A decade ago, visitors to NW 16th Street would’ve found little more than boarded-up storefronts and urban decay. Today, this same stretch pulses with street art, craft cocktails, and the kind of locally-owned businesses that make Oklahoma City residents proud to call this place home.
The Plaza District’s transformation from forgotten commercial strip to cultural destination shows that authentic revitalization doesn’t need corporate chains or massive developments, just passionate locals willing to bet on their neighborhood.
Key Takeaways
- The Plaza District runs along NW 16th Street between N. Blackwelder and N. Gatewood Avenue, creating Oklahoma City’s most walkable cultural hub
- Over 5,000 square feet of rotating street art through the Plaza Walls project creates a constantly changing outdoor gallery
- James Beard-nominated restaurants like Ma Der Lao Kitchen and local favorites like Empire Slice House define the authentic dining scene
- Monthly LIVE! on the Plaza events transform the district into a block party every second Friday evening
- Local-only businesses from DNA Galleries to vintage shops create an anti-chain shopping experience
- The district offers distinct day and night atmospheres, from family-friendly browsing to arcade bars after dark
- Dense concentration of businesses makes the entire district walkable in a single afternoon
From 1920s Commercial Strip to Urban Decay and Back Again
The Plaza District occupies a precise stretch along NW 16th Street between N. Blackwelder Avenue and N. Gatewood Avenue. Originally developed in the 1920s as a commercial hub serving the surrounding neighborhoods, this linear strip thrived for decades before falling victim to the same urban sprawl that hollowed out downtowns across America.
By the 1980s and 1990s, boarded storefronts dominated the landscape. The commercial strip that once anchored community life had become a symbol of decline. Then something remarkable happened. A coordinated revitalization effort kicked off in the late 1990s and early 2000s, driven by local entrepreneurs who saw potential where others saw problems.
The Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma sparked this comeback by renovating the old Plaza Theatre, creating an anchor that attracted other businesses. Today’s Plaza District blends seamlessly with the historic Gatewood neighborhood, creating a dense, walkable area you can explore thoroughly in a single afternoon.
What makes this district special isn’t just its successful revitalization, it’s the deliberate rejection of chain businesses. You won’t find a Starbucks or McDonald’s here. This local-only philosophy creates an authentically Oklahoma experience that draws visitors seeking something genuinely different from typical commercial developments.
5,000 Square Feet of Street Art in an Open-Air Gallery
The Plaza Walls project covers over 5,000 square feet of wall space in the alley behind businesses on the north side of 16th Street. The Oklahoma Mural Syndicate, a non-profit organization, manages and curates this rotating outdoor gallery that launched in September 2015.
Every year during Mural Expo, artists from around the world descend on the Plaza District to paint over existing murals, creating an entirely fresh gallery. This constant evolution encourages repeat visits, what you see today won’t be there next month. The visual density covers every available inch of wall space, making this arguably the most Instagrammable spot in Oklahoma City.
The Art That Started It All
The mural project didn’t emerge in a vacuum. The Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma’s renovation of the Plaza Theatre provided the cultural foundation that made large-scale public art possible. As businesses returned and foot traffic increased, the blank walls behind buildings became canvases for artistic expression.
This approach to public art reflects the district’s grassroots philosophy. Rather than commissioning permanent installations, the Plaza Walls embrace impermanence. Artists know their work will eventually be painted over, creating freedom to experiment without the pressure of creating something meant to last forever.
James Beard Recognition and Local Foodie Favorites Define the Dining Scene
The Plaza District punches well above its weight in culinary recognition. Ma Der Lao Kitchen earned a James Beard nomination and recognition from Bon Appétit as one of the 50 best new restaurants in America in 2022. This Lao cuisine spot represents the district’s commitment to authentic, chef-driven dining rather than familiar chains.
Empire Slice House serves New York-style pizza in a punk-rock atmosphere. Their “Fungus Among Us” showcases the kitchen’s creative approach to traditional pizza. The Mule built its reputation on hot melts, elevated grilled cheese sandwiches, paired with an impressive craft beer selection. Their “Macaroni Pony” exemplifies how the district’s restaurants transform comfort food into something memorable.
Must-Try Spots and Signature Dishes
Mexican Radio provides a cool-casual atmosphere for tacos and cold drinks, while Aurora handles the essential breakfast, brunch, and coffee needs. New State Burgers & Spirits elevates the burger experience beyond typical bar food.
Sweet treats define another layer of the district’s food culture. Pie Junkie dedicates itself entirely to pie, selling both slices and whole pies. Their “Drunken Turtle” frequently sells out, proving that specialized concepts thrive here. Sasquatch Shaved Ice operates seasonally, offering distinctive shaved ice flavors that complement the district’s eclectic character.
The dining scene embraces strong patio culture. Outdoor seating contributes directly to the street energy that makes the Plaza District feel alive. These restaurants create an eclectic, casual atmosphere with high-energy sit-down venues that maintain the neighborhood’s authentic character while delivering food worthy of citywide attention.
Curated Local Shopping Beyond Mass-Produced Merchandise
Shopping in the Plaza District means discovering vintage finds, handmade goods, and boutique items you won’t find anywhere else. DNA Galleries operates as both an art gallery for local artists and a shop for apparel and gifts, featuring work from over 150 local Oklahoma artists. This dual-purpose concept reflects the district’s maker culture, where many shop owners create the goods they sell.
Dig It! specializes in 90s vintage clothing, patches, pins, and pop culture memorabilia. Out on a Limb focuses on sustainable fashion, handmade goods, and locally sourced items. Bad Granny’s Bazaar operates as a retro variety store and thrift concept. These shops share a common philosophy, offer items with stories, not mass-produced merchandise.
The emphasis on Okie-centric gifts designed by local artists sets these shops apart from typical retail. You’re buying directly from makers and curators who understand Oklahoma culture. This approach creates shopping experiences that feel personal rather than transactional.
LIVE! on the Plaza Transforms Streets into Monthly Block Party
Every second Friday of the month from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, the Plaza District becomes a street festival. LIVE! on the Plaza keeps shops open late while artists set up vendor tables on sidewalks and live music performers take to the streets. This signature event happens 12 times yearly, creating a reliable monthly celebration.
The block party atmosphere represents the intersection of art and commerce that defines the district. Regular visitors plan around these events, knowing they’ll discover new artists, sample food from restaurants, and experience the district’s highest energy levels.
Parking becomes challenging during LIVE! events. Ride-shares work well, or you can park in adjacent neighborhoods and walk over. The event transforms the district’s atmosphere from family-friendly daytime browsing to a nightlife hub that attracts visitors from across the metro area.
Arcade Games and Irish Pub Atmosphere Define After-Dark Entertainment
Up-Down creates a 21+ arcade bar environment with vintage arcade games, pinball, and skeeball. The atmosphere runs loud, neon, and high-energy, a deliberate contrast to the district’s daytime personality. Saints Pub offers the opposite experience with its Irish-style pub atmosphere and relaxed neighborhood feel.
This contrast between high-energy gaming and traditional pub culture provides options for different evening moods. Both venues complement the district’s daytime family-friendly businesses while creating reasons to return after dark.
The nightlife options reflect the district’s overall philosophy, authentic experiences over generic entertainment. Rather than trying to compete with Bricktown’s party scene, Plaza District bars create intimate environments that feel like neighborhood hangouts.
Getting There and Making the Most of Your Plaza District Visit
The Plaza District’s specific geography makes navigation simple. The dense concentration of businesses along the NW 16th Street corridor means you can walk from one end to the other in minutes. Integration with the Gatewood neighborhood provides additional context and extends your exploration area.
Different times create dramatically different atmospheres. Daytime visits offer family-friendly browsing through shops and casual dining. Evening visits, especially during monthly LIVE! events, require different planning but reward you with the district’s most energetic community atmosphere.
Planning Your Visit
Seasonal considerations affect your experience. Sasquatch Shaved Ice operates seasonally, and outdoor dining becomes more or less appealing depending on Oklahoma weather. The Plaza Walls look different throughout the year as new murals replace old ones.
Consider starting with lunch at one of the James Beard-recognized restaurants, then browsing the local shops and viewing the current Plaza Walls installation. If you’re visiting during a second Friday, plan to stay for LIVE! on the Plaza to experience the district’s transformation into a block party.
How To Get To 5-Star Towing OKC From Plaza District
Driving Directions From Plaza District, Oklahoma City, OK 73106 to 5-Star Towing OKC, 2800 SW 25th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73108 – 12 min (4.8 miles) via N May Ave Fastest route, the usual traffic
Plaza District Oklahoma City, OK 73106
Head west on NW 16th St toward N Indiana Ave – 0.4 mi
Turn left onto N Pennsylvania Ave – 0.4 mi
Continue straight to stay on N Pennsylvania Ave – 328 ft
Turn right onto NW 10th St – 1.0 mi
Turn left onto N May Ave – 2.7 mi
Turn left onto SW 25th St – 0.1 mi
Turn right
Destination will be on the right – 407 ft
5-Star Towing OKC, 2800 SW 25th St, Oklahoma City, OK 73108.
We also offer towing and roadside assistance services near The Plaza District, OKC. Learn more about our next location Paseo Arts District, OKC.
