Things To Do
in Edmond
Edmond, Oklahoma sits just north of Oklahoma City and blends a friendly small-town vibe with suburban charm. The city is anchored by the University of Central Oklahoma, which brings student energy, arts, and events to the area. Historic downtown Edmond preserves a walkable core with boutiques, cafes, and the Edmond Historical Society & Museum.
Outdoor spaces, parks, and nearby Arcadia Lake offer easy day trips and family-friendly activities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Edmond Historical Society & Museum, where you can delve into the rich history of the area. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming downtown streets, admiring the historic buildings and local shops. Grab a coffee at a quaint café while soaking in the morning atmosphere.
Head to the UCO Jazz Lab for a lunchtime jazz performance, immersing yourself in the local music scene. Afterward, visit the beautiful Mitch Park, where you can take a peaceful walk or picnic on the lush green lawns. Spend some time at the nearby Edmond Farmers Market, sampling local produce and artisanal goods.
Conclude your day with dinner at one of Edmond’s popular restaurants, enjoying a meal made with locally sourced ingredients. After dinner, catch a live performance at the Armstrong Auditorium, known for its world-class shows. End the night with a relaxing stroll through the downtown area, perhaps stopping for dessert at a local bakery.
Begin your day with a refreshing hike at the Arcadia Lake, where you can enjoy scenic views and the crisp morning air. Take a moment to appreciate the local wildlife as you explore the various trails surrounding the lake. After your hike, enjoy a packed breakfast by the water, soaking in the tranquility.
Continue your outdoor adventure at the nearby Oxley Nature Center, where you can learn about the local flora and fauna. Spend some time birdwatching or simply enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the nature center. For lunch, have a picnic in one of the park's designated areas, surrounded by nature.
Return to Edmond for dinner at a lakeside restaurant, where you can savor delicious seafood while watching the sunset over the water. Afterward, explore the local craft breweries for a taste of the region's unique brews. Wind down the evening with a relaxing stroll along the lakefront, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🧺Groceries for a week | $40-60 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (rent, city area) | $900-1,400 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-4 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Safe, family-friendly environment with many parks and outdoor spaces
- Close to Oklahoma City with easy access to a larger cultural scene
- Limited nightlife within Edmond itself; more options exist in OKC
- Car-dependent city structure with longer commutes for some destinations
Places to Visit in Edmond
Visit one of these nice places.
Brick-paved streets, vintage storefronts, and classic signage create timeless urban photography backdrops.
Water vistas, piers, and sunset silhouettes ideal for landscape and reflection shots.
Gothic-inspired buildings and manicured greens provide collegiate architectural photography opportunities.
Water features, greenery, and open spaces suitable for nature photography and family portraits.
Food in Edmond
Edmond Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved Oklahoma staple: breaded and fried steak served with mashed potatoes and gravy at many local diners.
Must-Try!
A hearty breakfast option common in breakfast spots and diners around Edmond.
Smoked barbecue offerings found at casual barbecue joints and neighborhood eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market with local produce, baked goods, and ready-to-eat options in the heart of downtown Edmond.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings, saying please and thank you, and holding doors for others are common. Tipping is expected in service settings.
Friendly, respectful conversation is typical; Oklahoma culture tends to be warm and direct without being overly formal.
Safety
Tipping in Edmond
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, tipping 15–20% of the pre-tax bill is standard for good service. For counter-service or quick-visit spots, rounding up or a 5–10% tip is common. Housekeeping tips are appreciated for longer stays.
Most establishments accept major credit/debit cards and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay). Cash is widely accepted, and many places can process contactless payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with high humidity and frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Hydration and sun protection are essential; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening.
Mild temperatures with colorful foliage; great for walking tours and outdoor photography. Weather can shift quickly, so keep a light layer handy.
Cool to chilly conditions; snow is possible but not guaranteed. Layered clothing and indoor activities are common during this season.
Moderate temperatures with a chance of severe weather in March–May. Stay aware of local forecasts and tornado safety plans; trees and flowers are in bloom.
Edmond at Night
Hiking in Edmond
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Lakeside trail offering scenic water views and moderate walking routes near Edmond.
Forest and open-space trails near Norman, offering more extensive hiking options within a short drive.
Airports
How to reach Edmond by plane.
Main international airport serving Edmond and the greater Oklahoma City area; about a 20–25 mile drive south via I-44/I-35.
Larger airport in northeastern Oklahoma; roughly 100 miles northeast and reachable by car or short flight connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Edmond has a strong family-oriented population with good schools, parks, and community activities.
Students from the nearby University of Central Oklahoma contribute to a youthful, active cultural scene.
Growing Hispanic/Latinx, Asian, and Native American communities alongside long-standing residents.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
University of Central Oklahoma Bronchos participate in NCAA Division II; local sports culture centers on college athletics.
Intramural and intercity leagues plus school programs contribute to local sports interest.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Edmond.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian-friendly options are common at cafes and casual eateries; look for salads, veggie bowls, and sides, and ask for meat-free preparations where needed.