Coming soon:
Once known as “Deep Second,” the Deep Deuce area of Oklahoma City is small but historically important as a metro hub for jazz music and African American culture and commerce. In the 1940s, it was one of OKC’s largest African-American neighborhoods, home to legendary jazz musicians like Charlie Christian and Jimmy Rushing. Ralph Waldo Ellison, born in Oklahoma City in 1914, wrote about Deep Deuce in his book.
Today, much of that vibrant past is gone. But with the downtown revival, the urban neighborhood is developing again and includes low-rise apartments, restaurants, and more.
Story:
Deep Deuce’s history is rich and complex, filled with both the unfortunate racial tensions of early Oklahoma City and the glory of African American music and culture. The influence of the Deep Deuce artists on jazz music was profound, and the historical effect of the area on our city is considerable.
Truth is, I can hardly do the Deep Deuce story justice here. And because Oklahoma City blogger and historian Doug Loudenback has already done so much better than he ever could, I will refer to his excellent treatment. Doug has a three-part article on Deep Deuce, chronicling its history and notable people. I highly recommend it.
Location and directions:
Deep Deuce is located in downtown Oklahoma City, just north of Bricktown. The area is essentially framed by I-235 to the east, NE 4th to the north, and railroad tracks to both the west and south. I-235, easily accessible from several OKC highways, has an exit at NE 4th.
ZIP Codes:
73104
To see and do:
- Historic Calvary Baptist Church
- Deep Deuce Apartments
- Live music at the Deep Deuce Grill
- Have a drink in the WSKY lounge
- [Artspace] in Untitled
- Great pizza on the wedge
- Great food at Urban Johnnie’s, Anchor Down or Slaughter’s Hall
Nearby hotels and accommodation:
Looking to stay close to the Deep Deuce area? These are some of the best hotel options:
- Aloft Hotel
- 209 North Walnut
- Check Aloft Guest Reviews and Pricing on TripAdvisor
- Holiday Inn Express Bricktown
- 101 East Main
- Check Guest Reviews and Prices for Holiday Inn Express Bricktown on TripAdvisor
- The Skirvin Hotel
- One Park Avenue
- Check Guest Reviews and Prices for The Skirvin Hotel on TripAdvisor
