Welcome to the University of Oklahoma (OU), home of the Sooners! If you’re heading to town to catch some Oklahoma football, here’s what you need to know about where to stay, eat, drink, and tailgate. First, a few key facts:

  • SEC Team: University of Oklahoma Sooners
  • Coach: Brent Venables
  • Stadium: Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, also known as Owen Field
  • Fun Fact: One of the OU fight songs is “The Pride of Oklahoma,” the final song from the Rodgers and Hammerstein classic musical Oklahoma!

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WHERE TO STAY IN NORMAN

While Norman has fewer options than larger college towns, you can still find a comfortable place to stay near campus.

A modern lounge area with beige and tan seating, a black coffee table, and a large potted plant. The table is adorned with books and smaller decorative items. Large windows allow natural light to flood the room, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for eating, relaxing, or taking a quick nap.Pin
The Oklahoma-inspired interior of the NOUN Hotel | Image: Facebook

Casa Bella Bed and Breakfast

642 E Brooks St, Norman, OK 73071 • (405) 329-2289

Casa Bella Bed and Breakfast is an easy 15-minute walk from the University of Oklahoma campus. This darling bed and breakfast is styled after a Mexican casita, with vibrant colors and lush gardens. You’ll never know you’re in the Midwest.

The Montford Inn

322 W Tonhawa St, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 321-2200

The Montford Inn is a charming bed and breakfast near campus. You can enjoy the relaxing quiet of comfortable rooms and a large front porch with swings, but it’s still walkable to the buzzing downtown.

The Manor Bed & Breakfast

917 W Boyd St, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 310-2254

Just two blocks from the University of Oklahoma campus, The Manor Bed and Breakfast is an intimate spot with a luxurious guest suite. You’ll even wake up to a home-cooked breakfast in the morning.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Norman Hotel & Conference Center

2501 Conference Dr, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 364-8040

While it’s a little further from campus, the Embassy Suites by Hilton Normal Hotel & Conference Center is a great choice for larger groups or anyone looking for a more corporate stay.

NOUN Hotel

542 S University Blvd, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 701-5858

The NOUN Hotel is a Marriott Tribute Portfolio property that brings boutique hotel vibes to downtown Norman. The Oklahoma landscape inspires its decor, and you can’t beat the location, which is just steps from campus.

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WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK IN NORMAN

Whether you go to Main Street or Campus Corner, you’ll find a wide range of cuisine perfect for reliving your college days. They’ve got it all: Mexican, Greek, burgers … and it tastes even better after a long day of tailgating.

A sign for "The Diner" with a retro design and "Air Conditioning" text is attached to a brick building under a clear blue sky—perfect for those who eat, sleep, and tailgate in Norman.Pin
The classic sign outside The Diner. Image: Facebook

Greek House

768 S Jenkins Ave, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 364-6300

Ask any OU fan the best spot to grab a bite to eat in Norman, and there’s a near 100% chance they’ll answer Greek House. This local restaurant is the best place to grab falafel, gyros, and other Mediterranean dishes.

Pepe Delgados

786 Asp Ave, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 321-6232

Pepe Delgados is a go-to Mexican favorite for students and alums alike. You can’t beat a big plate of tacos after a winning game.

The Garage Burgers & Beer

307 E Main St, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 701-7035

Head to The Garage Burgers & Beer for the burgers and beer, and stay for the arcade games. This vibrant spot has crinkle-cut fries, specialty drinks, and upbeat energy.

Van’s Pig Stands

320 N Porter Ave, Norman, OK 73071 • (405) 703-3000

If you’re craving barbecue, head to Van’s Pig Stands. You’ll find brisket, pulled pork, and some Midwestern flavor with St. Louis ribs.

The Mont

1300 Classen Blvd, Norman, OK 73071 • (405) 329-3330

Head to The Mont for everything from burgers to Mexican. This perennial favorite restaurant has a great outdoor space perfect for posting up after an early autumn game.

The Diner

213 E Main St Ste. B, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 329-6642

Chili and hearty comfort food is why fans flock to The Diner. Well, and because Guy Fieri put it on the map with Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives!

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BARS IN NORMAN

Norman has a classic bar scene, with great dive spots and sports bars. This may not be where you’ll find a trendy wine bar, but you’ll always be able to grab a cold beer.

An assortment of four colorful cocktails with garnishes in glassware, set on a black mesh table with white napkins.Pin
Cocktails at Louie’s Grill & Bar. Image: Facebook

O’Connell’s Irish Pub & Grille

769 Asp Ave, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 217-8454

Grab a drink at O’Connell’s Irish Pub & Grille, a classic sports bar right on Campus Corner. It opens at 11 a.m. on Saturdays (so you can grab a pre-game drink), and then it stays open until 2 a.m. for all of your late-night celebrating.

Louie’s Grill & Bar

301 W Boyd St, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 366-6291

Every college town needs a good sports bar, and Norman has Louie’s Grill & Bar. This local chain has classic American dishes, good beer, and sports continuously running on the TVs.

Bison Witches Bar & Deli

211 E Main St, Norman, OK 73069 • (405) 364-7555

If you get hungry while you’re drinking, Bison Witches Bar & Deli has you covered. Grab a beer and a bread bowl soup or a creative sandwich.

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WHERE TO TAILGATE IN NORMAN

OU makes its campus a hotspot for tailgating activities on game day. Fans can tailgate across the campus, including on Boyd Lawn and near Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Spots are free for the taking, and they’re first come, first served, so plan on getting there early to nab the prime tailgating location!

Boomer Sooner!

Click HERE for the complete SEC City Guide!

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Author: Heather Bien
About the Author
Heather Bien

Heather Bien is a Southern writer, Richmond native, and aspiring gardener. She loves small-town travel and homemade lattes.