EMMA RILEY SUTTON

                             BRICKTOWN
Bricktown has been an important part of Oklahoma City since the city began in April of 1889. Railroads criss-crossed this area and created a hub for commerce and industry. The major cash crop, cotton, was shipped all over America from Bricktown. Other commodities such as wheat, corn, cattle and horses were also shipped from this section of Oklahoma City.

Known as a culturally diverse area, Bricktown was home to the first black newspaper, the "Black Dispatch," whose headquarters were on East First Street. Soon, Bricktown was the home of the first branch of the NAACP in Oklahoma City. Despite segregation in 1915, the African American population flourished.

The Great Depression slowed down the growth of this area, but Bricktown came fighting back as World War II created the need for industry to help with the war effort. After the war was won, business began to move to more suburban areas. Bricktown became little more then abandoned buildings.

The area was once again energized when Neal Horton saw the potential in Bricktown. He named the area "Bricktown" and created a plan to get this historical area bustling once again. Other investors saw the potential and began creating the "Hot Spot of Oklahoma."

Mickey Mantle's Steakhouse offers live entertainment as well a large selection of steatks, seafood, appetizers and desserts. There so also a large selection fo soups and sandwiches to choose from.

The Harkins Theatres offers movie-goers 16 different movies screens, featuring new releases. They also offer their PlayCenter where children ages three to six can play games, read books and watch movies close to their parent's auditorium.

Oklahoma City Musem of Art offers its visitors beautiful art exhibits and collections. There is also the Museum Cafe which features French-fusion cuisine.

Wormy Dog Saloon has a variety of different live performances from all sorts of different musical groups. Regardless of you musical taste, you are sure to find a performance you will enjoy.

The Water Taxi is great way to see to Bricktown. Enjoy a narrated cruise or have a private charter for your party. They even offer Cocktail Cruises for romantic evenings. A Water Taxi leaves the dock every 10 to 15 minutes, so waiting is rarely a problem.

Come as you are to Toby Keith's I Love This Bar and Grille in Bricktown. Enjoy a variety of menu items such as Cowboy Caviar and Toby's own recipe for Chicken Fried Steak and Country Gravy. This "down home" menu offers something for everyone.

The first skyscraper in Oklahoma City is now home to the Colcord Hotel. This 12-story building was completed in 1910. Since its renovation was completed in 2006, it is now one of Oklahoma City's premier hotels. Guests enjoy wireless internet access in their rooms and suites as well as throughout the hotel. The Colcord Hotel offers shuttle service to Bricktown and 24-hour business center as well as a 24-hour fitness center. Enjoy dining at La Baquette Restaurant complete with an oyster bar and wine list with the finest international and domestic selections.

Guests of the Marriott Renaissance Oklahoma City experience luxury at its best. Down comforters and feather pillows are standard for every room. Mini-bars and refrigerators are also included for their guest's convenience. A business center, complete with limited office supplies, makes business traveling a breeze. Concierge service, an indoor pool and whirlpool are available to guests as well. Take advantage of the fitness center, Caffeina's Marketplace and 10 North Grille. Laundry and room service make the Marriott Renaissance an excellent choice for extended stays in Bricktown.

Whether you choose a room or a suite, you are sure to enjoy your stay at The Skirvin Hilton. The non-smoking hotel is both family and pet friendly, offering cribs for their youngest guests and beds and bowls for their four-legged guests. The business center is a business traveler's dream with notary public service and video phones. Of course, there is the fitness room and pool. The Park Avenue Grill serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Room service is available 24 hours a day. Enjoy shopping at their gift shop and the concierge service will help with all your plans.