EMMA RILEY SUTTON

                              NORMAN

Sharing the history of Norman without mentioning OU football and Barry Switzer, the head coach that lead the Sooners to 12 Big Eight championships and three national titles, would be impossible. Despite this, this city began long before all of OU's National Football championships. Norman was named for Aubrey Norman, the supervisor on a Santa Fe Railway surveyor, began as a tent city in 1889. The University of Oklahoma was established one year later, on land donated by the residents of Norman. It is home to The Central Oklahoma Community Mental Health Center. As with many areas of Oklahoma, Norman's economy centers around oil and gas wells as well as light industry.

Go boating, water skiing or picnicing at Lake Thunderbird State Park. Rent a canoe and paddle around the beautiful lake or ride a horse at Thunderbird Stables.

Children of all ages will enjoy the Little River Zoo where you can see Red Kangaroos, Pigtail Macaques and African Crested Porcupines.

The Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History has been a part of the lives of Oklahomans for over 100 years and is a great place to view different exhibits. Enjoy the McCasland Foundation Hall of the People where you can see reproductions of the pole homes, originially built over 1,200 years ago by Oklahoma's first resident's, the people of the Mississipian culture.

Take the entire family to Andy Alligator's Fun Park. Drive the go-carts and crash the bumper cars. Enjoy the 18 hole miniature golf course, Gator Golf. Try your hand at mini bowling or Oklahoma's largest rocking climbing wall. Remember to enjoy the Bayou Blaster Bumper Boats and the batting cages.

Relax as you taste the many wines produced at Native Spirits Winery. This Norman vineyard grows several types of grapes including Riesling, Syrah, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Learn about wine making - you can even make your wine while visiting the winery
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With the option of daily, weekly and monthly rates, The Thunderbird Lodge is a great option for all visitors to Norman. Enjoy the free DSL Wi-Fi, refrigerators, microwaves and kitchens in the rooms. Take the time to stop in the lobby for the deluxe continental breakfast.

Centrally located, The Montford Inn, is one of Norman's most elegant and relaxing bed and breakfasts. Fresh flowers, private hot tubs and concierge service are just a few reasons to choose The Montford Inn for your stay in Norman. Whether you choose to stay in a guest room such as the Victorian-themed Yesteryear or in a cottage suite such as the romantic Prairie House with the picket fence and 1930s-style kitchen, you are sure to enjoy your stay.

Designed for extended-stays, Value Place, is perfect for even one night. Each hotel room includes a full-size refrigerator and freezer, cable television and a dining table. Guest can also enjoy a linen service, additional housekeeping as well as dishes, utensils and cookware.