Blog Post: Exploring Oklahoma City–Plaza District

Spanning a one-mile stretch of N.W. 16th street between Classen Boulevard and Pennsylvania Avenue lies the Plaza District. Here, trendy restaurants, wine bars, art shops and drama theaters aim to satisfy the cravings of creatives young and old.

The Plaza’s history begins in the 1920’s, when the area arose as a commercial center for surrounding residential neighborhoods. It would thrive for several decades until the 1970’s, when many residents flocked north to suburbs like Edmond, and crime became rampant.

With hopes of restoring the area to its old glory, The Plaza District Association was born in 1997. Since then, new businesses have been established, and the once dilapidated surrounding neighborhoods have been restored to their former glory. Folks from all across the metro area come to the Plaza to eat at renowned restaurants like Empire Slice House, and be entertained at venues like the Lyric Theater.

To get here from Oklahoma Christian, you’ll head south on the Broadway Extension, then take the westbound I-44 exit. From there, you’ll exit onto Penn Avenue, turn right, and turn left about three miles later at N.W. 16th street.

On a chilly, breezy Monday afternoon, I explored all the Plaza had to offer. Here are my takes on the good and bad of the district:

PROS

-The area is architecturally unique and beautiful. One and two story 1920’s era buildings, many with bright murals painted on the side, house the district’s businesses. Large oak trees planted along the side of N.W. 16th street shield pedestrians from sunlight. The Plaza feels like the downtown area of a small town, but with big city amenities.

-More than perhaps any other district in Oklahoma City, the Plaza is small business minded. The businesses are run by people who are genuinely passionate about their craft. The only corporate logos I saw while walking through the plaza were beer advertisements in front of the local convenience store.

-The Plaza is far removed from honking horns and urban noise pollution. My walk was interrupted at some points by loud conversation, but never from loud trucks or squeaking brakes.

CONS

-Running along a mile-long stretch on just one avenue, the Plaza district has less dining and shopping options available compared to other places in the city.

-While homelessness and poverty is often a problem in urban districts, I noticed noticeably more colorful characters and homeless wandering around the Plaza than Bricktown and Midtown. While walking along the sidewalk, one homeless man approached me and asked for change. I told him I had none, and he then proceeded to curse me out.

-Unlike Bricktown and Midtown, the Plaza is not easily accessible by public transportation. During busy periods, like weekend nights, parking can be hard to find.

Conclusion

Whether it be an afternoon of shopping or an evening of dining, the small yet lively Plaza District seems to have something for everyone. It may not be the safest or cleanest district in the metro area, but I would argue it’s the liveliest. Just walking the sidewalks and viewing the many murals was an enjoyable experience.