Norman Oklahoma Community Guide

"Already the third largest city in the state,live in Norman, you can easily dine out on a
Norman continues to grow and expand. Part ofdifferent delicious world cuisine every day of the
the secret may be that Norman is ideally locatedweek!
within driving distance of Oklahoma City and evenIf you enjoy the arts, Norman has a number of
allows for weekend trips to Dallas, which is threegalleries and facilities that may be of interest. Fred
hours away.Jones Jr. Museum of Art boasts a fine collection
Of course, Norman is about more than just aof French Impressionist art and an impressive
great location. It is also home to a number ofcollection of the Taos Society of Artists. The
attractions, including the University of Oklahoma,Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History
the largest University in the state. The Universitycontains a number of celebrated exhibits. If you
boasts a 2 million-volume library which is accessibleprefer music, there are many live music venues
to the public, and which local residents can use.and the Summer Breeze Concert Series is a
Residents of Norman can also visit thepopular – and free – attraction in the
University’s two major museums and accesssummer. If you enjoy soaking in the arts
the many programs and courses the schooloutdoors, visit the bronze foundry known as The
offers. If you love sports, you may enjoyCrucible. Here, you will find a gallery as well as an
catching a game -- the University’s Nationalimpressive sculpture garden. The Firehouse Art
Championship-winning football team and theCenter is another great local resource, offering art
men’s gymnastics teams are both big draws.classes.
The women’s basketball team at theIf you are looking for recreational options, Norman
University of Oklahoma is considered among thehas a number of green spaces and parks. Be sure
best in the country.to visit the George M. Sutton Wilderness Park,
Norman’s historic downtown core also offerswhich boasts many trails and a few ponds. You
much to see and do. From gourmet grocerymay also want to visit the Little River Zoo which
stores to small galleries, music venues, andrescues abandoned exotic animals. If you are
independent stores, the downtown area offerswilling to drive a little bit outside of Norman, Lake
much fun and recreation. Be sure to check outThunderbird offers mountain bike trails, boating
the beautiful architecture in the area as well asfacilities, campgrounds, and horseback riding trails.
the many independent and funky businesses.Also outside of Norman is The Wichita Mountains
Norman’s Performing Arts Studio is a greatWildlife Refuge which boasts many hike trails as
place for concerts and exhibitions. Sooner Theatrewell as many animals native to the region. The
is another good option for live music and theatre.Refuge is about a 90 minute drive outside of
The historic downtown area also has manyNorman, so it is easily accessible to the
wonderful cafes, bars, and restaurants. When youcommunity’s residents.