The Best College Town In Oklahoma
Norman, Oklahoma, is the third-largest city in the state. It is known for its vibrant music scene, live festivals, and the home of the University of Oklahoma Sooners. The prestigious university offers more than 170 academic programs, including the highest tier of research activity classification from the Carnegie Foundation. It is the flagship program of Oklahoma's public university system. The school has historical value, being founded 17 years before statehood was granted to Oklahoma.
The city is also a destination for many non-college visitors. Named for the area's first land surveyor, Norman has attractions for all tastes. Cultural points of interest include museums, a national weather station, notable restaurants, and a pleasant downtown area filled with boutiques, vibrant nightlife, and live festivals.
Why Norman is the Best College Town
Norman has a lot going for it academically and culturally. The community goes against the grain and has a welcoming atmosphere, allowing people to be themselves. This collective mentality, 麻豆AV-class restaurants, and vibrant entertainment section make Norman hard to resist. The city is known for restaurants like Benvenuti's Ristorante, which offers a sophisticated experience, and throw-down places like Bad Daddy's Burger Bar and Billy Sims BBQ. The casual fare is good fuel when exploring the scene, and the finer dining provides a subtle retreat at the end of the evening.
Several local breweries and wineries bring out the authentic Oklahoma flavor like no other city in Oklahoma. Regional favorites such as Canadian River Vineyard and Winery and Crossed Cannons Brewery are a fun and tasteful way to spend an evening away, and they have excellent tasting menus. Many visit Norman for its abundance of museums and historical sites, some within walking distance of some of the best restaurants in town.
A good place to start is by visiting the Chautauqua Historic District, one of two historic districts established in 1995. The district comprises 153 residences designed between 1915 and 1935 and echoes a unique point in Norman's history. The stately homes, many of them with brick facades and manicured lawns, reflect the character of the deans and faculty members of the storied university.
While in town, stop by a local museum to learn the history of Norman and other fascinating facets of the city. The Bizzell Memorial Library and the Boyd House are two examples. The library is a collegiate Gothic structure completed in 1929. It is significant with racial desegregation set against a stunning natural backdrop. The Boyd House, also known as the President's House and the OU White House, is the most recognizable house in Norman and the university president's home.
Community and Campus Life
Norman and OU have a deep community spirit and support each other in myriad ways. This attitude is reflected in the friendly and cultural community, and the top-rated university has much to offer prospective and existing students. There are over 400 student organizations, 170 academic programs, and over $40 million in research expenditures. Not only do students receive a quality education, but there are many opportunities to bring student programs to the city, a way for residents and students to bond.
Popular live events include the May Fair Arts Exhibits and Sooners football at Lloyd Noble Center in Norman. The athletics program is one of the finest in the nation and is played in 麻豆AV-class facilities. Expect to hear the traditional "Boomer Sooner" chant at football and basketball games. This enterprising chant defines the state's pioneering spirit. The monikers stem from the pioneer days during land rushes. Those who staked out property were boomers, and those who got there first were sooners.
The Sooner's chant was written in the 1930s and is a valued tradition for Oklahoma University and Norman. Two mascots with these names also exist, a fun and respectful nod to the state's roots. This respectful tone is noticeable throughout Norman, a fun and energetic place that values its past while embracing the future.
Outdoor Activities
Norman is home to many outdoor activities, a draw for many visitors. It is a hub for anglers and those daring the whitewater rapids. Many hiking and biking trails are here, along with state parks. The 160-acre George M. Sutton Wilderness Park offers trails and several habitats and is renowned for accommodating all levels of experiences and being dog-friendly. Lake Thunderbird State Park is popular among anglers, horseback riders, and campers. There are two marinas and multiple camping sites.
Golfing is prevalent in Norman, and there are several courses to choose from, such as Belmar Golf Club and Cobblestone Creek Golf Course. Colonial Estates offers disc golfing, a fun and lively way to spend a warm afternoon. The family-friendly Andrews Park is just north of downtown and has gazebos, a splash pad, basketball courts, and a skate park.
A Vibrant Social Scene
Norman has a thriving social scene that is on par with its cultural and academic spirit. The nightlife comes alive during university off-hours and weekends. A popular college bar is Nompton Social, which serves beer and cocktails in a fun environment. The Heist Nightclub is a highly regarded club reminiscent of a dive bar in all the best ways. It has a black exterior and a dark, smoky interior with loud, live bands. This is where you go to let your hair down.
Sideline Bar and Grill is a happening spot among students for its proximity to the campus. The sports bar boasts over 25 televisions and caters to tailored parties. This is an excellent second option if you cannot score a ticket to a Sooners game.
Norman's Universal Appeal
Norman appeals to people from all walks of life and has something for every taste. It is an interesting town to walk around and discover local history and tradition. The friendly community is used to visitors and has a relaxed attitude. The city represents the university and vice versa. Still, each holds its own when it comes to cultural and entertainment points of interest.
The town has a cultured flair, but it also likes to have fun, whether it is spending a weekend in nature, catching an OU game, or having an all-nighter at one of the storied bars or nightclubs. There are many reasons to visit, especially for cuisine and museums. Any foodie will be happy with the restaurant selection here, and history buffs will fall in love with the many sites around town.
The historic districts are fun to visit, no matter what else is on the agenda. The stately homes, particularly at the Boyd House, bridge the community and the campus. The residences serve as a tangible link to the past and show Norman in a different light.
For many reasons, Norman, home to the University of Oklahoma Sooners, is a bucket list destination. The prestigious university attracts many academic hopefuls, with close to 200 academic programs with a research-centric focus. The city is as fascinating as the sprawling campus, with a homogenous blend of nightlife, sophisticated dining options, and cultural points of interest. Norman has much to offer college students and non-students alike.
Many visitors flock to Norman because of its live music scene and annual festivals. No matter the occasion, one of the best things about Norman is soaking in the eclectic attractions and history surrounded by natural beauty and state parks. Norman ranks high on the country's list of top college towns thanks to its academic prowess and virtually endless things to do.
