How Walkable Is Downtown Oklahoma City? Let’s Talk 👟🌆

Tyler Carroll
6 days ago
5 min read

TL;DR: Downtown OKC is one of the few places in the city where you can live car-lite. Between walkable districts, the streetcar, and plenty of spots within steps of each other, you can enjoy life on foot without relying on your car every day.

If you’ve ever wondered whether Downtown Oklahoma City is a place you can ditch the car keys and actually stroll to where you need to go… the short answer is: yes… but let me explain.

Downtown OKC isn’t New York, and it isn’t LA. It’s its own thing. We’re a city that’s been reinventing itself, and the streets show it. From shiny high-rises to tucked-away taco spots, you’ll find plenty to walk to if you know where to look.

Two girls walking and talking in downtown Oklahoma City.

The Heart of It All: Bricktown, Arts District, Midtown

Start in Bricktown, because let’s be real, everyone does. The canal walks, restaurants, and ballpark are made for people who love to wander with a snack in hand.

If you’re into art, theater, or catching a festival, the Arts District is a short stroll away.

And if craft cocktails and boutique shopping are your thing, Midtown is basically a runway show waiting for your entrance.

The best part? All of these districts connect without you having to play “where did I park again?” every 10 minutes.

Walkability Score: The Real Numbers

Here’s where we clear things up. Oklahoma City overall has a Walk Score of 34, which is considered “car-dependent."

But Downtown OKC is different.

The Downtown neighborhood has a Walk Score of 72, which falls into the “very walkable” category.

Translation: you really can get around on foot if you live or stay downtown, especially near the hot spots. Here's a great map that can help, too.

Where Walking Wins in OKC

Coffee to Co-Working: Start at Elemental Coffee and walk straight to your coworking space at Spaces or StarSpace46. (Or, if you live at The Pulse OKC, you can just head downstairs to our coworking spaces, record a podcast in the studio, and then play a round of pickleball on the indoor court. Ok, I digress…)
Foodie Paradise: From the Paseo to Automobile Alley, you can plan a progressive dinner without ever opening Uber Eats.
Night Out: Park once, grab dinner in Midtown, catch a show at Civic Center, and wrap it up at a rooftop bar downtown. All by foot (and yes, in heels if you dare).

The Streetcar Factor

The OKC Streetcar makes walking life even easier. It runs seven days a week, connecting Downtown, Bricktown, Midtown, and Automobile Alley on a 4.86-mile loop with 22 stops. Trains come about every 12–14 minutes, and a ride is just $1 ($3 for an all-day pass)

It’s not just convenient; it ties together the most walkable parts of the city so you can stretch your steps without losing steam.

Real Talk: Where Walking Gets Tricky

Downtown OKC is still growing. Sidewalks aren’t always perfect, and some stretches feel a little too quiet at night.

If you’re thinking of moving here, the smart move is to pick a building close to the district you’ll use most. That way your “daily walk” is more latte and less marathon. (And yes, The Pulse OKC happens to be right in the sweet spot!)

Why Walkability Matters for Renters

When people look for a new place to live, they aren’t just checking square footage. They’re asking, “Can I live my life easily here?”

Living in a walkable downtown means:

Less money spent on gas (hello, more brunch budget)
Built-in fitness without even trying
Spontaneity... you can just go without stressing about parking or traffic

That kind of freedom is what makes Downtown OKC attractive, especially as more amenities and energy move in.

Bottom Line

Downtown Oklahoma City may not be the most walkable city in America, but it punches above its weight.

Whether you’re here for the food, the arts, the energy, or just the freedom of living where you can actually walk to life, it’s worth exploring.

So lace up those sneakers, slip on those heels, or hop on a scooter. Downtown OKC is waiting for you, and it’s closer than you think.

FAQ: Walkability in Downtown Oklahoma City

Is Downtown Oklahoma City walkable?

Yes. The Downtown neighborhood of Oklahoma City has a Walk Score of 72, which is considered “very walkable.” That means you can run errands, grab coffee, go to work, and enjoy nightlife all on foot if you’re living or staying downtown.

Can you live in Downtown OKC without a car?

In most of Oklahoma City, a car is essential. But Downtown is the exception. Between the OKC Streetcar (22 stops on a 4.86-mile loop), e-scooters, bike lanes, and short walks between districts like Bricktown, Midtown, and Automobile Alley, you can get by without driving every day.

What are the most walkable areas in Oklahoma City?

Bricktown, Midtown, Automobile Alley, and the Arts District are the most walkable spots in OKC. These districts connect to each other, offer plenty of dining and entertainment, and are linked by the streetcar so you can cover more ground easily.

How often does the OKC Streetcar run?

The OKC Streetcar runs seven days a week with trains arriving about every 12–14 minutes. A ride costs just $1 or you can grab a day pass for $3.

Why does walkability matter when choosing an apartment in OKC?

Walkability means convenience. You’ll spend less on gas, get built-in exercise, and have the freedom to grab dinner, coffee, or a night out without stressing about parking. Renters who value lifestyle and easy access to city life put walkability at the top of their list.

How does Downtown OKC compare to the rest of the city for walkability?

The city as a whole has a Walk Score of 34 (car-dependent), but Downtown nearly doubles that with a score of 72. In short, Downtown OKC is the walkability hotspot of the metro.

About the Author

Tyler Carroll is the Lease-Up Property Manager at The Pulse OKC. A downtown OKC local, he knows the neighborhoods, hidden gems, and best spots as well as he knows apartments. He is the go-to guide for life at The Pulse.

Reviews: Downtown Oklahoma City Apartments

See why Pulse OKC is top rated for studio living in downtown Oklahoma City. Read real feedback about our walkable location, modern amenities, and community near Bricktown and Midtown. Read more testimonials

“My tour was done by Tyler. Who showed me the amenities and the different apartments that are open. I had a good experience with having a tour of the building. It’s a great building that is being renovated and I’m excited to see the finish product.”

- Joseph Harris

“Tyler and Miguel have been helpful and dedicated in ensuring residents feel welcome and grow community together. The building is in an ideal location downtown with luxurious amenities, and mostly, providing safety. I am eager to see what the finished product will be.”

- Melissa Delpech