Alan's Oklahoma Picnic Getaway
Oklahoma City National Memorial

This is a necessary stop when traveling through Oklahoma City, even if it is not a picnic spot. Interstates 35, 40, and 44 intersect in Oklahoma City. From Interstate 40 take Interstate 235 north, exit Harrison Avenue, which merges into Sixth Street. From Sixth Street, the site is located between Robinson and Harvey Streets on the east and west, and between Sixth and Fourth Streets on the north and south. Parking meters and several pay lots and garages are located around the Memorial.

Oklahoma City National Memorial honors the victims, survivors, rescuers, and all who were changed forever on April 19, 1995. The outdoor Symbolic Memorial, which consists of the following segments on 3.3 acres, can be visited:

• The Gates of Time: Monumental twin gates frame the moment of destruction - 9:02 - and mark the formal entrances to the Memorial.

• Reflecting Pool: Gently flowing water soothing wounds with calming sounds and providing a peaceful setting for quiet thoughts.

• Children's Area: A wall of hand-painted tiles painted by children sent to Oklahoma City in 1995 and a series of chalkboards creates an opportunity for children to share their feelings.

• Rescuers' Orchard: A grove of fruit and flowering trees surrounds and protects the Survivor's Tree.

• The “Survivor Tree:” A 70 year old American Elm bears witness to the violence of April 19 and now stands as a profound symbol of human resilience.

• The Memorial Fence: Originally installed to protect the sacred site, the Memorial Fence continues to display items left by visitors, which are dedicated to all involved.

The National Memorial Center and the Institute for the Prevention of Terrorism are the other two components. The Memorial Center is open Monday through Saturday, 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.; Sunday, 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.. The Museum Center is closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's days.