Festivals, arts, outdoor adventure, and dining make Edmond, Oklahoma, shine.

However, for the residents of Edmond, the community offers so much more than just diversion.

I chose to stay in Edmond and be part of making it the place I want to be.

Route 66 Edmond sign

Credit:Visit Edmond

This is where I want to be.

With plenty of entertainment, Edmond has become a hub of originality, arts, dining, and entertainment.

Here are the best things to do in Edmond, Oklahoma.

Overhead shot of Italian food

Credit:Cafe 501

Cafe 501

For instance,Cafe 501is an Edmond icon and has the best business/casual lunch in town.

The Holloway family has several businesses right next to each other near the newly redone Stephenson Park.

Go for the Coyote Chicken Sandwich all the way!

Overhead shot of fine dining meal

Credit:Heide Brandes

Were biased because this is where my wife and I got engaged, but for good reason.

Heide Brandes

For visitors yearning for traditional Italian cuisine, the locally-owned Gabriellas Italian Grill stands out.

signaturegrilledmond.com,1317 East Danforth Road, Edmond, OK 73034

gabriellasokc.com, 3601 S. Broadway, Ste.

Icehouse food outside

Credit:Marshall Hawkins

Marshall Hawkins

The Icehouse Projectis another Edmond outdoor gathering space just west of Broadway and Route 66.

Probably because I eat there so frequently.

Cafe Evokehas truly exceptional coffee and great food, said Murdoch Nichols.

Overhead shot of pizza

Credit:Heide Brandes

I recommend the peanut butter granola, the Smoked Salmon Toast, and the Buttermilk French Toast.

The classic waffles are great, too.

With a stellar open taproom, the brewery is always packed with fans of beer and live music.

Shot of coffee and sliced fruits

Credit:Heide Brandes

Its my favorite place to send out-of-towners for sure, said Chef Black.

The beer lineup is unique and changes often, and the tap room always has a fun event happening.

Round Midnight is such a cozy, little jazz bar, said Murdoch Nichols.

Frenzy Brewing in Edmond

Credit:Heide Brandes

They have great cocktails, coffee, and live music almost every night.

Locals really like this place for the moody vibe and comfortable seating perfect for chatting while listening to jazz.

Of course being an artist, I gravitate to the more artsy-focused events and spaces, said Williams.

Heard on Hurd festival

Credit:Visit Edmond

Finally, theDowntown Edmond Arts Festivalis held every year during the first week in May, said Williams.

With quality artists from all over the nation, this is a must-see for any art lover.

The city itself maintains 26 parks throughout the city and one dog park.

Outdoor golf course

Credit:Juan Gomez

With 300 miles of trails for walking, running, or biking, the sunshine doesnt go to waste.

The lake is also a fishing hot spot, stocked full of large-mouth bass, catfish, and bluegill.

LibertyFest, a two-weekend celebration over the 4th of July, is more than just fireworks and a parade.

Woman with pool floatie

Fun at Pelican Bay.Credit:Heide Brandes

International students showcase their culture through display booths, live performances, and authentic cuisines.

This free event also slings out festival food, fun activities for the kids, and live music.

Arcadia Lake

Credit:Heide Brandes

Statue of blue hippo

Credit:Visit Edmond

Soldiers walking through festival

Credit:Visit Edmond

Man selling art outside

Credit:Visit Edmond