The Paseo Arts District in Oklahoma City

The Paseo Arts District north of Oklahoma City's Midtown is a historic area as well as a unique cultural destination. Originally built in 1929 as a shopping district, it is today a thriving artist community home to 17 galleries and working studios, numerous restaurants and bars and a monthly "First Friday" gallery walk with wine tasting, live music and artistic demonstrations.

The Paseo Arts District is located along Paseo Drive in Oklahoma City from 28th and North Walker to NW 30th. From I-235, exit west on NW 23rd. At Walker, turn north.

Get a detailed map of the Paseo Arts District.

There are 17 galleries and working artist's studio's within the Paseo Arts District. A great many artistic forms can be found, including oil painting, photography, crafts, jewelry, music, glass, dance and theatre. Diverse cultures are represented in the varied artwork, and some galleries even offer classes.

For a complete list of the galleries, see The Paseo's Official Site.

But the fantastic and unique artistic creations are not all you'll find in the Paseo District. Top restaurant and club choices include:

• The singular dishes accompanied by poetry readings and music at Galileo
• The next-door intimate cocktail lounge Isis
• Eclectic cafe Sauced
• Casual fine-dining spot The Paseo Grill
• and more.

Each month, the Paseo Arts District is a great spot to visit at the end of the first week. The "First Friday Gallery Walk" begins at 6pm the first Friday of every month, continues until 10pm and picks back up the next day from noon to 6pm.

A number of local artists participate as the working galleries of the Paseo District showcase new work. Walk the avenue of stucco buildings and enjoy the splendid work and atmosphere while you check out wine tastings, see live demonstrations and enjoy the live music.

In addition to the monthly "First Friday Gallery Walk," the Paseo has held an annual Arts Festival for more than 30 years. It takes place on Memorial Day weekend and includes over 70 artists. Work on display includes painting, pottery, crafts, jewelry, sculpture and much, much more.

Oklahoma musicians and entertainers perform throughout the festival, and there is a children's play area that offers kids a chance to create their own artwork.

Artist entry forms for the festival are available in PDF format online. Awards of up to $1000 are presented in several categories.

Coming into town to see the Paseo Arts District? Here are some nearby hotels:

• The Plaza Hotel
  4345 N Lincoln Blvd.
  Approximately 1.5 miles from the Paseo Arts District
  Check Rates
  
  
• Hawthorne Suites
  1600 Richmond Square
  Approximately 1.5 mile from the Paseo Arts District
  Check Rates
  
  
• Courtyard by Marriott
  1515 NW Expressway
  Approximately 2 miles from the Paseo Arts District
  Check Rates
  
  
• The Skirvin Hotel
  One Park Avenue
  Approximately 2.5 miles from the Paseo Arts District
  Check Rates