The Myriad Botanical Gardens first made its debut in Oklahoma City in 1977. And since then, it has become one of Oklahoma City’s famous urban parks.
This 15-acre world class urban park is free and open to the public and offers outdoor enthusiasts a chance to take advantage of several activities throughout the year.
Which is why I’m here today.
In this article, we will discuss the year-round special events and programs that make this vibrant park unique.
Without further ado, Let’s jump into the article.
For more information on the Myriad Botanical Gardens, please check them out here.
Where are the Myriad Botanical Gardens?
The MBG or Myriad Botanical Gardens is a 15-acre botanical garden and interactive urban park located in downtown Oklahoma City.
The gardens are home to multiple tiers of densely landscaped areas that surround a beautiful sunken lake.
Talks of creating a garden in Oklahoma City first began in 1964 when city leaders mastered a revitalization plan for the downtown area.
The MBG has served as an urban getaway since its groundbreaking in 1977 and has quickly become a world-class urban park that you see today.
As a matter of fact, this garden landscape owns the title of the best urban open space rewarded to them in 2015.
The Crystal Bridge Conservatory
Perhaps the main draw at the Myriad Botanical Gardens is the Crystal Bridge Conservatory.
The 224-foot-long living oasis is spectacular in so many ways. Just think of a jungle fairy tale. Then Inside the bridge, you will be greeted with tropical plants, colorful flowers and even a 35-foot waterfall.
The Crystal bridge Conservatory just experienced an 11 million dollar make-over. That’s a pretty big chunk of change if you ask me. Here are some of the updated amenities of the Conservatory. Let’s take a look:
- A Brand-new layout for the 1st floor.
- A cloud portal sculpture on the main pathway.
- Two-level waterfall feature.
- A multi-purpose classroom
- A new elevator for improved access.
So, with that being said, what this renovation signifies is that both significant public and private investment in the full renovation demonstrates its value as an architectural icon.
This is truly a place where people of all ages can come together and learn and discover about a fascinating array of plants of exotic locations around the globe.
I’m glad that the renovations took place. This is going to be a game-changer for those who have visited the MBG before.
At the north end of the Conservatory’s first floor, visitors will find the root wall and a reflecting pool. The root wall portrays the beauty of plants hidden below the ground on the anchoring wall that will lead you to the 2nd floor.
My favorite thing about the reflecting pool is a chance to see the exotic lilies.
2nd Floor Renovations
Thinking about booking private events or parties? Then, you will absolutely love what the city has done to spruce up the 2nd floor.
The 2nd floor renovation brings a new terrace to the north end that will give visitors a chance to relax, host private events, and book receptions.
The interactive discovery room is also on the south end of the 2nd floor and offers children hands-on activities as they learn about the plants and animals and insects in the rainforest ecosystem.
For the first time in nearly 35 years, this is the first time that the conservatory has seen or experienced any type of significant changes.
Christmas Time is Great at The Botanical Gardens
This is the ideal Christmas time daytrip for those who want to discover Oklahoma City. The Christmas activities at the gardens will include the following this year. Let’s take a look at them:
- A Santa Meet/Greet in the Bromeliad Terrace.
- A Polar Express Train.
- Ornament and craft classes are available in the visitor lobby.
- Face Painting by Kaledidoscope Arts.
The Devon Ice Rink
Perhaps one of the best times to visit the Myriad Botanical Gardens is in the wintertime. Why?
The Devon Ice Rink.
This downtown attraction is available from November through January. With over 5,500 square feet of real ice, this place is ideal to indulge in seasonal food while skating through this magical park surrounded by glittering lights.
The Devon Ice Rink is open 7 days a week and is known for hosting private parties and special events. If you have any birthday ideas that are out of the box, then this might be the place for your party or gathering.
You will want to stay updated on their holiday hours as they tend to vary. Admission is $14 and reservations need to be made in advance for private parties.
Where: 301 West Reno Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73102
When: November 16th- January 29th.
Thoughts & Takeaways
And that wraps up today’s article. The Myriad Botanical Gardens is one of my favorite places to visit in Oklahoma City. I am really excited that the city has poured money into renovating the Conservatory for visitors alike. This place is also a great daytrip to go and discover the tropical plants that make this an incredible destination. I hope you get a chance to visit the Myriad Botanical Gardens this winter for some ice skating, if not, that’s okay too. I have made plenty of visits here throughout the year and really enjoyed my time there. Please share your experiences with the Myriad Botanical Gardens in the comment section below.