Things To Do
in Ardmore
Ardmore, Oklahoma sits in southern Carter County along I-35, serving as a friendly hub for travelers and locals alike. The city blends a small-town charm with growing downtown amenities, from art-filled streets to family-friendly parks. Outdoor recreation, heritage attractions, and a welcoming community define Ardmore’s character.
With nearby natural areas and a relaxed pace, Ardmore is a great base for exploring southern Oklahoma.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Ardmore and check into your hotel, taking a moment to settle in and refresh after your journey. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling some home-cooked Southern favorites. Spend the rest of the morning exploring the nearby parks and appreciating the lush greenery.
Visit the historic Ardmore Depot and Museum, where you can learn about the rich history of the area and its development during the railroad era. Afterward, grab lunch at a charming diner and chat with locals to feel the community spirit. Consider a stroll through Main Street, showcasing unique shops and boutiques.
Dine at a local restaurant known for its mouthwatering barbecue, indulging in a feast of smoked meats and tasty sides. Post-dinner, head to a live music venue where you can experience the vibrant arts scene and enjoy performances from local artists. End the night with a relaxing walk along the lake, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at a nearby café, fueling up for a day immersed in art and culture. Head to the Charles Babbage Institute to explore exhibits on technology and innovation, which will deepen your appreciation of Ardmore's contributions. Spend time wandering the local art galleries, discovering works by resident artists.
After a cultural morning, enjoy lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant, where you can taste the freshness of locally sourced ingredients. Attend a workshop at a local arts center, engaging your creativity while learning new skills. Allow yourself to be inspired by the talents of fellow attendees, fostering connections and collaboration.
As the sun sets, enjoy a quiet dinner at a cozy bistro, savoring a dish paired with a local wine. If there's a play or musical performance happening at a nearby theater, make plans to attend and support local artists. Wrap up your evening with a casual stroll through the downtown area, taking in the twinkling lights and vibrant atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍕Inexpensive fast-food meal | $7-10 |
| 🍽️Restaurant dinner for two (mid-range) | $25-50 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment in city center (monthly) | $700-1,100 |
| ⛽Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly, small-town hospitality
- Easy access to outdoor recreation and nearby state parks
- Limited big-city nightlife and rapid transit
- Smaller dining scene compared to larger cities
Places to Visit in Ardmore
Visit one of these nice places.
Brick sidewalks, vintage storefronts, and sunset light create classic storefront photography and portrait backdrops.
Rugged rock formations and the waterfall offer dramatic landscape and nature photography opportunities.
Water reflections at dawn or dusk with the skyline or tree lines as a backdrop.
Food in Ardmore
Ardmore Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender smoked beef on a bun with pickles and barbecue sauce; a staple at local barbecue joints.
Must-Try!
Crispy breaded steak served with gravy; a classic Oklahoma diner dish.
Fluffy biscuits smothered in savory gravy, a popular breakfast option.
Lightly battered catfish paired with sweet cornmeal hush puppies; a southern favorite.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, baked goods, meats, and local specialties; a great place to sample fresh flavors.
Rotating street-food offerings around downtown and community events with barbecue, tacos, and comfort foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake and brief eye contact are common; greet with a polite 'Hello' and use courtesy titles (Mr./Ms.) until invited to use first names.
Be respectful in places of worship or during ceremonies; ask before taking photos of people or private venues.
Safety
Tipping in Ardmore
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ardmore and the U.S., tip 15-20% at restaurants; cash tips are appreciated for service staff; tip bartenders, hotel staff, and taxi drivers similarly.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still handy for smaller shops and markets; mobile wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are increasingly common in larger establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and often humid with bright sunshine. Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or evenings; occasional thunderstorms are possible.
Pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage make outdoor exploration enjoyable. Layered clothing is useful for cool mornings and evenings.
Generally mild with occasional cold snaps. Snow is uncommon but possible; layering and a warm jacket are recommended.
Mild days with blooming landscapes and a higher chance of storms. Pack a light rain layer and keep an eye on weather forecasts.
Ardmore at Night
Hiking in Ardmore
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate trails around the waterfall and canyon areas near Davis, suitable for day hikes.
Scenic lakefront trails with views of water, pines, and wildlife; great for easy to moderate hikes.
Airports
How to reach Ardmore by plane.
Small regional airport serving the Ardmore area with limited commercial service and general aviation; convenient for nearby short trips.
Major airport in Oklahoma City with national and international connections; about a 1.5–2 hour drive from Ardmore.
Large international hub offering extensive domestic and international flights; useful for connections beyond Oklahoma.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of residents are families with children, drawn by schools, parks, and community events.
A significant number of retirees enjoy the slower pace, healthcare options, and community amenities.
Many residents commute to nearby cities for work while enjoying Ardmore’s local culture and lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
High school and community games are a focal point of local gatherings in fall.
Local leagues and school teams are widely followed; indoor gyms are common year-round.
Youth and adult leagues provide seasonal activity and community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ardmore.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for veggie plates or pasta dishes, request vegetable sides, and ask for sauces on the side. Many cafes offer salads, veggie burgers, and sides like roasted vegetables and fruit bowls.