Removed from the towering skyscrapers of Downtown Oklahoma City, yet far from the sprawling suburbs of Edmond lies an area known as Midtown. Once overcome by crime and urban decay, this urban district now finds itself transforming into a blossoming center of commerce, entertainment and culture.
From Broadway to Shartel Avenue, trendy restaurants, coffee shops and salons line Northwest 10th Street for more than a mile. The vast majority of these developments—including the prominent Dust Bowl Lounge, Fassler’s Hall and Hall’s Pizza Kitchen—are less than ten years old, making Midtown a new and vibrant area.
To get here from Oklahoma Christian, you’ll head south on the Broadway Extension, exiting at N.W. 23rd St and then turning right on N.W. 10th street a mile later.
With a parking garage at the center of the district, paid parking is widely available. For visitors looking to save a few bucks, street parking can be found, but chances are you’ll have to search for a spot and perhaps walk a little further.
After spending a recent afternoon wandering around Midtown, here are my takes on the pros and cons of the district:
PROS
-The area is on an upward trajectory. Seemingly every business is new, unique and thriving, with something new for everyone. There are also an increasing number of residents in the district, making Midtown feel more like a community rather than a tourist destination.
– The culture is tangible. Creative murals decorate the sides of buildings, while corporate logos and advertisements are few and far between. With much of the district’s architecture remaining from the early days Oklahoma City, a historical identity remains intact. For what some would describe as a gentrified district, Midtown feels uniquely unmanufactured and homey.
– It’s not overpopulated, at least yet. While feeling like a vibrant, urban place, there aren’t an overabundance of pedestrians or cars. Your conversations are unlikely to be interrupted by a honk or inconsiderate passerby.
CONS
– The dining and entertainment options can become expensive. The available restaurants are top notch, but with a price to match. Places like Cafe d0 Brazil and Bleu Garden charge more than $20 per plate. Quick service eateries, like Waffle Championship, will routinely ask $15 or more for an entree and drink.
– For the non-drinker or partier, Midtown may begin to feel dull after multiple visits. Sure, there are a variety of restaurants and decent urban scenery, but there’s a decent possibility your entertainment desires will be left unsatisfied. With a movie theater, Brickopolis entertainment center, two sports teams and riverwalk, Bricktown seems to have Midtown beat in the ‘things to do’ department.
PLACES OF INTEREST
-The Dust Bowl Lanes & Lounge, founded in 2013, offers bowling and dining in a retro-themed environment.
-Elemental Coffee is a relaxed place to enjoy home brewed coffee recipes while studying or catching up with friends.
-With a rooftop bar and fine dining options, Cafe do Brazil remains a top spot in Midtown for those seeking a luxurious night on the town.
More information on restaurants and things to do in the midtown area can be found here.
CONCLUSION
It had been awhile since I last visited Midtown, and I was pleasantly surprised. The culture is graspable and alive, and the environment feels pleasantly urban without being overwhelming. Just be prepared to pay if you want the full Midtown experience.
This post is one part of a blog written for Dr. Philip Patterson’s Feature Writing class.
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