Uncovering Oklahoma's Date Guide

UNCOVERING OKLAHOMA'S DATE GUIDE

BY DENNIS SPIELMAN Uncovering Oklahoma's Date Guide ~ Foreword~

"You can discover more about a person in an hour I've been wanting to put together a date guide for months now, but of play than in a year of conversation." the practically of printing an actual book or magazine ruined that notion. Then, behold! Apple releases iBooks Author allowing people – Plato (429-347 B.C.) to create interactive books for the iPad and iPhone. When I read the announcement, the date guide came to mind. Huzzah for modern The dinner and a movie date night is simply becoming extinct - and technology! in many cases unacceptable - especially when there are so many fantastic, creative, and local places for amazing, fun, and unique This book was written with all types of couples and dates in mind to dates. When I was first pitching around the idea of Uncovering show that there is something for everyone. There are pictures of Oklahoma to friends and co-workers, I had complied a list of places I every place, quotes from people as to why they personally think a wanted to feature on the show. I was amazed as to how many places particular place makes for a great date spot, and even links to watch they've never even heard about before. It inspired me to do the show YouTube videos (something I could have never done with a printed and the fact there are still so many interesting places that people guide). don't know about drives me to this day. With future editions, this book will include more date ideas and will Over the years, I noticed in a trend in search engine terms people expand to other cities throughout Oklahoma. I hope you find this were using to find the site. One of the most common keywords was guide to be inspiring, informative, and helpful with your "date ideas." I've capitalized on it by running articles with events relationships. 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 ~ Dennis Spielman good gems here and there, but generally there wasn't many Producer of Uncovering Oklahoma suggestions, so I would keep writing and adding more and more [email protected] suggestions for people.

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 Web Site: www.plazadistrict.org video on Live on the Plaza LIVE on the Plaza is a monthly art walk event held on the second friday of the month, which 7 Things To Do At Live: promotes emerging artistic talent in Oklahoma ✓ Enjoy wine at Urban Wine Works City. Plaza District businesses open their doors ✓ View the art at The Society with monthly visual artists, performing artists, ✓ Partake in the month's special event and live musicians. Many special events also ✓ Check out the free goodies from Fowler take place during LIVE on the Plaza, such as Volkswagen and The Spy Lyric Theater performances, CD releases, ✓ Treasure hunt for vintage finds at such private parties, holiday retail events, and so stores as Gad Granny's, Velvet Money, much more. LIVE on the Plaza provides the RetroOKC, and Urbanology community an opportunity to view emerging ✓ Buy something original for yourself at talent each month, as well as socialize with a DNA Galleries or Collected Thread diverse mix of artists, professionals, ✓Grab a nightcap at Saint's 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."

3 Science Museum Oklahoma Oklahoma City Zoo

2100 NE 52nd St., Oklahoma City 2000 Remington Place, Oklahoma City Science Museum The Oklahoma City Zoo is an ideal location to spend a first date(s) Oklahoma reveals the with that special someone. First, rent a paddle boat and feed the wonder and relevance of ducks. Next make sure to get onto the zoo train, where you’ll get a science in our everyday guided tour of lives. Get up to your the zoo and all elbows in science with the animal acres of hands-on exhibits. The experiences, thousands of train stops at space, aviation and several locations cultural artifacts, and new and let you take exhibits always on the tons of pictures "What makes Science Museum Oklahoma a good horizon. Blast off date night destination is the fact that it's an active of the animals beyond the Milky Way environment. You don't have a movie distracting you plus you will in the Planetarium from the company you're with, but you're not just learn about the Theater and feel the sitting across the table waiting for conversation to rich history of the city zoo. After the nice ride, make your way to the come up. You've got an environment where you and heat from live the person your with can play and engage these elephant habitat, where you will meet the three famous elephants: explosions in Science apparatus, which of course is going to lead to Asha, Chandra, and the little Malee. You can watch their daily Live. And you'll love conversation or just at least eliminating the performance and afterwards the three ladies love to pose for traveling to new worlds uncomfortableness of not doing anything together. pictures. So don't waist anymore time and just follow Dr Seuss' Instead of just sitting down and watching something, while watching movies advise: the two of you can actually experience something in the dome theater. together and that's got to make the evening that “So… Let your inner-child much more meaningful." Be your name Buxbaum or Bixby or Bray run wild! ~ Clayton P. Moore Or Mordecai Ali Van Allen O’Shea, In Uncovering Wonder Instigator and Relevance Czar You’re off to Great Places...get on your way!” Oklahoma's video interview I hung out with the Zoo hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily with buildings closing at 4:45 museum's Wonder Instigator and Relevance Czar, Clayton P. p.m. Guests must leave grounds at closing. Admission for two adults Moore, as he talks about the museum and gives a brief tour. is only $16. To learn more call (405) 424-3344 or visit okczoo.com.

4 OKC Improv Ghostlight Theatre Club and first rate entertainment on stage all for Why should a couple take an 3110 N. Walker, Oklahoma City the affordable price of $12 for a ticket. You Web Site: www.okcimprov.com get in free when you're celebrating your improv class together? birthday with us. What better way to bring "OKC Improv is an ideal date night "First, at OKC Improv, your first improv two people together than through the destination. Based out of Ghostlight Theatre class is free (don't tell your date that!). unifying power of laughter. Take the pressure Club, we are only two blocks away from great Dates are about the same things off for two hours and we'll give you a night of dining options in the historic Paseo Arts improvisers want - being relaxed, great shared experiences that you'll District such as Sauced, Picasso's, and The confident, going with the flow, and having remember for weeks to come." Paseo Grill. We are only a few minutes away a great time. You can let loose a little since from other popular dining options on NW ~ Co-Producer, Eric Webb everyone else is too. Best of all, you'll leave class with unique shared stories that start, 23rd St., N Western, Automobile Alley, and in To learn more about show times and who is "Remember that time you were Dinosaur Midtown. After catching a great meal head on performing that night, visit OKC Improv's President and I was your Caveman over and enjoy the best improvisational web site at okcimprov.com comedy and theater in the state. OKC Improv General?"" Buy tickets online for you and your date as is an intimate space featuring the most - Clint Vrazel, Artistic Director/Lead the shows do tend to sell out! comfortable theater seating in the metro, a Instructor of OKC Improv cash bar serving beer, wine, soda, and water,

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 Tahlequah-based husband and wife Twinprov, made up of OKC Improv Villain: The Musical is a completely troupe, The MiDolls are made up of improv duo, Red Letters, perform artistic directors and twin brothers improvised 30-50 minute musical in some of the metro's top female their original form The Punch, as Buck and Clint Vrazel, perform their the style of "Wicked" and "Dr. performers and specialize in the duo explores eccentric acclaimed "Hip Hop Harold" Horrible's Sing-Along Blog" where creating themed shows in which characters and honest conversation. musical improv long-form, Rap- the most interesting character, the they perform in costume. sody. bad guy, is always the focus!

5 Bluewater Divers Rocktown Climbing Gym

718 North Broadway, Oklahoma City 200 SE 4th St., Oklahoma City Web Site: www.bluewaterokc.com Web Site: www.rocktowngym.com For most people that have never been Scuba Diving before, just the Rocktown is the metro's premier rock climbing destination. thought of breathing underwater is intoxicating. Becoming an Featuring indoor and outdoor top rope and lead climbs up to 90 explorer of the underwater feet, bouldering, and instruction. They cater not only to the die-hard world is easy to learn because expert climber but to families and those of all with abilities to seek Bluewater Divers makes adventure. learning fun. In addition to a "What better way having highly accredited and to liven up the evening award winning Training than experiencing a new Team, they focus highly on activity together?" said social networking with other Aaron Gibson. "Rock divers. climbing provides a "Some people already know they're going to like scuba diving prefect opportunity for and they just want to sign up for the scuba diving lesson," said two people to experience Director of Happiness, Allen Aboujeib. "Other people are curious a little "risk" together, and they just want to try it while at the same time providing plenty of opportunity for fun and first so we offer the Discover bonding. At Rocktown Climbing Gym we have all the equipment; Scuba Diving experience for harness, shoes, chalkbags, etc. We'll show you the ropes and how to people that just want to try use them. After a short training session you're on your way to enjoy it first where basically you the thrill of rock climbing at your own pace. Climbs vary in height just show up and we work and difficulty so there's plenty of routes to pick from. And girls, with you." you're in luck, more often than not you are better climbers than the Bluewater Divers teaches guys! And if you're still desperate for dinner and a movie - we have diving in their shop's energy bars and show climbing videos." classroom and in Oklahoma City Community College's indoor pool The standard first-visit New Climber package, includes all the with its deepest depth of 18' 6''. Experience the Discover Scuba necessary equipment, training, and day pass to get you climbing Diving program for $25 and if you like it, they will apply your $25 safely for $27 per person. registration fee to the cost of the Open Water Certification class. 6 Ghostlight Theatre Club Ghostlight Theatre Club The Credeaux Canvas by Keith Bunin 3110 N. Walker, Oklahoma City February 17 - March 10, 2012 Web Site: www.ghostlighttheatreclub.com Struggling artists attempt Ghostlight Theatre Club, since 2007, has made a name for itself by to swindle an art collector in this producing quality, thought provoking theatre for Oklahoma City powerful drama set in a paint- audiences that they may be unable to see anywhere else. As a splattered East Village apartment. company, they understand the beauty of the theatrical art form, the Exploring a complex labyrinth of importance of the play as a love, friendship, and intimacy, piece of art, and the Keith Bunin’s deft dialogue drives fundamental necessity of the this beautifully constructed play to relationship between the art its soul-shattering climax. and the audience. Co- An Impending Rupture of the founder/Artistic Director Belly by Matt Pelfry Lance Garrett feels that the April 27 - May 19th creative process does not end with the final rehearsal, but How far would YOU go to defend that the creativity continues your family? Matt Pelfry's to develop and evolve with the "galvanizing black comedy" addition of the audience into concerns Clay Stilts' desire to the mix. Ghostlight currently fortify his house in preparation for produces four mainstage plays both a new baby and the per season, as well as their apocalypse he's convinced is just around the corner. In one reckless widely acclaimed, original moment, Clay's world spins out of control, becoming a microcosm for Christmas sketch comedy a global struggle against threats to our security, both real and show, Screw the Eggnog, imagined. Pass the Rum. "Located in the Paseo Tickets: Arts District and just a mile Adults: $18 from the Western Corridor, Ghostlight Theatre Club is conveniently Students (w/id): $13 located to a number of great local restaurants, bars, and clubs," said Seniors (65 and up): $13 Lance. "Dinner, a show, then on to drinks and live music is a fantastic Ghostlight Pass: $54 night out and a great way to taste all the great things OKC has to offer!" 7 Cafe 7 Samurai 14101 N. May Ave. #117, Oklahoma City Nhinja Sushi & Wok

630 NW 23rd St., Oklahoma City I have to say, Cafe 7 is a great place to bring 13905 N. May Ave., Oklahoma City a date. They have an amazing section of The details in a restaurant are dead give food that's customizable so both people, If you're curious to try sushi, consider away about what kind of experience you will even vegetarians, should be able to find Nhinja for their bite-size portions and low have. I found that to be true recently when I something that he or she will enjoy. When prices. It's a great place to eat at if either visited Samurai, a small sushi place in the you first walk in, there's a counter with party of the date is "unsure" about sushi. OKC Asian District. It's one of these places various menu cards. Simply select what you You can easily get a wide variety of sushi to when you go when everything else is closed want and present it to the cashier. Then in discover your favorites, including vegetarian or too crowded or even worst - overpriced. about 7 minutes your food will be delivered. options, in a fun, colorful, modern Fear not, Samurai turned out to be an environment. excellent choice. In the era where even sushi It's not too expensive either, with each Nhinja is enjoyable and it's across the restaurants have drive throughs while meal priced under $7, so if one person is street from Quail Springs Mall and the AMC blasting "G6" on the stereo – it is not easy to paying for the date, it won't break the bank. Theater, so give it a taste and hit up the find a place that carries an authentic However, when it gets busy it can be a mall. They have starters such as spring rolls, Japanese vibe...that is until you visit challenge to find a seat, but there are patio gyoza, and lettuce wraps along with soups Samurai. In addition to 50 sushi rolls, the seats for warmer days. Cafe 7 also offers and salads, and as the name implies some small restaurant seats about 25 people, wines and deserts. Plus, there's a cupcake good wok. offers appetizers, soups, meal combos, and shop in the same shopping plaza within the list goes on and on. Whatever choice you walking distance. Highly recommended for make at Samurai, it will be a five star treat! a date, especially for first dates.

8 Reduxion Theatre Reduxion Theatre Sense and Sensibility 1613 N. Broadway Ave., Oklahoma City May 10 - 26, 2012 Web Site: www.reduxiontheatre.com In honor of Reduxion's first project as Reduxion Theatre Company, the fresh face of Oklahoma classical an Oklahoma nonprofit corporation, a theatre, is an up-and-coming performance group known for their stage-reading of Pride and Prejudice boundary pushing stage plays and professional practices. At the in 2008, we bring another original Broadway Theater, Reduxion Theatre Company performs works by adaptation of a Jane Austen novel to William Shakespeare, other classical authors, American musicals and our stage. Sense and Sensibility, at the new stage adaptations of Jane heart, is Austen's tale of sisterhood Austen. The Reduxion Theatre and self-discovery. 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, "Reduxion Theatre transports the famous Dashwood believes in boundary-pushing sisters to modern day America in this classical theatre, accessible, heart-warming re-telling. understandable and enjoyable to our patrons," said Managing Director, Erin Woods. "Our The Jane Austen Festival audiences don't passively watch June 12-16, 2012 a play, they experience it. At our Join Reduxion for their first- intimate venue, the Broadway ever multi-day festival Theater near downtown celebrating the author, Jane Oklahoma City, we at Reduxion Austen. Nightly events include wish to engage attendees in the play-readings, panel art of live storytelling - to reach discussions, guest lecturers, out to them human-to-human. exhibits and workshops all We want to bring them into our world and change it, so that each devoted to the life and works performance is different. We want audiences viscerally involved, as of the great English novelist. they are the key component of our art."

9 Lyric Theatre of Oklahoma Lyric Theatre at the Plaza Bye Bye Birdie 1727 NW 16th St., Oklahoma City June 26 - 30 Civic Center Music Hall Conrad Birdie has “One Last Kiss” for his number one teen fan in 201 North Walker Ave., Oklahoma City Sweet Apple, Ohio, before he is drafted into the Army. Get swept up Web Site: www.lyrictheatreokc.com in the excitement of the Ed Sullivan Show as the hip-thrusting rock Founded in 1963, Lyric Theatre is and roll star visits this small town in BYE BYE BIRDIE. Oklahoma's only professional year- round musical theatre company. For almost 50 years, Lyric has produced Sweet Charity classic and contemporary musicals July 10 - 14 featuring both nationally known Before CHICAGO there was SWEET CHARITY. Charity works at a Broadway stars and local favorites. 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 "Lyric's season shows are the perfect way to spend a date night," said she stays sweet and is hopeful that someday she will find happiness. Public Relations Manager, Cristen Shepherd. "Whether it is your special someone or a date with your kids, you will always find a show Call Me Madam fit for you. What better way to spend your night by going to one of July 24 - 28 the Plaza District's new and hip restaurants and then walking down the street to a Lyric show at the Plaza Theatre." 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 year- Michael 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 March 28 - April 14 An intimate evening of music with two-time Tony Award winner 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 Mickey Mantle's Steakhouse is a classic steakhouse with a contemporary American flair in both menu and design. The restaurant dazzles with a compelling Bricktown Candy Co. contemporary chef- driven menu, RedPin Bowling Lounge 100 E. California, Oklahoma City highlighted by the 200 S. Oklahoma Ave., Oklahoma City creations of Executive Web Site: www.bricktowncandy.com Web Site: www.bowlredpin.com Chef Daniel Nemec, and delivers a sizzling "The reason why you should come to dining and social experience. Mickey "At some point, every couple needs a more Bricktown Candy on a date is because it's a Mantle's is recognized as Oklahoma City's creative date than the usual dinner-and-a- safe bet. It gives you an opportunity to top spot frequented by celebrities, athletes, movie. Everyone agrees that the criteria for relieve your childhood, loosen up the date, the business crowd, and stylish locals. a great date include a delicious meal, tasty and get the opportunity to be in a safe, "Mickey Mantle's combines drinks, a memorable activity, and engaging public place that gives you the opportunity a contemporary conversation. At RedPin, you get all that to learn about the other person face to face flair with under one roof. Our hip atmosphere means as oppose to a movie where's it's like, traditional you can dress for an evening out, waitstaff "Shhhhh! Don't say anything. I'm going to steakhouse set up your games, and deliver bowling figure out later on if I like you." You get an decor to create shoes, food, and bar libations so you can opportunity to what out about what they a sensuous focus on your company, and our mod like about candy, pop, and gelato (which is atmosphere and couches at the lanes let you cozy up between Italian ice cream). It looses up the wheels delivers a frames. This is bowling that's actually cool! and next thing you know, you either made a sizzling dining and social experience," said Fun for couples and even better as a double love connection or you're giving them the Director of Events and Marketing, Brittany date." boot, but it's all in a good environment Leemaster. "Offering the best cuts of prime ~ Owner Erin Gillogly Brewer that's entertaining and fun." steak and fresh seafood along with an award ~ Owner Justin Thomas winning selection of wines, Mickey's ensures the ultimate date night in Oklahoma City." 12 JJ's Alley Michael Murphy's Put A Cork In It

212 East Sheridan Ave., Oklahoma City Dueling Pianos 115 East California, Oklahoma City "JJ's Alley is the perfect place for a date Web Site: www.putacorkinitwinery.com 25 S. Oklahoma, Oklahoma City because there are several very cozy seating "At Put A Cork In It Winery we produce areas where you can relax and listen to great Web Site: www.murphyspianobar.com handcrafted wines from the finest varietal acoustic music. Downstairs there are very "Michael Murphy's sits along the Riverwalk grapes and provide our customers friendly, comfortable couches near the stage where a and houses the most wanted Rock and Roll courteous service for a fun and relaxed wine musician plays each night 6:30-9:00. Dueling Piano Show in the country! We are tasting experience. Whether you enjoy a Upstairs there are several areas with padded a SMOKE FREE concept indoors, with a chilled glass of chardonnay, a smooth benches lined smoking patio outside. Our show consists of merlot, or a deliciously fruity sweet wine, with plush 3-4 piano players who take the stage in we have a wine for you. We offer free wine pillows, rotations while performing a rip roaring, tastings to persons over 21 years of age. including one request driven show, that includes a free Visit our wine tasting bar and spend some spot that's dose of side splitting roasts of other guests quality time with friends and family, come to be friends. While watching the show you will because every hour is a happy hour at Put A known as be taking part in our bucket madness. Cork In It Winery on the Bricktown Canal in "make-out Whether your the beer drinking type or the the Heart of Bricktown in Oklahoma City." corner." A musician plays upstairs each fruity liquor type you are covered! Our night starting at 9:30 and going until after drink menu and wine selection is second to ~ Owner Andrea Griggs midnight." none!" ~ Owner Jeff Rodgers ~ Press Release

13 Nonna's Pinkitzel Bricktown Water Taxi 1 Mickey Mantle Dr., Oklahoma City 150 N. EK Gaylord Blvd., Oklahoma City 111 S. Mickey Mantle Dr., Oklahoma City Web Site: www.nonnas.com Web Site: www.bricktownwatertaxi.com Web Site: www.pinkitzel.com "Nonna’s is the essence of a warm and No visit to Bricktown isn't complete without charming atmosphere, where delicious food Pinkitzel is a fun, fairy tale cupcake cafe, candy boutique, and gift store that wows a ride on the water taxi. The Bricktown and attentive staff create the ‘WOW’ that people when they first enter with its vibrant Water Taxi runs a continual service like a makes for a fun and memorable visit! Most mix of eclectic and sweet. bus. All Water Taxi Ambassadors narrate of the fresh produce served at Nonna’s is points of interest along the way. A round "We are probably most famous for our trip takes about 40 minutes. During their grown in our own Cedar Spring Farms candy selection," said owner Cher Casso. regular season, guests can board a Water greenhouses. Nonna’s Purple Bar is the "We have a great cupcake selection too, but Taxi every 10-15 minutes at a landing along perfect place to meet anytime – whether really I think the Bricktown Canal for $8.50. after a long day at the office or a gathering people just love to come with Family or Friends. Live Entertainment and hang out is featured each Friday and Saturday evening here." in the Purple Bar, and delicious Appetizers Browse are always ½ Price from 3:30 pm–6:30 pm, the creative Tuesday-Saturday. While you are at Nonna’s gifts and and Purple Bar, don’t forget to stop by our grab some bakery for all of your favorite desserts." cupcakes for a nice nightcap when in ~ Owner Avis Bricktown or Downtown. 14 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 301 E. Main St., Norman 305 E Main St., Norman "Michelangelos is to me a unique place to go "Great food, great atmosphere, the best As the name suggests, The Pink Elephant to on a first date because you can meet here Cafe is a bit different. Owner Shannon sangria swirls in Oklahoma and it's priced to have a cup of coffee or a glass of wine and Sherrod strives to very reasonably." either party of the date won't feel like they have an ~ Owner Michael Sherrod have to maybe turn down an alcoholic drink. environmentally- We have a small menu of light foods as well, friendly, health- conscious, and but it's a very casual place. It's quiet. The socially-responsibly music is never too loud, but it's loud enough lunch cafe. The just so that the people from the next table menu features can't hear your conversation and I think sandwiches, soups, that's important on a first date because and salads. people are kind of on the edge of their "We have a chairs, pretty much for that whole first date daily Entree special, Victoria's Pasta Shop Quiche special as cause I've been there myself. You want to well as a wonderful 327 White St., Norman talk to about yourself or you want to hear salad experience," said Shannon. "The food Vitoria's is a popular place for dates and it's what the other person has to say, but you is fresh, creative, and delicious! It is a fun easy to see why: fresh pasta in a comfortable don't want the whole room to hear you." place to relax and savor a unique meal community restaurant. Simply, delicious. ~ Owner Michael Palermo wonderfully prepared."

16 Riverwind Casino

Riverwind Casino unforgettable experience," 1544 West State Highway 9, Norman explained Jack Parkinson, Web Site: www.riverwind.com Riverwind Casino general manager. "In our first five years, As the state's second largest gaming venue, Riverwind Casino we have listened to our patrons' offers 219,000 square feet of endless excitement. In its fifth year, comments and transformed into the world-class venue now offers more than 2,700 electronic an unexpected destination games, more than 47 blackjack and poker tables, an off-track casino with a large number of betting lounge, the state's largest buffet, and upscale dining gaming machines, thrilling options. With an elegant hotel adjacent to the concerts, various and delicious dining options, a casino, there's no reason to travel hundreds of modern hotel, and dance club-like atmosphere." 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 Riverwind Casino also keeps audiences country music star and local resident, Toby Keith, enthralled inside the Showplace Theatre, a state- once thrilled concert goers with a surprise visit to of-the-art music and entertainment venue like take the stage alongside county music legend none other in the region. Every month is packed Willie Nelson for a couple of duets. Also, three of with a multitude of shows, which gives everyone a the most respected names in Oklahoma college reason to take a seat in the intimate 1,500-person football history Steve Owens, Billy Sims, and theatre. From red dirt country fans to mixed Jason White are often seen at their jointly-owned martial arts' restaurant Autographs Sports Bar located next to the Willows enthusiasts, the Buffet at Riverwind. breathtaking performances leave "That is the beauty of our casino," said Angel Green, audiences wanting Riverwind Casino marketing manager. "You never know what is more. around the next corner. It adds another element of adventure and excitement to not know exactly who you're going to run into when "We are extremely you take a stroll across the gaming floor or sit down for a well- fortunate to have all deserved steak dinner." the right pieces in place to give patrons For more information on concerts, hotel reservations and from across the state current promotions, visit Riverwind Casino's website at and nation an www.Riverwind.com or call (405) 322-6000.

17 Andy Alligator’s Fun Park & Waterpark Heyday Entertainment Center

3300 Market Place, Norman 3201 Market Place, Norman Web Site: www.AndyAlligators.com Web Site: www.heydayfamilyfun.com "Andy Alligator's is the perfect place for a date! There is no better HeyDay is a family fun center where they cater to the kid in way to re-live your childhood then playing a game of miniature golf. everyone with laser tag, an arcade, rope course, and mini-golf. Their A date filled with 18 holes of fun is never complete without a few 7,000 square foot, two-level laser tag arena allows players to cross arguments over who had the best putting form or who ultimately bridges, travel up and down ramps, hide behind illuminated pillars, won the game. After playing a game of golf, try out our huge arcade and weave between arches and passageways. In the Ropes Course, guaranteed to take you back to your childhood fun of winning tickets you'll get to explore the multi-path jungle of ropes, balance beams, and saving up for the big prize." planks, and bridges. The 18-hole course features varying elevations, ~ Kyle Allison accented by rippling streams, ponds, waterfalls, a bridge, beautiful landscaping and even some sand traps. For another day of fun, visit their neighbors, HeyDay! 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. 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!