Kick the thought of saving money by staying home straight to the curb. Adventure doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag; seek it out with an open mind, and you (and your wallet) are sure to be pleasantly surprised.
A wise person should have money in their head, but not in their heart.– Jonathan Swift
Bet Your Bottom Dollar
Now’s the time to get creative with those weekend plans. Road trip for a concert in the park, make a list of free museums or gather up handful of must-see street festivals. Throw the budget out the window, you won’t need it.
It is not the man who has too little, but the man who craves more, that is poor.– Seneca
On the Cheap
Grab your mat for a free Tuesday night yoga class in the fresh air at Myriad Botanical Gardens.
Peruse fine art at Exhibit C and the Red Earth Art Center for absolutely no cost.
Stop in at Bedré Fine Chocolate for a free sample of something sweet.
Get away from the material world for a weekend camping trip in Chickasaw Country.
Rent an electric scooter and zip through Downtown Oklahoma City.
Rich in Experience
Everything’s better when it’s free (or nearly).
Need some music for the road? Listen to a Nearly Free Adventure playlist here.
Nearly Free Destinations
Lake Texoma State Park is home to one of the largest reservoirs in the United States. Famous for its striped bass, Texoma has been dubbed the Striper Capital of the World. Kingston, Oklahoma, even celebrates the popularity of striper fishing with the Kingston Striper Festival held each June.
Journey through Oklahoma's oldest national park, the Chickasaw National Recreation Area, which has served as a haven for outdoors enthusiasts since 1902. Water in all forms, from springs and streams to lakes and more, is the area's main attraction.
As the only Native American tribe to create its own brand of fine chocolate, the Chickasaw Nation takes great pride in its Bedré products. Bring your sweet tooth, and get ready for melt-in-your-mouth perfection. Visitors receive a free sample just for stopping in.
The Myriad Botanical Gardens act as a lush, landscaped oasis in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City. The recently remodeled gardens’ 17 acres draw everyone from concert goers to families to those just looking to enjoy the natural environment.
Located in Oklahoma City's Bricktown entertainment district, Exhibit C is one of the latest additions to the downtown area's artistic and retail offerings, housing an art gallery with handcrafted work by Chickasaw artists, both on display and for sale.
Created with the mission to promote the rich traditions of American Indian arts and cultures through education, a premier festival, a museum and fine art markets, Red Earth has become one of the most respected organizations of its kind in the U.S. Visitors are welcome to explore diverse galleries and exhibitions weekdays with free admission.
Downtown Oklahoma City continues to thrive and evolve. This walkable urban area includes everything from museums, parks, shops and restaurants to sports, festivals and water adventures. Explore the uniqueness of each of its seven districts.
The Plaza District is a budding area in Oklahoma City that continues to evolve through revitalization efforts, with some of the most popular restaurants, bars and retail spaces calling it home. The area also hosts Live! on the Plaza on the 2nd Friday of each month, where live music and fresh food abounds, as well as the Plaza District Festival in the fall.
Open 51 weeks a year, Martin Park Nature Center provides a peaceful, 144-acre natural sanctuary in the midst of Oklahoma City's urban surroundings. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, from birds and butterflies to foxes, armadillos and reptiles. And for those looking to explore the area's environment, there are 2.5 miles of gentle hiking trails made of gravel and packed soil.
