HISTORY OF THE PASEO

The Paseo was built in 1929 as the first shopping district north of downtown. The curved, two-block street has maintained its Spanish revival architecture with original stucco buildings and clay tile roofs still intact. The Paseo is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The arts have always been a part of the Paseo. The Elm’s home in the 1930s, located at 28th and Walker, was the first Oklahoma City artist salon and gallery. In the 1950s, Paseo had the beat generation and Jazz clubs. The 1960s brought counter culture and its arts to the area. Formally organized in the 1970s, the Paseo Arts Association began the revitalization of the Paseo. Today, a vibrant group of artists and other interested people are transforming the community through creative thinking and arts activities.

Currently, the Paseo is home to over 20 galleries and more than 80 artists, all within walking distance. Intermingled with the galleries are fabulous restaurants, a vegan donut shop, shoe and clothing boutiques, gift shops, a yoga studio, barber shops and a hair salon. The Paseo hosts the First Friday Gallery Walk every first Friday of the month, rain or shine, from 6-9pm. First Fridays feature new work of studio owners and guest artists, as well as live music and a unique family friendly atmosphere.