Scissortail Park | Oklahoma City

Scissortail Park is Oklahoma City’s premier urban park, located in the heart of downtown. It serves as a central hub for recreation, culture, and community events, combining landscaped green spaces, water features, playgrounds, performance venues, and gathering areas into a modern civic destination.

Origins and Development

The park is part of a broader downtown revitalization initiative launched in the early 2010s. Construction began in 2014, and the park officially opened in phases from 2019 onward. Its design emphasizes both environmental sustainability and community engagement, transforming previously underutilized downtown land into a vibrant, multi-use public space. The park is named after the scissor-tailed flycatcher, Oklahoma’s state bird, which symbolizes openness and flight, reflecting the park’s vision as a welcoming city gathering place.

Layout and Features

Spanning 70 acres, Scissortail Park is divided into several key areas that balance active recreation with relaxation:

Great Lawn: A 7-acre central field designed for concerts, festivals, sports, and public gatherings. It is the heart of the park, hosting large-scale events throughout the year.

Children’s Garden and Playground: Interactive play areas with water features, climbing structures, and themed gardens encourage imaginative play and exploration.

Performance Pavilion: A covered stage and event space for concerts, cultural performances, and public presentations.

Lakes and Water Features: Multiple ponds and fountains provide aesthetic appeal, recreational opportunities, and habitats for local wildlife.

Trails and Paths: Walking, jogging, and biking paths connect the various sections of the park, lined with native plantings and shaded areas.

Gardens and Landscaping: Carefully designed gardens, terraces, and shaded seating areas offer spaces for quiet relaxation and reflection.

Scissortail Deck and Observation Points: Elevated areas provide panoramic views of the downtown skyline and park landscapes.

Events and Community Engagement

Scissortail Park is designed to be a cultural hub for Oklahoma City:

Concerts and Festivals: The Great Lawn and performance areas host national acts, music festivals, and seasonal celebrations.

Farmers Markets and Art Events: Regular markets and art fairs engage the local community and support regional artists and vendors.

Fitness and Wellness Programs: Outdoor yoga, tai chi, and fitness classes are offered in open spaces, promoting healthy lifestyles.

Family and Youth Activities: Educational programs, gardening workshops, and children’s events encourage engagement with nature and creativity.

Sustainability and Design

The park was developed with sustainability in mind, incorporating:

Native Plants and Trees: Reducing water usage and supporting local ecosystems.

Stormwater Management Features: Including ponds and permeable landscaping to reduce runoff.

Energy-Efficient Lighting and Structures: Enhancing safety and minimizing environmental impact.

Visitor Experience

Daytime Activities: Walking, biking, picnicking, playgrounds, and water features make it ideal for families and casual visitors.

Evening and Seasonal Events: Concerts, movie nights, and holiday celebrations activate the park year-round.

Accessibility: Wide paths, seating areas, and proximity to downtown parking make the park easily accessible for all visitors.

Scissortail Park exemplifies modern urban design by combining natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and cultural programming. It has quickly become a central gathering place in Oklahoma City, reflecting the city’s commitment to livability, community engagement, and downtown revitalization.