Scissortail Park | Oklahoma City

Information

Landmark: Scissortail Park
City: Oklahoma City
Country: USA Oklahoma
Continent: North America

Scissortail Park, Oklahoma City, USA Oklahoma, North America

Scissortail Park is a 70-acre urban park located in downtown Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. It extends from the Oklahoma City Convention Center to the Skydance Bridge.

Visual Characteristics

The park features a central lawn area, a large performance stage, a children's adventure play area, and a 3-acre lake with a splash pad. Paved pathways traverse the park, connecting various zones. The landscape incorporates native grasses and trees. The Skydance Bridge, a prominent architectural feature, spans over I-40 and connects the park to the south bank of the Oklahoma River.

Location & Access Logistics

Scissortail Park is situated in the central business district of Oklahoma City. It is bordered by SW 7th Street to the north, SW 4th Street to the south, South Robinson Avenue to the east, and South Hudson Avenue to the west. Access is available from multiple points along these streets. Parking is available in nearby garages, including the Cox Convention Center Garage and the Renaissance Hotel Garage. Public transport options include various Oklahoma City MAPS bus routes that stop in the vicinity of the park.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The park was developed as part of the MAPS for Kids initiative and opened in phases starting in 2019. It was designed to revitalize the downtown area and provide green space. The lake is an engineered water feature designed to manage stormwater runoff and provide recreational opportunities.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include picnicking on the great lawn, attending concerts and events at the performance stage, using the children's adventure play area, and utilizing the splash pad. Kayaking and paddleboarding are permitted on the lake during designated hours. The park also offers walking and jogging paths.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are located within the park. Shade structures are present in designated areas, particularly around the children's play zone. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally strong throughout the park. Food vendors are often present during events, and several restaurants are located within walking distance in the surrounding downtown area.

Best Time to Visit

For photography, early morning or late afternoon provides optimal lighting conditions. The park is accessible year-round. The splash pad operates seasonally, typically from Memorial Day to Labor Day. The lake is best for water activities during warmer months.

Facts & Legends

The Skydance Bridge's design was inspired by the scissor-tailed flycatcher, the state bird of Oklahoma. The bridge's lighting system can be programmed to display various colors and patterns.