Edition 1.1 - Uncovering Oklahoma

UNCOVERING
OKLAHOMA'S
DATE GUIDE
BY DENNIS SPIELMAN
Uncovering Oklahoma's Date Guide
~ Foreword~
"You can discover more about a person in an hour
of play than in a year of conversation."
– Plato (429-347 B.C.)
I've been wanting to put together a date guide for months now, but
the practically of printing an actual book or magazine ruined that
notion. Then, behold! Apple releases iBooks Author allowing people
to create interactive books for the iPad and iPhone. When I read the
announcement, the date guide came to mind. Huzzah for modern
technology!
The dinner and a movie date night is simply becoming extinct - and
in many cases unacceptable - especially when there are so many
fantastic, creative, and local places for amazing, fun, and unique
dates. When I was first pitching around the idea of Uncovering
Oklahoma to friends and co-workers, I had complied a list of places I
wanted to feature on the show. I was amazed as to how many places
they've never even heard about before. It inspired me to do the show
and the fact there are still so many interesting places that people
don't know about drives me to this day.
This book was written with all types of couples and dates in mind to
show that there is something for everyone. There are pictures of
every place, quotes from people as to why they personally think a
particular place makes for a great date spot, and even links to watch
YouTube videos (something I could have never done with a printed
guide).
With future editions, this book will include more date ideas and will
expand to other cities throughout Oklahoma. I hope you find this
guide to be inspiring, informative, and helpful with your
relationships.
Over the years, I noticed in a trend in search engine terms people
were using to find the site. One of the most common keywords was
"date ideas." I've capitalized on it by running articles with events
that would make for a fun date and by having an archive of date
ideas for various cities. Every now and then I would google date
ideas myself to see what other sites suggested. I would find a few
good gems here and there, but generally there wasn't many
suggestions, so I would keep writing and adding more and more
suggestions for people.
~ Dennis Spielman
Producer of Uncovering Oklahoma
[email protected]
i
OKLAHOMA
CITY
Oklahoma City is growing in so many ways - especially in
the form of entertainment. From rock climbing to
kayaking to live theater, this section offers a glimpse of
the many fun activities in the big league city.
LIVE on the Plaza
The Plaza District
1700 Block NW 16th, Oklahoma City
Watch Uncovering Oklahoma's
video on Live on the Plaza
Web Site: www.plazadistrict.org LIVE on the Plaza is a monthly art walk event
held on the second friday of the month, which
promotes emerging artistic talent in Oklahoma
City. Plaza District businesses open their doors
with monthly visual artists, performing artists,
and live musicians. Many special events also
take place during LIVE on the Plaza, such as
Lyric Theater performances, CD releases,
private parties, holiday retail events, and so
much more. LIVE on the Plaza provides the
community an opportunity to view emerging
talent each month, as well as socialize with a
diverse mix of artists, professionals,
neighborhood residents, and families.
"The Plaza District is a neighborhood
commercial district boasting Oklahoma City's
local arts flavor," said Executive Director,
Kristen Vails. "The Plaza District is home to art
galleries, studios, retail shops,
restaurants, and creative services.
We have a diverse group of
businesses and organizations
here in the Plaza District to
interest any traveler or local
Metro area resident."
7 Things To Do At Live:
✓ Enjoy wine at Urban Wine Works
✓ View the art at The Society
✓ Partake in the month's special event
✓ Check out the free goodies from Fowler
Volkswagen and The Spy
✓ Treasure hunt for vintage finds at such
stores as Gad Granny's, Velvet Money,
RetroOKC, and Urbanology
✓ Buy something original for yourself at
DNA Galleries or Collected Thread
✓Grab a nightcap at Saint's
3
Science Museum Oklahoma
Oklahoma City Zoo
2100 NE 52nd St., Oklahoma City
2000 Remington Place, Oklahoma City
The Oklahoma City Zoo is an ideal location to spend a first date(s)
with that special someone. First, rent a paddle boat and feed the
ducks. Next make sure to get onto the zoo train, where you’ll get a
guided tour of
the zoo and all
the animal
exhibits. The
train stops at
several locations
and let you take
tons of pictures
of the animals
plus you will
learn about the
rich history of the city zoo. After the nice ride, make your way to the
elephant habitat, where you will meet the three famous elephants:
Asha, Chandra, and the little Malee. You can watch their daily
performance and afterwards the three ladies love to pose for
pictures. So don't waist anymore time and just follow Dr Seuss'
advise:
“So…
Be your name Buxbaum or Bixby or Bray
Or Mordecai Ali Van Allen O’Shea,
You’re off to Great Places...get on your way!”
Zoo hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily with buildings closing at 4:45
p.m. Guests must leave grounds at closing. Admission for two adults
is only $16. To learn more call (405) 424-3344 or visit okczoo.com.
Science Museum
Oklahoma reveals the
wonder and relevance of
science in our everyday
lives. Get up to your
elbows in science with
acres of hands-on
experiences, thousands of
space, aviation and
cultural artifacts, and new
exhibits always on the
"What makes Science Museum Oklahoma a good
horizon. Blast off
date night destination is the fact that it's an active
beyond the Milky Way environment. You don't have a movie distracting you
from the company you're with, but you're not just
in the Planetarium
sitting across the table waiting for conversation to
Theater and feel the
come up. You've got an environment where you and
heat from live
the person your with can play and engage these
explosions in Science apparatus, which of course is going to lead to
conversation or just at least eliminating the
Live. And you'll love
traveling to new worlds uncomfortableness of not doing anything together.
Instead of just sitting down and watching something,
while watching movies
the two of you can actually experience something
in the dome theater.
together and that's got to make the evening that
Let your inner-child
much more meaningful."
~ Clayton P. Moore
run wild!
Wonder Instigator and Relevance Czar
In Uncovering
Oklahoma's video interview I hung out with the
museum's Wonder Instigator and Relevance Czar, Clayton P.
Moore, as he talks about the museum and gives a brief tour.
4
OKC Improv
Ghostlight Theatre Club
3110 N. Walker, Oklahoma City Web Site: www.okcimprov.com
"OKC Improv is an ideal date night
destination. Based out of Ghostlight Theatre
Club, we are only two blocks away from great
dining options in the historic Paseo Arts
District such as Sauced, Picasso's, and The
Paseo Grill. We are only a few minutes away
from other popular dining options on NW
23rd St., N Western, Automobile Alley, and in
Midtown. After catching a great meal head on
over and enjoy the best improvisational
comedy and theater in the state. OKC Improv
is an intimate space featuring the most
comfortable theater seating in the metro, a
cash bar serving beer, wine, soda, and water,
and first rate entertainment on stage all for
the affordable price of $12 for a ticket. You
get in free when you're celebrating your
birthday with us. What better way to bring
two people together than through the
unifying power of laughter. Take the pressure
off for two hours and we'll give you a night of
great shared experiences that you'll
remember for weeks to come."
~ Co-Producer, Eric Webb
To learn more about show times and who is
performing that night, visit OKC Improv's
web site at okcimprov.com
Buy tickets online for you and your date as
the shows do tend to sell out!
Why should a couple take an
improv class together?
"First, at OKC Improv, your first improv
class is free (don't tell your date that!).
Dates are about the same things
improvisers want - being relaxed,
confident, going with the flow, and having
a great time. You can let loose a little since
everyone else is too. Best of all, you'll leave
class with unique shared stories that start,
"Remember that time you were Dinosaur
President and I was your Caveman
General?""
- Clint Vrazel, Artistic Director/Lead
Instructor of OKC Improv
Watch a The MiDolls show
Watch a Red Letters show
Watch a Twinprov show
Watch a Villain: The Musical show
Oklahoma's first all-gal improv
troupe, The MiDolls are made up of
some of the metro's top female
performers and specialize in
creating themed shows in which
they perform in costume.
Tahlequah-based husband and wife
improv duo, Red Letters, perform
their original form The Punch, as
the duo explores eccentric
characters and honest conversation.
Twinprov, made up of OKC Improv
artistic directors and twin brothers
Buck and Clint Vrazel, perform their
acclaimed "Hip Hop Harold"
musical improv long-form, Rapsody.
Villain: The Musical is a completely
improvised 30-50 minute musical in
the style of "Wicked" and "Dr.
Horrible's Sing-Along Blog" where
the most interesting character, the
bad guy, is always the focus!
5
Bluewater Divers
Rocktown Climbing Gym
718 North Broadway, Oklahoma City
Web Site: www.bluewaterokc.com
For most people that have never been Scuba Diving before, just the
thought of breathing underwater is intoxicating. Becoming an
explorer of the underwater
world is easy to learn because
Bluewater Divers makes
learning fun. In addition to a
having highly accredited and
award winning Training
Team, they focus highly on
social networking with other
divers.
"Some people already know they're going to like scuba diving
and they just want to sign up for the scuba diving lesson," said
Director of Happiness, Allen Aboujeib. "Other people are curious
and they just want to try it
first so we offer the Discover
Scuba Diving experience for
people that just want to try
it first where basically you
just show up and we work
with you."
Bluewater Divers teaches
diving in their shop's
classroom and in Oklahoma City Community College's indoor pool
with its deepest depth of 18' 6''. Experience the Discover Scuba
Diving program for $25 and if you like it, they will apply your $25
registration fee to the cost of the Open Water Certification class.
200 SE 4th St., Oklahoma City
Web Site: www.rocktowngym.com
Rocktown is the metro's premier rock climbing destination.
Featuring indoor and outdoor top rope and lead climbs up to 90
feet, bouldering, and instruction. They cater not only to the die-hard
expert climber but to families and those of all with abilities to seek
adventure.
"What better way
to liven up the evening
than experiencing a new
activity together?" said
Aaron Gibson. "Rock
climbing provides a
prefect opportunity for
two people to experience
a little "risk" together,
while at the same time providing plenty of opportunity for fun and
bonding. At Rocktown Climbing Gym we have all the equipment;
harness, shoes, chalkbags, etc. We'll show you the ropes and how to
use them. After a short training session you're on your way to enjoy
the thrill of rock climbing at your own pace. Climbs vary in height
and difficulty so there's plenty of routes to pick from. And girls,
you're in luck, more often than not you are better climbers than the
guys! And if you're still desperate for dinner and a movie - we have
energy bars and show climbing videos."
The standard first-visit New Climber package, includes all the
necessary equipment, training, and day pass to get you climbing
safely for $27 per person.
6
Ghostlight Theatre Club
Ghostlight Theatre Club
3110 N. Walker, Oklahoma City
Web Site: www.ghostlighttheatreclub.com
The Credeaux Canvas by Keith Bunin
February 17 - March 10, 2012
Struggling artists attempt
to swindle an art collector in this
powerful drama set in a paintsplattered East Village apartment.
Exploring a complex labyrinth of
love, friendship, and intimacy,
Keith Bunin’s deft dialogue drives
this beautifully constructed play to
its soul-shattering climax.
Ghostlight Theatre Club, since 2007, has made a name for itself by
producing quality, thought provoking theatre for Oklahoma City
audiences that they may be unable to see anywhere else. As a
company, they understand the beauty of the theatrical art form, the
importance of the play as a
piece of art, and the
fundamental necessity of the
relationship between the art
and the audience. Cofounder/Artistic Director
Lance Garrett feels that the
creative process does not end
with the final rehearsal, but
that the creativity continues
to develop and evolve with the
addition of the audience into
the mix. Ghostlight currently
produces four mainstage plays
per season, as well as their
widely acclaimed, original
Christmas sketch comedy
show, Screw the Eggnog,
Pass the Rum.
An Impending Rupture of the
Belly by Matt Pelfry
April 27 - May 19th
How far would YOU go to defend
your family? Matt Pelfry's
"galvanizing black comedy"
concerns Clay Stilts' desire to
fortify his house in preparation for
both a new baby and the
apocalypse he's convinced is just around the corner. In one reckless
moment, Clay's world spins out of control, becoming a microcosm for
a global struggle against threats to our security, both real and
imagined.
"Located in the Paseo
Arts District and just a mile
from the Western Corridor, Ghostlight Theatre Club is conveniently
located to a number of great local restaurants, bars, and clubs," said
Lance. "Dinner, a show, then on to drinks and live music is a fantastic
night out and a great way to taste all the great things OKC has to
offer!"
Tickets:
Adults: $18
Students (w/id): $13 Seniors (65 and up): $13
Ghostlight Pass: $54
7
Cafe 7
Samurai
630 NW 23rd St., Oklahoma City
The details in a restaurant are dead give
away about what kind of experience you will
have. I found that to be true recently when I
visited Samurai, a small sushi place in the
OKC Asian District. It's one of these places
when you go when everything else is closed
or too crowded or even worst - overpriced.
Fear not, Samurai turned out to be an
excellent choice. In the era where even sushi
restaurants have drive throughs while
blasting "G6" on the stereo – it is not easy to
find a place that carries an authentic
Japanese vibe...that is until you visit
Samurai. In addition to 50 sushi rolls, the
small restaurant seats about 25 people,
offers appetizers, soups, meal combos, and
the list goes on and on. Whatever choice you
make at Samurai, it will be a five star treat!
14101 N. May Ave. #117, Oklahoma City
Nhinja Sushi & Wok
I have to say, Cafe 7 is a great place to bring
a date. They have an amazing section of
food that's customizable so both people,
even vegetarians, should be able to find
something that he or she will enjoy. When
you first walk in, there's a counter with
various menu cards. Simply select what you
want and present it to the cashier. Then in
about 7 minutes your food will be delivered.
13905 N. May Ave., Oklahoma City
It's not too expensive either, with each
meal priced under $7, so if one person is
paying for the date, it won't break the bank.
However, when it gets busy it can be a
challenge to find a seat, but there are patio
seats for warmer days. Cafe 7 also offers
wines and deserts. Plus, there's a cupcake
shop in the same shopping plaza within
walking distance. Highly recommended for
a date, especially for first dates.
8
If you're curious to try sushi, consider
Nhinja for their bite-size portions and low
prices. It's a great place to eat at if either
party of the date is "unsure" about sushi.
You can easily get a wide variety of sushi to
discover your favorites, including vegetarian
options, in a fun, colorful, modern
environment.
Nhinja is enjoyable and it's across the
street from Quail Springs Mall and the AMC
Theater, so give it a taste and hit up the
mall. They have starters such as spring rolls,
gyoza, and lettuce wraps along with soups
and salads, and as the name implies some
good wok.
Reduxion Theatre
Reduxion Theatre
1613 N. Broadway Ave., Oklahoma City
Web Site: www.reduxiontheatre.com
Sense and Sensibility
May 10 - 26, 2012
"Reduxion Theatre
believes in boundary-pushing
classical theatre, accessible,
understandable and enjoyable
to our patrons," said Managing
Director, Erin Woods. "Our
audiences don't passively watch
a play, they experience it. At our
intimate venue, the Broadway
Theater near downtown
Oklahoma City, we at Reduxion
wish to engage attendees in the
art of live storytelling - to reach
out to them human-to-human.
We want to bring them into our world and change it, so that each
performance is different. We want audiences viscerally involved, as
they are the key component of our art."
transports the famous Dashwood
sisters to modern day America in this
heart-warming re-telling.
In honor of Reduxion's first project as
an Oklahoma nonprofit corporation, a
Reduxion Theatre Company, the fresh face of Oklahoma classical
stage-reading of Pride and Prejudice
theatre, is an up-and-coming performance group known for their
in 2008, we bring another original
boundary pushing stage plays and professional practices. At the
adaptation of a Jane Austen novel to
Broadway Theater, Reduxion Theatre Company performs works by
William Shakespeare, other classical authors, American musicals and our stage. Sense and Sensibility, at the
heart, is Austen's tale of sisterhood
new stage adaptations of Jane
and self-discovery.
Austen. The Reduxion Theatre
Company is taking Oklahoma
Jane Austen's tale is lovingly told
theater to the next level,
in this romantic and stirring new play.
attracting audiences and artists
In a world-premiere adaptation,
from around the world.
Oklahoma playwright, Erin Woods,
The Jane Austen Festival
June 12-16, 2012
Join Reduxion for their firstever multi-day festival
celebrating the author, Jane
Austen. Nightly events include
play-readings, panel
discussions, guest lecturers,
exhibits and workshops all
devoted to the life and works
of the great English novelist.
9
Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma
Lyric Theatre at the Plaza
1727 NW 16th St., Oklahoma City
Civic Center Music Hall
201 North Walker Ave., Oklahoma City
Web Site: www.lyrictheatreokc.com
Founded in 1963, Lyric Theatre is
Oklahoma's only professional yearround musical theatre company. For
almost 50 years, Lyric has produced
classic and contemporary musicals
featuring both nationally known
Broadway stars and local favorites.
"Lyric's season shows are the
perfect way to spend a date night," said
Public Relations Manager, Cristen Shepherd. "Whether it is your
special someone or a date with your kids, you will always find a show
fit for you. What better way to spend your night by going to one of
the Plaza District's new and hip restaurants and then walking down
the street to a Lyric show at the Plaza Theatre."
Bye Bye Birdie
June 26 - 30
Conrad Birdie has “One Last Kiss” for his number one teen fan in
Sweet Apple, Ohio, before he is drafted into the Army. Get swept up
in the excitement of the Ed Sullivan Show as the hip-thrusting rock
and roll star visits this small town in BYE BYE BIRDIE.
Sweet Charity
July 10 - 14
Before CHICAGO there was SWEET CHARITY. Charity works at a
dance club where the motto is “Hey Big Spender.” She has only seen
the dark side of life through her bad relationships, but through it all
she stays sweet and is hopeful that someday she will find happiness.
Call Me Madam
July 24 - 28
Inspired by Oklahoma City’s own international socialite and
ambassador, Perle Mesta, this musical comedy is full of Irving Berlin
Lyric Theatre has completed the renovation of the historic Plaza tunes you love, like “Hostess with the Mostes” and “You’re Just in
Theatre on NW 16th Street, bringing life back to this beloved
Love.” This golden age treasure is directed by Lyric's Artistic Director
neighborhood landmark. The renovated Plaza is now home to yearMichael Baron, director of Lyric's 2011 production of RAGTIME.
round productions of rarely-performed musicals, plays, and new
works, all in an intimate 270-seat setting theatre.
Chita Rivera: My Broadway
August 7 - 11
Spring Awakening
An intimate evening of music with two-time Tony Award winner
March 28 - April 14
CHITA RIVERA performing songs from her legendary Broadway
This coming-of-age indie rock musical, adapted from the
career. Accompanied by a full orchestra, Ms. Rivera will perform
controversial 1891 German play by Frank Wedekind, explores the
selections from her most celebrated musicals including WEST SIDE
intimate journey from adolescence to adulthood with unforgettable
STORY, CHICAGO and more. “You leave this show walking on air!” poignancy and passion.
The New York Times.
10
BRICKTOWN
The best dates happen in Bricktown when you take
advantage of the close proximity of everything. It's one
of the few places where food and fun are within walking
distance of each other. Be fun by renting a pair of
segways or for a more romantic method of travel, rent a
horse-drawn carriage. Just simply walking around
Bricktown is a great way to get to know each other.
Mickey Mantle's Steakhouse
7 Mickey Mantle Dr., Oklahoma City
Bricktown Candy Co.
100 E. California, Oklahoma City
Web Site: www.bricktowncandy.com
"The reason why you should come to
Bricktown Candy on a date is because it's a
safe bet. It gives you an opportunity to
relieve your childhood, loosen up the date,
and get the opportunity to be in a safe,
public place that gives you the opportunity
to learn about the other person face to face
as oppose to a movie where's it's like,
"Shhhhh! Don't say anything. I'm going to
figure out later on if I like you." You get an
opportunity to what out about what they
like about candy, pop, and gelato (which is
Italian ice cream). It looses up the wheels
and next thing you know, you either made a
love connection or you're giving them the
boot, but it's all in a good environment
that's entertaining and fun."
~ Owner Justin Thomas
Mickey Mantle's
Steakhouse is a classic
steakhouse with a
contemporary
American flair in both
menu and design. The
restaurant dazzles with
a compelling
contemporary chefdriven menu,
highlighted by the
creations of Executive
Chef Daniel Nemec, and delivers a sizzling
dining and social experience. Mickey
Mantle's is recognized as Oklahoma City's
top spot frequented by celebrities, athletes,
the business crowd, and stylish locals.
"Mickey Mantle's combines
a contemporary
flair with
traditional
steakhouse
decor to create
a sensuous
atmosphere and
delivers a
sizzling dining and social experience," said
Director of Events and Marketing, Brittany
Leemaster. "Offering the best cuts of prime
steak and fresh seafood along with an award
winning selection of wines, Mickey's ensures
the ultimate date night in Oklahoma City."
12
RedPin Bowling Lounge
200 S. Oklahoma Ave., Oklahoma City
Web Site: www.bowlredpin.com
"At some point, every couple needs a more
creative date than the usual dinner-and-amovie. Everyone agrees that the criteria for
a great date include a delicious meal, tasty
drinks, a memorable activity, and engaging
conversation. At RedPin, you get all that
under one roof. Our hip atmosphere means
you can dress for an evening out, waitstaff
set up your games, and deliver bowling
shoes, food, and bar libations so you can
focus on your company, and our mod
couches at the lanes let you cozy up between
frames. This is bowling that's actually cool!
Fun for couples and even better as a double
date."
~ Owner Erin Gillogly Brewer
JJ's Alley
212 East Sheridan Ave., Oklahoma City
"JJ's Alley is the perfect place for a date
because there are several very cozy seating
areas where you can relax and listen to great
acoustic music. Downstairs there are very
comfortable couches near the stage where a
musician plays each night 6:30-9:00.
Upstairs there are several areas with padded
benches lined
with plush
pillows,
including one
spot that's
come to be
known as
"make-out
corner." A musician plays upstairs each
night starting at 9:30 and going until after
midnight."
Michael Murphy's
Dueling Pianos
Put A Cork In It
25 S. Oklahoma, Oklahoma City
Web Site: www.murphyspianobar.com
"Michael Murphy's sits along the Riverwalk
and houses the most wanted Rock and Roll
Dueling Piano Show in the country! We are
a SMOKE FREE concept indoors, with a
smoking patio outside. Our show consists of
3-4 piano players who take the stage in
rotations while performing a rip roaring,
request driven show, that includes a free
dose of side splitting roasts of other guests
friends. While watching the show you will
be taking part in our bucket madness.
Whether your the beer drinking type or the
fruity liquor type you are covered! Our
drink menu and wine selection is second to
none!"
~ Owner Jeff Rodgers
~ Press Release
13
115 East California, Oklahoma City
Web Site: www.putacorkinitwinery.com
"At Put A Cork In It Winery we produce
handcrafted wines from the finest varietal
grapes and provide our customers friendly,
courteous service for a fun and relaxed wine
tasting experience. Whether you enjoy a
chilled glass of chardonnay, a smooth
merlot, or a deliciously fruity sweet wine,
we have a wine for you. We offer free wine
tastings to persons over 21 years of age.
Visit our wine tasting bar and spend some
quality time with friends and family,
because every hour is a happy hour at Put A
Cork In It Winery on the Bricktown Canal in
the Heart of Bricktown in Oklahoma City."
~ Owner Andrea Griggs
Nonna's
1 Mickey Mantle Dr., Oklahoma City
Web Site: www.nonnas.com "Nonna’s is the essence of a warm and
charming atmosphere, where delicious food
and attentive staff create the ‘WOW’ that
makes for a fun and memorable visit! Most
of the fresh produce served at Nonna’s is
grown in our own Cedar Spring Farms
greenhouses. Nonna’s Purple Bar is the
perfect place to meet anytime – whether
after a long day at the office or a gathering
with Family or Friends. Live Entertainment
is featured each Friday and Saturday evening
in the Purple Bar, and delicious Appetizers
are always ½ Price from 3:30 pm–6:30 pm,
Tuesday-Saturday. While you are at Nonna’s
and Purple Bar, don’t forget to stop by our
bakery for all of your favorite desserts."
~ Owner Avis
Pinkitzel
Bricktown Water Taxi
150 N. EK Gaylord Blvd., Oklahoma City
111 S. Mickey Mantle Dr., Oklahoma City
Web Site: www.bricktownwatertaxi.com
Web Site: www.pinkitzel.com
Pinkitzel is a fun, fairy tale cupcake cafe,
candy boutique, and gift store that wows
people when they first enter with its vibrant
mix of eclectic and sweet.
"We are probably most famous for our
candy selection," said owner Cher Casso.
"We have a great cupcake selection too, but
really I think
people just
love to come
and hang out
here."
Browse
the creative
gifts and
grab some
cupcakes for a nice nightcap when in
Bricktown or Downtown.
14
No visit to Bricktown isn't complete without
a ride on the water taxi. The Bricktown
Water Taxi runs a continual service like a
bus. All Water Taxi Ambassadors narrate
points of interest along the way. A round
trip takes about 40 minutes. During their
regular season, guests can board a Water
Taxi every 10-15 minutes at a landing along
the Bricktown Canal for $8.50.
NORMAN
Drive deeper into Norman, away from I-35, and you'll
discover that the collage is surprisingly filled many fun
and romantic places. In this edition of the date guide, I'm
barely scratching the surface of what Norman has to
offer.
Michelangelos
Pink Elephant Cafe
TRÉS: Taqueria y Cantina
207 E. Main St., Norman
"Michelangelos is to me a unique place to go
to on a first date because you can meet here
to have a cup of coffee or a glass of wine and
either party of the date won't feel like they
have to maybe turn down an alcoholic drink.
We have a small menu of light foods as well,
but it's a very casual place. It's quiet. The
music is never too loud, but it's loud enough
just so that the people from the next table
can't hear your conversation and I think
that's important on a first date because
people are kind of on the edge of their
chairs, pretty much for that whole first date
cause I've been there myself. You want to
talk to about yourself or you want to hear
what the other person has to say, but you
don't want the whole room to hear you."
~ Owner Michael Palermo
301 E. Main St., Norman
305 E Main St., Norman
"Great food, great atmosphere, the best
sangria swirls in Oklahoma and it's priced
very reasonably."
~ Owner Michael Sherrod
As the name suggests, The Pink Elephant
Cafe is a bit different. Owner Shannon
Sherrod strives to
have an
environmentallyfriendly, healthconscious, and
socially-responsibly
lunch cafe. The
menu features
sandwiches, soups,
and salads.
"We have a
daily Entree special,
Quiche special as
well as a wonderful
salad experience," said Shannon. "The food
is fresh, creative, and delicious! It is a fun
place to relax and savor a unique meal
wonderfully prepared."
16
Victoria's Pasta Shop
327 White St., Norman
Vitoria's is a popular place for dates and it's
easy to see why: fresh pasta in a comfortable
community restaurant. Simply, delicious.
Riverwind Casino
Riverwind Casino
1544 West State Highway 9, Norman
Web Site: www.riverwind.com
unforgettable experience,"
explained Jack Parkinson,
Riverwind Casino general
manager. "In our first five years,
we have listened to our patrons'
comments and transformed into
an unexpected destination
casino with a large number of
gaming machines, thrilling
concerts, various and delicious dining options, a
modern hotel, and dance club-like atmosphere."
As the state's second largest gaming venue, Riverwind Casino
offers 219,000 square feet of endless excitement. In its fifth year,
the world-class venue now offers more than 2,700 electronic
games, more than 47 blackjack and poker tables, an off-track
betting lounge, the state's largest buffet, and upscale dining
options. With an elegant hotel adjacent to the
casino, there's no reason to travel hundreds of
miles in search of a better place to play. It's right
here!
You never know what local legends you might
encounter while at Riverwind. Award-winning
country music star and local resident, Toby Keith,
once thrilled concert goers with a surprise visit to
take the stage alongside county music legend
Willie Nelson for a couple of duets. Also, three of
the most respected names in Oklahoma college
football history Steve Owens, Billy Sims, and
Jason White are often seen at their jointly-owned
restaurant Autographs Sports Bar located next to the Willows
Buffet at Riverwind.
Riverwind Casino also keeps audiences
enthralled inside the Showplace Theatre, a stateof-the-art music and entertainment venue like
none other in the region. Every month is packed
with a multitude of shows, which gives everyone a
reason to take a seat in the intimate 1,500-person
theatre. From red dirt country fans to mixed
martial arts'
enthusiasts, the
breathtaking
performances leave
audiences wanting
more.
"That is the beauty of our casino," said Angel Green,
Riverwind Casino marketing manager. "You never know what is
around the next corner. It adds another element of adventure and
excitement to not know exactly who you're going to run into when
you take a stroll across the gaming floor or sit down for a welldeserved steak dinner."
"We are extremely
fortunate to have all
the right pieces in
place to give patrons
from across the state
and nation an
For more information on concerts, hotel reservations and
current promotions, visit Riverwind Casino's website at
www.Riverwind.com or call (405) 322-6000.
17
Andy Alligator’s Fun Park & Waterpark
Heyday Entertainment Center
3300 Market Place, Norman
Web Site: www.AndyAlligators.com
"Andy Alligator's is the perfect place for a date! There is no better
way to re-live your childhood then playing a game of miniature golf.
A date filled with 18 holes of fun is never complete without a few
arguments over who had the best putting form or who ultimately
won the game. After playing a game of golf, try out our huge arcade
guaranteed to take you back to your childhood fun of winning tickets
and saving up for the big prize."
~ Kyle Allison
3201 Market Place, Norman
Web Site: www.heydayfamilyfun.com
HeyDay is a family fun center where they cater to the kid in
everyone with laser tag, an arcade, rope course, and mini-golf. Their
7,000 square foot, two-level laser tag arena allows players to cross
bridges, travel up and down ramps, hide behind illuminated pillars,
and weave between arches and passageways. In the Ropes Course,
you'll get to explore the multi-path jungle of ropes, balance beams,
planks, and bridges. The 18-hole course features varying elevations,
accented by rippling streams, ponds, waterfalls, a bridge, beautiful
landscaping and even some sand traps.
HeyDay also offers group Adult Laser Tag Packages that
includes a session of laser tag, tokens, pizza, and drinks - perfect for
date nights with other couples.
For another day of fun, visit their neighbors, HeyDay!
18
CREDITS
DATE GUIDE EDITION 1.1
Just giving credit where credit is due in order of appearance!
- Author photo taken by Stf Bidelspach
- Oklahoma City Zoo elephants photo provided by the OKC Zoo
- Oklahoma City Zoo and Samurai articles written by Sasha Spielman
- Reduxion Theatre images provided by Reduxion Theatre
- Mickey Mantle's Steakhouse photos provided by Mickey Mantle's Steakhouse
- Nonna's photo provided by Nonna's
- Riverwind Casino photos and press release provided by Shaundra North
Blundell of Koch Communications for Riverwind
All other photographs and passages by Dennis Spielman. The cover photo was
taken at Michelangelos in Norman; the Oklahoma City chapter photo was taken
along the Oklahoma river; and the Norman chapter photo was taken at Victoria's
Pasta Shop in Norman.
A very special thanks to everyone that has
supported Uncovering Oklahoma, thank you!