25 Best Things to Do in Tulsa, Oklahoma

© Philbrook Museum of Art/VisitTulsa

Located south of downtown Tulsa, the Philbrook Museum of Art is partly housed in a striking villa designed in 1927 by architect Edward Buehler Delk. Situated on 23 acres of land, the Italian Renaissance villa was built for Waite Phillips, a wealthy oilman. He gave the 72-room mansion to the city of Tulsa in 1938, and the museum opened a year later. Its impressive collection includes works by notable artists like Picasso and Andrew Wyeth. The museum offers tours of the exhibits and highlights of the collection every day, which are led by experienced docents. A stroll through the beautiful gardens is one of best the things to do in Tulsa OK.

2727 South Rockford Road, Tulsa, Oklahoma, Phone: 918-749-7941

© Gilcrease Museum

Named for Thomas Gilcrease, an oilman and avid art collector, the Gilcrease Museum houses one of the world’s largest collections of artwork of the American West, along with a number of artifacts from Central and South America. It is located on North Gilcrease Museum Road northwest of downtown Tulsa and is one of the top Tulsa attractions. The museum sits on 460 acres, 23 of which have been developed into themed gardens. The museum always strives to provide educational opportunities and therefore offers classes, events, programs, and workshops. There are public tours of the permanent collection led by trained docents, and the museum also offers special group tours.

1400 North Gilcrease Museum Road, Tulsa, Oklahoma, Phone: 918-596-2700

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Located on 15th Street in “The Cherry Street District” of Tulsa, the Tulsa Farmers’ Market is a popular market that offers fresh locally produced items during the warmer months of the year. It first opened in 1998 and was initially called the Cherry Street Farmers’ Market. The market’s goal is to only sell products that are local, seasonal, and sustainable. Starting with just a small group of vendors, the market has since grown to include nearly 100 vendors, mostly thanks to community support. After experiencing, the market has expanded, opening several new markets in other locations. The market is open on Saturday mornings from April to October. A visit to the farmers' market is one of the best fun things to do in Tulsa on a romantic date - you can have delicious snacks and relax in a friendly setting. Keep reading for more things to do in Tulsa this weekend.

Cherry Street Farmers Market, 15th Street between S. Rockford and S. Quaker, Tulsa, Oklahoma

© Woody Guthrie Center

Located in Tulsa’s Brady Arts District, the Woody Guthrie Center is a museum dedicated to the life and works of Woody Guthrie, celebrated American folk musician, singer, and songwriter. It is an interactive museum that allows visitors to see Guthrie’s instruments, artwork, lyrics, notebooks, photographs, and other notable pieces of historical memorabilia. The center also screens a biographical film and hosts folk music events. The Woody Guthrie Archives is a particularly interesting section of the museum, as it contains the world’s largest collection of Guthrie-related material.

102 East Mathew B. Brady Street, Tulsa, Oklahoma, Phone: 918-574-2710

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The Woodward Park and Gardens Historic District is an arboretum, botanical garden, and public park located on South Peoria Avenue. Named after Helen Woodward, the park was established in 1929. Woodward Park sits on 45 beautiful acres of land, and consists of several specialty gardens such as the Tulsa Rose Garden. These formal terraces were established in 1935 and contain more than 9,000 roses, representing 250 stunning varieties. Listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places, the park is also known for its Upper and Lower Rock Gardens. Other interesting features of the park include a glass conservatory and a sunken garden, among other delights.

2101 South Peoria Avenue, Tulsa, Oklahoma, Phone: 918-746-5125

© KEO Restaurant

KEO is not your typical Asian restaurant. When preparing food, the chefs and kitchen staff always keep in mind three incredibly important principles: good health, fresh produce and ingredients delivered daily, and a passion for Asian cuisine. The cuisine at KEO is highly influenced by Malaysian, Vietnamese, Thai, and Cambodian traditions. The kitchen even prepares gluten free or vegetarian versions of some of their delectable dishes. Naturally, the restaurant serves traditional sake and Asian cocktails with lemongrass or lychee, but they also offer selections from rich wine collections from Austria, Italy, France, and New Zealand.

3524 S. Peoria, 918-794-8200; 8921 S. Yale, Tulsa, Oklahoma, Phone: 918-794-0090

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A day of pampering at Tulsa’s Spa Lux is one of the best gifts you can give to that busy workaholic in your family, and don’t forget yourself! Daily stress, long to-do lists, and the pressure of responsibilities leave traces on our bodies as well as our minds. Treat yourself to a day of relaxation at Spa Lux’s cool, elegant soothing space, where the de-stressing starts at the entrance. The best way to use their services to their full potential is to choose one of the spa packages. Whatever you choose, it all starts with a foot bath, an incredibly calming and relaxing service that will put you in the right frame of mind. If you choose the Total Body Deluxe Package, you will a 55-minute body mask, 85-minute Swedish massage, 30-minute revitalizing scalp treatment, and 85-minute facial and they will even treat you to lunch. Their Escape Package includes a 55 minute Zen hot stone massage, a 55-minute purifying clay body mask, and a 30-minute customized mini-facial. Whatever package or treatment you choose, you can begin or end it with some complimentary time in the sauna or steam room. When you finish, you will be asking yourself why you waited so long and when you’ll be back.

8922 South Memorial Drive B, Tulsa, OK 74133, Phone: 918-615-3339

© The Cave House

The Cave House in Tulsa is a fascinating 100 year-old house is located just a few blocks from downtown Tulsa, where it attracts a regular stream of curious visitors. Legend has it that back in the 1920’s, the house was built as the Cave Garden Restaurant. During the daytime hours the restaurant served food on alfresco dining tables in the garden. However, after dark its true purpose was revealed. A hidden tunnel led from an enormous fireplace to a hidden room built into the hill. Since this was the time of the Prohibition in America, the Cave House became a very popular secret speakeasy. You are welcome to request a guided tour and learn all the secrets.

The Cave House,1623 W. Charles Page Blvd, Tulsa, OK 74127, 18 378 1952

© Tulsa Art Deco Museum

Located in the lobby of Tulsa’s historic Philcade Building on South Boston Avenue, the Tulsa Art Deco Museum is a boutique museum with a remarkable collection from the age of Art Deco in Tulsa. The building in which the museum is located is in and of itself a masterpiece of Art Deco architecture. Conveniently situated in the heart of Tulsa’s downtown Art Deco District, the Tulsa Art Deco Museum also hosts events like afternoon tea parties and the Deco Ball. The museum offers tours led by trained docents, which are available upon request. The museum is open from Monday to Saturday and there is also a gift shop. Things to Do in Oklahoma

511 South Boston Avenue, Tulsa, Oklahoma, Phone: 918-417-6544

© Sushi Hana

Sushi Hana is a trendy Japanese fusion restaurant. Owner Kenny Chan met three sushi masters in the Big Apple, and he invited them to join him to create something completely new and exciting in Tulsa. Each of the chefs has a different style of cooking, ensuring that your dining experience at Sushi Hana will be completely unique. The team is constantly coming up with new recipes and specials, and even the most seasoned connoisseur of sushi will be pleasantly surprised. Some of the favorites at Sushi Hana include the lobster mango roll, the tuna hut, and the peppercorn steak teriyaki.

9904 Riverside Pkwy, Tulsa, Oklahoma, Phone: 918-528-6688

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The Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame is located in the former Tulsa Union Depot, a 1931 landmark Art Deco building that originally served as the central railway station in downtown Tulsa. After extensive renovations, the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame began using the facility in 2007 to showcase individual blues, gospel, and jazz musicians as well as music groups from the state of Oklahoma. The building is now called the Jazz Depot: it is a museum with artifacts, memorabilia, and photographs related to Oklahoma musicians. It is also a venue for concerts, arts programs, and other events. Education programs include after school programs, a Performing Arts Academy for children, and much more.

5 South Boston Avenue Tulsa, Oklahoma 74103, Phone: 918-928-5299

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Another of Tulsa’s popular quirky attractions, the Center of the Universe marks the spot of a most unusual acoustic phenomenon that no-one really understands. The attraction is not much to look at; all you will see is a mysterious circle of concrete surrounded by further circles of paving. You can reach this interesting attraction by following a brick path to a pedestrian bridge which crosses the railway, directly north of the Williams Center Tower – any local will be happy to direct you. When you stand in the center of the concrete circle and make any kind of sound, it will come bouncing back to you, many times amplified. Visitors are invited to come and try it out for themselves.

Center of the Universe, 20 E. Archer Street, Tulsa, 74127

© 108 Contemporary

Housed in the renovated Mathews Warehouse Building on East Brady Street, 108 Contemporary is a museum located in the Brady Arts District. The museum focuses on contemporary crafts and features works made of ceramic, fiber, glass, metal, paper, wood, and other materials. Preserving Oklahoma’s Native American culture is also one of the museum’s goals, and it showcases stunning baskets, beadwork, pottery, and rugs. The museum also recognizes the importance of education and offers a variety of lectures, videos, and workshops. Typical programs include subjects such as the “Statewide Knitting Project: The Unbearable Absence of Landscape,” and “Art Badge for Scouts.” The museum also has a gallery and shop and is open from Wednesday to Sunday.

East Mathew B. Brady Street, Tulsa, Oklahoma, Phone: 918-895-6302

© Andolini Pizzeria

Andolini Pizzeria is operated by the Bausch brothers and their partner John Davey who own and manage some of the most authentic Italian eateries in Oklahoma. “This is not like Naples here, it is Naples,” they say. The team is constantly improving its skills by travelling and seeking out new techniques, and the also frequently participate in various pizza competitions worldwide. Some of the favorite specialties include White Pizza, Vesuvio, and The Clemenza, and Andolini Pizzeria also offers a wide variety of craft beers to accompany your meal.

1552 E 15th St., Tulsa, Oklahoma, Phone: 918-728-6111

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Located just south of Woodward Park, the Tulsa Garden Center, which is part of the Woodward Park and Gardens Historic District, is housed in the David R. Travis Mansion, a 21-room mansion built in 1919 that sits on 13 acres of land. The mission of the center is to provide the community with opportunities to learn about horticulture and the environment, and, at the same time, to preserve the historic mansion. Inside, you will find many photographs of the mansion taken at different times throughout its history. The center offers a variety of classes, events and shows, and boasts an extensive library of more than 5,000 books. The center is open from Tuesday to Saturday.

2435 South Peoria Avenue, Tulsa, Oklahoma, Phone: 918-746-5125

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The Tulsa Zoo is located on 85 acres of land on East 36th Street in Mohawk Park, which is one of the largest city parks in the U.S. The zoo is a non-profit organization involved in conservation efforts. It also focuses heavily on education and each day, it offers a variety of talks and demonstrations at many of its exhibits. There is a petting zoo called the Children’s Zoo where children are able to get close to a variety of animals such as emus, kangaroos, llamas, otters, prairie dogs, and others. Exhibits include species Africa, Asia, Oceans and Islands, Tropical American Rainforest, and many other fascinating locations. The zoo is open every day. A visit to the zoo is one of the best things to do in Tulsa with kids - you can have fun at the petting zoo and see many fascinating animals from around the world.

6421 East 36th Street N, Tulsa, Oklahoma, Phone: 918-669-6600

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One of Tulsa’s most popular outdoor recreational areas, River Parks truly has something to offer everyone. Whether you are seeking a peaceful green space to breath in some fresh air or a an action-packed hiking and biking facility, you will find it all at River Parks. There are miles of trails where you can walk, jog or cycle, many of which connect to further regional trails. As you make your way through the park system you can be on the lookout for wildlife like raccoons, possums, beavers, deer and foxes. There is also excellent bird watching and you may catch sight of a Bald Eagle in winter. You can also enjoy water activities like fishing, rowing and kayaking on Zink Dam.

River Parks, 2121 S. Columbia Avenue, Tulsa, OK 74114, 918 596 2001

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Set around the shores of a beautiful 7-acre lake, the Tulsa Botanic Garden is an uplifting and inspirational place to spend a few hours. The garden was first established in 2012 and will eventually cover a sprawling 60 acres, with many themed areas and attractions. Although the garden is still a work in progress, visitors can enjoy strolling through the beautiful A R and Marylouise Tandy Floral Terraces, the Children’s Discovery Garden and the very scenic Lakeside Promenade, which meanders around the perimeter of the lake. You can also access the 110 acres of un-developed natural beauty by taking a hike along the 1.5 mile Cross Timbers Trail.

Tulsa Botanic Garden, 3900 Tulsa Botanic Drive, Tulsa, OK 74127, 918-289-0330

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Picturesquely located along the Arkansas River, the River Spirit Casino Resort is a great getaway destination for fun-loving couples. The tropically-themed hotel offers a selection of 483 spacious rooms and suites with either 1 King or 2 Queen Beds – all rooms have flat-screen TV, Wi-Fi and Room Service. Residents have access to the large outdoor pool where you can hire private poolside cabanas. The Caribbean-themed Margaritaville casino offers hours of gaming fun, featuring 3100 electronic slots machines, many table games and daily poker tournaments. There are several places to drink and dine and you can enjoy live entertainment every weekend at The Cove.

River Spirit Casino Resort, 8330 Riverside Parkway, Tulsa, OK 74137, 918-299-8518

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Tulsa residents and visitors are indeed fortunate to have the Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area on their doorstep. The wilderness area forms part of the River Parks complex, where it provides access to a unique and rugged urban recreational facility. When you enter the 300-acre wilderness you will find it hard to believe that you are just a few miles from downtown Tulsa. The wilderness is a favorite destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts who can explore miles of winding trails on foot or by mountain bike. The area is maintained as a true wilderness and visitors should be aware that they are not taking a gentle walk in the park – appropriate footwear, a cell-phone with GPS tracking and drinking water are essential.

Turkey Mountain Urban Wilderness Area, 6850 S. Elwood Avenue, Tulsa, 74132, 918-596-2001

© Tulsa Air and Space Museum and Planetarium

The Tulsa Air and Space Museum is located across the road from the Tulsa Zoo; visiting both attractions will provide families with an excellent day out. The Air and Space Museum, TASM, has a massive exhibition hall packed with many vintage aircraft including several which can be physically explored by eager visitors who can climb into the cockpit and press all the buttons. Children (and adults) can also visit the Ray Booker Flight Lab simulator, learn how to build your own flight simulator and enjoy several interactive science exhibits. After admiring all the planes, visitors can make their way to the Planetarium to watch a full dome movie or a live star screening.

Tulsa Air and Space Museum, 3624 N. 74th East Avenue, Tulsa, OK 74115, 918-834-9900

© Tulsa Performing Arts Center

The Tulsa Performing Art Center was built in 1977 and shortly staged their first concert which showcased the talents of the Tulsa Philharmonic and the legendary jazz singer Ella Fitzgerald. The massive complex houses 4 separate theatres, a studio and a large reception hall. Since then, the center has uplifted the lives of thousands of residents and visitors who have attended everything from Broadway shows to musical concerts, film screenings and local theatrical productions. Currently the center is actively raising funds for a number of restoration and artistic projects – you can support them and enjoy wonderful entertainment by booking a seat for their next production.

Tulsa Performing Arts Center, 110 E. 2nd Street, Tulsa, OK 74103, 918-596-7111

© Vintage Sewing Center and Museum

The perfect attraction for anyone interested in fabrics and sewing, the Vintage Sewing Center and Museum explores the history and development of sewing through the ages. More than 600 antique or vintage sewing machines form the core of this interesting museum which invites visitors to not only look but get actively involved in the craft of needlework. Here you will see examples of clothing, fashions and crafts which date back to your grand-parents time and beyond. There are a number of sewing-ready machines where you can see what it was like to sew using hand or treadle machines. Guided and self-guided tours are available.

The Vintage Sewing Center and Museum, 5528 S. Peoria Ave, Tulsa, OK 74105, 918-280-0106

 

Tulsa’s Discovery Lab offers a children’s outing like no other. Here children of all ages (and their families) can enjoy hours of educational fun and entertainment. Just a few of the fascinating and educational features of the museum include a labyrinth of mysterious tunnels to explore, a Workshop, a Science Lab (where you can get hands-on and interactive under the guidance of an experienced educator) and much more. The Little Lab makes learning exciting for children under the age of 4. The Discovery Lab hosts regular camps and after-school activities where children can learn more about engineering, chemistry and coding. When you need a break and a snack you can head to the Bean Sprouts Café.

Discovery Lab, 3123 South Riverside Drive, Tulsa, OK 74105, 918-295-8144

© Safari Joe's H2O

Offering an exciting way for families to spend a hot summer’s day, Safari Joe’s H2O is a water park with a difference. The park combines all the fun of regular water park activities with an educational Reptile World, where you can meet a variety of rescued reptiles and other animals. On the water park side you can look forward to exciting tub rides, a lazy river float and lots of fun in the Wave Pool. Other on-site activities include Volley Ball and Basket Ball and there is an adventure playground and the Tiny Turtle Lagoon for the youngest visitors to enjoy. Several kiosks and concessions will ensure you are never hungry or thirsty.

Safari Joe’s H2O, 4707 E. 21st Street, Tulsa, OK 74114, 918-749-7385