Buckle up for the Tour de Norman!
Chances are, you’re most familiar with Oklahoma’s third largest city as the home of the Sooners. While we miss the camaraderie and high-energy passion that come with game day weekends, we want to take a moment to highlight some of the unique attractions that make Norman special. If any of these spots strike your fancy, be sure to save them to your Favorites or add them to the custom Adventure you’ve been creating.
Ready to hit the town?
Stella Nova
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Stella Nova
Jump start the day with a locally sourced, small-batch coffee from Stella Nova. Whether your go-to is a latte, an Americano, nitro cold brew or a frappé, the menu includes all the classics along with treats from the bakery and new lunch options. You won’t see it on the menu but try asking for a ristretto shot instead of espresso for a deeper flavor and sweeter finish. Stella Nova opens at 5:30 a.m. daily, and the convenient drive-thru will have you on the road to the next destination in no time.
STASH
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Recent renovations and new arrivals make right now an exciting time to stop by STASH for some retail therapy. The shop is filled with a selection of handmade pieces and home goods that are both sustainable and ethically sourced. Plus, the owners and staff are always exceptionally friendly and helpful. This is the place to come for vintage finds and unique gifts, although we bet you’ll find plenty of items you’ll want to keep all for yourself!
Neighborhood JAM
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Neighborhood JAM
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to Neighborhood JAM for brunch before it ends at 2:30 p.m. If you want something light, go for the açai bowl or Legal Grounds: scratch-made seasonal granola, fresh fruit, yogurt and brûléed grapefruit. You also can’t go wrong with JAM’s heartier items like the huevos rancheros and the Crab Cake Benny. Add a glass of fizzy Oklahoma-brewed Big Oak Kombucha to complement the delicious spread.
Summit (Norman)
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Summit (Norman)
Now that you’re fueled up for more fun, belay on at Summit Climbing Gym. Day Passes are available for $16 and include unlimited climbing, yoga and ab classes. Kids 13 and under climb for $12. Due to limited capacity, be sure to check availability before you go. Starting Friday, July 10, reservations will only be required on weekends and peak hours during the week (3:30 p.m. to close). You can book your climb time here.
Historic Campus Corner
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Still in the mood to shop? Make your way to Historic Campus Corner across the street from the University of Oklahoma to enjoy a wide range of local boutiques, restaurants, bar patios and more. O’Connell’s Irish Pub & Grille, Fuzzy’s Taco Shop, Othello’s Italian Restaurant and The Porch are a few local favorites, along with Diamond Dawgs, which has been named “Oklahoma’s Best Hot Dog” by Southern Living Magazine. Or if you need a small afternoon pick-me-up, opt for a sweet treat from The Baked Bear or Apple Tree Chocolate, Insider’s pick for top candy store in the state. You can plan your shopping trip ahead of time by checking out the full list of Campus Corner businesses here.
Lake Thunderbird
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Chase the sunset to Lake Thunderbird for a moment of peace and relaxation. Feel free to bring along that curbside pick-up to-go order or an ice chest of cold refreshments to enjoy while you take in the view and reflect on the full day of fun you’ve had. Lake Thunderbird State Park spans nearly 2,000 acres so there’s plenty of room to spread out and practice social distancing.
The Winston
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The Winston
For a last stop on your Tour de Norman, sample a tasty seasonal cocktail on the patio of The Winston, located on Main Street. The Frozen Watermelon Fresca is made with fresh watermelon, ginger liqueur, vodka, Aperol, fresh lemon and champagne and sets the mood just right. You’ll also see an impressive selection of whiskey, beer and wine. Cheers to a successful day in Norman!
Of course, we can’t forget about Norman’s array of museums. We are eager for the Sam Noble Museum, Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art, the National Weather Center and National Weather Museum and Science Center to reopen down the road. Keep an eye out on these Destination pages for updates.
These are just a few of the Sooner city’s fantastic attractions. Where do you like to go when you visit Norman? Tell us in the comments below and let us know another town on Adventure Road you’d like us to cover.
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