Norman, Oklahoma might not be on everyones travel list, but the town has a lot to offer despite being small in size. Whether you’re simply passing through on your way to OKC or in town visiting OU, Norman has its fair share of great food and cute shops. By being a frequent visitor to this college town the past three years, I’ve compiled a travel guide of the top places you need to visit while you’re there.

Where to eat & drink

Tarahumara’s Mexican Cafe & Cantina

If there’s one place you need to visit before you leave town, it’s Tarahumara’s. This place not only offers the best Mexican food I’ve ever had from a restaurant, but the service is on another level. From the moment you sit down you’re greeted with endless salsa and queso. And with staff working unbelievably quick, handing out fresh queso and tortillas ever few minutes, you never need to wait for a thing. I would recommend ordering the chicken tamales with the white sauce; they are hands town the best I’ve ever ever had (separate from my mother’s of course).

Syrup

This cute breakfast spot offers a modern city feel along with amazing food and quality ingredients.

The Diner

Despite the modest look from the outside, this little place has been featured on The Food Network, not once but twice. The award wining chili is a must try and if you’re there for breakfast I recommend going from the chocolate chip pancakes as well.

Apple Tree Chocolate

Located on the historic Campus Corner, this chocolate shop has a everything from caramel and chocolate covered apples to truffles, bark, and homemade fudge. I highly recommend trying the turtles and chocolate balls! Near the end of every visit, before I head back to Chicago, I always have to stop at Apple Tree to pick up some chocolates for myself and turtles for my dad–he swears they’re the best he’s ever had!

Where to shop

STASH

This shop offers a variety of small leather goods, children’s clothing, stationary and Native American inspired jewelry.

PostScript

Located near the edge of Campus Corner, this stationary shop offers everything from cute cards, notebooks, prints and locally made jewelry.

The Social Club

I found out about this shop from a Southwest magazine article on my way to OKC. The concept is unique with a hair salon in the back and gift shop in the front. They sell items both new and old and are constantly changing the offerings and setup which makes visiting more exciting each time. During an extended visit to Norman, I decided to get my hair cut from a stylist at The Social Club and would recommend the salon to anyone in the area!

What to see & do

Same Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History

Many museums offered by universities tend to be small or limited in their collections, but the Sam Noble doesn’t fit that mold. You could easily spend half a day looking at the various exhibits and exploring all this museum has to offer. Prices are also reasonable and if you’re an OU student admission is free.

OU Football Game

If you’re visiting during football season, attending an OU game is a must. As the newly renovated Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium is able to hold 82,112 fans, you’re bound to find an available ticket for game day.