The Shores Apartments in Oklahoma City: Lakeside Living Near Bricktown
The Shores is a mid-rise residential community in Oklahoma City's Bricktown neighborhood, positioned between the Oklahoma River and Reno Avenue as a walkable option for renters seeking proximity to dining, entertainment, and downtown employment without high-rise density.
What The Shores Actually Is
The Shores offers studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans in a six-story building completed in the early 2010s. The complex sits within Bricktown's historic warehouse district, a 10-minute walk from the Boathouse District's rowing facilities and roughly a quarter-mile from the restaurants and bars clustered along Mickey Mantle Drive. The building does not offer luxury finishes or resort-style amenities; it is a straightforward apartment community scaled for professionals and small households who prioritize location over premium features.
Unit Types and Pricing
Rents at The Shores range from approximately $700 to $900 per month, with studios and one-bedrooms occupying the lower end and two-bedrooms reaching the upper range. Lease terms are typically 6, 9, or 12 months. The standard security deposit equals one month's rent. Utilities are tenant-paid; there is no inclusive utility package. Current pricing should be confirmed directly with the leasing office, as rates change seasonally and with lease renewal cycles.
Units include basic cable and internet access. Kitchens feature standard appliances without granite counters or stainless steel fixtures common in newer downtown properties. Flooring is typically laminate or carpet. Most units include a balcony or patio.
How The Shores Compares to Other Bricktown and Downtown Options
The Shores' strength is price-to-location efficiency. Comparable one-bedroom apartments in the immediate Bricktown area, such as those in newer infill projects along Main Street or in the Passageways building nearby, typically rent $200 to $400 higher per month while offering more contemporary finishes and amenities like fitness centers or rooftop access.
If proximity to downtown employment is the priority and budget is tight, The Shores delivers. If you value modern aesthetics, in-unit laundry, and amenities beyond the basics, newer Bricktown properties or the Plaza District (roughly 2 miles north) offer more, though at substantially higher cost. For renters willing to move farther from downtown, neighborhoods like Midtown or Heritage Hills offer competitive pricing in similar or lower ranges, but with longer commutes to Bricktown offices or entertainment venues.
Who The Shores Suits and Does Not Suit
The Shores works well for renters in their first Oklahoma City apartment, early-career professionals who work downtown or in Bricktown, and anyone prioritizing walkability and nightlife access over interior finishes. The building attracts people comfortable with an older, less polished interior in exchange for neighborhood vitality and lower rent.
It is less suitable for renters seeking pet-friendly policies (pet restrictions apply; verify current details with leasing), those needing in-unit laundry, or anyone with a preference for modern appliances and contemporary design. Families with multiple children may find two-bedroom units cramped compared to newer stock.
The First Visit and Application Process
Prospective renters should visit during business hours to view a model unit; vacant units may not be available for showing. The leasing office is located in the building's ground-floor entrance. A standard application requires income verification (typically 2.5 to 3 times the monthly rent), a background check, and a credit check. Processing typically takes 3 to 5 business days. A co-signer is available for those who do not meet income thresholds.
Parking and Logistics
The Shores provides surface parking in a dedicated lot south of the building. Parking is included in rent; no additional fee applies. The lot fills during peak evening hours but is generally adequate for resident vehicles. Visitor parking is available but limited; guests staying longer than a few hours should be directed to nearby street parking on Reno or nearby blocks.
Public transit connections are minimal; the building is not directly served by COTPA bus routes. Bricktown's walkable layout makes a car unnecessary for dining, shopping, and entertainment within a few blocks, but commutes to other Oklahoma City neighborhoods require driving.
The Shores anchors a rent-competitive corner of Bricktown for renters unwilling to pay premium rates for newer construction, making it a reliable choice for those prioritizing location and budget over amenities.
