Things To Do In Tulsa | A Guide to Must-See Attractions

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Welcome to Tulsa, Oklahoma! Often referred to as “Green Country,” Tulsa offers a surprising blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty.

Whether you’re a history buff, an art aficionado, or an outdoor enthusiast, Tulsa has something for everyone.

This comprehensive guide will unveil the must-see attractions, unique experiences, and hidden gems that await you in this captivating city.

Must See Attractions For Every Kind Of Traveler

History Buffs

philbrook museum of art
  • Philbrook Museum of Art: Explore an impressive collection of art spanning centuries, from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces.
tulsa air and space museum and planetarium
  • Tulsa Air and Space Museum: Journey through Tulsa’s aviation legacy and learn about the city’s role in aerospace development.
tulsa performing arts

Art Enthusiasts: Explore World-Class Museums

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  • Gilcrease Museum: Delve into the art and culture of the American West, with a focus on Native American art and artifacts.
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  • Woody Guthrie Center: Celebrate the legacy of the iconic folk singer Woody Guthrie and explore the history of American folk music.
tulsa glassblowing studio
  • Tulsa Glassblowing Studio: Witness the art of glassblowing in action and even try your hand at shaping molten glass (with guidance!).
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Nature Lovers: Find Tranquility in Tulsa's Parks

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  • Gathering Place: Unwind in this stunning riverfront park featuring walking trails, playgrounds, a splash pad, and a majestic botanical garden.
tulsa botanic garden
  • Tulsa Botanic Garden: Explore diverse plant collections, from vibrant flower displays to serene Japanese gardens.
oxley nature center
  • Oxley Nature Center: Hike scenic trails, observe local wildlife, and learn about the unique ecosystem of the region.

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Thrill Seekers: Experience Interactive Exhibits & Outdoor Adventures

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  • Science Museum Oklahoma: Engage with interactive exhibits that explore science, technology, and space exploration.
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  • Cain’s Ballroom: Catch a live music performance at this historic venue, known for its Art Deco architecture and legendary atmosphere.
tulsa river parks
  • Tulsa River Parks: Embark on a kayaking or canoeing adventure on the Arkansas River, offering a unique perspective of the city.

Unique Experiences in Tulsa:

Explore Tulsa's Quirky Side with Offbeat Attractions

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  • The Center of the Universe: Stand at the exact spot designated as the geographical center of the United States.
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  • Golden Driller: Snap a photo with this iconic 76-foot-tall statue, a symbol of Tulsa’s oil industry heritage.
tulsa route 66
  • Tulsa Route 66: Cruise down a portion of the historic Route 66, experiencing a bygone era of American road trips.

Immerse Yourself in the City's Vibrant Culture

greenwood cultural center tulsa OK
  • Greenwood Cultural Center: Learn about the Greenwood District, once a thriving African American community, and its tragic history.
  • Tulsa International Film Festival: Immerse yourself in the world of cinema during this annual festival showcasing independent and international films.
  • First Friday Art Crawl: Explore Tulsa’s burgeoning art scene by hopping between galleries and studios during this monthly event.

Savor Delicious Cuisine: From Local Favorites to International Delights

  • Sample Tulsa’s barbecue scene: Sink your teeth into smoky, succulent meats at renowned local barbecue joints.
  • Indulge in comfort food: Experience Tulsa’s take on classic American comfort food, from juicy burgers to melt-in-your-mouth fried chicken.
  • Explore international flavors: Embark on a culinary adventure by dining at restaurants serving cuisines from around the world.

Unveiling Tulsa's Hidden Gems: Discover the Unexpected

Explore Tulsa's Architectural Marvels

  • Tulsa Art Deco District: Admire the stunning Art Deco architecture prevalent in downtown Tulsa, a testament to the city’s roaring twenties.
  • Tulsa’s Deco Towers: Marvel at the unique architecture of these prominent Art Deco skyscrapers that dominate the Tulsa skyline.
  • Tulsa’s Residential Architecture: Discover charming historic neighborhoods with a variety of architectural styles, from Victorian mansions to Craftsman bungalows.

Seek Out Unique Shopping Experiences

  • The Brady District: Explore a collection of trendy boutiques, art galleries, and vintage shops in this revitalized district.
  • Brookside: Discover locally-owned shops, bookstores, and cafes in this charming and walkable neighborhood.
  • Tulsa Flea Markets: Hunt for treasures at local flea markets, where

Fun Things to Do in Tulsa OK

Tulsa isn’t just about art museums and historical sights – it’s also brimming with activities that bring out the kid in all of us! Unwind, let loose, and create fantastic memories with these lighthearted and engaging experiences:

Thrilling Adventures & Indoor Play in Tulsa OK

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  • Safari Joe’s H2O Water Park: Splash around, race down slides, and beat the heat at this thrilling water park.
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  • Sky Zone Trampoline Park: Defy gravity and bounce your heart out at this indoor trampoline park that’s fun for all ages.
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  • The Max Retropub: Unleash your inner gamer with a vast collection of classic arcade games, pinball machines, and mouthwatering food.

Embracing Tulsa's Playful Side

  • The Outsiders House Museum: Step into the iconic world of S.E. Hinton’s novel “The Outsiders” and tour the film’s shooting location.
  • Admiral Twin Drive-In: Catch a double feature the old-fashioned way at this historic drive-in theater, a blast from the past.
  • Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area: Challenge yourself on hiking trails with varying difficulty, offering stunning views of the city and Arkansas River.

Family-Friendly Outings in Tulsa OK

oklahoma aquarium tulsa
  • Oklahoma Aquarium: Discover diverse marine life and walk through an underwater shark tunnel at this captivating aquarium.
discovery lab tulsa OK
  • Discovery Lab: Explore hands-on STEM activities and exhibits specifically designed to spark imaginations of all ages.
BOK center tulsa OK
  • BOK Center: Attend exciting sporting events or catch a favorite artist perform live at this impressive arena in the heart of Tulsa.

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Things to Do in Tulsa with Kids

Tulsa offers a fantastic blend of attractions and experiences that cater to families, ensuring fun for both kids and adults! Create unforgettable memories with these kid-friendly adventures:

Explore, Learn, and Play

children museum in tulsa ok
  • Tulsa Children’s Museum: Ignite young imaginations with hands-on exhibits, interactive play zones, and special programs tailored for children.
tulsa zoo OK
  • Tulsa Zoo: Get up close and personal with exotic animals, marvel at diverse habitats, and learn about conservation efforts at this expansive zoo.
upside VR in tulsa ok
  • Upside VR: Immerse yourselves in exciting virtual reality experiences that transport you to new worlds and offer challenges for all ages.

Outdoor Fun for the Whole Family

  • Mohawk Park: Enjoy a scenic picnic, explore trails, let the little ones loose at the playgrounds, and even check out the on-site zoo.
  • River Parks West Bank Area: This riverside area offers playgrounds, a splash pad, and ample space for running, biking, and playing along the Arkansas River.
  • LaFortune Park: Find playgrounds, swimming pools, walking trails, sports fields, and a variety of options for outdoor fun in this sprawling park.

Fueling Young Minds and Appetites

  • The Bakeshop: Indulge in delicious cupcakes, cookies, and other sweet treats that are sure to delight little taste buds.
  • Andolini’s Pizzeria: Savor the taste of authentic New York-style pizza at this family-friendly establishment.
  • Ike’s Chili: Discover Tulsa’s iconic chili with a kid-friendly menu that lets them customize their bowl and spice level.

Things to Do in Tulsa for Adults

From cultural gems to nightlife hotspots, Tulsa offers an enticing mix of experiences for adults seeking some grown-up fun, exploration, and relaxation.

Sophisticated Culture & Entertainment

  • Tulsa Ballet: Immerse yourself in world-class ballet performances, with productions ranging from timeless classics to contemporary works.
  • Live Music Scene: Discover Tulsa’s vibrant music scene, from historic venues hosting jazz and blues legends to intimate bars featuring up-and-coming local talent.
  • Comedy Clubs: Unwind with a good laugh at one of Tulsa’s comedy clubs offering a fun night out with standup routines and improv shows.

Dining and Nightlife Delights

  • Mother Road Market: Experience a culinary journey with diverse food vendors and unique dining concepts in this vibrant food hall.
  • The Blue Dome District: Explore trendy bars, upscale restaurants, and a buzzing nightlife scene in this historic downtown district.
  • Brewery Tours: Taste Tulsa’s craft beer scene with tours and tastings at local breweries, offering unique flavors and a behind-the-scenes look at production.

Relaxation and Rejuvenation

  • Cryotherapy Spas: Revitalize your body with the rejuvenating power of cold therapy at one of Tulsa’s specialized cryotherapy spas.
  • Scenic Hiking and Biking: Explore trails with breathtaking views, like the paved Osage Prairie Trail, or rent a bike and cruise through Tulsa’s urban parks.
  • Yoga and Wellness Studios: Find inner peace and tranquility through yoga and meditation classes offered at studios throughout the city.

Free Things to Do in Tulsa

Tulsa boasts a surprising array of experiences that won’t cost you a dime! Discover charming hidden gems, immerse yourself in art and culture, and enjoy the outdoors without worrying about your wallet.

Arts & Culture on a Budget

  • 108 Contemporary: Explore cutting-edge art exhibitions at this non-profit art gallery championing contemporary works by local and regional artists.
  • Living Arts of Tulsa: Discover a community-driven art space that hosts exhibitions, workshops, and events showcasing diverse artistic mediums.
  • First Friday Art Crawl (downtown): Embark on a self-guided art walk during this monthly event, with galleries opening their doors and offering free entry.

Enjoying the Outdoors

  • River Parks: Explore miles of scenic trails along the Arkansas River, perfect for walking, running, biking, or simply enjoying the views.
  • Keystone Ancient Forest: Hike through towering oak and hickory trees on well-maintained trails in this protected natural area.
  • Guthrie Green: Relax in this urban park, enjoy free community events, attend yoga classes, or have a picnic surrounded by colorful murals.

More Affordable Fun

  • The Cave House: Discover a unique residence built into a natural cave, with free tours available on weekends.
  • Lacy Park: Explore this serene park featuring walking trails, a Japanese garden, and a stunning rose garden with over 250 varieties.
  • Chandler Park: Walk through scenic nature trails, play disc gol

Tulsa has proven itself to be far more than meets the eye. Whether you’re drawn to the city’s rich history, captivated by its arts scene, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway amidst stunning surroundings, this dynamic destination has it all. With options catering to families, art enthusiasts, nature lovers, and everyone in between, Tulsa’s unique charm makes it a must-visit.

So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your adventure today! Browse hotel deals, build your personalized itinerary, and let Tulsa’s vibrant energy sweep you away. And remember, this guide is just a starting point – Tulsa is filled with countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Ready to Dive into Tulsa?

Let your Tulsa adventure begin!

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