Historic Stockyards City, an Iconic Location in Oklahoma City with Rich History

OKC’s Stockyards City

Oklahoma City was largely influenced by cowboy culture, which is still evident today. A visit to Stockyards City will transport you back in time, as it is home to the Oklahoma National Stockyards – the last remaining sale of its kind in the United States. The market has been in operation since 1910 and is still going strong today, with live cattle auctions held on selected days.

A Brief History

The Oklahoma National Stockyards, which first opened in 1910, has been a key part of the development of Historic Stockyards City. The area now known as Packingtown was originally developed as a cattle-processing and packing plant. By 1915, it was home to cowboys and cattle drives. The packing plant closed in 1961, but it was replaced by a cattle auction that has processed over 102 million head of livestock since opening.

In the 1970s, the combination of the public livestock market and the prosperous meat packing plants led to the first major industry of Oklahoma City to become the largest stocker/feeder cattle market in the world. Today, the area’s historic significance is preserved by Stockyards City Main Street’s inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places.

What is there to do and see at the Historic Stockyards?

You can explore an area of the Old West that has been well-preserved, with many businesses dating back to the early 1900s. This district has its own unique flavor, with a variety of activities available.

Participate in the Cattle auction

On Mondays and Tuesdays, cattle are led into an auction house through pens and walkways where an auctioneer calls out bids until all of the cattle are sold. Deemed the world’s largest feeder cattle market, it sees approximately 9,000 cattle heads pass through in a single day.

Dining Tradition

There are several restaurants and cafes open around the area that are worth trying. A prime example is Cattlemen’s Steakhouse, which is a nationally-renowned restaurant in Oklahoma City that has been visited by Presidents, celebrities, pro athletes, and music icons, to name a few. During breakfast, grab a bite of burrito or taco breakfast from Taqueria Los Comales.

During lunchtime, grab a table at Heather’s Stockyards Café, which has a menu filled with classic Southwestern diner favorites. Do not also forget to drop by McClintock’s Saloon and Chophouse for their modern take on cowboy cuisine, which includes a 50-foot-long hand-crafted oak and brass bar. While you are there, try the old-fashioned candy and soda at the Stockyards Sarsaparilla shop.

Shop the West

There is no better place in the world to shop for western wear than the stockyards. Going strong with the business since the 1950s, you can find your perfect pair of boots at little Joe’s Boots. For buying a new cowboy hat, why not try Short’s Caboy Hattery and find the perfect hat for you.

But if you’re looking for a one-stop-shop, Langston’s Western Wear has the largest selection of cowboy & cowgirl gear. You’ll be able to find everything from coveralls to cowboy boots and even belts with buckles.

Entertainment Night

After an enjoyable day in Stockyards City, top it all off by attending the Oklahoma Rodeo Opry on Exchange Avenue. This family-friendly venue hosts live music every Saturday night. You could also try watching unique films at Rodeo Cinema.

How to Get There: Plan your Visit

The Oklahoma National Stockyards host livestock auctions every Monday and Tuesday, starting at 8 AM. The participating businesses may have different hours of operation.

If you are traveling by bus, the stop you need to get off at is S Agnew Ave at Exchange Ave.

Address: 2401 Exchange Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73108