About this venue
The Criterion is a standout concert venue in Oklahoma City, appreciated for its modern, industrial character and the close-to-the-stage feeling it creates. The layout is designed so that even bigger shows keep an intimate, club-like energy, with clear sightlines from multiple areas of the room.
Inside, the experience is all about the show: punchy, well-balanced sound and production-ready lighting that fits everything from touring acts to special events. The venue flows naturally, with practical spaces to gather before and after the set, plus bar service that keeps the night moving without unnecessary bottlenecks.
Head straight to 500 E Sheridan Ave, Oklahoma, United States — the entrance is easy to spot, and the immediate area typically offers convenient nearby parking and quick drop-off options close to the doors. For broader tips on getting around the city, check the guide text further down the page.
About the city
Oklahoma City, a lively hub of the American Midwest, isn’t only a city of wide avenues and open skies—it’s also one of the most convenient destinations for top-tier sports events and concerts. Here, an urban rhythm naturally blends with warm hospitality, making it easy for visitors to plan the whole night out—from tickets to dinner and evening entertainment. The city offers a solid range of accommodations, from downtown hotels to more budget-friendly options across the metro area, and the overall feel is relaxed and easy to navigate, which keeps event days stress-free.
A major advantage is connectivity: the EMBARK public transit network serves key areas with bus routes, faster RAPID corridors, and the OKC Streetcar system that simplifies moving around the inner core and districts near main venues. If you’re flying in, OKC Will Rogers International Airport provides a practical gateway to the city, and if you’re arriving by train, Santa Fe Depot is the well-known central stop for the Amtrak Heartland Flyer, with straightforward links into downtown. Combined with a clear road layout and convenient parking options, getting to arenas and stadiums is typically quick and logical.
When you have time before or after an event, the city delivers a strong “tourism bonus”: Bricktown and the canal walk are perfect for an easy stroll and an evening vibe, Myriad Botanical Gardens offer a green break in the heart of downtown, and Scissortail Park is a favorite spot to unwind with skyline views. For a different pace, paths along the Oklahoma River create space for walking and recharging—so your trip can easily become a complete city experience, not just a stop for the event.
