Just Outside Oklahoma City Is A Casino Escape With Live Music, Top-Notch Dining, And A Nearby Lake Park

Riverwind Casino sits a few miles outside of Norman, about 30 miles south of Oklahoma City. In 2006, the Chickasaw Nation opened the casino, first with two restaurants, a theatre, and a game floor. Later, it was expanded to include a modern hotel, more restaurants, and a remodeled, neon-lit gaming floor. Today, players can choose from nearly 3,000 electronic games, including slots and video poker, as well as traditional table games such as blackjack, craps, and roulette. Plus, there's plenty to do in nearby Norman, including an abundance of outdoor activities found at Lake Thunderbird State Park.

Riverwind Casino is open 24 hours a day, with live music, comedy shows, and annual events that offer more reasons to visit. Most entertainment is held at the Showplace Theatre, which has three levels of seating and two VIP suites. In the summer, they host the annual Beats & Bites Festival, which brings outdoor concerts from major headliners, plus a beer garden and an array of food trucks to sample.

OKC Will Rogers International Airport is located in the capital city, which is about 23 miles away. There are several rental car companies operating near the airport, with a shuttle running 24 hours a day, year-round, between the main terminal and the rental car center. There are also ride-share apps, taxis, and shuttles that can also drop you off at the casino in Norman.

Chips 'N Ales is the casino's British-style pub. Beyond the UK-style beer-battered fish and chips, try American classics like the hamburgers and chicken fried steak. The Pub Burger features two beef patties layered with bacon and cheese, all served on a toasted pretzel bun. On the weekends, the River Buffet adds special menus to its rotation. On Fridays, the all-you-can-eat buffet offers a steak dinner with ribeye, smoked brisket, and pork ribs, while Saturday's menu includes a seafood buffet serving snow crab legs, mussels, and shrimp. Head to the middle of the game floor at the Ale House to play virtual poker while you sip on some cocktails, brews, or wine. Plus, there are other fast food chains and other drink options, including the River's Edge Oasis and the Waterfront River Lounge High Limits. 

At night, you don't have to go far to rest. The Riverwind Hotel offers contemporary-styled rooms with a choice of king or queen-sized beds. Or splurge and pamper yourself by booking the Deluxe King Room, fitted with an oversized, deep-soaking bathtub and walk-in shower. At the time of writing, the hotel was rated the number-one rated hotel in the city on Tripadvisor, with a 4.8 rating out of 670 plus reviews.

Nearby, Lake Thunderbird State Park, Oklahoma's urban state park with fishing, boating, and swimming beaches, is also worth checking out. Beyond the park's water activities, you can also explore nature by hiking or mountain biking. Also leave room on your itinerary to visit Norman, Oklahoma's creative college city with lake days, bold bites, and friendly charm, with plenty of museums to discover. Head north about 22 miles to reach Oklahoma City's artsy, walkable entertainment district with quirky shops and food.