The Criterion
Oklahoma City's premier mid-sized venue, The Criterion, hosts diverse concerts with exceptional sound and a vibrant atmosphere.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
The Criterion
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Oklahoma City's premier mid-sized venue, The Criterion, hosts diverse concerts with exceptional sound and a vibrant atmosphere.
"The sound is always on point. It fills the small amphitheater, and the balcony too, with a sound that blows your mind."
🎯 Book Tickets Directly
Avoid third-party markups by purchasing tickets directly from The Criterion's website.
🚗 Smart Parking Strategy
Nearby paid parking can be pricey; consider walking a few blocks for free street parking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Exceptional Sound Quality
Main floor and balcony
Experience mind-blowing sound that fills the venue, making every concert unforgettable.
Balcony Seating Views
Balcony level
Enjoy a comfortable, seated experience with surprisingly good views, even for comedy shows.

Friendly and Attentive Staff
Throughout the venue
Staff are considerate and helpful, ensuring safety and a positive atmosphere for all attendees.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating The Criterion: What to Know Before You Go
Maximizing Your Criterion Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tickets Directly
Avoid third-party markups by purchasing tickets directly from The Criterion's website.
🚗 Smart Parking Strategy
Nearby paid parking can be pricey; consider walking a few blocks for free street parking.
🪑 Balcony for Seating
Opt for balcony seats for a comfortable, seated experience, even with minor view obstructions.
🎶 Enjoy the Sound
The venue boasts impressive acoustics, making for an immersive live music experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tickets Directly
Avoid third-party markups by purchasing tickets directly from The Criterion's website.
🚗 Smart Parking Strategy
Nearby paid parking can be pricey; consider walking a few blocks for free street parking.
🪑 Balcony for Seating
Opt for balcony seats for a comfortable, seated experience, even with minor view obstructions.
🎶 Enjoy the Sound
The venue boasts impressive acoustics, making for an immersive live music experience.
🤝 Friendly Staff
Expect helpful and considerate staff who prioritize attendee safety and enjoyment.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Criterion is praised for its excellent sound quality and friendly, attentive staff, making it a favorite for many concert-goers in Oklahoma City. While the venue offers a great live music experience, potential drawbacks include expensive parking and a standing-room-only main floor, which might not suit everyone's preference.
"I've been to The Criterion many times. Pixies tickets were sold for Lawn seats or General Admission, where the Zoo Amp.was the venue. The show switched to the criterion at the last minute and there were seats throughout the whole floor. We were given the option to relocate to some seats. They gave us 20th row and I was happy with that! The sound is always on point. It fills the small amphitheater, and the balcony too, with a sound that blows your mind. Tickets are usually very affordable if you are on their website not a 3rd party site where they double the price... Great Venue"
John Hargrove
"Overall, I enjoy the venue and it brings national tours to OKC. The prices and fees are more affordable than the paycom or BOK center in Tulsa, but they are still higher than other local venues like the diamond ballroom. Parking is the major drawback, as the nearby lots are paid. If you can walk a few blocks, then you can find free street parking. I've seen several artists here from $uicideboy$, A day to remember, and ice nine kills. All performances and sound quality are good. The venue is usually climate controlled and comfortable for general admission."
Matthew Nichols
"I went to see Josh Johnson at The Criterion, and my experience was pretty good. I got balcony seats, and despite the "obstructed view" caution, it was fine for a comedy show and didn't hinder my sight. I fully expected it to take a while to get in and get seated, but it literally took me less than 5 minutes to go through security and into my seat upstairs. It was nice and clean, and the chairs were padded, folding chairs on risers on the balcony. Overall, I was pleasantly surprised. I traveled up from Texas to see this show and I would come here again just for ease."
Lyka Walton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Criterion is located in Oklahoma City. While specific public transport options might vary, driving is common. Be prepared for paid parking lots directly connected to the venue, which can be expensive ($85 for 4 hours mentioned in one review). For a more budget-friendly option, consider walking a few blocks to find free street parking, especially for night shows.
Parking at The Criterion can be a significant drawback. The connected lot is often priced high, with one report of $85 for 4 hours. Finding close, free parking is challenging, particularly during night shows or in adverse weather. Walking a few blocks away can yield free street parking.
Information on direct public transport routes to The Criterion is limited. It's advisable to check local Oklahoma City transit schedules for the most up-to-date information on bus routes or other public transportation options that may serve the area.
Yes, you can arrange for drop-off at The Criterion. This can be a good alternative to dealing with parking, especially if you are attending a popular event. Coordinate with your ride-share service or driver for the best drop-off location.
For concerts, consider ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft to avoid parking hassles and costs. Alternatively, if you don't mind a walk, seeking out free street parking a few blocks away can save money.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's recommended to purchase tickets directly from The Criterion's official website to avoid inflated prices and fees often found on third-party sites.
Yes, The Criterion offers various ticket types. The main floor is typically standing room only for general admission, while the balcony provides seated options. Some events might have specific VIP or reserved seating arrangements.
Ticket prices vary greatly depending on the artist and event. While generally more affordable than larger venues like Paycom Center or BOK Center, they can still be higher than smaller local venues. Booking directly often leads to better pricing.
Entry is generally smooth and efficient. One reviewer mentioned getting through security and to their seat in under 5 minutes for a comedy show, even with balcony seating.
It's best to check the venue's policy for same-day ticket availability. For popular shows, tickets often sell out in advance, so purchasing ahead of time is highly recommended.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
The main floor at The Criterion is standing room only, offering a general admission experience. The balcony level provides seated options, with some tables and seats at the front, and padded folding chairs on risers.
For those who prefer seating, the balcony offers a good vantage point, even with some 'obstructed view' cautions. The front rows of the balcony may offer tables and seats for a more premium experience.
Yes, the venue is generally climate-controlled and comfortable. However, some attendees have noted it can get warm after about an hour, especially on the bottom floor.
The sound quality at The Criterion is consistently praised. It's described as 'on point' and capable of filling the venue, providing an immersive experience for attendees.
Yes, there are multiple bars available on both the main floor and the balcony level. Getting a drink is usually quick, even during busy periods.
The atmosphere is generally positive and energetic, with a focus on allowing attendees to enjoy the music freely. The staff are known for being attentive and ensuring a safe environment, even for activities like crowd surfing.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Information regarding food options at The Criterion is not extensively detailed in reviews. While bars are present for drinks, specific food menus or availability are not commonly highlighted. It's advisable to check with the venue directly or plan to dine before or after the event.
Oklahoma City offers a variety of dining options. Depending on your location and preferences, you can find numerous restaurants in the vicinity of The Criterion. Exploring local guides or apps can help you discover nearby eateries.
Outside food and beverages are typically not allowed at concert venues like The Criterion. It's best to adhere to their policies regarding outside items to ensure a smooth entry.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary by event. Generally, personal cameras with detachable lenses are often prohibited, but phone cameras are usually allowed for personal use. It's best to check the specific event's policy or the venue's guidelines beforehand.
Professional cameras, including those with telephoto lenses or tripods, are typically not permitted at The Criterion for most concerts and events. This is to ensure the best experience for all attendees and to comply with artist agreements.
For general ambiance photos, the balcony offers a good perspective of the stage and crowd. During performances, capturing the energy of the stage and the audience can yield great shots, but always be mindful of other attendees and venue rules.
Similar to photography, video recording policies can vary. Short clips for personal social media are often tolerated, but professional or extended filming is usually restricted. Always check the specific event's guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's advisable to check the specific event's age restrictions and consider the type of music. For younger children, ear protection might be a good idea, as concert volumes can be high. The venue's generally friendly staff and efficient entry process can also contribute to a smoother family experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
While food and drinks at the venue can add up, planning to eat before or after the show, or opting for more affordable drink choices, can help manage costs. The overall experience, especially with the venue's good sound quality, provides good value for the money.
couples
Consider attending a show by an artist you both enjoy. The venue's excellent sound quality ensures a great auditory experience, and the lively atmosphere can be a lot of fun. Planning your arrival to secure decent parking or using a ride-share service can ensure a stress-free start to your evening.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding The Criterion's Layout and Experience
Upstairs, the balcony provides a more relaxed, seated environment. Reviewers have noted that even with 'obstructed view' warnings, the seating offers a good perspective, especially for comedy shows. The balcony seats are described as padded folding chairs on risers, offering comfort and a clear line of sight. This makes it a great option for those who prefer not to stand for extended periods or who want a different vantage point.
Beyond the seating, The Criterion is known for its impressive sound quality, which is consistently praised for filling the venue effectively. The venue also features multiple bars on both levels, ensuring quick access to refreshments. While generally climate-controlled, it can get warm during longer sets.
Navigating Parking and Accessibility at The Criterion
To mitigate parking issues, attendees often resort to finding free street parking by walking a few blocks away from the venue. This strategy is more feasible for those who don't mind a short walk, especially during good weather. For popular events, arriving early can increase your chances of finding better parking spots, whether paid or free.
For those who wish to avoid parking altogether, ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are a convenient alternative. They offer direct drop-off and pick-up, bypassing the parking complexities. The venue's accessibility for drop-offs is generally good, making it a practical choice for many concert-goers.
The Criterion's Diverse Event Lineup
Beyond music, The Criterion has also hosted other types of events, including comedy shows, as evidenced by a review mentioning a Josh Johnson performance. The venue's ability to draw national tours and a variety of performers highlights its importance as a cultural hub in Oklahoma City. The presence of artists like Insane Clown Posse and Steve Aoki further underscores the broad spectrum of entertainment offered.
This diverse programming ensures that The Criterion appeals to a wide demographic, making it a go-to destination for live entertainment in the region. Whether you're a fan of underground artists or mainstream headliners, there's often something happening at The Criterion that will pique your interest.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit