She said yes! This is moments before my youngest son proposed to his now bride in beautiful Myriad Botanical Gardens. My wife and I flew into Oklahoma City the morning of the proposal and conducted a covert operation that led us to literally hide ourselves in the bushes as my daughter-in-law’s family escorted her unwittingly through the gardens and to the spot. After the joyous occasion, we rode scooters through downtown and to the Murrah Building Memorial. That was our first visit and a very surreal experience. We just sort of stared at the spot where the building used to be and considered the lives impacted by the tragedy. Afterward, we grabbed a bite at Redrock Canyon Grill and headed back to the Will Rogers airport. Whew, what a whirlwind day.
The Myriad Botanical Gardens is a prominent botanical garden and urban park situated in the heart of downtown Oklahoma City. Here are some more details about its features and attractions:
1. Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory: The Crystal Bridge is the centerpiece of the Myriad Botanical Gardens. It is a large geodesic dome-shaped conservatory made of glass and features three distinct climate zones: tropical rainforest, temperate and arid regions. The conservatory is home to a diverse collection of plants, including exotic flowers, towering palms, and colorful tropical species.
2. Children’s Garden: The Children’s Garden is a special area designed to engage and educate young visitors about plants and nature. It offers interactive exhibits, educational programs, and playful features, making it an enjoyable and educational experience for kids and families.
3. Thunder Fountain: One of the popular attractions in the Myriad Botanical Gardens is the Thunder Fountain, a splash pad where children can cool off and have fun on hot days. The fountain is inspired by the Oklahoma City Thunder NBA basketball team.
4. Great Lawn: The Great Lawn is a spacious open area within the gardens that hosts various events, concerts, and community gatherings. It provides ample space for visitors to have picnics, play games, or simply relax amidst the beautiful surroundings.
5. Seasonal Events: Throughout the year, the Myriad Botanical Gardens hosts numerous events, festivals, and seasonal displays. From vibrant floral festivals in spring to holiday lights and decorations in winter, there’s always something exciting happening in the gardens.
6. Water Features: In addition to the Thunder Fountain, the gardens include several other water features, such as reflecting pools, streams, and waterfalls, adding to the serene and picturesque ambiance.
7. Gardens and Landscapes: The Myriad Botanical Gardens feature a diverse range of meticulously landscaped gardens, including rose gardens, shade gardens, and ornamental plantings. Each garden is thoughtfully designed to showcase different plant species and horticultural styles.
8. Educational Programs: The gardens offer various educational programs, workshops, and tours that focus on gardening, horticulture, and environmental conservation. These programs cater to people of all ages and skill levels.
The Myriad Botanical Gardens has been a beloved destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a tranquil oasis in the midst of the city’s urban landscape. As the gardens continually evolve and expand, they remain a vital green space and cultural hub for the Oklahoma City community. To get the most current information about events, exhibits, and other offerings, I recommend visiting the official website or contacting the gardens directly.
