So You're Thinking of Moving to OKC, Buttercup? Buckle Up!
Ah, Oklahoma City. Nicknamed "The Big Friendly" for reasons that will become abundantly clear (or maybe not), OKC is a city with a heart of gold, a twang in its accent, and a weather system that would make a chameleon dizzy. But fear not, intrepid adventurer! With this handy-dandy guide, you'll be navigating Bricktown like a pro in no time.
What To Know Before Moving To Oklahoma City |
Culture: It Ain't All About Rodeo Clowns (But There's Some of That Too)
OKC offers a surprising amount of cultural clout. Catch a world-class musical at the Civic Center, or spend an afternoon getting lost in the Oklahoma City Museum of Art's vast collection. Feeling fancy? Don your finest duds and head to the Oklahoma City Ballet. Just be warned, if you scare easily, steer clear of the giant Chick-fil-A cow on I-35. It's... imposing.
Foodie Fun: OKC's culinary scene is having a moment, with trendy gastropubs popping up next to legendary barbecue joints. Don't miss out on chicken-fried steak, a local delicacy that will leave you both satisfied and questioning your cardiologist's advice.
Tip: Reread tricky sentences for clarity.
Weather: Buckle Up, It's a Wild Ride
Oklahoma City takes the phrase "four seasons in one day" to a whole new level. You might start your morning in a sweater, battling a rogue tumbleweed, only to be basking in sunshine by lunchtime and dodging hail by dinner. Tornadoes: Yes, they're a thing. But with advanced warning systems and a network of storm shelters, most Oklahomans take them in stride (and use the occasion to stock up on chips and dip). Just be sure to have a plan and a designated selfie spot - because hey, what's an apocalypse without a good Instagram story?
The Great Outdoors: More Than Just Fried Okra
OKC boasts a surprising number of green spaces. Kayak down the Oklahoma River, have a picnic under the watchful gaze of the giant bison statue at Bricktown, or spend an afternoon fishing at Lake Hefner. Word to the wise: If you see a coyote, it's probably not there to discuss philosophy.
Tip: Read at your own pace, not too fast.
How to Spot a True Oklahoman
- They can identify all the different types of tornadoes (and have a favorite).
- They know the lyrics to every Garth Brooks song ever written.
- They understand the difference between "sweet tea" and "unsweetened tea" (and will judge you accordingly).
FAQ: OKC Edition
How to survive the heat? Hydrate, seek air conditioning, and never underestimate the power of a strategically placed sweatband.
How to find a good tornado shelter? Most public buildings have them. In a pinch, a sturdy ditch will do. (But seriously, talk to your landlord about their plan).
QuickTip: Skim slowly, read deeply.
How to get around? A car is pretty much essential. Public transportation exists, but it's not the most extensive.
How to fit in? Be friendly, say "y'all," and learn to appreciate a good fried onion burger.
Tip: Write down what you learned.
How to stay entertained? There's always a festival, concert, or rodeo going on somewhere. Plus, people-watching at the Plaza District is a national pastime.
So, there you have it, folks! With a little preparation and a healthy dose of humor, Oklahoma City can be a delightful place to call home. Just remember, if the wind whispers your name, it's probably not your imagination. But hey, that's just part of the charm, right?