Scissortail Park is a vibrant urban oasis located in the heart of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Spanning 70 acres, the park serves as a cornerstone of the city’s revitalized downtown and offers a dynamic blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and cultural experiences. Opened in 2019, the park is part of the MAPS 3 initiative, a series of public projects designed to enhance the city’s infrastructure and quality of life.
Key Features and Attractions
Upper Park (40 Acres):
The northern section of Scissortail Park is the most developed, featuring a diverse array of attractions:
Union Station: A historic building repurposed for public use, serving as a reminder of Oklahoma City’s rich railroad history.
Scissortail Lake: A 3.7-acre lake offering paddle boat rentals and surrounded by scenic walking paths.
Love’s Travel Stops Stage and Great Lawn: This expansive green space hosts concerts, festivals, and community events. It’s equipped with state-of-the-art sound systems and ample seating areas.
Playgrounds and Splash Pads: The park features a family-friendly playground and water play area, perfect for children to enjoy.
Sky Rink: A seasonal outdoor skating rink that transforms the park into a winter wonderland.
Lower Park (30 Acres):
Connected by the Skydance Bridge, this area is focused on providing open green spaces for relaxation and recreation. It includes:
Sports Courts and Fields: For basketball, futsal, and more.
Picnic Areas: Shaded spots perfect for gatherings.
Walking and Biking Trails: Scenic paths that weave through landscaped gardens and open spaces.
Horticultural Highlights:
Scissortail Park boasts beautifully curated gardens with native and ornamental plants. Seasonal displays ensure the park is vibrant year-round.
Dining and Shopping:
The Scissortail Cafe, located within the park, offers a range of delicious snacks and beverages. Farmers’ markets and pop-up shops are regular features, providing fresh local produce and handmade goods.
Art and Culture:
Public art installations, sculptures, and murals are scattered throughout the park. The Love’s Travel Stops Stage often hosts live music, theater performances, and cultural festivals.
Community Impact and Sustainability
Scissortail Park is more than just a recreational space; it’s a hub for community engagement. Programs such as yoga classes, gardening workshops, and outdoor movie nights encourage residents and visitors to connect. The park also incorporates sustainable practices, including water conservation and the use of native plants to reduce maintenance and support local ecosystems.
Accessibility
The park is designed to be inclusive and accessible, with ADA-compliant pathways, ample parking, and public transportation options nearby. It’s located near Oklahoma City’s downtown attractions, making it easily reachable for both locals and tourists.
Events and Activities
Scissortail Park hosts a variety of year-round events, including:
Seasonal festivals, like the fall pumpkin fest and spring tulip displays.
Concerts featuring local and national artists.
Fitness classes and recreational activities.
Scissortail Park is Oklahoma City’s crown jewel, providing a space for relaxation, recreation, and community connection. Whether enjoying a peaceful stroll by the lake, attending a live concert, or exploring the gardens, the park offers something for everyone. It is a testament to the city’s commitment to enhancing urban life and fostering a sense of togetherness among its residents.
Hours of Operation
Open daily from 6am-11pm
Children’s Playground is open
from dawn until dusk each day.
Park Management Office
Weekdays from 9am – 5pm
(405) 445-6277
For Park safety concerns or after-hours issues, call Park Ambassadors
(405) 401-5886