In Edmond, the options range from boating on Arcadia Lake to museums, murals and recurring events. For trip planning, the different trail lengths and uses provide practical guidance; you can choose cultural events and seasonal offerings based on your travel dates.

Water, Trails and Trees

Arcadia Lake is near Edmond, and boating and water sports are available there. Edmond’s trails also vary in length and use: the Spring Creek Multi-Use Trail is 2.5 miles long, with separate paths for cyclists and for runners and pedestrians. The Arcadia Lake Multiple-Use Trail is about 6.5 miles long one way. The six-mile Arcadia Lake Equestrian Trail is specifically designed for horseback riding. This means there are clearly distinct trail profiles: separate paths for different user groups, a longer one-way route and a trail designed specifically for horseback riding.

E.C. Hafer Park has 1.5 miles of paved trails for shared use. Those interested in trees and birds will find more than 100 specimen trees of various native and ornamental species at the Margaret Annis Boys Centennial Arboretum, as well as excellent bird-watching opportunities. The focus here is not on a single trail, but on the trees and wildlife observation. Parks also tell the story of Edmond’s development: Stephenson Park is the city’s oldest park and was originally known as South Park.

Pelican Bay Aquatic Center has two 150-foot-tall slides and a splash pad. Together with boating and water sports at Arcadia Lake, it expands the range of water-related activities in Edmond. The specific details about trails and facilities help you decide how to spend a day of your stay, as not all offerings serve the same purpose.

Schoolhouse, Museum and Murals

The 1889 Territorial Schoolhouse was the first public schoolhouse in Oklahoma Territory. Educational summer camps are held there each year in June and July; since the seasonal program may change, check the current dates if the camps are important to your trip.

The Edmond History Museum is housed in a former armory of the 179th Infantry, 45th Division of the Oklahoma National Guard. The building was constructed in 1936 by the WPA using historic regional sandstone. Its exhibits cover the 1889 Land Run and the city’s substantial growth from the 20th century to the present. The collection includes more than 35,000 artifacts and historical photographs. From the first public schoolhouse to a former armory and the museum’s exhibits and collection, visitors can explore different chapters of the city’s history.

There is also a specific connection to art along Route 66: Edmond has seven murals along the route. The mural A Moment in Time is located at 116 South Broadway. The exact address makes it possible to include this work in your city exploration, without assuming that the other murals are at the same location.

Events and Seasonal Planning

The Edmond Arts Festival takes place on the first weekend in May, featuring more than 150 artists. Heard on Hurd features bands and food trucks on the third Saturdays from March through October. Dates or programs for both events may change. If you plan to time your trip around one of these events, check the latest information in advance.

The Edmond Farmers Market is open year-round: in winter, it operates indoors, and from May through November, it takes place outdoors. Seasonal market hours may also change, so it is a good idea to check the latest information before visiting. The time of year therefore affects which recurring offerings fall within your travel dates.

Discover more destinations: Luther, Jones, Del City, Bethany, Midwest City.

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