Attractions, Experience, and Highlights
Q: Are there activities for teens at Riversport?
A: Yes, Riversport offers activities suitable for teens, including whitewater rafting, tubing, kayaking, and the Sky Trail ropes course. They also have youth camps starting in June that feature sailing, rowing, sprint kayaking, and adventure camps designed for young people. Additionally, the Youth Zone provides various outdoor adventures tailored for youth.
Q: Are there art or cultural exhibits at Riversport?
A: Yes, the UCO Boathouse in the Boathouse District at Riversport includes an art gallery, making it a cultural venue alongside its athletic offerings. Additionally, the area is recognized for its combination of architecture and athleticism, attracting both local and international visitors. Nearby, Oklahoma City features world-class museums such as the First Americans Museum, which showcases Native American culture, art, and history.
Q: Are there cultural or historical exhibits at Riversport?
A: Riversport itself focuses primarily on outdoor adventures, whitewater sports, and recreational activities rather than cultural or historical exhibits. However, it is located in Oklahoma City, which offers nearby cultural and historical attractions such as the First Americans Museum, featuring Native American culture and histories of 39 tribes, and the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, which hosts exhibits celebrating cowboy culture and Western heritage. These museums provide rich cultural and historical experiences close to Riversport.
Q: Are there guided tours at Riversport?
A: Yes, Riversport offers professional guides who teach everything needed for first-time rafting or kayaking experiences. Certified instructors also provide lessons and coached programs for those looking to build their skills.
Q: Are there hiking or walking trails at Riversport?
A: Yes, Riversport offers walking opportunities including a new urban nature trail that provides a great walking experience. Additionally, the center features running and walking paths around the whitewater channels.
Q: Are there holiday-themed events at Riversport?
A: Yes, Riversport hosts holiday-themed events such as the Holiday River Parade, which features live entertainment, holiday-themed water performances, a parade of decorated boats on the Oklahoma River, a water ski show with Santa’s elves, a Meet & Greet with fan favorites like Street Outlaws, and fireworks displays. Additionally, Riversport offers the Winter Glow experience, which includes holiday-decorated activities like ice skating, curling, climbing, skiing, snowboarding, firepits, and holiday lights. These events create a festive atmosphere for visitors during the holiday season.
Q: Are there interactive exhibits or installations at Riversport?
A: RIVERSPORT Rapids offers a variety of outdoor activities such as whitewater rafting, tubing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, which provide hands-on adventure experiences. While it features active participation in water sports and outdoor attractions like zip lines and adventure courses, there is no mention of interactive art exhibits or installations at RIVERSPORT itself. However, nearby attractions like Factory Obscura offer immersive and interactive art experiences for visitors.
Q: Are there performances or demonstrations at Riversport?
A: Yes, Riversport hosts performances and demonstrations. For example, during Navy Week at the Stars & Stripes River Festival & Block Party, the U.S. Navy presents robotics demonstrations, a ceremonial guard performance, and live music from the Navy Band Southeast. Additionally, events like the Paddlesports Retailer Demo Day feature flatwater and whitewater demonstrations where attendees can explore and use paddlesport products.
Q: Are there shows or live events at Riversport?
A: Yes, Riversport hosts various shows and live events. For example, the RIVERSPORT Holiday River Parade features live entertainment, holiday-themed water performances, a water ski show, and a fireworks and laser light display. Additionally, there are events like the Paddlesports Retailer Demo Day with live music and paddling competitions, as well as other festivals and competitions such as the Oklahoma Regatta Festival and OklaFlow Finals. These events often include live music, performances, and opportunities to engage with the paddlesports community.
Q: Is Riversport good for photography?
A: Yes, Riversport is a great location for photography. It features dynamic outdoor scenes such as whitewater rafting and kayaking, offering vibrant and action-packed photo opportunities. The site is included in various photo albums showcasing Oklahoma City images, indicating its visual appeal. Photographers can capture exciting adventure moments and scenic water activities, making it an excellent spot for both action and nature photography.
Q: Is Riversport suitable for all ages?
A: Yes, Riversport is suitable for people of all ages and all levels of physical ability. It welcomes families, groups, and individuals, offering activities that range from beginner-friendly rafting and kayaking to more advanced experiences for thrill seekers. There are also programs and lessons available for those new to the sports, making it accessible to everyone.
Q: Is there a gift or souvenir shop at Riversport?
A: Yes, there is a gift and souvenir shop at Riversport called RIVERSPORT Outfitters. It offers whitewater gear, t-shirts, hats, gift items, souvenirs, and adventure essentials like water shoes, towels, sunglasses with straps, water-resistant phone cases, and sunscreen.
Q: What are the top things to see at Riversport?
A: At Riversport, top things to see include the Olympic-caliber whitewater rapids where canoe and kayak athletes train and compete, as well as families enjoying rafting and tubing adventures. Visitors can watch rafters and kayakers in action on the 11-acre whitewater center grounds, which are open to the public at no charge. Additionally, the facility features a restaurant, an eSports center, surfing, and an indoor ski slope, offering a variety of exciting activities and attractions beyond the whitewater experience. The impressive Rapids Pumps, powered by six massive pumps circulating nearly half a million gallons of water per minute, are also a notable feature to observe. The location is conveniently situated in the heart of Oklahoma City, close to the Bricktown Entertainment District and near the OKANA resort.
Q: What days is Riversport closed?
A: Riversport is closed on Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day.
Q: What is the history of Riversport?
A: RIVERSPORT OKC offers rowing, paddlesports, and outdoor adventures for all ages, with opportunities to participate as a day visitor, season member, or year-round community member. The history of rowing in Oklahoma, closely tied to RIVERSPORT, dates back to the 1970s when the first Oklahoma City rowing club was established. Early pioneers, including Bob Stroud, founded the Oklahoma City Rowing Club and built a boathouse between the North Canadian River and Lake Overholser. The sport grew through events like the annual Dust Bowl Regatta in the 1980s and the 1989 U.S. Olympic Festival rowing event. In 1996, the Oklahoma Association for Rowing (OAR) was formed by local rowers aiming to build a diverse and competitive community rowing organization. OAR developed junior and masters programs, helped athletes earn collegiate scholarships, and created youth programs focused on teamwork and leadership. As the North Canadian River area was redeveloped, rowing activities moved downtown, contributing to the creation of the Boathouse District. The Oklahoma River itself was transformed from a dry riverbed into a seven-mile, dam-controlled waterway through a $53 million project completed in 2004. This revitalization included planting thousands of trees and developing over 12 miles of landscaped trails. The Boathouse District grew with the addition of multiple boathouses, the Chesapeake Finish Line Tower, and RIVERSPORT facilities such as RIVERSPORT Adventures and RIVERSPORT Rapids, a whitewater center now designated as the canoe/slalom venue for the 2028 Olympic Games. In 2013, the Oklahoma River became the first water race course worldwide with permanent stadium lighting, enabling national and international night racing events. It is also recognized as a U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Training Site for rowing and canoe/kayak. Over two decades, the Boathouse District has become a vibrant community hub for rowing, paddle sports, and outdoor recreation, with a significant role in hosting Olympic events and fostering a lasting sports legacy in Oklahoma City.
Q: What time does Riversport close?
A: Riversport closes at different times depending on the location and day. For the Boathouse District during the main season, it closes at 5 PM on Sunday through Friday and at 6 PM on Saturdays. The Lake Overholser location closes at 5 PM on most days, with extended hours until 8 PM on Saturdays during certain periods. Additionally, some fitness centers and boathouses have their own hours, typically closing between 5 PM and 8 PM.
Budget and Affordability
Q: Are group rates available for Riversport?
A: Yes, group rates are available for Riversport. Discounts are offered for groups of 15 or more, with special pricing for groups of 15-49 and additional savings for groups of 50 or more. These group passes are suitable for church groups, clubs, small businesses, teams, and other gatherings. You can contact Riversport to learn more about group pricing and to request group passes.
Q: Are there extra charges for special exhibits or activities at Riversport?
A: There are no extra charges mentioned for special exhibits or activities at Riversport beyond the membership or day pass fees. Memberships include access to a variety of adventures during the summer season, and day passes cover all land adventures with optional add-ons for flatwater kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Some group paddling excursions are offered for free to members. However, certain activities may require specific equipment or qualifications, and some passes or memberships offer additional benefits or discounts.
Q: Are there free days or hours at Riversport?
A: Yes, Riversport offers free Learn to Row Days where participants can take free lessons. For example, there have been events with free sessions to teach the basics of rowing, such as the Learn to Row Day held on a Saturday morning with activities from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. These events typically require registration but provide free access to rowing instruction.
Q: Does Riversport accept credit cards?
A: Yes, Riversport accepts credit cards for payments. Online bookings through their system accept Visa and Mastercard credit or debit cards. Additionally, deposits or full payments made over the phone or via email can be paid using credit or debit cards.
Q: How much does it cost to enter Riversport?
A: Entry to Riversport Rapids involves purchasing passes or memberships. Season memberships are currently available at 50% off through March 19, costing $99.99 for a standard RIVERSPORT membership and $124.99 for a RIVERSPORT+ membership, which includes extra raft trips, a 20% discount at Big Water Grill, and free lockers. For day visits, Adventure Day Passes during Spring Break are $39.99 and include all land adventures; flatwater kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding can be added for an additional $9.99. Passes can be bought online or at the McClendon Whitewater Center.
Food, Dining, and Cuisine
Q: Are there picnic areas at Riversport?
A: Yes, Riversport offers private event spaces for picnics, including company picnics that feature day passes for guests, use of private venue space, and catering services. These picnic areas provide a refreshed and enjoyable setting for groups to gather.
Q: Are there restaurants or cafes at Riversport?
A: Yes, there are dining options at Riversport. You can enjoy a meal at Big Water Grill inside the McClendon Whitewater Center, which offers salads, sandwiches, hamburgers, soft drinks, beer, wine, and a full bar with signature cocktails. For a quick bite, the Kayak Cafe in the SandRidge Youth Pavilion provides snacks and soft drinks, and the Wheelhouse in the Trailhead Bike Park offers smoothies and snacks. Additionally, the Trailhead Cafe located inside the Lake Overholser Boathouse is open on weekends and offers bottled beverages, snacks, and a small gift shop with outdoor seating overlooking the lake.
Q: Are there water fountains at Riversport?
A: Yes, there are drinking fountains and refillable water bottle stations available at Riversport, especially as part of the Oklahoma Trailhead and Bike Park expansion.
Q: Can I bring my own food and drinks to Riversport?
A: Outside food and drinks are not permitted at Riversport, with the exception of water.
Q: Is alcohol served or allowed at Riversport?
A: Yes, alcohol is served at Riversport OKC. You can enjoy cold beer or wine, as well as signature cocktails, at the Big Water Grill located inside the McClendon Whitewater Center. However, outside food and drink, except water, are not permitted.
Health and Safety
Q: Are complementary public restrooms available at Riversport?
A: Yes, Riversport provides accessible public restrooms as part of its amenities.
Q: Are dogs or pets allowed at Riversport?
A: Yes, dogs are allowed at Riversport. There is a dedicated dog park with two fenced areas—one for small dogs under 30 lbs and another for larger dogs 30 lbs and above. Dogs must follow certain rules such as having current vaccinations, wearing a collar with a rabies tag, being leashed when entering and exiting, and being supervised by handlers at least 16 years old. Dogs younger than 4 months are not permitted. Owners are responsible for their dogs' behavior and must clean up after them.
Sources: [1]
Q: Are restrooms accessible at Riversport?
A: Yes, restrooms at Riversport are accessible. The Oklahoma Trailhead and Bike Park expansion includes ADA restrooms, ensuring accessibility for all visitors.
Q: Are service animals allowed at Riversport?
A: Yes, service animals are allowed at Riversport.
Q: Are there age restrictions at Riversport?
A: Yes, Riversport has age restrictions for various activities. For example, whitewater rafting and Love’s Tubing are available for guests ages 8 and older, with a minimum weight of 55 pounds. Learn to Row Day is open to anyone ages 14 and older. Other activities have specific height and weight requirements, and some require participants to be at least 16 years old. Age restrictions vary depending on the activity.
Q: Are there family restrooms at Riversport?
A: Yes, the Oklahoma Trailhead and Bike Park expansion at Riversport includes ADA-compliant restrooms, which typically accommodate family restroom needs.
Q: Are there restrooms at Riversport?
A: Yes, Riversport includes ADA-compliant restrooms as part of its facilities.
Q: Can I bring a stroller to Riversport?
A: Yes, you can bring a stroller to Riversport. The facility welcomes guests who may need to bring strollers, and there is a free playground available for young children, making it a family-friendly environment.
Q: Does Riversport have lockers or storage areas?
A: Yes, Riversport offers lockers for storing valuables. Lockers are available at the McClendon Whitewater Center and can be rented for $5 to $10. It is recommended to leave items such as cell phones, jewelry, sunglasses, watches, and car keys in a locker, especially before going on the water, as these items do not float and are not allowed on certain activities. Some memberships include locker access.
Q: Is a designated smoking area available at Riversport?
A: No, smoking is prohibited on the premises at Riversport.
Q: Is free Wi-Fi available at Riversport?
A: Yes, free Wi-Fi is available at Riversport.
Q: Is Riversport kid-friendly?
A: Yes, Riversport is kid-friendly. It offers activities suitable for all ages and skill levels, including families with children. Events like the family-friendly Floating Films and PaddleMania include options that are enjoyable for kids and adults alike. The center provides guided experiences and lessons, making it accessible and fun for children and families.
Transportation
Q: Are rideshare apps available to go to Riversport?
A: Yes, rideshare apps like Uber and Lyft are available for transportation to Riversport.
Q: Are there car rental options close to Riversport?
A: Yes, there are car rental options close to Riversport. Riversport is about a 15-minute drive from the airport, which offers all major car rental companies. For a complete list of rental services, you can visit the OKC Events website.
Q: Are there signs directing me to Riversport?
A: Yes, there are signs directing visitors to RIVERSPORT OKC, including locations like the Boathouse District and Lake Overholser. The Boathouse District is located just south of downtown Oklahoma City and the Bricktown Entertainment District, making it easy to find. Additionally, parking and pedestrian access points are well marked, such as the pedestrian trail accessible from the lower part of the Bass Pro parking lot leading into the Boathouse District.
Q: Do I need a car to visit Riversport or can I get there by public transportation?
A: You do not necessarily need a car to visit RIVERSPORT. While it is a 15-minute drive from the airport and taxis, Uber, and Lyft are available, you can also use public transportation. If you are staying in Downtown or Bricktown, you can take the OKC Streetcar to the Convention Center and then catch an express bus that runs every 20 minutes to RIVERSPORT. Alternatively, you can take the streetcar to nearby stops and walk less than a mile along the canal to reach RIVERSPORT.
Q: How do I get to Riversport from downtown?
A: RIVERSPORT Adventure Park is located just south of downtown Oklahoma City in the Boathouse District. To get there from downtown, you can head south toward the Bricktown Entertainment District and continue to 800 RIVERSPORT Drive. Parking in the Boathouse District is free except on festival and race days when there is a $10 fee. Alternatively, you can park in Lower Bricktown and walk into the Boathouse District via the pedestrian trail accessible from the lower part of the Bass Pro parking lot. The address for the Boathouse District location is 800 RIVERSPORT Dr., Oklahoma City, OK 73129.
Q: How far is Riversport from downtown?
A: Riversport is approximately a 15-minute drive from downtown Oklahoma City.
Q: How far is Riversport from the airport?
A: Riversport is a 15-minute drive from the airport.
Q: How much does it cost to park at Riversport?
A: Parking at Riversport in the Boathouse District is free except on festival and race days, when it costs $10.
Q: Is the entrance to Riversport easy to find?
A: Yes, the entrance to Riversport is easy to find. It is located at 800 RIVERSPORT Drive in the Boathouse District, just south of downtown Oklahoma City and near the Bricktown Entertainment District. The area is well-marked and accessible, with free parking available in the Boathouse District except on festival and race days. There are also pedestrian trails connecting nearby parking areas to the district, making it convenient for visitors to access the entrance.
Q: Is there a shuttle or tour bus that goes to Riversport?
A: Yes, there is an express bus service that operates to and from RIVERSPORT. You can catch the express bus at the southwest corner of the OKC Convention Center after taking the OKC Streetcar to the Scissortail Stop. The bus runs every 20 minutes throughout the day, departing from and arriving at RIVERSPORT, allowing easy access to the race and festivities.
Q: Is there bike parking at Riversport?
A: Yes, Riversport includes bike parking as part of its facilities, especially with the new Oklahoma Trailhead and Bike Park expansion that serves as a hub for the city's trail system. This expansion features amenities for trail users, which would include bike parking.
Q: Is there free parking at Riversport?
A: Yes, parking at Riversport in the Boathouse District is free except on festival and race days when there is a $10 fee.
Q: Is there parking available near Riversport?
A: Yes, parking is available near Riversport. In the Boathouse District, parking is free except on festival and race days when there is a $10 fee. Additionally, you can park in Lower Bricktown and walk to the Boathouse District via a pedestrian trail accessible from the lower part of the Bass Pro parking lot.
Q: What time of day has the least amount of traffic near Riversport?
A: The time of day with the least amount of traffic near Riversport is typically early morning, as the RIVERSPORT Trailhead Bike Park and Lake Overholser Fitness Center are open from 6 a.m., and many other activities and facilities start later in the morning around 10 a.m. Therefore, early morning hours before 8 or 10 a.m. generally experience less traffic.
Travel Planning & Itineraries
Q: Can I book tickets to Riversport online?
A: Yes, you can book tickets to Riversport online through their Roller online point of sale system. You have the option to make a direct payment for each booking or upload credit to an account for future bookings. Payments can be made using Visa or Mastercard credit or debit cards. Passes for various adventures and events can also be purchased online or at the Whitewater Center front desk.
Q: Can I buy tickets to Riversport on-site?
A: Yes, you can buy tickets to Riversport on-site.
Q: Can I host a birthday or group event at Riversport?
A: Yes, you can host a birthday or group event at Riversport. They offer birthday party packages that include the use of a party space, available from noon to 2 pm or 3 pm to 5 pm depending on availability. For more details or to book, you can contact their Group Sales office. Additionally, Riversport provides various group event options such as team building, private events, and school groups, catering to different interests and activities.
Q: Can I leave Riversport and return later the same day?
A: Yes, you can leave RIVERSPORT and return later the same day, as it operates with set hours and offers a variety of activities throughout the day. For example, during the summer, RIVERSPORT is open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., allowing visitors to come and go within those hours.
Q: Do I need tickets for Riversport?
A: Yes, you need to purchase day passes or season memberships to access Riversport. For rafting specifically, reservations are required and can be made online or in person. Other adventure sports do not require reservations and are available on a walk-up basis with a valid pass or membership.
Q: Does Riversport have special events?
A: Yes, Riversport hosts special events including festivals and music events that take place with the whitewater channels as a backdrop.
Q: How long should I plan to spend at Riversport?
A: You can easily spend an entire day at Riversport enjoying a variety of activities such as whitewater rafting, kayaking, surfing, climbing, biking, and more. The whitewater rafting trips typically last between 10 to 20 minutes depending on the channel, but with all the amenities and events available, planning for a full day will allow you to fully experience everything Riversport has to offer.
Q: Is Riversport suitable for large groups?
A: Yes, Riversport is suitable for large groups. They offer opportunities for groups of 15 or more to schedule discounted experiences and can accommodate larger groups with event planning assistance, including options for event space and meal deals. They cater to a variety of group types such as corporate outings, team building, field trips, birthday parties, and family gatherings.
Q: What should I know before visiting Riversport?
A: Before visiting Riversport, plan to purchase your day passes or season memberships online and complete a waiver for each person in advance. Arrive early to enjoy a full day of adventures and allow time for parking and check-in at the McClendon Whitewater Center Guest Services. Secure shoes are required for all activities—no Crocs, flip-flops, or slides are allowed. Bring a change of clothes and a towel if you plan to participate in water activities like rafting or tubing, as you will get wet and dry clothes are required for some adventures. Lockers are available to store valuables, and it’s best to leave unnecessary items at home. Riversport is a cashless venue but offers a free service to convert cash into a VISA debit card for use during your visit. Be prepared for weather-related changes, as some activities may close temporarily during inclement weather. Outside food and drinks are not permitted except for water. Finally, check availability for popular activities like zip lining upon arrival, and consider bringing sun protection such as hats and sunglasses.
Q: When is the best time of day to visit Riversport?
A: The best time of day to visit Riversport is generally between late morning and early evening. For example, during spring break, Riversport is open from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., offering access to various activities like the bike park, adventure courses, and flatwater paddling. Additionally, special events like the Paddlesports Retailer Demo Day have scheduled flatwater demonstrations from noon to 4:00 p.m. and whitewater demonstrations from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., indicating that afternoons and early evenings are ideal for experiencing a full range of activities.
Q: When is the best time of year to visit Riversport?
A: The best time to visit Riversport is during the spring season, particularly around March and April. During this time, the facility opens for spring break with land and flatwater adventures available, including bike parks, adventure courses, slides, indoor skiing, kayaking, and stand-up paddling. Additionally, surfing, whitewater rafting, and tubing activities typically begin at the end of April, making spring an ideal season to experience a wide range of outdoor activities at Riversport.