Norman

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Norman's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of downtown Norman, taking in the historic architecture and unique shops. Don't forget to stop by the Norman Post Office, a beautiful structure that showcases the town's history.

afternoon
:

Visit the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History, where you can explore fascinating exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to Native American artifacts. Enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro, featuring locally sourced ingredients that highlight the flavors of Oklahoma. Spend the afternoon wandering through the University of Oklahoma campus, admiring the stunning buildings and vibrant student life.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to the Historic Campus Corner district for dinner at a trendy restaurant offering a mix of international cuisines. After your meal, catch a live music performance at a local venue, where you can experience the vibrant arts scene. Conclude the evening with a relaxing stroll through the campus, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.

day 2
Arts and Culture Immersion
morning
:

Begin your day at the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, where you can appreciate an impressive collection of American and European art. Participate in a guided tour to learn about the history of the artworks and their significance. Afterward, enjoy a light brunch at a nearby café, soaking in the artistic atmosphere around you.

afternoon
:

Explore the local art galleries and studios in the downtown area, meeting local artists and viewing their latest creations. Visit the Sooner Theatre, a historic venue that hosts various performances and events, and check if there are any shows during your visit. Take a break at a local coffee shop, reflecting on the vibrant culture you've experienced.

evening
:

Dine at a restaurant known for its farm-to-table philosophy, enjoying delicious dishes prepared from local ingredients. After dinner, attend a performance at the Sooner Theatre, immersing yourself in the local arts scene. Cap off your night with a walk through the beautifully lit downtown streets, indulging in the lively atmosphere.

day 3
Nature and Outdoor Adventure
morning
:

Start your morning with a hike in the nearby Lake Thunderbird State Park, where you can explore scenic trails surrounded by lush nature. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy at one of the park's scenic overlooks, taking in the fresh air and beautiful views. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes.

afternoon
:

After your hike, spend some time at the lake, where you can rent a kayak or paddleboard for a fun afternoon on the water. Enjoy a packed lunch by the lakeside, soaking up the sun and tranquility of nature. If you're feeling adventurous, take a short nature walk to discover local wildlife and flora.

evening
:

Return to Norman for dinner at a casual eatery famous for its barbecue and southern comfort food. After your meal, consider visiting a local bar where you can enjoy craft beers and live music. Wind down the evening with a stroll in one of the local parks, enjoying the peacefulness of the outdoors.

day 4
University of Oklahoma Highlights
morning
:

Begin your day with a guided tour of the University of Oklahoma’s campus, learning about its rich history and impressive architecture. Visit the iconic Bizzell Memorial Library, a stunning landmark that houses a vast collection of resources. Grab breakfast at one of the campus cafés, enjoying the lively student atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Explore the various museums on campus, including the Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History and the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, delving into the university's cultural offerings. Enjoy lunch at a student-favorite food spot, sampling a variety of cuisines. Spend some time in the university gardens, taking in the beautiful landscaping and serene environment.

evening
:

For dinner, choose a restaurant nearby that features a collegiate vibe, perfect for soaking in the campus culture. Attend a sporting event at the university, cheering on the Sooners and experiencing the excitement of college athletics. After the game, visit a local ice cream shop to treat yourself as you reflect on the day.

day 5
Culinary Delights of Norman
morning
:

Kick off your culinary exploration with a visit to the Norman Farmers Market, where you can browse fresh produce and homemade goods. Chat with local vendors about their products and pick up some ingredients for a picnic later. Enjoy a breakfast taco from one of the food stalls, a beloved local treat.

afternoon
:

Join a cooking class at a local culinary school, where you can learn to prepare traditional Oklahoma dishes. Enjoy the meal you’ve cooked together with fellow participants, savoring the flavors of the region. After your cooking adventure, explore local specialty food shops to find unique ingredients to take home.

evening
:

Dine at a farm-to-table restaurant, where the menu changes seasonally to reflect the freshest local ingredients. Enjoy the ambiance as you taste a multi-course meal, paired with local wines or craft beers. Conclude your evening with dessert at a quaint dessert shop, indulging in sweet treats made from local recipes.

day 6
Family Fun Day at the Park
morning
:

Start your day at Reaves Park, where you can enjoy a hearty breakfast picnic amidst the playgrounds and green spaces. Let the kids run wild on the playground while you enjoy a moment of relaxation in the fresh air. Consider taking a walk around the park's scenic trails, enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

afternoon
:

After lunch, engage in some family-friendly activities like mini-golf or frisbee at the park. Spend time at the park's pond, where you might spot ducks and other wildlife, making it an educational experience for the children. Head to a local ice cream shop afterward for a sweet treat to cool off.

evening
:

For dinner, choose a family-friendly restaurant known for its casual atmosphere and diverse menu, ensuring everyone finds something they love. Afterward, enjoy a movie night at a nearby theater, catching a family-friendly film. Wrap up the day with a stroll around the park, letting the kids burn off some energy before heading back.

day 7
Exploring Local Breweries and Distilleries
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, fueling up for a day of exploration. Afterward, take a tour of one of Norman's local breweries, learning about the brewing process and tasting a variety of craft beers. Engage with the brewers to gain insight into their passion and creativity.

afternoon
:

Continue your brewery exploration with a visit to another local establishment, perhaps sampling a flight of unique brews. Enjoy lunch at a nearby pub that pairs delicious food with craft beer options. If time permits, consider visiting a local distillery to learn about spirits and how they are crafted.

evening
:

Conclude your brewery tour with dinner at a gastropub, where you can enjoy dishes expertly paired with local brews. Participate in a brewery trivia night or tasting event for a fun and interactive evening. As you wind down, reflect on the day over a nightcap at a cozy bar, enjoying the local atmosphere.

Discover Norman

Read more in our Norman 2025 Travel Guide.

Norman Travel Guide