I made it to my first ever College Football Playoff game here at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial…read moreStadium and it was a terrific experience! This past Friday night - 12/19/25, Norman, Oklahoma was the center of the college football universe as the Sooners hosted Alabama in the #8 vs. #9 game of the playoffs. I found my ticket on SeatGeek for $345 in Section 233, Row 24, Seat 6. This was the last row in the upper deck on the visiting side of the stands. It wasn't too high up (imo). I still had a bird's eye view of the action. I will say...for this impromptu playoff game that gets organized by a committee of football "experts" who's sole responsibility is to select the 12 most deserving football schools into the tournament, I immediately bought my ticket after the schedule was announced. Did I have FOMO anticipating ticket prices could skyrocket higher? YES. But being from Florida, I had to purchase airfare and a rental car ASAP, and it felt reassuring to lock in a ticket as well since there was no turning back, but my point is...prices actually significantly decreased throughout the week and a half leading up to the game. Now 24 hours prior to kickoff, my $345 seat was selling for $190. Oh well stuff like this occasionally happens, but...these college playoff games get scheduled so last minute during the holiday season that it's very possible fans may have alternative family plans, and I'd just suggest future playoff attendees being patient when searching for their tickets. I really liked Gaylord Family Stadium. It opened in 1923 and has a capacity of 80,000. But for a 102 year old stadium, it's in great shape and the energy for this playoff game had a fever pitch. Kickoff was 7pm (central time zone) and they allowed fans inside at 5pm. Outside the stadium, they had a "Party at the Palace" featuring food vendors, tailgates, fans taking photos, music and even four F-35 fighter jets flying over the festivities. ESPN's College Gameday crew had their pregame show live on campus. For parking, there was a garage connected to Gaylord Stadium. Other lots nearby charged $40. I arrived early and parked for free on a side street 1 mile away and walked to the game. I'd also like to point out that the entrance off West Lindsey Street is a worthwhile photo opportunity. This area has statues dedicated to famous Oklahoma coaches like Bob Stoops and Barry Switzer. From the coaches dedications area, if you walk to the righthand side of Gaylord Stadium, you'll find Heisman Row with even more statues of Sooners Heisman Trophy winners like Kyler Murray, Sam Bradford and Baker Mayfield. Viewing these historic shrines had me thinking how rich Oklahoma's football roots are. Another nice picture moment was in front of the end zone located beside the "Party at the Palace". Here they had large SOONERS letters to stand in front of for a fun family photo. My favorite moment of the game was Oklahoma's team introductions. It was a sight to see! They turned out the lights and the deejay pumped up the crowd. Then as Sooners players entered the field, an abundance of fireworks exploded from both end zones and from behind Oklahoma's home stands. It was thrilling. I had goosebumps and couldn't believe the abundance of fireworks like a pinnacle July 4th moment. I'll post a quick video of it along with this review. It was the highlight of my night, lol. The Pride of Oklahoma Band was outstanding as well and put on an entertaining halftime performance. Also during halftime, an exciting drone light show showcased everything associated with Oklahoma football including a Boomer Sooner formation, an OU sign formation and a horse and carriage formation, to name a few. At the end of the 3rd quarter, there was a performance by the rapper, 50 Cent, while more fireworks lit up the night's sky. It was an energetic way to begin the 4th quarter. Not sure if 50 Cent will return in the future, lol, but him showing up was memorable. Overall, the football game was competitive. Oklahoma jumped out to a 17 - 0 lead. Alabama tied it at 17 - 17 by halftime. Unfortunately Alabama pulled away in the 2nd half to win 34 - 24 and fellow fans I sat next to and got to know a little about unfortunately went home unhappy. I felt bad because they were nice people and it was easy to recognize how passionate they were about their Sooners. Still, for just being a neutral fan of college football, I got to live out a dream attending my first ever CFP game, regardless of the outcome. I traveled halfway across the country to experience it all and for that, I am grateful. Thank you for having me Oklahoma, and Boomer Sooner!

Took a ride down to the OU campus today to check things out. Got as close to the field as I could…read morebut nothing is open since the Sooners are in the playoffs. Thought I might catch a practice or something. This is a very nice stadium and the grounds are well kept. Lots of construction going on down there but since the home season is over it's ot an issue for the stadium. Was a nice place to walk around and check things out.

IMHO this is an upper scale burger joint, that swirly doesn't offer that $20 burger experience…read more Having a full bar, and many on tap options, this is what they are selling. There is a cigar lounge adjacent to the bar, but I wasn't there for that so I have no option to offer. That being said, decent service.

Had brunch here and Rory was our server. She was amazing. I had the burrito without the tortilla…read more It was absolutely delicious. My husband had the streak bowl (also delicious). Our son had the Mac and cheese and he loved it. It seemed clean and inviting. Their regular menu is average but brunch is superior.