Top 5 Things to Do in Edmond OK
How does one measure extraordinary? It could be Edmond’s distinguished school system, educated work force, low cost of living or the dozens of opportunities to lead an active lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a round of golf or a day on the lake, you’re sure to find it in Edmond.
UCO Outdoor Adventure Recreation Center
The University of Central Oklahoma’s Outdoor Adventure Recreation Center (OAR) is located on the north shore of Arcadia Lake and is the perfect escape for outdoor enthusiasts. The OAR offers activities and workshops for the Edmond community including camping, backpacking, mountain biking, kayak fishing, kayaking and canoeing. Get out on the water by renting a kayak or paddle board for a few hours or engage with the outdoors by hiking or biking the trails around the lake. Their experienced staff are there to help you get acquainted with the lake and their rented equipment.
The OAR also doubles as an event space for those looking for a serene venue with a beautiful view. Plan a company outing complete with guided group kayaking and backpacking tours or build your leadership and communication skills on the center’s ropes course.
For young adventurers, the OAR hosts a three-day camp for fourth-eighth grade kids called The Outdoor Adventure Camp. Participants can try various paddle sport such as kayaking, canoeing and stand-up paddle boarding. They also play land games and learn about wildlife and stewardship of the outdoors.
The OAR’s hours of operation change throughout the year so be sure to call before visiting. For more information or to make reservations, call (405) 974-2200.
Hafer Park
Originally commissioned in 1979, Hafer Park boasts 121 acres of land for Edmond residents to enjoy. Take a scenic run or bike ride through the trees on the park’s 1.5-mile paved path or get your heart rate racing with a volleyball match on the park’s court.
Hafer Park is easily a favorite for Edmond parents. The trail that wraps around the park takes visitors past three playgrounds, a fishing pond, a rock-climbing feature and pavilions. The pavilions are available to rent for up to four hours for a small fee.
Music lovers can enjoy free live music in the park each summer as a part of Edmond’s Concert in the Park series. In 2018, the concerts began in late May and were held each Thursday through early August. Attendees are asked to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets to set up at the Hafer Park Stage.
In 2018, Hafer Park was the location for Edmond’s Libertyfest fireworks show. Libertyfest was selected as one of the top 10 places to be in America on July 4 by CNN and USA Today. It is a multi-event celebration of America’s birthday. Fireworks could be seen from miles away in every direction.
Hafer Park is the home to several public art installations including “Arc of Peace,” “Big Wish,” “The Web” and the most recent addition, “Sanctuary,” a bench in recognition of Cliff Henderson’s life. Henderson was a frequent visitor of the park where he enjoyed feeding apples and grapes to the birds and squirrels. The bench was the city’s 200th art piece.
YMCA/Mitch Park
Edmond is fortunate to have two YMCA locations, the first being in the center of Edmond, just off Rankin. The Rankin YMCA offers a pool that measures 25 yards in length with three lanes. The pool is equipped with a handicap access lift chair and a low-rise set of stairs for easy access. In addition, the Rankin location offers wellness programs, community service, day trips, meals, health fairs, screenings and special interest classes.
Located in north Edmond, the Mitch Park YMCA opened in 2014 and was a $25.4 million investment in a partnership with the City of Edmond and Edmond Public Schools. The state-of-the-art facility offers a competitive swimming pool and is the home to the Edmond Public Schools swimming teams. They also provide swim lessons, summer day camps, child watch, youth sports, before and after school programs, personal training and more.
Mitch Park offers something for everyone with skateboarding, disc golf, a five-mile trail, pavilions, picnic tables and a playground. With the Parks and Recreation Office, Senior Resource Center, YMCA and Multi-Activity Center located within the park, expect it to be bustling any night of the week.
In 2017, Edmond Electric started a new holiday tradition with Luminance, a walk-though light display at Mitch Park. Families can visit the free display the entire month of December with hot chocolate in hand. During the holiday season, an ice-skating rink is also assembled at the park.
Arcadia Trails
Edmond residents have a reputation for leading active lifestyles so it’s no surprise that the city took the initiative to open a 3.1-mile trail for walkers, joggers, runners and cyclists. The Spring Creek Trail, located two miles from I-35, is 18 feet wide and is divided into lanes for biking, running and walking. Motor vehicles are not allowed on the trail, which makes the trail extremely safe for users.
The trail is located near Arcadia Lake, which allows users peaks of the water as they make their way down the trail. Surrounded by trees, the trail offers a wilderness feel and is wonderfully maintained.
In 2018, the trail received two new trailheads at Integris Medical Center and at Fox Lake Trail on the west side of I-35. The trail will also connect to the proposed future Arcadia Lake Trail that will loop around the lake. The 18-mile-long Arcadia Lake Trail will be privately funded and does not have a current timeline for construction.
To access the trail, visit the Spring Creek Park off of 15th Street. Let the park office know that you’re visiting the trail and your parking fee will be waived.
Golf
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, Edmond has an outstanding golf experience waiting for you. With over five golf courses and clubs to choose from, Edmond is the ultimate destination for golfers of any age and ability.
Edmond’s public golf course, KickingBird is a well-maintained, 18-hole course championship course. KickingBird is Edmond’s oldest course and one of Oklahoma’s premier public courses. The 6,700-yard course was redesigned by touring professional Mark Hayes in 1997 and features tree-lined fairways and gently contoured greens, The challenging, yet playable course is perfect for the weekend golfer or advanced competitor.
Open to the public, the Golf Club of Edmond is in northeast Edmond. Enjoy a scenic view as you golf the pristine course with 419 Bermuda grass, tee boxes and fairways, as well as water and sand features. The historic clubhouse offers a fully stocked bar, HD televisions and a relaxed atmosphere.
Named after the oak tree on the fifth hole of the course, Oak Tree National is known for excellence. The 640-acre course is in north Edmond and has been the host of the U.S. Senior Open and Senior PGA Championship, as well as being home for many touring and retired professionals. The course features two 18-hole championship courses, natural landscape and traditional course designs. In addition, Oak Tree has tennis, swimming and fitness facilities and a kid’s club is also offered. Private membership is required for individual use.