Summer Bucket List: The Best Things to Do in Edmond & OKC for Families, Teens & Couples

Looking for fun things to do in Edmond and Oklahoma City this summer?

Whether you're entertaining little ones, trying to keep teens off their screens, or planning the perfect date night, this list has something for everyone. As a local Edmond realtor and mom, I know how important it is to find places that are not only fun—but also safe, affordable, and memorable. Here are my top picks for summer fun across the metro!

👶 For Families with Little Kids

1. Scissortail Park (Downtown OKC)
A downtown favorite for little ones! With a huge playground, splash pad, pedal boats, shaded picnic areas, and food trucks, it’s the perfect place to burn energy and soak up summer vibes.

2. Hafer Park (Edmond)
This wooded, shaded gem is one of Edmond’s best family parks. Enjoy paved walking trails, duck ponds, multiple playgrounds—including a large climbing structure and musical play area—and plenty of picnic spots for a summer afternoon escape.

Pro Tip: Don't forget the bread (that half-eaten loaf that is on the verge of being stale is perfect) for feeding the ducks at the duck pond!  The kids will LOVE it!  Also, be sure to catch some of those smiles and tiny giggles on a video.  This was one of our very favorite things to do -- looking back at those videos is truly PRICELESS!  

3. Myriad Botanical Gardens Children’s Garden (OKC)
Interactive, whimsical, and perfect for toddlers and preschoolers. Splash fountains, sensory paths, shaded seating, and frequent kid-focused events make it a downtown go-to.

4. Oklahoma City Zoo (OKC Adventure District)
Explore animal exhibits, ride the carousel or tram, and cool off in the splash zone! The OKC Zoo is stroller-friendly and offers plenty of shade, indoor exhibits, and interactive activities for curious young minds.

Pro Tip:  For families with littles, getting a Zoo Membership is totally the way to go!  We always had one and it took the pressure off trips to the zoo.  With a pass, it makes more frequent zoo trips much more affordable and takes off the pressure of feeling like you need to stay longer to justify the cost of admission.  With a zoo pass, we would grab donuts or pack a picnic, play at the parks, a ride on the carousel, and stroll for a couple of hours and then head home.  If we had a meltdown, we would just leave.  Much less pressure, making it more fun for everyone!  

5. Edmond Historical Society Children’s Learning Center
A free, indoor favorite with hands-on exhibits, themed dress-up areas, and pretend play zones. It’s both educational and entertaining—perfect for a hot or rainy summer day!

🎒 For Tweens & Teens

1. Shopping + People-Watching at Penn Square Mall & Classen Curve (OKC)
Whether they’re hitting up their favorite shops or just grabbing a pretzel and walking around, teens love hanging out at Penn Square Mall and Classen Curve. For a more curated and stylish experience, Classen Curve offers trendy shops and chill outdoor vibes.

My Teens' Go-To Shops At Penn Square:  Free People, Abercrombie, Hollister, Aerie, Sephora, The brand-new Garage, American Eagle, Love Okie, and Dry Goods

My Teens' Go-To Shops at Classen Curve + Classen Triangle: Lululemon, Sephora, Gorjana, Anthropologie

2. Thrifting & Vintage Shopping
OKC and Edmond have some amazing thrift and vintage finds! Check out places like Bad Granny’s Bazaar in the Paseo District or Goodwill or local Vintage Stores for a day of budget-friendly fashion hunting and Instagram-worthy outfit inspo.  

3. Coffee Dates at Cute Local Spots
Teen-approved and aesthetically pleasing, spots like Bradford House, Harvey Bakery, and Summer Moon make for fun morning meetups or post-practice hangs.

4. Summer Drinks with Friends at Seven Brew or Swig
It’s a whole thing—cruising to grab flavored sodas, energy drinks, or iced coffee creations. The drive-thru vibes at Seven Brew and Swig are perfect for teens with a license (or a parent willing to drive).

5. Pickleball with a Crew
Pickleball is officially cool now—and teens are loving it. Places like Chicken N Pickle or local courts in Edmond and OKC offer casual fun and friendly competition.

6. Dinner Out at Insta-Worthy Spots
Whether it’s tacos at Oso Paseo, a health-conscious meal at Flower Child, or burgers and artful ambiance at Picasso Café in the Paseo Arts District—these dinner spots are fun, safe, and social media–ready.

💕 For Couples & Date Nights

1. Farmers Market + Brunch
Start your weekend with a stroll through the Edmond Farmers Market or Scissortail Park Market in Downtown OKC. Grab fresh flowers, a local pastry, and then head to brunch at Hatch, Cafe Kacao, or Neighborhood Jam. It’s the perfect slow Saturday morning.

2. Live Music or Local Shows
Catch a jazz set at UCO Jazz Lab, a concert at Jones Assembly, or a Broadway-style show at the Civic Center. From low-key to big stage, OKC and Edmond are full of date-night entertainment options.

3. Paseo Arts District Walk + Dinner
Wander through colorful art galleries and murals in Paseo, then grab dinner at Oso Paseo, Picasso Café, or Frida Southwest. Add cocktails at The Daley in The Paseo for a full evening.

4. Local Bars with Personality
Skip the chain spots and head to local favorites like Palo Santo (speakeasy vibes + skyline views) or Prairie Artisan Ales (for funky beers and cool downtown energy). Perfect for pre- or post-dinner drinks.

5. Dinner on the Patio
There’s just something about an Oklahoma summer night on a great patio. Redrock Canyon Grill offers lake views and sunset vibes. Neighborhood Provisions in Edmond brings modern flair and cozy outdoor spaces. Add wine, good food, and no rush—perfection.

🏡 Thinking About Moving to Edmond or OKC?

Whether you're new to the area or looking for a neighborhood that fits your family’s lifestyle, I’d love to help. From top-rated school districts to neighborhoods with splash pads and walking trails, I know the ins and outs of what makes each community shine.

👉 Let’s find a home that fits your lifestyle. Contact me today!