is Will Rogers World Airport, approximately 9 miles away, where you can rent a car or take a taxi to the district.
The Paseo Arts District is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Bicycles are also a popular way to navigate the area, with bike racks available near many galleries and restaurants. EMBARK buses run through the district, providing access to other parts of the city. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available for those preferring a more direct route.
Paseo Arts District is generally considered a safe area for tourists, with a friendly atmosphere and a vibrant arts scene. However, it’s advisable to remain aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid the areas surrounding the north side of the district, particularly near N. Broadway Ave and NW 23rd St, as they have higher crime rates. Always keep personal belongings secured and be cautious in less crowded areas.
In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The nearest hospital is OU Medical Center, located a short drive away in downtown Oklahoma City. It's beneficial to have travel insurance that covers health emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies within the district where you can find over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking. While the district is artsy and eclectic, avoid overly revealing outfits. Religion: Do respect the local culture; some galleries may be in historic buildings that have religious significance. Public Transport: Do be courteous on public transportation and give up your seat to those in need. Don't engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a friendly 'hello.' Avoid overly familiar gestures until you know someone better. Eating & Drinking: Do enjoy local cuisine and try offerings at galleries. Don't waste food or be rude to servers; service is often very personal in smaller establishments.
To experience Paseo Arts District like a local, visit during the first Friday of the month when galleries host open houses and street festivities. Engage with artists and ask about their work; many are happy to share their inspiration. Try to explore lesser-known side streets for hidden gems, such as small studios and pop-up shops. Don’t miss the Paseo Arts Festival held annually, which showcases local talent and offers food, music, and art for all ages.

The Vibrant Paseo Arts District: A Creative Haven in OKC

Local tips in Paseo Arts District