Fall Colors in Oklahoma City, OK 2025
Experience fall foliage that is more than OK
Best time: late October–early November
Fall in Oklahoma City reveals a whole palette of orange, yellow, and red. The largest city in Oklahoma boasts quite a few impressive foliage areas in the city and on the outskirts. OKC is also close to some of the top leaf-peeping destinations in the Midwest, such as the Talimena National Scenic Byway.
When to see fall colors in Oklahoma City
The first colorful leaves appear in Oklahoma City parks in mid-October, Peak fall foliage season usually occurs from late October through the first week of November. By Thanksgiving, beautiful leaves are usually gone.
Fall colors in the city
Myriad Botanical Gardens
Located in downtown Oklahoma City, Myriad Botanical Gardens is the closest destination to see the magical change of seasons. Red maples, yellow elms, and orange cypress look astonishing with skyscrapers in the background. In addition, during the fall foliage season, the garden holds its annual Pumpkinville festival, with many family-friendly activities. Not far from the gardens is Bricktown—a cozy district for a boat trip.
Heritage Hills
Heritage Hills is a historical neighborhood, which is known for its homes and mansions, the largest and most beautiful in the city. At the end of October, Heritage Hills is filled with stunning colors. Take a walk near the 1903 Overholser Mansion, which belonged to businessman Henry Overholser, and the 1916 Hales Mansion, which belonged to businessman William Taylor Hales, for vibrant autumn photos without leaving the city.
Fall colors near Oklahoma City
Less than two hours from the city are two excellent parks for a color hunt. Roman Nose State Park has many streams that run along forest paths and is the perfect place to hike, rent a lodge, and enjoy nature's beauty. Red sandstone canyon walls of Red Rock Adventure Park, together with vibrant fall leaves, make this an outstanding autumn ensemble.
Talimena Scenic Drive
The 54-mi (86-km) Talimena Scenic Drive that stretches across the Ouachita Mountains is the premier leaf-peeping destination in the region. Visit the Winding Stair Mountain Recreational Area, with numerous trails, campsites, and historical towns. Also, you can stop by Robbers Cave State Park near the Arkansas border, where, according to a legend, Jesse James and Belle Starr were hiding from authorities. The Sans Bois Mountain Range, part of the larger Ouachita chain, provides stunning vistas with picturesque cliffs and creeks.
Chickasaw National Recreational Area is also famous for its beautiful fall foliage. The park has hiking and biking trails as well as camping options. Lake of the Arbuckles is a popular destination for anglers, birders, and nature photographers. Lake Murray State Park near Ardmore, is home to the largest state park within the state, containing over 12,500 acres (5,058 ha) of wilderness. Take a walk along the huge shoreline of Lake Murray and marvel at postcard fall views.
