Discovering the Charm of Belle Isle Neighborhood in Oklahoma City

A historical postcard showing Picnic Island at Belle Isle Lake. This is now the site of Penn Square Mall.
Courtesy of Metropolitan Library System of Oklahoma County
Typical home in Belle Isle.
A typical home in Belle Isle

Located between N May and N Penn, south of NW 63rd to NW Expressway, Belle Isle is one of the most charming neighborhoods in Oklahoma City. It offers well-kept homes, primarily built in the 1950s-1960s, with many boasting a mid-century modern vibe. Thanks to its location and amenities, Belle Isle attracts retirees and young families alike.

Belle Isle is not a subdivision per se. It is an area of several subdivisions in the vicinity of the old Belle Isle Lake, which today is Penn Square.

Historical Background

Belle Isle has a rich history that adds to its charm. One of the notable landmarks in the area was the Belle Isle Power Plant, which provided power to the streetcars that ran along Classen Boulevard up to Classen Circle in the early 1900s. The power plant's location next to the Belle Isle Lake Park made it a popular destination for locals looking to escape the city's heat. In 1922, an amusement park was added to the island, complete with thrill rides, a carousel, and a dance pavilion, becoming an even greater draw for the region. Although the amusement park and the power plant no longer exist, the history of Belle Isle Lake and its surrounding park remains integral to Oklahoma City's past.

Real Estate in Belle Isle

The homes in Belle Isle come in sizes, from 1,000 to over 7,000 square feet, with an average age of 1960. Recent prices for these homes have ranged from $200,000 to $900,000, with an average price of $400,000. Investors in recent years have been rehabbing the neighborhood, resulting in high resale values due to the demand. While these high-end flips come with an expensive price tag, the result is always worth it. The neighborhood boasts mature trees and well-manicured lots, making it a pleasant and welcoming place to live.

Amenities and Attractions

Belle Isle is an ideal location that offers access to several major thoroughfares, making it convenient for residents to access shopping centers, restaurants, healthcare facilities, and major employers. The area library has recently been remodeled, and several shopping centers are nearby, including the Lakewood Shopping Center. For healthcare needs, residents can visit Mercy Health Center and Integris Health, conveniently located in the northwest area.

Belle Isle residents can also enjoy entertainment options, including the Bricktown entertainment district, which offers diverse opportunities for fun and leisure. For sports fans, the Oklahoma City Thunder is there.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love Belle Isle's proximity to Lake Hefner and Lake Overholser. These lakes provide fishing, boating, skiing, and swimming opportunities, and folks love to hike the trails and meander around the foliage-rich shorelines. In addition, families can enjoy the playgrounds at Stars and Stripes Park, making the northwest area the most entertaining part of town.

Education

Oklahoma City Public Schools serve Belle Isle and Nichols Hills Elementary and John Marshal Middle and High Schools, offering excellent educational opportunities for students of all ages. The schools are dedicated to providing quality education to students, preparing them for future success.

To summarize, Belle Isle is a charming neighborhood that offers a unique blend of history, convenience, and a wide range of amenities. The well-kept homes, mature trees, and manicured lots give the neighborhood a welcoming feel, and the range of home sizes and styles provides options for potential buyers. In addition, the historical significance of the Belle Isle Power Plant and the Belle Isle Amusement Park add to the area's charm.

Residents can enjoy convenient access to nearby shopping centers, healthcare facilities, major employers, and entertainment options.

Overall, Belle Isle is an excellent choice for a charming neighborhood with convenience, history, and amenities. The neighborhood's rich history, well-kept homes, and convenient location make it an attractive option for retirees and young families. So if you're looking for a great place to call home in Oklahoma City, check out the Belle Isle neighborhood.

OKCHomeSellers Can Help

Looking for a real estate agent who truly knows Belle Isle? Look no further than OKCHomeSellers at McGraw Realtors. Our team deeply understands the local market, and we're committed to helping you achieve your real estate goals, whether you're buying or selling a home in this neighborhood. From showcasing the best homes for sale to providing insider information about the community, we're here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist with your real estate needs in Belle Isle.

Neighborhood Highlights

  • Mid-century modern homes
  • Mature trees and well-manicured lots
  • Convenient location
  • Access to shopping and restaurants
  • Proximity to major employers
  • Excellent education opportunities

Individual Residence Features

  • Range of sizes (1,000-7,000+ sq ft)
  • Average age 1960
  • Mid-century modern vibe
  • Average price $400k

Location

  • NW Expressway and Penn

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