+228 872 4444  |   Contact APRES

 +229-329-2949  |   Contact APRES
 

APRES 56th Annual Meeting

Registration for the 56th Annual Meeting in now open.  (Early bird registration ends May 31, 2024 at 11:59 pm.)

APRES OKC Logo webThe APRES Annual Meeting is a dynamic 3-day event that brings together original research, extension insights, and industry updates. This gathering features a blend of business and social settings where world and industry leaders address the most pressing issues of our time. Attendees engage in committees, workshops, training sessions, and shared downtime, fostering opportunities for brainstorming, strategizing, education, learning, and relationship building.

International Members: This year’s APRES’ Meeting will be offering a virtual component available to our International Members only. As an international attendee, you can virtually attend the following sessions:

  • General Session
  • Joe Suggs Competition
  • Special Symposium

Please click here if you’re an International Member and would like to attend virtually.

 

In the meantime, you can make your room reservation at this link. This year's APRES meeting will be held at the Omni Oklahoma City, Oklahoma City, OK.

Oklahoma City beckons as an exceptional meeting destination, seamlessly blending rich cultural experiences with modern amenities. Nestled in the heart of the United States, attendees can relish the city's warm hospitality and diverse attractions. From the vibrant Bricktown Entertainment District to the historic National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, Oklahoma City offers a unique tapestry of history, arts, and outdoor activities. Renowned for its delectable cuisine and friendly locals, this dynamic metropolis promises an engaging backdrop for networking and collaboration.

Things to Do in OKC

 Museums          Family Fun          Shopping          More Resources
 
 
Activities

Discover OKC's Blend of Family Fun, Retail Therapy, and Cultural Delights!

 
Oklahoma City offers a diverse range of activities for visitors of all ages. From exploring the vibrant arts scene to experiencing the rich cultural heritage, there's something for everyone. You can visit world-class museums like the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum and the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, explore the lively Bricktown Entertainment District, or spend a day at the Oklahoma City Zoo, home to over 1,900 animals from around the world. Additionally, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy outdoor activities at Riversport OKC or the Myriad Botanical Gardens. Whether you're interested in history, arts, or outdoor adventures, Oklahoma City has something exciting for everyone to enjoy!
 
 

Museums

Oklahoma City's museums offer an enriching journey through history, art, and culture, captivating visitors with diverse exhibits and immersive experiences that celebrate the city's vibrant heritage and creativity.
 
Accessible by walking or public transportation:
Embark on a musical journey through history and culture at the Banjo Museum in OKC, where you'll discover the fascinating evolution and unique sounds of this iconic instrument.
 
Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Native American art and culture at Red Earth in OKC, where traditional craftsmanship and contemporary expressions come together in a captivating showcase.
 
Experience the beauty of world-class art collections and exhibitions at the Oklahoma City Museum of Art, where diverse masterpieces inspire and captivate visitors of all ages.
 
Journey through poignant tributes and immersive exhibits at the OKC National Memorial & Museum, honoring the resilience and spirit of those affected by the Oklahoma City bombing, offering a profound and moving experience.
 
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of contemporary art at the Oklahoma Contemporary Art Museum, where creativity thrives and boundary-pushing exhibitions redefine artistic expression.
 
Accessible by car:
Embark on an enriching journey through Indigenous history and culture at the First Americans Museum, where immersive exhibits and engaging storytelling celebrate the enduring legacy and vibrant traditions of Native peoples.
 
Discover the rich heritage of the American West at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, where captivating exhibits and iconic artworks celebrate the spirit of the frontier and honor the legends of cowboy culture.
 
Experience the wonders of science come to life at Science Museum Oklahoma, where interactive exhibits and engaging displays ignite curiosity and inspire discovery for visitors of all ages.
 
Delve into the fascinating world of anatomy and natural history at Skeletons: Museum of Osteology, where over 300 meticulously assembled skeletons reveal the beauty and diversity of life through the lens of skeletal structures.

 

 

Family Fun

Oklahoma City boasts a myriad of family-friendly activities, including outdoor adventures like parks, zoos, and recreational areas, ensuring endless excitement for families of all ages to enjoy.
 
Accessible by walking or public transportation:
Discover urban oasis at Scissortail Park in Oklahoma City, offering a plethora of fun activities including walking trails, outdoor concerts, playgrounds, splash fountains, and ample green space for picnics and recreation, perfect for a day of relaxation and enjoyment for the whole family.
 
Experience the intrigue of immersive storytelling and interactive puzzles at Factory Obscura, where art, technology, and exploration converge to create a truly unique and captivating adventure.
 
Experience the ultimate entertainment destination at Brickopolis in OKC, featuring thrilling indoor mini-golf, arcade games, laser tag, and delicious dining options, promising a fun-filled adventure for all ages.
 
Revolutions Lower Bricktown features 10 spacious bowling lanes each divided by a physical barrier with awesome LED screens unlike any other you’ve ever experienced! Need a breather between bowling strikes and spares? Relax on one of their comfortable, lane-side plush couches and let their waitstaff serve you and your group tasty drinks, appetizers or full meals. 
 
Embark on a scenic journey through the heart of Oklahoma City's vibrant Bricktown district aboard the Bricktown Water Taxi, offering a unique and leisurely way to explore the city's iconic landmarks and attractions from the water.
 
Escape into a lush oasis of natural beauty and tranquility at Myriad Botanical Gardens, where captivating landscapes, interactive exhibits, and serene pathways offer a rejuvenating retreat for all.
 
Step back in time and experience the rich history of Oklahoma at Harn Homestead, where authentic pioneer buildings, interactive exhibits, and engaging activities bring the past to life for visitors of all ages.
 
Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark (games scheduled July 9-11)
Cheer on the Oklahoma City Dodgers at Chickasaw Bricktown Ballpark, where thrilling baseball action and a vibrant atmosphere make for an unforgettable outing in the heart of downtown OKC.
 
Accessible by car:
Experience endless family fun at Riversport OKC, where you can enjoy activities like river tubing, flatwater kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and the Sky Trail ropes course, providing exhilarating adventures suitable for all ages in the heart of Oklahoma City.
 
Embark on an unforgettable safari adventure at the Oklahoma City Zoo, where you can explore diverse habitats, encounter exotic wildlife, and participate in engaging educational programs, offering fun and excitement for the whole family.
 
Indulge in delicious comfort food and partake in friendly competition with activities like pickleball and lawn games at Chicken N Pickle OKC, offering the perfect blend of dining and entertainment for a memorable outing with friends and family.
 
Explore the iconic Route 66 in Oklahoma City, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of America's Mother Road, visit historic landmarks, vibrant roadside attractions, and quirky diners, offering a nostalgic journey through time for travelers of all ages.
 
Experience the thrill of exhilarating rides, captivating shows, and family-friendly entertainment at Six Flags Frontier City, offering endless excitement and memories for visitors of all ages.
 
Dive into a world of aquatic adventure and thrilling water attractions at Six Flags Hurricane Harbor, offering endless fun and excitement for visitors seeking to beat the heat and make a splash. 
 
 

Shopping

Oklahoma City offers a diverse shopping scene with everything from trendy boutiques to expansive malls, providing a plethora of options for fashion-forward individuals and savvy shoppers alike.
 
Accessible by walking or public transportation: 

Automobile Alley District 

Once known as the home of OKC’s car dealerships, Automobile Alley is now a hopping gateway into downtown along Broadway Avenue from 13th Street. Explore specialty shops like Plenty Mercantile and hip clothing boutiques like Shop Good. If you're looking for inclusive and unique gifts, visit Common Dear. Find curated items for the home from all over the world at Urbane.
 

Bricktown District 

Nestled among many fabulous dining experiences in the heart of Bricktown is Painted Door, a specialty gift shop. It’s brimming with decorative accessories, home furnishings, bath and body care, infant and toddler accessories, home fragrances and collectibles. The kids will love a visit to Bricktown Candy Company, with over 250 varieties of candy to choose from. Bricktown is also home to Oklahoma City’s Bass Pro Shops, which can be a destination in itself.
 

Midtown District

Shopping in the hip Midtown area is concentrated along Walker Avenue near the roundabout at 10th Street. This is where one of the cutest stationery shops, Chirps and Cheers, awaits with a curated collection of paper and gift items. Trade Men’s Wares has a collection of men’s clothing, accessories and grooming items for the ruggedly sophisticated. Black Scintilla has great gifts, home goods, apparel and accessories, with an emphasis on Oklahoma vendors. Further down, the ladies can pop into Brushed, a full-service salon, and get their hair done or stop by Mode for a fresh outfit before a night out on the town. Stop by Opolis Clothing for vintage sports and local apparel. All their tees are designed and hand printed in Oklahoma. 
 

Western Avenue District

This beautiful area along Western Avenue between NW 36th Street and Wilshire Avenue is full of one-of-a-kind shops. You’ll find plenty of quality and beautiful antiques, for which Western Avenue is well known. And, you’ll also discover other quaint finds, such as vintage LPs at Guestroom Records. Check out the home decor at The Wood Garden and Designer Rugs. Kitchen and cooking finds can be found at Savory Spice and Culinary Kitchen. Nestled in the center of Western Avenue is Classen Curve and Nichols Hills Plaza, two shopping plazas featuring higher-end boutiques and fashions by exclusive designers.
 

West Village District

Equal parts historic and revitalized, the West Village District offers an array of shopping opportunities. If you have a green thumb, you'll love Plant Shoppe. The shop is connected to Stitch Cafe, grab a cup of coffee while you peruse their curated selection of indoor plants, pots and accessories. They also offer an array of daily and custom floral offerings and gifts. Visit Sailor & the Dock, an innovative marketplace that houses multiple stores, all sharing a passionate commitment to sustainability and education. In addition to the on-site vendors offering a diverse range of eco-conscious products such as books, coffee and vintage clothing, the market hosts additional vendors in a monthly pop-up event. Searching for unique gifts and keepsakes? Look no further than Tin Lizzie's. Pamper yourself with their Oklahoma-made products, home decor, apparel and artist-made wares. You'll love the inside of the boutique which showcases fun and trendy products in a relaxed shopping experience. 
 
Accessible by car:
Indulge in a premier shopping getaway at Penn Square Mall in Oklahoma City, boasting top-tier anchor stores like Macy's and Dillard's alongside high-quality brands favored by discerning shoppers such as Ann Taylor and Chico's. Elevate your shopping experience with diverse offerings and upscale ambiance, all conveniently located under one roof.
 
Discover unbeatable deals and premium shopping at the Outlet Shoppes at Oklahoma City, home to sought-after anchor stores like Nike Factory Store and Coach Outlet. Elevate your shopping experience with timeless elegance and quality craftsmanship with premium brands like Kate Spade New York and Michael Kors.
 

Paseo Arts District

In the artsy Paseo Arts District, you’ll immediately be taken in by the darling Spanish revival buildings nestled side-by-side in a colorful stucco rainbow. Much like the colors of the buildings, you’ll find a variety of items inside, from jewelry to sculptures to paintings to pottery. It’s the perfect place to find artsy treasures and mementos to take home. Eden offers unique fashion, playful accessories and wardrobe styling, and Betsy King Shoes, a specialty shoe boutique that caters to the stylish and sophisticated gal, will be sure to put a spring in your step. 
 

Plaza District

The Plaza District is known for its creative spaces, and you’ll find uniquely curated shops featuring locally made goods, along with art and vintage items. Bad Granny’s Bazaar is a great example, with its retro and vintage clothing, kitschy gifts, furnishings, jewelry, art and more. DNA Galleries features almost exclusively local art and products like jewelry, T-shirts and other fashion. There’s also fun and trendy clothing shops like Out On A Limb Boutiqueand Dig It! where you'll find quirky and retro apparel and accessories. If you’re looking for unique and local, you’ll find it here.
 

Stockyards City District 

While it’s well known for the dining at historic Cattlemen’s Steakhouse, Stockyards City is where you can go to find everything cowboy. Truly reflective of the state’s heritage is the grand western store, Langston’s. Purchase a custom cowboy hat at Shorty's Caboy Hattery. Known for handcrafted stitching, fun designs/colors and impressive detail, Shorty’s hats are unique and of incredibly high quality. You’ll find more western wear at Little Joe’s Boots and western items for yourself and your home at Cross Bar Gallery. Stockyards City is the perfect place to find those authentic cowboy boots you’ve always wanted and so much more.
 

Additional Resources

There's an abundance of activities in OKC, and while the list we've provided is extensive, it's by no means exhaustive. For even more options, we recommend checking out these sites.
 
On VisitOKC.com, you can find comprehensive information about Oklahoma City's attractions, events, dining options, accommodations, and travel resources. This includes details about popular landmarks, upcoming events, and insider tips for exploring the city. Additionally, you can discover special deals, itineraries, and helpful guides to plan your visit effectively and make the most of your time in OKC.
 
Atlas Obscura provides unique and offbeat information about destinations around the world, including Oklahoma City. On their website, you can expect to find quirky and unusual attractions, hidden gems, and lesser-known points of interest in the city. This might include obscure museums, mysterious landmarks, unusual architecture, or quirky local traditions. Additionally, Atlas Obscura often includes engaging stories and historical background about these places, adding depth to your exploration of Oklahoma City.

Transportation

 Getting Around

 

 

To/From the airport:Will Rogers World Airport 1 1400x788jpg copy

  • The airport is just a 10-15 minute ride away.
  • Taxis charge around $30 and are available at the Transportation Plaza accessed from the baggage claim (lower) level.
  • Uber/Lyft fares range from $45 to $55, with pickup points at the upper level "Departures" roadway, marked as "TNC Pick Up".
  • Shuttle buses are also an option, with costs depending on the number of passengers. They can be arranged here.

 

Public Transportation:OKC Street Car map

  • Oklahoma City boasts safe, clean, and easily accessible public transportation.
  • The hotel is conveniently situated directly across from the Scissortail Park streetcar stop.
  • Purchase a Universal Pass for just $4 per day for adults; it's free for those 18 and under.

  • Universal passes offer access to Local/Express Bus, RAPID, and Streetcar services.
  • Additionally, when parking in the Convention Center parking garage, your receipt serves as a ticket for two to enjoy complimentary rides on the OKC Streetcar for 24 hours.

 

Bike Share:Spokies

  • Spokies is a bike-share program in Oklahoma City that offers a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore the city. Users can rent bikes from various docking stations located throughout the city and return them to any station within the network.

 

Navigating beyond the city center:

  • Oklahoma City is very spread out, offering numerous family-friendly activities beyond the city center. To easily access these attractions, we recommend driving to the city or exploring car rental options if you intend to venture outside the downtown area.

 

The Omni

cambriaOklahoma City beckons as an exceptional meeting destination, seamlessly blending rich cultural experiences with modern amenities. Nestled in the heart of the United States, attendees can relish the city's warm hospitality and diverse attractions. Reserve your room at the Omni now!