Alan Sims
Director of Convention Sales and Services
Oklahoma City CVB
What are three of the most memorable ways groups can experience Oklahoma City’s cowboy culture?
Director of Convention Sales and Services
Oklahoma City CVB
What are three of the most memorable ways groups can experience Oklahoma City’s cowboy culture?
- National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum: This museum is probably the No. 1 attraction in the state, and for good reason. It is truly a moving experience. It is not your typical museum or art gallery; it talks to you, and there is something that will touch everyone.
- Eat with the Cattlemen: Stockyards City contains the Oklahoma National Stockyards, the world’s largest operating cattle auction. Every week 10,000 head of cattle are bought and sold here. It’s open to the public, so you can go out there and watch the whole thing—and then eat at Cattlemen’s Steakhouse, which was recommended in the book 1,000 Places to See Before You Die. Just to see the history—believe me, it’s a unique experience.
- Rodeo and Equestrian Events: Western heritage is prevalent throughout the city, but we’re also the “horse show capital of the world.” We have the state fairgrounds, and we are renovating them with new high-technology stall facilities, the latest in cooling and cleaning to accommodate owners and animals. We also have a five-year agreement with the Quarter Horse Association [for their shows]. We do so many shows, and on top of that, there are all the professional rodeo-type events we get, including the annual International Professional Rodeo Association finals each year.